coll. - Pacific Northwest’s Best Trips

WELCOME TO THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST

Whats the Pacific Northwest got that other regions dont? Plenty. Start with hundreds of miles of coastline and throw in a stunning natural landscape: thousands of years of geological events have dramatically shaped this region, leaving behind snow-capped mountain ranges, rocky islands, hundreds of waterfalls, natural hot springs and one particularly lovely gorge.

Because almost every drive in the Pacific Northwest is a scenic one, theres no better way to see it than by road trip. The great stops along the way range from historical sites to natural wonders to roadside attractions.

You can cruise along the coast, explore volcanic remnants, sample regional wines, or even travel in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark.

And if youve only got time for one trip, make it one of our Classic Trips, which take you to the very best of the Pacific Northwest.

Vancouver Capilano Suspension Bridge
RONNIE CHUA / SHUTTERSTOCK

THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST HIGHLIGHTS

The Pacific Northwests best sights and experiences, and the road trips that will take you there.

Coastal Highways

Cruising along the stunning Pacific Coast is an unforgettable experience. Lofty headlands reach out to the ocean, offering spectacular views, while steep mountains of rock jut offshore like giant sentinels. Stroll beaches, explore tide pools, watch for whales and eat your fill of fresh seafood on Trip 14: Highway 101 Oregon Coast, or get a taste of maritime history on Trip 5: Graveyard of the Pacific Tour.

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Oregon Highway 101
GREG VAUGHN / DESIGN PICS / GETTY IMAGES

The Cascade Mountains

You dont have to leave the cities to enjoy the Cascades: snow-capped peaks make natural backdrops to the urban bustle in Seattle, Portland and Vancouver. Explore the northern Cascades on Trip 8: Cascade Drive and on Trip 12: Mt Baker & Lummi Island. Get to know the Oregon Cascades on Trip 21: Oregon Cascades Scenic Byways.

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North Cascades Picture Lake
ROMAN KHOMLYAK / SHUTTERSTOCK

John Day Fossil Beds

Within the soft rocks and crumbly soils of eastern Oregons John Day region lies one of the worlds greatest fossil collections. Over 2200 plant and animal species dating back millions of years have been identified at the John Day Fossil Beds, and the amazing rock formations make Trip 17: Journey Through Time Scenic Byway particularly memorable.

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Back Roads & Byways

Ditching the interstate is richly rewarded around these parts. Experience one of the West Coasts most spectacular coastal back roads on Trip 7: Chuckanut Drive & Whidbey Island. Get lost in a maze of forests, lakes and hot springs on Trip 21: Oregon Cascades Scenic Byways. Or go back in time with the amazing Trip 17: Journey Through Time Scenic Byway.

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Willamette Wineries

Pinot Noir lovers unite! Its Oregons most famous grape, finicky as a superstar and the foundation for some exceptional wine. Cruise around the towns of Newberg, Dundee and McMinnville and sample the local favorite, along with Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Gris. Bring a designated driver and hit all the high points on Trip 16: Willamette Valley Wine Tour.

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Willamette Valley Wine grapes
RENAUDE HATSEDAKIS / GETTY IMAGES

BEST ROADSIDE FUN

Oregon Vortex Defy physics at a classic roadside attraction. Trips

Prehistoric Gardens Where the dinosaurs are more fun than ferocious. Trip

Stonehenge Washingtons answer to the UK monument. Trips

The Glass House A quirky house made of embalming fluid bottles. Trip

Marshs Free Museum Right across from the Worlds Largest Frying Pan. Trip

Volcanoes & Craters

Volcanoes have a way of wreaking havoc upon the landscape, but give them an eon or two to settle down and you get some gorgeous results. The eruption of Mt Mazama left behind the unique geological gift of Crater Lake, which youll see on Trip 23: Crater Lake Circuit, or you can witness more recent volcanic aftermath on Trip 10: Mt St Helens Volcano Trail.

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