Discover 8 Scenic Road Trips in Washington State with iBestTravel
Filled the tank? Loaded your playlists? It’s time to set off on an extended road trip across the spectacular and diverse landscapes of Washington State.
From the winding, forested roads of the coast to the engineering marvels of the Cascade Mountains and the dry, ruler-straight thoroughfares of the eastern plateaus, here are eight ways to escape the snarling traffic of Seattle and hit the open road.
1. San Juan Island Loop
Best island road trip
Friday Harbor to Friday Harbor; 34 miles; 3 to 4 hours
This low-gear meander along quiet country lanes combines wine, history, and whale watching in a short-but-sweet circumnavigation of San Juan Island. Car ferries dock in Friday Harbor, the San Juan archipelago’s only real town, where restaurants, shops, and a creatively curated whale museum enliven the charming downtown grid.
2. Cascade Loop
Best road trip for families
Burlington to Burlington; 440 miles; allow five days
This 440-mile loop around the Pacific Northwest’s towering Cascades crosses the range twice – via Hwy 2 and Stevens Pass or Hwy 20 and the seasonally accessible Rainy Pass. The region boasts several natural landmarks, along with a dose of culture from cleverly themed towns like Leavenworth and Winthrop.
3. Vineyards of Eastern Washington
Best drive for wine lovers
Yakima to Walla Walla; 140 miles; allow three days
The Yakima and Walla Walla valleys have emerged as significant winemaking destinations. This route follows I-82 with picturesque views of grapevines and apple orchards, exploring the unique terroir and viticulture of eastern Washington.
4. Chuckanut Drive
Best road trip for coastal scenery
Bellingham to Burlington; 21 miles; allow two to three hours
Chuckanut Drive is a historic coastal backroad running parallel to the craggy coastline, offering stunning views of the island-speckled sea. Be sure to stop at Larabee State Park for various activities like hiking and beachcombing.
5. Lewis & Clark Highway
Best riverside road trip drive
Vancouver, Washington, to Maryhill; 100 miles; allow five to six hours
This trip runs for 100 miles along the Columbia River, retracing the footsteps of the original American explorers. Start in Vancouver and enjoy the historic sites and natural beauty surrounding you.
6. Olympic Peninsula Loop
Best road trip for exploring forests
Port Angeles to Port Angeles; 435 miles; allow four days
The Olympic Peninsula is famously wet and green, offering a uniquely remote experience amid ancient trees. A drive along Hwy 101 takes you around stunning waterfronts and into the heart of this natural majesty.
7. Coulee Corridor
Best road trip for learning about geology
Othello to Omak; 150 miles; allow one day
The Coulee Corridor is a National Scenic Byway that showcases the stark geological contrast of eastern Washington’s arid landscape. Rich geological history, with fascinating features like the Grand Coulee Dam and dramatic canyons, awaits discovery.
8. Mt Rainier: Paradise & Stevens Canyon Roads
Best road trip for incredible mountain views
Nisqually entrance to Ohanapecosh entrance; 62 miles; allow four hours
This steep yet stunning drive showcases the grandeur of Mt Rainier National Park, filled with towering trees, alpine meadows, and breathtaking views. Each stop along the way offers a chance to appreciate the beauty and majesty of this iconic mountain.
