Welcome to America’s Pacific Northwest. Upon arrival at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, collect your bags, pick up your car and head to your hotel.

Seattle is known as the ‘Emerald City’ because of the green hue of the waters that surround it, so admire the views over the water as you drive into the city.

This evening, you might like to watch the sunset from Kerry Park or Gas Works Park, found on the shores of Lake Union.

Graduate Hotel (or similar)

With the day to explore Seattle, you may like to start your morning with a coffee from the original Starbucks, found across the road from historic Pike Place Market. Continuing the theme of firsts, Pike Place Market itself is one of the oldest continually operating farmers’ markets in America. It’s also famous thanks to its tradition of fishmongers throwing their produce in an endearing spectacle. Pike Place is also home to the eccentric gum wall which does what it says on the tin!

Head up the Space Needle for panoramic views across the waterfront, before discovering the glass sculptures at Chihuly Gardens at its base. Also nearby, you could explore the Museum of Pop Culture, with its diverse and interactive exhibits. Alternatively, you could take the ferry to Bainbridge Island, enjoying fantastic views of the skyline as you go.

Graduate Hotel (or similar)

Drive north from Seattle, crossing the border into Canada as you make your way to Vancouver.

We’d also recommend riding the tramway to the summit of Grouse Mountain or perhaps renting a bike to tour Stanley Park. Alternatively, take the complimentary shuttle to the Capilano Suspension Bridge. Its elevated walkways and bridges offer views of the surrounding forests and the canyon below.

Seattle > Vancouver | 140 miles

Blue Horizon Hotel (or similar)

You could spend another day in Vancouver, but we’d recommend taking a day trip to Vancouver Island.

In the morning, you can catch the catamaran fast-ferry from Vancouver direct to Victoria on Vancouver Island. In Victoria, you may like to explore the Parliament Buildings or visit the excellent Royal BC Museum. You could also visit Butchart Gardens, around 25 minutes from downtown Victoria.

Meeting the locals is a fun part of any holiday, so you could opt for a Victoria whale watching cruise that departs from the  harbour. It’s a superb chance to see the humpback whales that navigating the waters around Vancouver Island and, if you are lucky, you may also spot resident orcas that feed on the local salmon. Return by ferry to Vancouver in the early evening.

Blue Horizon Hotel (or similar)

Today, follow the path of the prospectors that went up the Fraser River Canyon on their way to the gold of the Cariboo region. Pass through lush forests and cascading waterfalls, stopping to take in the picturesque mountain views.

From Vancouver, journey through the interior of British Columbia along the Thompson River, named after the famous trapper and explorer David Thompson. You may like to stop at Kamloops Lake for a picnic, or explore the historic town of Merritt.

Reach the mountain resort of Sun Peaks by late afternoon, where you can rest in the clear mountain air, or stretch your legs on a short hike.

Vancouver > Sun Peaks | 268 miles

Sun Peaks Grand Hotel (or similar)

From Sun Peaks, continue along the scenic Yellowhead Highway amongst the forests, lakes and mountains. You may like to stop to explore Wells Gray Provincial Park, also known as the “Waterfall Park”, where you can view the Helmcken, Dawson and Spahats Falls or go rafting on the Clearwater River.

Continue to Mount Robson Provincial Park, named after the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. For information about hiking trails and viewpoints, stop by the Mount Robson Visitor Centre.

On arriving in Jasper, either enjoy a relaxed afternoon exploring this charming mountain town, or venture into Jasper National Park. In the park, you can explore Maligne Lake, Athabasca Falls, Miette Hot Springs and Pyramid Lake. You may like to dine at one of the park’s lakeside lodges.

Sun Peaks > Jasper National Park | 280 miles

Jasper Inn & Suites (or similar)

Drive along one of the most scenic routes in the world, the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93). Admire towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and vast glaciers as you wind your way through Jasper and Banff National Parks.

You can stop at the Columbia Icefield, the largest icefield in the Rocky Mountains. Join a guided glacier tour or walk on the Glacier Skywalk for unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

You may also like to see the stunning turquoise waters of Peyto Lake, a short hike from the Icefields Parkway. Follow the trail to the Bow Summit viewpoint for a panoramic vista of the lake and surrounding peaks.

Stop at Lake Louise to enjoy views across its emerald waters and the majestic mountain backdrop. Take a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore, rent a canoe, or hike to viewpoints such as the Lake Agnes Tea House or the Plain of Six Glaciers.

Conclude your journey in the charming town of Banff, nestled in the heart of Banff National Park. Explore the town’s boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, or take a dip in the soothing waters of the Banff Upper Hot Springs.

Jasper National Park > Banff | 180 miles

Banff Caribou Lodge (or similar)

Before leaving Banff, be sure to ride the Banff Gondola for spectacular panoramic views, then follow the scenic Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A) out of town. Keep an eye out for elk, deer, and bears along the way.

You may like to stop at Lake Minnewanka, the largest lake in Banff National Park. Here you can enjoy a scenic boat cruise, go fishing, or take a leisurely lakeside stroll while soaking in the mountain views.

Explore the charming town of Canmore, nestled at the foot of the Canadian Rockies. Stroll through downtown to browse art galleries, boutique shops, and enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants.

You may like to take a detour through Kananaskis Country for more mountain scenery and the opportunity for more outdoor activities like rafting, mountain biking and hiking.

Today’s final destination is Calgary, a city known for its western heritage. For views across the city, head to the observation deck of Calgary Tower, whilst the neighbourhoods of Kensington and Stephen Avenue offer some great dining and entertainment options.

Banff > Calgary | 78 miles

Delta Marriott Calgary Downtown (or similar)

Embark on another scenic drive today as you head south, back into America. Before you cross the border, however, we’d recommend visiting Waterton Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Why not join a cruise on the Upper Lake and take some photos of the iconic Prince of Wales Hotel?

You may like to drive through the historic Crowsnest Pass before you cross into Montana, travelling towards Glacier National Park. Subject to the weather conditions, you can drive the famous “Going-to-the-Sun-Road” which provides impressive panoramic views of glacial peaks, alpine meadows and clear blue lakes. There is also a national park shuttle that follows this road. We recommend trying the short hikes to viewpoints like Logan Pass and Hidden Lake Overlook for even more breathtaking views.

Explore the charming mountain town of Whitefish, nestled at the base of the mountains, where you can enjoy some boutique shopping or take the scenic chairlift ride at Whitefish Mountain Resort for more stunning views. On arriving in Kalispell, you can discover the historic buildings in downtown, visit the Conrad Mansion Museum or visit one of the local breweries.

Calgary > Glacier National Park > Kalispell | 219 miles

Red Lion Hotel Kalispell (or similar)

Begin today’s journey by driving around Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake in the western United States. As well as scenic views across the lake, it is also possible to swim and rent boats from the lakeside town of Polson.

South of Flathead Lake, near Moiese, you may like to stop at the National Bison Range. Here you can drive the scenic loop road through grasslands and forests to spot bison, elk, deer, and a variety of bird species.

You may like to take a break in Missoula, where it is possible to explore downtown galleries and breweries, stroll along the scenic Clark Fork River, or visit historical sites like the Missoula Art Museum.

Butte is a city with a rich mining history and unique architecture. Visit the World Museum of Mining to learn about the town’s mining heritage, take a walking tour of historic buildings, or explore the Berkeley Pit viewing platform.

On arrival in Bozeman, you can enjoy the downtown shops, restaurants, and galleries, or visit the Museum of the Rockies to learn about the region’s natural history.

Kalispell > Bozeman | 390 miles

Hilton Garden Inn Bozeman or similar

Entering Yellowstone through the North Entrance, you will begin your Yellowstone National Park experience at Mammoth Hot Springs, where you can explore the otherworldly terraces formed by the hot springs. Follow the boardwalk to see the colourful mineral deposits and bubbling geothermal features.

Continue on towards Tower Junction, where you can visit the historic Roosevelt Lodge and Tower Fall. Take a short hike to the viewpoint overlooking the 132-foot Tower Fall, framed by towering cliffs and lush forest.

It is worth taking a detour east towards Lamar Valley, known as the “Serengeti of North America” for its abundant wildlife. Keep an eye out for bison herds, elk, wolves, grizzly bears, and other wildlife roaming the grasslands by the road.

Continue your drive to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Stop at the iconic Artist Point for panoramic views of the canyon and Lower Falls.

Conclude your loop drive in West Yellowstone, just beyond the gateway to Yellowstone National Park. You can explore the town’s shops, restaurants, and attractions, and we recommend visiting the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Centre to learn about Yellowstone’s iconic predators.

Bozeman > West Yellowstone | 160 miles

Gray Wolf Inn & Suites, West Yellowstone (or similar)

Return through the West Entrance to Yellowstone National Park and drive southwards towards the colourful geothermal creations of Fountain Paint Pots and Grand Prismatic Spring. Both areas can be accessed via the boardwalks and signposted trails.

Be sure to stop at Old Faithful, probably the most famous geyser in the world. Regularly erupting, roughly every 90 minutes, Old Faithful shoots hot water and steam up to 55 metres into the air.

From Old Faithful, continue your drive to the edge of Lake Yellowstone, where it is possible to stop at the visitor centre in Grant Village.

As you exit Yellowstone National Park, be prepared for stunning views of the Teton Range. There are several scenic overlooks along the road where you can pull over and admire the majestic peaks. At Grand Teton National Park, look out for signs for viewpoints like Oxbow Bend or Snake River Overlook for breathtaking vistas and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

As you arrive in Jackson Hole, a charming western town in the valley beneath the Tetons, you can explore the town’s iconic elk antler arches, stroll along the boardwalks of Jackson Town Square, and browse boutiques, art galleries, and western-themed shops.

Yellowstone National Park > Grand Teton | 120 miles

Snow King Resort (or similar)

Drive out of Jackson Hole through Snake River Canyon, a scenic gorge carved by the Snake River. Then drive west into the state of Idaho.

You may like to make a stop in Idaho Falls, a charming town with a scenic river walk and Idaho Falls Zoo at Tautphaus Park. You can take a stroll along the Snake River and visit the picturesque Idaho Falls Temple.

Continue on to the Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, a unique landscape of volcanic features including cinder cones, lava tubes, and lava flows. Take the scenic loop drive through the park and hike the trails to explore the otherworldly terrain.

Visit Shoshone Falls, often called the “Niagara of the West.” Located near Twin Falls, these stunning waterfalls cascade over a series of cliffs, creating a spectacular sight. Enjoy viewpoints and picnic areas overlooking the falls, and consider taking a boat tour for a closer look.

On arriving in Twin Falls, you may like to wander down to Perrine Bridge, which spans the Snake River Canyon and offers stunning views.

Jackson > Twin Falls | 270 miles

Hilton Garden Inn Twin Falls (or similar)

From Twin Falls, begin heading north-west towards Oregon and Washington State. Near the town of Bliss, you may like to make a stop at Malad Gorge State Park, where you can explore the deep river canyons and hike the trails to the dam.

Boise is the capital of Idaho, a city that straddles the Boise River. It is worth exploring the “Boise River Greenbelt” and unique nature riverwalk that stretches for 25 miles through the city. Also in the city you can join a tour of the Idaho State Capitol Building or climb to the top of the 96-foot clock tower at Boise Depot, to admire the Spanish-style architecture that dates back to the 1920s.

In Baker City it is possible to visit the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Centre. You can explore exhibits and interpretive trails to learn more about the pioneer experience. You may also like to visit Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest river gorge that is just a short drive from Baker City.

The city of Pendleton is well-known for its annual rodeo, the Pendleton Round-Up, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the country. In Pendleton you can also discover hidden tunnels under the city streets on an underground tour and visit the Woollen Mills to see the mill and production processes, as well as purchase some local products, if you wish.

Twin Falls > Pendleton | 347 miles

Best Western Pendleton Inn (or similar)

Today’s drive follows the Columbia River and the Yakima Valley on the way to Mount Rainier National Park. From Pendleton, head north until you reach the banks for the Columbia River. Follow the river to the north to the town of Pasco.

In Pasco, it is possible to stop at Sacajawea State Park, located at the confluence of the Columbia and Snake Rivers. There is an Interpretive Centre in the park that highlights the Lewis and Clark expedition that first mapped these areas in the early 1800s.

From Pasco, you can leave the Columbia River behind and follow the Yakima River as it winds its way through rolling hills and rich farmlands. The Yakima Valley is also known for its vineyards and wineries. For those interested, it is possible to take a wine tour at one of the local tasting rooms.

From Yakima it is approximately an hour’s drive to Mount Rainier National Park, although the huge peak is possible to view from miles around. Mount Rainier itself is 4,395 metres tall and is the highest mountain in the cascade range. The National Park has more than 260 miles of hiking trails and is home to a variety of wildlife including black bears, elk, deer and mountain goats.

Pendleton > Yakima | 226 miles

Hilton Garden Inn Yakima Downtown (or similar)

This morning, continue back into Mount Rainier National Park but divert to the north and follow the signs back to Seattle, with Mount Rainier visible in your mirrors for much of the journey.

Your Peaks and Parks fly drive holiday comes to an end today as you return your car at the depot, and check-in at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport airport for your afternoon scheduled flight back to the UK.

Yakima > Seattle | 144 miles