Arrive in Seattle for the start of your Pacific Northwest self drive. Seattle is known as the ‘Emerald City’ because of the green hue of the waters that surround it. The downtown area of Seattle has many excellent restaurants and you have two nights here to enjoy the city area.

Graduate Hotel or similar

Spend your day exploring the sights and sounds of Seattle. Immerse yourself in daily life with a stroll through Pike Place Market, where fresh seafood and local crafts abound.

Visit the iconic Space Needle for panoramic view across the waterfront, explore the diverse exhibits at the Museum of Pop Culture, and discover the glass sculptures at Chihuly Gardens.

Graduate Hotel or similar

This morning collect your hire car and depart on the car ferry from Seattle’s Pier 50, to the town of Bremerton. Following this scenic cruise through the islands, drive north towards the coastal town of Port Angeles and Olympic National Park.

On arrival follow the signs for the scenic drive up to Hurricane Ridge. From the top you will get the best scenic views of the Olympic Mountains. As well as a visitors centre there are well-marked trails to explore the mountains and spot the resident marmots.

Seattle > Olympic National Park | 120 miles

Red Lion, Port Angeles

Immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Olympic Peninsula. Marvel at the rugged coastline along Highway 101, stopping at scenic overlooks like Lake Crescent and Sol Duc Falls.

Stop at one of the National Park trailheads for the opportunity to explore the enchanting Hoh Rainforest, a lush oasis of towering trees and moss-covered branches.

Spend the evening in the small town of Forks, made famous as the primary setting for Stephenie Meyer’s “Twilight” novels and subsequent movies.

Port Angeles > Forks | 56 miles

Kalaloch Lodge or similar

Follow Highway 101 south along the Oregon coast. Be sure to stop at Ruby Beach, Rialto Beach and Kalaloch Beach for iconic views of natural rock formations like stacks and arches carved into the cliffs above the soft sands.

Alternatively head inland on one of the marked trails into the forest in search of giant cedar trees and many elk that hide in the forest.

Continue along the road and cross the bridge into the seaside town of Astoria.

Forks > Astoria | 185 miles
Bowline Hotel or similar

Whilst in Astoria, enjoy a day filled with coastal charm and history. Begin by exploring the iconic Astoria Column, offering panoramic views of the Columbia River and surrounding landscape. Then, delve into the town’s maritime heritage at the Columbia River Maritime Museum, showcasing exhibits on shipwrecks, fishing, and navigation.

Stroll along the picturesque Riverwalk, lined with shops and eateries, before visiting the historic Flavel House Museum for a glimpse into Astoria’s Victorian past. Finally, cap off your day with fresh seafood at one of the local waterfront restaurants, savouring the local flavours of the Pacific Northwest.

Bowline Hotel or similar

Highway 101 offers a scenic journey along more of Oregon’s stunning coastline. Begin by exploring the charming town of Cannon Beach, famous for its iconic Haystack Rock and sandy shores.

Continue southward, stopping at viewpoints along the way to admire dramatic sea stacks and rugged cliffs. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, where you can marvel at the breathtaking views from the top of the cape and explore tide pools at Thor’s Well.

Finally, arrive in Florence to unwind with a stroll along its rocky shoreline and enjoy a delicious meal showcasing local seafood.

Astoria > Florence | 182 miles

Best Western Pier Point Inn, Florence or similar

Begin the day by exploring the scenic Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, where you can hike, go dune buggy riding, or simply enjoy the breathtaking coastal landscape.

As you continue southward, take in the picturesque views of the Umpqua River, Toketee Falls and its surrounding forests.

Finally, on arriving in Klamath Falls consider exploring the Link River Trail, or simply relax by the scenic Upper Klamath Lake.

Florence > Klamath Falls | 264 miles

Best Western Plus Olympic Inn or similar

Today’s round trip leads you through fascinating volcanic Lava Lands to Crater Lake National Park. The park encompasses the remains of the destroyed Mount Mazama volcano.

Start your visit with a stop at Rim Village to marvel at the stunning views of the lake from various overlooks and visit the Crater Lake Lodge for panoramic vistas.

You can choose to take a hike along one of the park’s many trails, such as the Garfield Peak Trail or the Cleetwood Cove Trail leading down to the lake’s shore.

You should definitely complete the scenic route around Rim Drive, that navigates the whole lake, to experience different perspectives of the caldera and perhaps enjoy a picnic at one of the park’s designated areas.

Crater Lake day visit | 120 miles

Best Western Plus Olympic Inn or similar

Start the day by heading north towards Bend, where you can take a scenic drive along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway.

Continuing northward, stopping at Smith Rock State Park to marvel at its towering cliffs and go hiking.

As you journey further, consider a detour to the picturesque town of Sisters, known for its charming western ambiance.

Finally, head towards Hood River, stopping along the way to admire the breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge.

Klamath Falls > Hood River | 278 miles

Best Western Plus Hood River Inn or similar

From Hood River begin your day with a visit to Multnomah Falls, one of Oregon’s most iconic waterfalls, located just a short drive away. After taking in the stunning views and perhaps hiking to the upper viewing platform, head back to Hood River for lunch at one of its charming cafes or restaurants.

In the afternoon, consider embarking on a scenic drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway, stopping at various viewpoints and waterfalls along the way, such as Latourell Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Wahkeena Falls. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum to learn about the region’s history, geology, and natural beauty.

Best Western Plus Hood River Inn or similar

The drive from Hood River to Olympia offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions.

Start your journey by crossing the Columbia River into Washington State and heading towards Mount St. Helens.

Consider a stop at the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center to learn about the volcano’s eruption in 1980 and its impact on the surrounding area. You can also explore viewpoints along State Route 504 for breathtaking views of the volcano and its crater.

As you approach Olympia, the state capital of Washington, take some time to explore the city’s downtown area. Visit the Washington State Capitol Building and its surrounding Capitol Campus, where you can take guided tours and learn about the state’s history and government. Don’t miss the chance to stroll along Percival Landing, a waterfront park with walking paths and views of the Puget Sound.

Hood River > Olympia | 165 miles

Hilton Garden Inn Olympia or similar

Spend today exploring the dramatic Mount Rainier National Park.

Start your day by heading to Sunrise, the highest point reachable by vehicle in the park. Explore the Sunrise Visitor Centre, where you can learn about the park’s geology, wildlife, and history. Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding peaks.

Consider driving the Paradise Valley Road for further breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and the Paradise area. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as marmots, deer, and mountain goats that inhabit the park.

It is also possible to follow a hiking trail such as the Sunrise Rim Trail for stunning views of the Emmons Glacier and the White River Valley, or the Burroughs Mountain Trail for closer views of Mount Rainier’s glaciers and wildflower meadows.

Hilton Garden Inn Olympia or similar

Bid farewell to the Pacific Northwest as you return to Seattle International Airport. If you have time before check-in, you can choose to visit the excellent Museum of Flight, that neighbours the airport.

Olympia > Seattle International Airport | 52 miles