Photo courtesy of Visit Bellingham
**This article was updated July 1, 2022**
Looking for things to do in the Pacific Northwest?
How about a scenic Pacific Northwest road trip?
I struggled with this one. I really did. Simply because ALL of the Pacific Northwest is scenic and there are plenty of places to go in the northwest. I had to put some downright gorgeous places had to inevitably be put to the chopping block. Damn. However, I must swallow some sort of guilt about not writing a ‘100 Most Scenic Places in the Pacific Northwest’ and move on.
Because really, ain’t no one got that kind of time!
For this list, I mostly chose incredible expansive vistas, because at least for me, these are what takes my breath away the most (other than a beautifully-presented plate of delicious food). But I digress…
So, without further ado, here are the best of the best places to visit in the Northwest USA.
Northwest Vacations – Oregon
Larch Mountain and the Columbia River Gorge
Instead of taking the regular route that everyone does through the Gorge, why not get off the beaten path a bit, and take Historic Columbia River Scenic Byway. From I-84, take Exit 22 to Corbett Hill Road. It should be noted that things can get pretty dicey up here in the winter, so you may not be able to access it due to snow cover. Count on November through about mid-April for things to be shut down. On the way, be sure to stop by Vista House.
For a vigorous hike, start at Multnomah Falls and hike up to Larch Mountain, one of the highest lookout points in the Gorge. For a heart-pumping hike, there is Sharrard Point, at an elevation of over 4,000 feet at the summit. And if you’re lazy (like me many days) it can be reached by parking in the lot about a ¼ mile from the summit. Once you get up there, the views cannot be beaten.
Crater Lake
The first time you lay eyes on this historic lake…words cannot describe, so I will not attempt it. You just have to…. GO THERE. For me even the second time was life-changing. It is the deepest lake in the US, and the 9th deepest in the world. The deep blue waters with the tiny little island in the middle is truly awe-inspiring. This is the only National Park in Oregon, and there is a ton of outdoor activities here to enjoy. The historic hotel, located right at the edge of the crater, is not open during the winter, but there are plenty of other great places (as well as camping) to lay your head.
Scenic Washington State
Mount Constitution on Orcas Island
The San Juan Islands, north of Seattle in Puget Sound are the shining star of this state, in my opinion. Orcas Island is one of the more popular destinations, where you can truly unplug, unwind and experience rugged island life. This is also the home of Moran State Park and Mount Constitution, which rises nearly ½ mile from sea level and it the highest point in the San Juans.
And to get even a little higher, there is a stone tower, which is a replica of a Russian watchtower, constructed during the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. This is the view that made my list – a stunning vista of the neighboring island, where on a clear day, you can see well into Canada.
Dry Falls and Diablo Lake – Washington State Scenic Drives
I snuck two in here…but they’re REALLY close together. The ‘high desert’ of central Washington State is a veritable playground in ancient geology. The last ice age carved out for us some pretty awesome sights. As the name implies, Dry Falls was once the world’s largest waterfall. Yes, MUCH larger than today’s paltry Niagara Falls. Read about it here. Step near the edge of this incredible precipice and you will feel as though the world will swallow you up at any moment. It is both terrifying and exciting.
Okay, so I lied. Diablo Lake is actually a 3.5-hour drive northwest from Dry Falls. #sorrynotsorry Located in the remote North Cascades, this area gets more into the wooded areas that the Pacific Northwest is so famous for. Think Twin Peaks. If you want to get lost and become a hermit woodsman, this is the place to do it. This is one of the most scenic drives Washington State.
British Columbia
Great Bear Rainforest
Forget Vancouver Island. Wait, did I just SAY that?!? Venture further up into the rugged and remote western coast of British Columbia and get face to face with the real deal. This is a vast area of pristine wilderness…and yes, there are bears a’plenty. I spent an incredible week there learning about all things grizzly, and even came across a few.
Surround yourself in lush greenery on a glorious hike. This particular rainforest makes up about a full 25% of the planet’s temperate rainforest. AND, it’s home to the rare and elusive white Kermode bear. Also known as the “Spirit Bear,” this is the only place on Earth you will find this incredible creature.
Peak 2 Peak Gondola in Whistler
Whether or not you are a ski bunny, you ain’t seen British Columbia until you’ve spent at least a little time in Whistler. More than just a world-class ski destination, this is a natural wooded habitat with four distinct seasons – making for a perfect getaway any time of year.
The gondola ride is something you simply must experience. If you are a bit weary of heights, well…do whatever you can to get over them because the fully enclosed cars will ensure you are completely safe, while also getting one of the thrills of a lifetime. You will span the distance between Whistler and the Blackcomb Mountains, giving you stunning views of rainforests and glaciers.
So which scenic sight will YOU choose for your next Pacific Northwest adventure? Leave a comment below! I am ever so curious…
