Epic Road Trip Through the Pacific Northwest
From the hustle and bustle of big cities offering vibrant food and culture to serene moments in some of America’s most breathtaking parks, a scenic drive from the Pacific coast to Idaho makes for an epic vacation.
Two major vacation-planning questions often arise: City or country? Ocean or mountains? However, there are destinations where the answer is, “Yes, yes, yes, and yes.” The Pacific Northwest may be the best example, showcasing Pacific beaches, coastal mountain ranges, the cities of Seattle and Portland, gorgeous rivers and forests, and the charming little city of Boise in the foothills of the Rockies.
Get ready to explore! Here’s a step-by-step itinerary that takes you across one of the US’s most rewarding regions.
Seattle
Kick off your Pacific Northwest road trip in Seattle, Washington. Here, you can indulge in fresh seafood, legendary coffee, sea kayaking, and much more. Pike Place Market is iconic and bustling, making it a must-visit for fresh fish and culinary delights. Strolling and taking pictures is free, so don’t miss the chance.
Moreover, Seattle is home to impressive museums. Be sure to check out the Frye Art Museum, which features rotating exhibits and excellent guided tours. The Seattle Art Museum boasts a world-class collection, while the Olympic Sculpture Park showcases immense and breathtaking works.
Speaking of parks, Seattle’s abundant green spaces deserve ample time. From the quaint Waterfall Garden Park in the Pioneer Square section to the over 500 acres of forests and beaches in Discovery Park, you may forget you’re still within the city limits. For dramatic panoramic views, bypass the Space Needle and head to Kerry Park or Queen Anne Hill instead.
If you plan on spending a night or more in Seattle, consider staying at a centrally located hotel that provides easy walking access to major sights and stylish rooms for a restful night before hitting the road.
Olympic National Park
From Seattle, take I-5 South and then 101 North, curving around the bottom of Puget Sound and up the Olympic Peninsula—a two-hour drive to one of the National Park Service’s lesser-known yet utterly unforgettable destinations: Olympic National Park. Here, visitors can explore miles of Pacific coastline, walk through one of the last temperate rainforests in the US, and admire the coastal peaks from accessible hiking trails.
Comfortable lodging options within the park are available, offering affordability for a memorable stay amidst nature’s splendor.
Portland
After exploring the Olympic Peninsula, travel to Oregon by taking I-5 South for a three-hour drive to Portland, known for its exceptional food scene and parks. For food enthusiasts, Portland is a culinary paradise. With retro-chic establishments like Clyde’s Prime Rib and an abundance of craft breweries and food trucks, you’re sure to delight in the city’s unique flavors.
Similarly to Seattle, Portland features beautiful parks, such as Mt. Tabor and Forest Park, which will keep visitors entertained for days. An efficient bike-sharing program with numerous stations makes exploration easy and enjoyable. An upscale hotel option in the city offers artistic rooms and an excellent dining experience drawing from diverse culinary influences.
Columbia River Gorge
From Portland, journey along I-84 East and WA-14 for about a half-hour, entering the stunning Columbia River Gorge—a region renowned for its scenic beauty and nearby world-class wineries. The majestic Cascade Mountains provide a picturesque backdrop as the river meanders through the range.
Be vigilant for waterfalls visible from the highway, and consider stopping for mountain biking and hiking adventures. For those wishing to stay a night or two, impressive nearby accommodations deliver wallet-friendly options, allowing more time to savor exceptional local wines.
Boise
Boise, Idaho, invites you with funky downtown shops and mountain trails just minutes from the city, offering a vibrant and design-forward atmosphere. From the Columbia River Gorge, take I-84 East for a five-hour drive, making a potential stop in Baker City, Oregon, known for its charming downtown area.
In downtown Boise, enjoy shopping at unique establishments featuring vintage finds and artisanal treasures. While exploring, keep an eye out for public art installations that decorate the city. Additionally, if you visit from April to December, the Capital City Central Market showcases an incredible assortment of Idaho-made crafts and foods. Stay at the Modern Hotel and Bar, which features art-inspired rooms and a restaurant with diverse culinary influences.
Snake River Valley
Conclude your road trip by discovering Idaho’s Snake River Valley, a two-hour drive from Boise along I-84 East. The captivating Perrine Bridge spans the Snake River Canyon, offering breathtaking views. Explore the canyon’s south rim along paved trails, and don’t miss Shoshone Falls, a perfect Instagram-worthy spot. Nearby Twin Falls provides reliable motel chains that offer great value for your stay.
