The Pacific Northwest, with its lush rainforests, spectacular mountains, and stunning ocean views, called to me as a writer for Midwest Adventurers, and my 9 months living in Washington State turned into a love letter to this diverse landscape.
I created a 7-day road trip itinerary to show you the best of Washington, featuring three national parks—Olympic, Mount Rainier, and North Cascades—and charming villages like Leavenworth, a Bavarian-themed village, and Winthrop, an old western town.
I flew into Seattle—Washington’s largest city and the starting point for this one-week guide—from SFO Airport in San Francisco, rented a car at the airport, and headed to Mt Rainier National Park.
Just like the thrill of a 7 Day Bali Itinerary, a trip through Washington in October carries its own kind of magic—cheaper flights, fewer crowds, and roads that lead to some of the most serene corners of the PNW. I still remember cruising along the Pacific Ocean on the west and watching the Rocky Mountains rise to the east, realizing how this U.S. region connects seamlessly with other states like Oregon and Idaho, and even reaches into the Canadian province of British Columbia.
Some places felt almost empty, yet they carried a stillness that brought peace—especially around the lakes and giant waterfalls tucked between hidden byways. This kind of destination ignites something deep; every day on the road here sparks new excitement, reminding me why the Pacific Northwest is a timeless call for explorers.
7 Day Washington Road Trip Guide
Plan a 7-day Washington road trip starting in Seattle, visiting Mount Baker, San Juan Islands, Olympic National Park, and Mount Rainier. Key stops include whale watching, exploring Hoh Rainforest, Ruby Beach, and hiking in Mount Rainier. Overnight in Port Angeles, San Juan Island, Olympic National Park, and Seattle.
About this Washington Itinerary
Starting in Seattle, this big loop state itinerary covers 1,225 miles, hitting national parks like Mount Rainier and Olympic, with additional detours to see and do more. The paved and gravel roads are suitable for standard cars, so a 2WD vehicle works fine, though limited time means you’ll spend a lot driving.
“July to September is best, when hiking trails are open, but be aware some roads may be closed in fall or spring.”
If you love hiking, the Enchantments or Mount Baker hikes are incredible, and I highly recommend adding them if you have extra time.
With optional scenic drives to Lake Chelan or stunning overlooks, this 7-day trip offers gorgeous views and short, sweet strolls for those not venturing far on a trail.
Don’t worry if hiking isn’t your thing; the fantastic destinations let you squeeze in adventure without zipping too fast. Share your thoughts at the end of my post, and let me know what you think is worth seeing!
When is the best time of year for a road trip in Washington State?
My road trip across Washington’s beautiful landscapes taught me the best time to visit is late summer to early fall, especially mid-July to September, when hiking trails in the three national parks—Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier, and North Cascades—are snow-free and open.
The rainforest comes alive with wildflowers blooming by mid-August, hitting peak blooming season in early August, while mountains glow under clear skies.
I visited in early October, dodging the first snow but catching stunning conditions with fewer bugs and heat, though campgrounds and lodging fill fast, so I recommend planning a few months in advance.
Roads like Sunrise Road and Stevens Canyon Road in Mount Rainier National Park open from late June to early October, while Chinook Pass and Cayuse Pass run from Memorial Day to mid-November, but high-elevation roads like Obstruction Point Road may close due to snowfall.
The itinerary shines in summer months, as main park roads in Olympic National Park stay open all year, but interior roads can close outside this time.
I had to alter my trip to account for road closures in early fall, skipping some sections of Mount Rainier National Park that reopen in June.
Spring brings wildflowers, but winter’s snow limits access, making September or early October ideal for a visit with gorgeous views. My experience showed that visiting during these seasons lets you make the most of hiking and scenic drives without the hassle of crowded campgrounds or closed roads.
This Washington road trip feels like a year-round adventure, but the best times balance open trails, vibrant rainforests, and snow-free mountains.
I consider early fall the sweet spot, as the park roads and hiking trails are still accessible, and the wildflowers bloom adds magic to every visit. Check opening and closing dates for Sunrise or Stevens Canyon Road to avoid surprises, ensuring your itinerary flows smoothly.
What to pack for a 7-Day Washington Road Trip
My travelling through Washington’s wild rugged trails shaped this 7 Day Washington Road Trip Guide, and I’m sharing my experience to make your hiking and paddling adventure easy.
The Pacific Northwest’s cold, sun, heat, or rain demands smart essentials, like Kuhl Freeflex long pants for women, offering a flattering fit and functionality, or REI Trail Made long sleeve wool base layers, great for regulating body temperature and sun protection.
I use a UPF sun hoodie and quick dry shorts with a built-in belt and elastic waist, perfect for swim-friendly paddling or swimming.
A down puffy jacket packs small for cooler nights, and leggings with pockets pair well with Oboz Bridger Mids hiking boots, which give the best grip and ankle support on rugged trails, while Bedrocks hiking/paddling sandals, designed by paddling guides, are approved for water adventures.
For camping, I bring a tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad, plus trekking poles and a solid day hiking pack to roam Mount Rainier National Park or Olympic National Park. The Mt. Baker Trails Map guides my hikes, and I use the America the Beautiful Pass to cover National Parks, alongside the Northwest Forest Pass for National Forest access and the Discover Pass for State Parks. These passes save money and unlock incredible destinations.
A solid raincoat is a must, as rain can hit any day, and backpacking gear like maps keeps you on track. My hiking trips taught me to expect cooler nights and pack tops for sun or cold, ensuring every trail feels great. This itinerary blends hiking, paddling, and camping to make your Washington road trip unforgettable.
Day One: Seattle to Mount Baker Highway & Drive to Port Angeles
My Washington road trip began with a thrill as I flew into Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA), picked up a rental car, and headed north to Bellingham, a lively town where I grabbed lunch and the best coffee, tea, and drinks at Locus of Bellingham.
I hopped onto Mt. Baker Highway, driving 95 miles (2.5 hours) to Silver Fir Campground, centrally located for stunning hikes.
In the evening, I took a short, easy trail from the Artist’s Point parking lot to watch the sunset over Mt. Shuksan and Mt. Baker, soaking in mountains and views that left me awestruck.
Then, I chose a route to drive 130 miles to Port Angeles, opting for a shorter car ferry to avoid south route traffic that could take just under several hours.
I got settled in a hotel, savoring dinner at Sabai Thai or Next Door GastroPub, recommended for their cozy vibes.
Where to Stay in Port Angeles
As a traveler who’s stayed in Port Angeles during my Washington road trip, I highly recommend the Olympic Lodge, a centrally located hotel with quick, easy access to restaurants and the park entrance, earning it the highest reviewed spot among properties.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, Aircrest Motel has decent reviews and suits those traveling light. For RV campers, I loved my two nights at Crescent Beach RV Park, a scenic spot perfect for soaking in the coastal vibe near Port Angeles.
Day Two: Mount Baker to San Juan Islands
My trip as an avid hiker in Washington State brought me to Mount Baker, a summer hiking destination and winter skiing destination, where I set an alarm for early morning to hit beautiful trails under clear skies.
The Skyline Divide hike, a 9 miles round trip with 2,500 feet elevation gain, offered incredible high alpine views of Mt. Shuksan and Mt. Kulshan, while the Artist Ridge easy hike, just 1.2 miles and fairly flat, gave panoramic views from Artist Point.
For a challenging trail, I recommend the Table Mountain hike, 2.6 miles with 725 feet elevation, which steeply climbs to stunning views of surrounding mountains.
If stormy weather or low-lying clouds make hiking impossible, keep Ptarmigan Ridge Trail (9 miles, 1,350 feet) or Lake Ann Trail (10 miles, out and back to an alpine lake) on your to-do list for a near future visit, as I loved the meadows and Lower Curtis Glacier features on Chain Lakes Loop (7 miles).
I chose Lake Ann Trail one morning, finishing early back at my car, then drove one day to Anacortes, a destination I’d come back to someday for its stunning coastal charm.
In Anacortes, Washington, I booked a budget friendly hotel, Ship Harbor Inn, centrally located near the ferry terminal, where I stayed two nights and loved the vibe.
For camping, Washington Park, within walking distance of the ferry, is available and perfect for a mind-clearing stay. The drive from Mount Baker to Anacortes weaves through mountains, setting the stage for a San Juan Islands adventure.
Day Three: See the Orcas in the San Juan Islands
My summer on the San Juan Islands taught me the best thing to do is catch an early morning ferry from Anacortes to Friday Harbor, a gem in Washington’s road trip tapestry.
As a foot passenger, I walked onto the ferry—no reservation needed—but if you bring your car, it’s expensive, so a reservation is recommended to avoid issues.
In Friday Harbor, I grabbed coffee at 13 Ravens Cafe and a bite to eat at Downriggers before booking a whale watching tour with Maya’s Legacy, a high-speed boat touring the islands for spotting wildlife like sea lions and orcas.
These tours are pricey, but worth it for the single most thrilling activity on my list, making San Juan Islands one of the best things on this trip. I lived for moments like these, watching orcas glide through the sea.
With extra time, I headed to American Camp at San Juan Islands National Historic Park, where beautiful beaches, bluffs, and hiking trails teemed with foxes, or booked a bioluminescent sea kayaking trip with Outdoor Odysseys or San Juan Outfitters, a magical activity.
If you brought your car, plan extra time before hopping the ferry back to Anacortes, as the islands’ charm lingers. My road trip felt alive here, blending wildlife and trails into an unforgettable day.
Do I need to bring my car for a day trip to the San Juan Islands
My day trip to the San Juan Islands showed me you don’t require a car to spend a beautiful day in Friday Harbor, where tours like whale watching pick up right in town at the ferry terminal. Still, I found bringing a car helps access hiking trails and beautiful spots across the island, adding flexibility to my Washington road trip adventure.
Where to stay on San Juan Island
My week-long Washington road trip led me to San Juan Island, where I recommend staying at the cute Ship Harbor Inn with ocean views just a 30 second drive from the ferry.
I’d hop the earliest ferry to spend the morning hiking at American Camp, grab lunch or coffee, then join an afternoon whale watching tour before heading to Anacortes.
For a cheapest option, the San Juan Island Hostel fits a day trip, while San Juan County Park campground fills immediately in summer.
For a good luxury stay, I recommend Earthbox Inn and Spa. Bringing a car lets you roam freely, making one day unforgettable.
Day Four: Travel to Olympic National Park
My Washington road trip felt magical as I woke up early in Anacortes to catch an AM ferry to Coupeville and Port Townsend, where reservations were highly recommended to explore Whidbey Island and reach the Olympic Peninsula via highway.
From Port Angeles, with plenty of cheap hotels and lodging options, I headed to the Coast to camp at Kalaloch Campground, a beautiful place in Olympic National Park that’s a must-book in advance.
In my opinion, Kalaloch is a magical place on earth, just 10 minutes by road from Ruby Beach, where I watched the sun set, one of the best things to do on this trip. This state’s coastal charm had me thinking I’d never stop loving it.
On the way, I stopped at Crescent Lake for a quick hike to Marymere Falls, a perfect spot to stretch my legs after a long drive. Setting up camp at Kalaloch felt like stepping into a dream, with the Coast’s accessible beauty making every minute magical.
My belief is that camping here, near Olympic National Park, is a world-class experience, blending car camping with stunning scenery that finishes the day perfectly.
Day Five: Exploring Olympic National Park
My Washington road trip through Olympic National Park was a whirlwind of beauty, starting from Port Angeles, a great base for exploring the Region.
I drove Highway 101 west, past the lovely Lake Crescent, to visit the Hoh Rainforest, where early morning sun rays hit damp moss in the best light, feeling like a temperate rainforest dream.
Next, I hiked Rialto Beach to hole-in-the-wall, a tide-dependent trek with coastal sights, then headed to Cape Flattery, the northwestern point of the continental US, grabbing a permit at the Makah cultural center.
The Pacific coast’s western side was stunning, but impossible to see everything in one day, so I divided my time between these big spots, covering 200 miles in 4.5 hours. Staying in Port Angeles or Forks gave sufficient access to these wonders.
With juice left, I considered tackling the difficult Mt. Storm King hike.
Hurricane Ridge in the mountains was a first thing early morning stop for breathtaking views, while inland trails like Marymere Falls or Ruby Beach offered lovely detours.
The Sunrise area was my pick, a longer drive compared to Nisqually, but staying at Paradise Inn in Ashford or Packwood worked fine for a shorter drive today. I stayed at Nisqually Lodge, a nice place and grabbed dinner.
Exploring Hoh Rainforest
My Washington road trip took a magical turn as I drove Highway 101 and turned onto Upper Hoh Road, an 18 miles long stretch that travels through a dense temperate rainforest, ending at the Visitor Center, a highlight of Olympic National Park.
Walking the Hall of Mosses (0.8 miles round trip loop), where moss drips from trees 250 feet tall and hundreds of years old, felt like journeying back in time, with the understory filled with fallen saplings and ferns; I kept an eye out for deer, elk, raccoons, black bears, northern spotted owls.
The Spruce Nature Trail (1.2 mile loop), less crowded, offered the best views of the river and places to capture hanging moss, making this visit to the oldest area, as its name implies, a serene feature of my journey.
Discovering Rialto Beach
My Washington road trip along Highway 101 led me to the town of Forks, where I took route 110 to the coast for an easy 3.5-mile round-trip hike on Rialto Beach to Hole-in-the-Wall, a gorgeous stroll where sea stacks and rock formations make Olympic beaches look unique.
I loved how the nearby area of La Push, with First, Second, and Third Beaches, and even Shi Shi Beach or Cape Flattery to the north, offered amazing sights to continue visiting, each nice spot adding to the stunning coastal charm of this road trip.
Optional: Mount Storm King and/or Marymere Falls
As an avid hiker on mt Washington road trip, I recommend starting the day with Mount Storm King, a popular, strenuous hike in Olympic National Park, where two trails start at Lake Crescent; this short, just over 4.5 miles long out-and-back trail ascends 2,000 feet and takes 3 to 5 hours, offering stunning views.
If waterfalls spark your interest, like they did for me, add the optional Marymere Falls trail, an easy 1.8 miles that’s about 1 hour, perfect to visit at the beginning or end. Both hikes are a good first thing for those with interest in Olympics beauty, and For full details, check my Guide to these incredible trails.
Ruby Beach Side Trip
My Washington road trip sparked with joy at the idea of visiting Ruby Beach, a gem on the coast where I’d like to plan a picnic lunch before a hike.
This detour adds 30 additional driving time, but spending 30+ minutes exploring its shores is a list-worthy stop.
For a longer trip, I ventured 6 miles round trip along the Hoh River, a beautiful hike that made this beach an unforgettable addition to my journey.
Hurricane Ridge
From Port Angeles, my Washington road trip took a quick, easy 20 miles (45 minutes) scenic drive to Hurricane Ridge, a beautiful gem in Olympic National Park where I could pick walking trails or strenuous hikes to spend time.
I took the High Trail (0.5 miles round-trip) for nice views, or went farther to Sunrise Point via a 1.6 miles hike (3.2 miles round-trip, moderate, 2 hours), perfect for traveling with kids as it heads slowly, gaining elevation with nothing but gentle switchbacks until a final hill climb to a peak with spectacular panoramic views.
For a great challenge, I picked the Klahhane Ridge (6.5 miles, 4 to 6 hours), an extension of trails mentioned previously, ideal for those who like the idea of climbing to the highest point for the Olympics’ best view.
The Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center gave me the chance to learn more, and I considered driving Obstruction Point Road, frequently called Washington’s scariest gravel road, starting from the parking lot and ending at 6,150 feet elevation. Open generally from mid-July to October, it’s suitable for a standard car, but RV’s and trailers aren’t permitted—check the NPS website for updates.
This entire hiking and driving adventure ends at a great overlook, with Mount Angeles in sight, making it a highlight of my trip.
Where to stay in Olympic National Park?
My Washington road trip led me to a magical place where I rented an Airbnb, the Olympic Lake House, close to Olympic park by Lake Sutherland, and I’m sure I’ll come back.
I spent 2 nights in a retro cabin surrounded by mountains and peaceful water, waking to a sunrise over the lake that felt like a great idea I’ll remember forever, etching every moment into my heart.
Mountain Meadows or Cowlitz River Lodge had good reviews, while Packwood Ski or Vacation Getaway and Packwood Lodge were solid picks.
Day Six: From Olympic to Rainier
The morning light spills over the Olympic Peninsula, painting the rugged Coast in golden hues as you leave the wild beauty of Olympic behind.
“My first visit to this region left me blown away by its diversity, and I recommend starting early to make the most of day six.”
Begin with a hike to Sol Duc Falls, a stunning 1.6-mile roundtrip through lush forest. The waterfall’s misty spray is a refreshing wake-up call, and the trail’s gentle dirt paths make it an easy start.
From Hurricane Ridge, it’s time to leave Olympic as soon as possible to reach Mount Rainier National Park, located about 50 miles southeast of Seattle. The 1.5-hour drive along Highway 706 feels like a journey through Washington state’s heart, with the active volcano of Mount Rainier looming closer. At 14,411 ft (4,392 m), it’s the highest mountain in the Cascade Range, and it’s beautiful yet crowded Paradise Area is a highlight.
I visited in fall, specifically late September on a weekday, and the views were unreal—snow-dusted peaks and vibrant meadows. To avoid the busiest season, aim for this time, as some areas close in October due to lots of snow.
For your stay, Cougar Rock Campground is the best place for access to the Paradise region. Alternatively, Ashford offers plenty of Inns, Cabins, or Yurts for comfort.
My two nights in Ashford gave me time to explore Christine Falls, Narada Falls, Myrthe Falls, and the prettiest lakes like Reflection Lakes. A short 7-minute drive from Paradise Inn, Reflection Lake dazzled me with its mirror-like surface reflecting Mount Rainier.
If you’re up for hiking trails, try the Alta Vista Trail (1.7 miles), Nisqually Vista Trail (1.2 miles), or the Skyline Trail to Panorama Point (6.2 miles, with elevation gain). Each offers stunning views of the volcano and surrounding park.
For a little bit of adventure, the Grove of the Patriarchs Trail (1.5 miles) is a gem. This popular spot features a suspension bridge, boardwalk, and towering Douglas firs, western red cedars, and western hemlocks.
Parking can be tight, so arrive early.
If you have time, explore Bench and Snow Lakes (2.7 miles) via Stevens Canyon Road—a quieter trail with peaceful views. My trip here felt like stepping into a postcard, and I’d come back in summer to do more hikes.
For a unique twist, take the Mount Rainier Gondola at Crystal Mountain Resort, just outside the park. The gondola ride to the peak offers views of Mount Rainier from the Summit House Restaurant, the highest elevation restaurant in Washington.
I dined on the outdoor patio with chilly temperatures, so bring extra layers for warmth. The food was hearty, and the view of the volcano was unforgettable.
Day Seven: Mount Rainier National Park to Seattle
After spending the morning exploring the incredible Mount Rainier National Park, I found the six-mile Skyline Loop to be a super worth visit, despite the crowded Paradise Visitors Center.
This easy hiking trail, considered one of the best in Washington State, winds through meadows with jaw-dropping views of the mountain—a perfect last taste of the national park.
On my first time here, I was excited to check out the vibrant hiking trails, but soon it was time to head back to Seattle to get ready for my flight home.
On the way, I decided to swing by Copper Creek Inn for their famous pie, a sweet treat that felt like a reward after days of adventure.
Having never been to Seattle before, I couldn’t wait to check out the city and soak in its energy, a lively contrast to the serene Olympic NP and Mount Rainier. If you have one night left, this blend of hiking and city vibes is the perfect way to cap your trip.
Where to stay in Seattle?
When I stayed in Seattle, I chose the Warwick Seattle Hotel (their website here) and was charmed by its beautiful room and nice view of the downtown skyline.
The price was reasonable, with rooms costing around $90-100 per night, and the breakfast was delicious.
I highly recommend booking through their website for the best deals and a seamless experience.
What to see in Seattle?
From my hotel located in the center of Seattle, I decided to stroll through downtown and walk to see the iconic Space Needle, its towering presence a thrill to behold.
I headed to Kerry Park on a hill in the rich neighbourhood of the Queen Anne area, where the picturesque views of the city were absolutely stunning—perfect for photos.
The next morning, I went to Pike Place Market, a historic hub buzzing with farmer stalls, artisan crafts, and local foods.
Don’t miss visiting the original location of Starbucks, founded right here in Seattle.
Optional: Return to Port Angeles
If you’ve got a few extra hours, drive back to Port Angeles for an optional detour that’s pure magic. From Port Angeles, take the drive along Highway 101, then turn right onto Hot Springs Road to reach the end at the parking lot. The easy 2.25-mile round trip walk to the falls is a breeze, weaving through towering trees and misty air. Including driving time, expect about 2 to 3 hours for the whole adventure.
I recommend doing this if you’re craving one more taste of the Olympic Peninsula’s wild beauty, especially near Lake Crescent, where the scenery is just as stunning. It’s a short but unforgettable escape before heading back.
Optional: Hiking the Enchantments
My boots crunched on the trail as I set out from Leavenworth, a charming base town, toward the Enchantments, a gem in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.
This hiking destination stole my breath with its turquoise, emerald, and aquamarine alpine lakes, nestled among snow-capped mountain peaks. I’d heard tales of the Core Enchantments, a rugged stretch where wildflowers and grasses paint the landscape, and mountain goats roam free.
For a full adventure, the thru-hike spans 20 miles with serious elevation gain, a challenge worth every step.
On a tighter schedule, I opted for Colchuck Lake, an 11 mile round trip taking 6 hours to 7 hours, with a steady 2,200 feet climb—my legs still remember the burn!
From Leavenworth, you’re close to North Cascades National Park, a perfect tie-in for your itinerary. Side trips to Twisp and Winthrop offer quaint stops to refuel and soak in the vibe. Years of trekking here taught me to pack light, bring water, and chase the magic of this wild corner!
Where to Stay in Twisp & Winthrop
In Twisp, I stayed at Twisp River Suites, loving the standard rooms and suites with a full kitchen, perfect for a dinner by the river.
In Winthrop, options like River’s Edge Resort, Methow River Lodge, or Mt Gardner Inn offer charm. The main road, Highway 20, through North Cascades National Park is open early July to October but closed from early November to early May due to snowfall amounts, so a November or May itinerary may skip this park.
For hikers, the Cascade River Road, a gravel road, ends at the trailhead for the Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm hike, a highlight I savored under clear skies, making this time of change a must-see on your Washington adventure.
