Washington State is a treasure trove for road trip enthusiasts. With its vast range of terrain—from snow-capped peaks and rolling vineyards to coastal cliffs and serene islands—there’s no shortage of inspiration for scenic drives.
Washington State road trips offer the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and small-town charm. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime local, there’s always something new to discover behind the wheel.
This guide explores the ten best road trips in Washington State. Each route is unique, offering a mix of scenery, history, and attractions tailored to different travel styles and timeframes.
Why Choose Washington State Road Trips?
Washington is one of the few places in the U.S. where you can experience mountains, coastline, forests, farmland, and islands all in a single journey. Road trips in Washington State are more than just drives—they’re opportunities to slow down, explore, and appreciate the richness of the region at your own pace.
From the dramatic Olympic Peninsula to the vineyards of Eastern Washington, these road trips are perfect for weekend escapes or full-fledged vacations. You don’t need a packed itinerary to enjoy them; often, the most memorable moments happen between the major stops.
Quick Overview: 10 Best Washington State Road Trips
Before we dive into the details, here’s a snapshot of the top routes featured in this article:
- Cascade Loop
- Eastern Washington Wine Country
- Olympic Peninsula Loop
- Chuckanut Drive
- Coulee Corridor
- San Juan Island Loop
- Mount Rainier: Paradise Area
- Stevens Canyon Road
- Lewis and Clark Highway
- Clark Highway
Let’s explore each route in more detail.
1. Cascade Loop
The Cascade Loop is a full-circle experience through central and northern Washington. This 440-mile route passes through alpine mountains, lakes, river valleys, and charming towns like Leavenworth and Winthrop.
Highlights:
- North Cascades National Park
- Lake Chelan wine country
- Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth
- Scenic Highway 20 (North Cascades Highway)
This road trip captures the best of Washington’s geography and is ideal for a 3–7 day adventure.
2. Eastern Washington Wine Country
One of the lesser-known Washington State road trips, this route focuses on the Columbia Valley’s vineyards and tasting rooms. It’s a great pick for travelers interested in wine, agriculture, and sunshine.
Highlights:
- Walla Walla and Yakima wineries
- Horse Heaven Hills AVA
- Farm-to-table restaurants and seasonal produce stands
- Rolling golden hills and desert-like terrain
Plan 2–4 days to tour the region, especially during harvest season in late summer or early fall.
3. Olympic Peninsula Loop
For a route that feels like several vacations in one, the Olympic Peninsula Loop is hard to beat. This 330-mile circle takes you through coastal beaches, temperate rainforests, and alpine ridges.
Highlights:
- Olympic National Park
- Hurricane Ridge and Hoh Rainforest
- Ruby Beach and Rialto Beach
- Towns like Port Townsend and Forks
This drive showcases the wild, remote side of Washington and is best enjoyed over 4–5 days.
4. Chuckanut Drive
Chuckanut Drive is one of the shortest but most scenic Washington State road trips. Just 24 miles long, it hugs the coastline between Burlington and Bellingham, offering stunning views of the Salish Sea.
Highlights:
- Seaside cliffs and lookouts
- Taylor Shellfish Farms (fresh oysters!)
- Bellingham’s historic Fairhaven District
- Scenic turnouts and hiking trails
Perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
5. Coulee Corridor
This route explores a more arid side of the state and is especially appealing to geology buffs and history lovers. The Coulee Corridor follows the Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail.
Highlights:
- Dry Falls (once the world’s largest waterfall)
- Grand Coulee Dam
- Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park
- Native American heritage sites
Spend 2–3 days exploring this under-the-radar part of the state. The dramatic terrain and open skies make it ideal for stargazing and photography.
6. San Juan Island Loop
Washington State road trips aren’t limited to the mainland. The San Juan Island Loop is a peaceful, ferry-accessible adventure that combines scenic drives with island charm.
Highlights:
- Orcas Island’s Mount Constitution
- Friday Harbor shops and dining
- Whale watching tours and sea kayaking
- San Juan Island National Historical Park
Ferries depart from Anacortes, and you can explore multiple islands over 2–4 days.
7. Mount Rainier: Paradise Area
No list of Washington State road trips would be complete without Mount Rainier. The drive to the Paradise area of the national park is filled with winding roads, alpine views, and incredible hiking opportunities.
Highlights:
- Longmire Museum and Visitor Center
- Reflection Lakes
- Nisqually Vista Trail
- Wildflower blooms in summer
This trip works well as a weekend escape from Seattle or Tacoma. For a longer adventure, combine it with the Stevens Canyon Road.
8. Stevens Canyon Road
Also inside Mount Rainier National Park, Stevens Canyon Road offers some of the park’s most photogenic views. It’s especially stunning in late summer and early fall.
Highlights:
- Box Canyon
- Christine and Narada Falls
- Viewpoints of Mount Adams
- Roadside picnic spots
Make it a one-day drive or link it with the Paradise route for a fuller experience.
9. Lewis Highway
This historic drive follows the Columbia River on the Washington side, offering an alternative to Oregon’s busier Highway 84. It’s one of the most scenic and educational Washington State road trips.
Highlights:
- Cape Horn Overlook
- Columbia Hills Historical State Park
- Maryhill Museum of Art
- Petroglyphs and historical markers
Plan 2–3 days to fully enjoy the route, especially if you’re interested in Native American history and early exploration.
10. Clark Highway
Running parallel to the Lewis Highway, the Clark Highway is less traveled but equally rewarding. It winds through the Columbia Gorge, small towns, and rural farmland.
Highlights:
- White Salmon and Goldendale
- Scenic river viewpoints
- Agricultural backroads and roadside stands
- Wind and solar energy installations
This drive is great for a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience.
How to Plan Washington State Road Trips
Here are a few helpful steps to plan your journey:
1. Prepare for Washington’s changing weather
Rain gear, layers, sunscreen, and water are all must-haves—yes, even in the same day.
2. Set your travel goals
Do you want to relax, hike, sample local foods, or learn about history? Your goals will help narrow down the best routes for you.
3. Choose your route(s)
You can combine shorter drives (like Chuckanut or San Juan Islands) with longer ones (like the Cascade Loop) if you have a week or more.
4. Check road and weather conditions
Washington’s mountain passes can be snow-covered into late spring. Always check road conditions and national park alerts.
5. Make lodging and ferry reservations
Ferries to the San Juan Islands and lodging near national parks fill up fast, especially in summer.
Best Times to Go
Washington State road trips are beautiful year-round, but the best months depend on your route:
- Summer (June–September): Ideal for mountain and coastal trips. Roads are clear, and parks are fully open.
- Fall (September–October): Great for foliage, fewer crowds, and wine country tours.
- Spring (April–June): Good for wildflowers and moderate weather, though mountain passes may still have snow.
- Winter (December–March): Snowshoeing, hot springs, and cozy lodge stays—just stick to lower elevation routes.
How Many Days to Spend on the Road?
- 2–3 days: Good for Chuckanut Drive, Rainier, or a quick Olympic Peninsula loop.
- 4–5 days: Ideal for San Juan Islands or wine country exploration.
- 1 week or more: Recommended for the full Cascade Loop, combined routes, or in-depth Olympic adventures.
Washington State Road Trips Worth Taking
From coastal cliffs and mountain peaks to rolling vineyards and high desert plateaus, Washington State road trips offer an incredible variety of landscapes and experiences. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a longer scenic journey, these routes are perfect for discovering the true beauty of the Evergreen State.
If you’re preparing for a road trip or simply want to feel more confident behind the wheel, contact Defensive Driving School to see how we can help you succeed with driving through Washington. Our expert instructors and practical courses are designed to equip you with the skills you need to travel safely and confidently across any terrain.
Remember, Washington State road trips aren’t just drives—they’re stories in motion. Let us help you start yours on the right path.
FAQs
What are the top Washington State road trips for natural scenery?
The Olympic Peninsula Loop and the Cascade Loop are must-dos for nature lovers. These drives offer stunning views of Washington’s mountains, forests, and coastlines, including Olympic National Park and the North Cascades National Park.
Which Washington State road trip is best for wine enthusiasts?
The Yakima Valley Wine Tour is perfect for wine aficionados. This route through Washington’s premier wine country includes stops at numerous wineries, offering tastings of some of the best wines in the Pacific Northwest.
What is the most iconic road trip route in Washington State?
The Pacific Coast Scenic Byway is the state’s most iconic route. It stretches along the Washington coast, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and access to charming coastal towns.
Are there any Washington State road trips suitable for history buffs?
Yes, the Lewis and Clark Trail is ideal for history enthusiasts. This route follows the explorers’ historic journey through Washington, featuring landmarks, interpretive centers, and museums that highlight their expedition and the region’s history.
What road trip offers the best urban experiences in Washington State?
The Seattle to Spokane route offers a mix of urban experiences. Starting in Seattle, you can explore the vibrant city life, cultural attractions, and culinary scene before heading to Spokane, where you’ll find historic architecture, parks, and unique local shops.