Washington state is one of the great road trip destinations in the United States, and this itinerary is the one we wish we’d had before our own trip.
We spent several weeks exploring Washington’s three national parks—Olympic, Mount Rainier, and North Cascades—as well as Leavenworth, Lake Chelan, and the Enchantments. We then combined our top experiences into a 10-day itinerary that highlights the best sights without feeling rushed.
This Washington road trip starts and ends in Seattle, making one big loop through the state — 1,225 miles in total, not counting detours. It works best from mid-July through September when all park roads are open. At the end of the post, we also include a 7-day and 14-day version depending on how much time you have.
2026 Update: There is an active construction project at Ohanapecosh Campground (Mount Rainer) that affects access to the Silver Falls Trail until early summer. The Grove of the Patriarchs Trail and the Carbon River/Mowich River section of Mount Rainier have long-term closures. Timed-entry permits are not required in 2026. Get current conditions on the National Park Service website before your visit.
The Essentials
BEST TIME OF YEAR | July through September
NATIONAL PARKS VISITED | Olympic, Mount Rainier, North Cascades
DON’T MISS | Hurricane Ridge, Hoh Rainforest, Rialto Beach, Paradise and Sunrise, the Enchantments, Maple Pass Loop, Diablo Lake, Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm
HOW MUCH TIME | 7 to 14 days
TOTAL DRIVING | ~1,200 miles
Why This Road Trip Works So Well
This itinerary forms a loop starting and ending in Seattle, visiting Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier, and North Cascades in the most efficient order. It balances scenic drives with full exploration days so you can experience Washington’s national parks without spending most of your time in the car.
Here are a few reasons why this itinerary works so well:
A logical route across Washington State
This itinerary moves west to east across the state, starting with Olympic National Park, continuing to Mount Rainier, and finishing in North Cascades. This keeps driving efficient and avoids unnecessary backtracking.
Balanced driving and exploration days
Most driving days are between two and four hours, leaving plenty of time for hikes, viewpoints, and scenic stops along the way.
Incredible variety of landscapes
On this trip you’ll visit rugged Pacific beaches, moss-covered rainforests, glaciated volcanoes, alpine lakes, and the dramatic peaks of the North Cascades.
Memorable small-town stops
Leavenworth and Lake Chelan add variety to the trip with charming towns, great restaurants, wineries, and beautiful lake scenery.
Flexible for different travel styles
Avid hikers can tackle some of the best trails in Washington, while travelers who prefer scenic drives and short walks will still experience the highlights of each park.
Washington Road Trip Route Overview (Maps & Itinerary)
This Washington road trip is written as a 10-day itinerary. At the end of this post, we have a 7-day and 14-day itinerary, if you have more or less than 10 days.
On this Washington itinerary, you will start and end in Seattle, making one big loop through the state. You will drive 1,225 miles and this does not include any additional mileage for detours. Your mileage could vary a little bit depending on where you stay in each national park.
On this road trip, all of the roads you will drive are either paved roads or gravel roads that are suitable for standard cars, so a standard 2WD vehicle will do just fine.
This itinerary works best from July through September, when all of the roads and hiking trails are open in the national parks. You can still do a version of this itinerary outside of this time frame, but just be aware that some park roads will be closed from fall through spring.
On this Washington Itinerary, You Will Visit:
This Washington itinerary focuses on the three national parks in Washington with several other notable destinations.
- Olympic National Park
- Mount Rainier National Park
- North Cascades National Park
- Leavenworth
- Enchantments (optional)
- Lake Chelan
- Mount Baker (optional)
If you are an avid hiker, you will love this itinerary. The hikes in these three national parks are incredible. If you have extra time to add to this itinerary, I highly recommend adding on the Enchantments. I don’t think it is worth zipping through these national parks any faster than I have written this itinerary, in order to squeeze in the Enchantments. At the end of the post, I will let you know how to add on the Enchantments.
And if hiking is not your thing, not to worry. With gorgeous scenic drives, stunning overlooks, and short but sweet strolls through the parks, you can have a fantastic trip without venturing too far down a hiking trail.
10 Day Washington Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Washington, drive to Port Angeles
Day 2: Olympic National Park
Day 3: Olympic National Park
Day 4: Mount Rainier National Park
Day 5: Mount Rainier National Park
Day 6: Leavenworth
Day 7: Lake Chelan
Day 8: North Cascades National Park
Day 9: North Cascades National Park or Mount Baker
Day 10: Fly Home
Washington road trip itinerary map | map adapted from Google
Below is the same route, but on Google Maps.
How to Use This Map: Click the tab in the top left corner of the map to see a list of the points of interest and to turn layers on/off. Click the icons on the map to get more information about each point of interest.
To take this map with you, click the star next to the title of the map which adds it to your Google account. Next, within your Google Maps app, select ‘Saved’ and then select ‘Maps’. This map title will now appear in your list.
10 Day Washington Road Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Seattle, Drive to Port Angeles
On the Road: 95 to 130 miles, 2.5 hours
Fly into Seattle – Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and pick up your rental car.
Drive to Port Angeles. There are several routes you can choose from. All routes take roughly 2.5 hours. Option one is to drive south through Tacoma. This route is 130 miles and takes just under 2.5 hours, assuming no traffic. This is the route we took to Port Angeles.
Another option is to take a Washington State Ferry across Puget Sound, which can shorten the drive and adds a scenic start to your trip. The Seattle–Bainbridge Island ferry takes about 35 minutes and the Edmonds–Kingston ferry takes about 30 minutes. From Bainbridge Island it’s about a 1 hour 45 minute drive to Port Angeles, and from Kingston it’s about 1 hour 30 minutes. Ferry reservations are not required for these routes if you are traveling with a car, but you may have to wait for the next sailing during busy summer periods.
Get settled in your hotel and have dinner. We recommend Sabai Thai and Next Door Gastro Pub (two of our favorite restaurants in Port Angeles).
Where to Stay in Port Angeles
We stayed at the Olympic Lodge and highly recommend it. This hotel is centrally located in Port Angeles, with quick and easy access to restaurants and the park entrance. It is also one of the highest reviewed properties in Port Angeles. The Angeles Motel and Aircrest Motel get decent reviews. If you are traveling by RV, you can stay at the Crescent Beach and RV Park.
You will stay in Port Angeles for two nights.
Olympic National Park Guides
Here are a few guides on Olympic National Park, covering the best hikes and the best things to do.
17 Great Hikes in Olympic National Park (+ Map & Photos)
One thing that makes Olympic National Park so unique is its wide variety of landscapes and ecosystems. In this one park, you can hike to mountain peaks, stroll through lush, temperate rainforests, and explore the rugged, rocky coastline. In this post, we list 17 of the best hikes in Olympic National Park…17 great ways to […]
Best Things to Do in Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park, with its mountain ranges, temperate rainforests, and rugged coastline, is one of the most diverse national parks in the United States. In this post, we share with you interesting facts, important planning tips, and the best things to do in Olympic National Park. Interesting Facts about Olympic National Park Olympic National Park […]
Day 2: Olympic National Park
On the Road: 200 miles, 4.5 hours
This is a big day. Today you will visit the western side of Olympic National Park. You will divide your time between the coastal sights and the temperate rainforest.
The two big sights you will visit are Rialto Beach and the Hoh Rainforest. For some people, this will be sufficient. But there are optional add-ons such as Mount Storm King and/or Marymere Falls, Ruby Beach, and Sol Duc Falls.
Start your day at the Pacific coast. To get here, take Highway 101 west from Port Angeles. You will drive past lovely Lake Crescent.
Morning: Optional Hike to Mount Storm King and/or Marymere Falls
Two trails start at Lake Crescent and both of these are optional: Mount Storm King and Marymere Falls. For those who like the idea of visiting a waterfall, but have no interest in doing a strenuous hike, you can hike to Marymere Falls from Crescent Lake (1.8 miles, easy, about 1 hour).
Marymere Falls
Mount Storm King
If you are an avid hiker, I recommend starting the day with the Mount Storm King hike. This is one of the most popular hikes in Olympic National Park so it’s a good one to do first thing of the day.
This hike is short but very strenuous. It’s just over 4.5 miles long, out-and-back, but it ascends over 2,000 feet. It will take 3 to 5 hours and you have the option to add on Marymere Falls at the beginning or end of the hike. Get the full details in our Guide to Mount Storm King ↓
Midday: Rialto Beach
Continue on Highway 101. In the town of Forks, take route 110 out to the coast. “Hike” along Rialto Beach to Hole-in-the-Wall. This is an easy, 3.5-mile round-trip stroll along the beach where you get to see the sea stacks and rock formations that make the Olympic beaches look so unique.
Rialto Beach
There are other gorgeous beaches to visit in the nearby area. The La Push Beaches, which include First, Second, and Third beaches, are very nice to visit. To the north, Shi Shi Beach and Cape Flattery also look amazing.
Optional: Ruby Beach
If you like the idea of visiting another beach, put Ruby Beach on your list. You can have a picnic lunch here or hike along the coast until you get to the Hoh River (6 miles round trip).
This detour adds on 30 miles and about 40 minutes of additional driving time. Plan on spending 30+ minutes at the beach.
Afternoon: Hoh Rainforest
From Highway 101, turn onto Upper Hoh Road. This road is 18 miles long and travels through a dense temperate rainforest. It ends at the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center.
For many people, a visit to the Hoh Rainforest is the highlight of a visit to Olympic National Park.
When you walk through the Hoh Rainforest, you feel like you are journeying back in time. Moss drips from trees that are over 250 feet tall and hundreds of years old. The understory is filled with fallen trees, saplings, and ferns. Keep an eye for deer, the northern spotted owl, elk, raccoon, and black bear.
There are two trails to walk here.
The Hall of Mosses is 0.8 miles round trip. It loops through some of the oldest trees in the area. As its name implies, it is also one of the best places to capture the moss hanging from the trees.
The Spruce Nature Trail is a 1.2 mile loop which features more views of the rainforest and the Hoh River. This trail tends to be less crowded than the Hall of Mosses.
Hall of Mosses Trail
Late Afternoon: Return to Port Angeles
Drive back to Port Angeles. On the drive, there is one more optional detour. Sol Duc Falls is a waterfall that is tucked away in the temperate rainforest. Just before you reach Lake Crescent, turn right onto Sol Duc – Hot Springs Road and take this to the end.
From the parking lot, it is an easy 2.25 mile round trip walk to the waterfall. This visit, including driving time, will take 2 to 3 hours. I only recommend this if you are doing well on time.
Sol Duc Falls
To return to Port Angeles from Sol Duc Falls, it is 40 mile drive that takes about 1 hour.
End of Day
Have dinner and spend the night in Port Angeles.
Day 3: Olympic National Park
On the Road: 220 miles, 5 hours
Today you will visit Hurricane Ridge and then drive to Mount Rainier National Park.
Morning: Hurricane Ridge
From Port Angeles, it is a quick, easy, and very scenic drive to Hurricane Ridge (20 miles, 45 minutes).
At Hurricane Ridge, take your pick from easy walking trails to strenuous hikes. Here are a few ways to spend your time:
High Ridge Trail. Walk 0.5 miles round-trip for nice views along Hurricane Ridge Road. Go a little farther to Sunrise Point for a 1.6 mile round-trip hike.
Hurricane Ridge Trail to Hurricane Ridge. 3.2 miles, easy to moderate, 2 hours. This is our top pick if you are traveling with kids. As this wide trail heads along the ridge, it slowly gains elevation, but it is nothing too strenuous. There are a few switchbacks at the end of the hill as you climb up to the final peak, but your reward is a spectacular view of Olympic National Park.
Sunrise Ridge Via the Sunrise Point Trail. 3 miles, easy to moderate, 2 hours. This entire hike is beautiful, as you are hiking along a ridge with panoramic views the entire way. This hike ends at an overlook where you have a great view of Mount Angeles.
Klahhane Ridge Trail to Mount Angeles. 6.5 miles, strenuous, 4 to 6 hours. This hike is an extension of the Sunrise Ridge Trail mentioned previously. If you like the idea of climbing to the highest peak in the Hurricane Ridge area and the chance to have one of the best panoramic views in Olympic National Park, put this hike on your list.
Klahhane Ridge Trail
You can also visit the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center.
Another idea for something to do is to drive Obstruction Point Road. Obstruction Point Road is frequently called Washington’s scariest road. This gravel road starts at the Hurricane Ridge parking lot and ends at Obstruction Point at an elevation of 6,150 feet. Once at Obstruction Point, you can take your pick from the trails that head further into the mountains.
Obstruction Point Road
Important Note: This road is generally open from mid-July through October. A standard car is suitable for this drive but RV’s and trailers are not permitted on this road.
Midday: Lunch
Return to Port Angeles and have lunch.
Afternoon: Drive to Mount Rainier National Park
It takes three to four hours to drive to Mount Rainier National Park, depending on where you stay.
For this Washington itinerary, I recommend staying at the Paradise Inn or Packwood. We stayed at Ashford and Packwood and overall, Packwood is a slightly better location, as you’ll do less driving to Sunrise.
In Ashford, we stayed at the Nisqually Lodge. Another nice place to stay is the Mountain Meadows Inn. The Copper Creek Restaurant was our go-to spot for dinner while staying in Ashford.
In Packwood, we stayed at the Cowlitz River Lodge. The Packwood Lodge and the Crest Trail Lodge get better reviews more recently. For dinner, we recommend Packwood Brewing Company and Cliff Droppers.
If you will be camping, Cougar Rock Campground, La Wis Wis Campground, and Big Creek Campground have convenient locations.
You will stay in Ashford, Packwood, or the Paradise Inn for 3 nights.
Mount Rainier Guides
Here are a few guides on Mount Rainier National Park, covering the best things to do, the best trails to hike, and how to plan your time.
Best Things to Do in Mount Rainier National Park (2026 Guide)
Discover the best things to do in Mount Rainier National Park, from iconic hikes like the Skyline Trail and Mount Fremont Fire Lookout to scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and easy walks that are perfect for first-time visitors. We’ve visited Mount Rainier National Park twice: once on a 6-day deep dive where we hiked trail after trail […]
15 Best Hikes in Mount Rainier (Ranked by Difficulty & Area)
Mount Rainier is one of the most spectacular hiking destinations in the United States. From wildflower-covered alpine meadows to glacier viewpoints and fire lookout summits, the variety here is incredible. We’ve hiked in more than 50 U.S. national parks and on trails around the world, from Everest Base Camp in Nepal to the Dolomites, and […]
The Perfect Mount Rainier National Park Itinerary (2 to 6 Days)
Planning a trip to Mount Rainier National Park and not sure how to structure your time? We’ve got you covered, and we’re speaking from experience. We’ve visited Mount Rainier twice: once on a six-day trip where we hiked extensively through every corner of the park, from Paradise and Sunrise to the quieter trails of the […]
Day 4: Mount Rainier National Park
On the Road: 40 miles, 1.5 hours from Paradise Inn; 80 miles and 3 hours from Ashford; 66 miles and 2 hours from Packwood
Spend the Morning in Paradise
Paradise definitely lives up to its name. This is one of the most beautiful areas of Mount Rainier National Park.
Take your pick from numerous hiking trails that lead higher onto Mount Rainier. The shorter, easier trails take you up to nice viewpoints of the mountain and these include the Alta Vista Trail (1.7 miles) and the Nisqually Vista Trail (1.2 miles).
For the best experience, hike the Skyline Trail to Panorama Point, one of the best hikes in Mount Rainier National Park. It’s a big day, 6.2 miles round trip with some hefty elevation gain, but you are rewarded with panoramic views of the park.
The Skyline Trail
Another view of the Skyline Trail
If you aren’t big into hiking, have brunch at the Paradise Inn and then walk to Myrtle Falls (1 mile, easy, 30 minutes).
Myrtle Falls
Afternoon: More Sights in Mount Rainier National Park
From Paradise, it is a quick drive to Narada Falls. To view Narada Falls, it is a short but steep walk to the viewpoint (0.2 miles round trip). You might get a little wet, since you are close enough to feel the spray of the waterfall.
From Narada Falls, it takes about 7 minutes to drive to Reflection Lake, one of the prettiest lakes in the park.
Reflection Lake
If you like the idea of adding on another hike, you can hike to Bench and Snow Lakes. The trailhead is located on Stevens Canyon Road, just a short distance away from Reflection Lake. This hike is 2.7 miles round-trip and takes about 2 hours.
Mid to Late Afternoon: Ohanapecosh
The final, optional stop of the day is the Silver Falls Trail. This short, lovely hike meanders through old-growth forests, with gorgeous views of the Ohanapecosh River and Silver Falls. It’s a great option for all ages and ability levels, and with its quiet forest walk, a much different experience than Paradise and Sunrise.
We cover all the details in our guide to the Silver Falls Trail ↓
Complete Guide to the Silver Falls Loop Trail
Step-by-step trail guide to the Silver Falls Trail, with maps and photos.
Silver Falls Loop Trail
Also in Ohanapecosh is the Grove of the Patriarchs Trail. Unfortunately, this has a long-term closure, as its suspension bridge was damaged in a flood. Get updates about its reopening on the National Park Service website.
Grove of the Patriarchs
PRO TRAVEL TIP: If you are staying in Ashford, save the Grove of the Patriarchs for tomorrow. This will save you 30 miles and an hour of driving today, bringing down your total to 50 miles and 2 hours of driving. Visit the Grove of the Patriarchs first thing in the morning on the drive to Sunrise.
End of Day
Sleep in Packwood, Ashford, or the Paradise Inn.
Day 5: Mount Rainier National Park
On the Road: 125 miles and 2.75 hours from Paradise Inn; 160 miles and 3.25 hours from Ashford; 106 miles and 2.25 hours from Packwood
Morning: Sunrise
Spend the morning in beautiful Sunrise. This is the highest you can get by car in the park. At an elevation of 6,400 feet, not only do you have fantastic views of Mount Rainier, but you can also look out over the Cascade Range.
On the drive, get out and stretch your legs at Sunrise Point. From this hairpin bend in Sunrise Park Road, not only do you get a great view of the peak of Mount Rainier, but you can also see Mount Adams, the second highest peak in Washington.
Sunrise Point
There are a handful of hikes that start in Sunrise, ranging from short, easy strolls to challenging day hikes. I recommend hiking the Sourdough Ridge Trail…the views of Mount Rainier are awesome. For the best experience, hike out to the Mount Fremont Fire Lookout for truly spectacular views (6 miles round trip). The Sunrise Nature Trail is also nice hike if you are looking for something shorter.
Sourdough Ridge Trail
Mount Fremont Fire Lookout
There is a visitor center in Sunrise, as well as the Sunrise Day Lodge, which has a gift shop and food services.
PRO TRAVEL TIP: Sunrise Road is only open during the summer. The road opens in late June or early July and closes in late September or early October.
Afternoon: Crystal Mountain
If you want jaw-dropping views with very little effort, ride the Mount Rainier Gondola to Crystal Mountain.
From Crystal Mountain Resort, ride the gondola up to the peak of Crystal Mountain. This is the location of the Summit House Restaurant, Washington’s highest elevation restaurant.
We loved this experience. The view of Mount Rainier from the Summit House Restaurant is one of our favorites. Plus, there’s no hiking required to get this view. In fact, you can relax here, have lunch or dinner or a view, and it just may be one of the most memorable moments of your trip.
PRO TRAVEL TIP: This is only worth doing if skies are clear.
The food is great and the view from the outdoor patio is absolutely amazing. There is also indoor seating if it is cold. Even during the summer months, temperatures can be very chilly, so bring extra layers for warmth.
For more details on hours and pricing, visit the official website.
End of Day
Sleep in Packwood, Ashford, or the Paradise Inn.
Day 6: Leavenworth
On the Road: 182 miles and 3.75 hours from Paradise Inn; 190 miles and 3.5 hours from Ashford; 165 miles and 3 hours from Packwood
Morning: Drive to Leavenworth
In the morning, drive to Leavenworth. The route you take depends on your starting location. As you can see in the estimates above, it takes 3 to 4 hours to drive to Leavenworth.
From Packwood, take US-12 to I-82 to US-97 (165 miles, 3 to 3.5 hours). This is mostly along highways; it’s fast but not very scenic.
From Ashford, the quickest way is to go through Puyallup and take I-90 to US-97 to Leavenworth (190 miles, 3 to 4 hours). This route is much more scenic and goes over the Snoqualmie Pass. This is the route we took and it is a nice way to see more of the mountains and forests in Washington. You can do this route from Packwood. It adds 25 miles and 45 minutes to the total driving estimate.
Afternoon: Explore Leavenworth
In the afternoon, go for a stroll through Leavenworth and shop in the boutique shops in town.
For dinner, we recommend Visconti’s Ristorante Italiano (great Italian food with an outdoor patio), Mozart’s Steakhouse (great food and awesome cocktails), and Andreas Keller Restaurant (traditional German food and beer in a cozy, Bavarian-style restaurant).
Where to Stay in Leavenworth
The Bavarian Lodge is awesome and this is where we stayed. Enzian Inn gets superb reviews and has an indoor pool. Landhaus Erika is another Bavarian-style hotel that gets very good reviews.
You will stay in Leavenworth for one night.
Day 7: Lake Chelan
On the Road: 115 miles, 2.5 hours
Today is a low-key day. There is no need to roll out of bed early. In fact, you can take your time in Leavenworth and go out to breakfast if you like. However, if you are an avid hiker, see our optional recommendation below.
Today you will drive north to the eastern side of North Cascades National Park. On the way, spend a few hours on lovely Lake Chelan.
Morning & Midday: Drive to and Visit Lake Chelan
From Leavenworth, it takes about an hour to drive to Lake Chelan.
Top things to do in and around Lake Chelan include cruising around Lake Chelan on a jet ski or boat, taking the kids to Slidewaters water park, cruising Lake Chelan on Lady of the Lake, or visiting the wine cellars.
We had an awesome lunch and wine tasting at Tsillan Cellars. This beautiful winery has a covered outdoor restaurant with views of Lake Chelan. The food and the wine are fantastic. They get busy midday, so if this sounds like something you would like to do, I recommend making a reservation in advance.
Tsillan Cellars
Afternoon: Drive to Twisp or Winthrop
From Chelan, drive north to either Twisp or Winthrop. Twisp is a tiny town without much to do, but this is where we spent two nights and loved it. Winthrop is a larger town with a western theme. There are several highly rated hotels and restaurants here to choose from. Sherri’s Sweet Shop is a busy place that serves great ice cream and desserts.
Winthrop
Optional: Hiking the Enchantments
If you are an avid hiker, Leavenworth is the gateway into the spectacular hiking destination known as the Enchantments, which is part of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Today, you have the option to go hiking in the Enchantments, saving the drive to Twisp or Winthrop for the end of the day.
The best hike to do in the Enchantments is the thru-hike of the Core Enchantments. Turquoise, emerald, and aquamarine alpine lakes are scattered through the jagged, snow-capped mountain peaks. Wildflowers bloom along the edges of the trail and mountain goats graze on the grasses.
This is a massive hike. It’s just under 20 miles long with over a mile of elevation gain. It can be done in one day if you are fit and fast. However, you won’t have enough time to do this hike, recover, and then drive north towards North Cascades National Park, all in one day. If you want to hike the Core Enchantments, I recommend adding a day onto this itinerary.
If you want to day hike in the Enchantments and still have enough time and energy to drive to Winthrop or Twisp, I recommend hiking out-and-back to Colchuk Lake. This hike is 11 miles long with 2,200 feet of elevation gain. It will take between 6 and 7 hours.
How to Hike the Enchantments in One Day
Everything you need to know to hike the Enchantments in one day.
Colchuk Lake
Where to Stay in Twisp & Winthrop
In Twisp, we stayed at Twisp River Suites. Take your pick from standard rooms to suites that have a full kitchen. The best part…sitting in the river and having dinner at the end of the day.
In Winthrop, the River’s Edge Resort gets impeccable reviews. The Methow River Lodge and the Mt Gardner Inn are also top picks.
You will stay in Twisp or Winthrop for one night.
North Cascades Guides
Here are a few guides on North Cascades National Park, covering the best hikes and the best things to do.
12 Great Hikes in North Cascades National Park
North Cascades National Park is not a place that easily reveals itself. Sure, the drive along Highway 20 is lovely. And the viewpoints over the lakes and mountain passes are gorgeous. But, to really see this park, you are going to have to invest some time on the hiking trails. If you only saw the […]
9 Best Things to Do in North Cascades National Park
Wild, rugged, remote…North Cascades National Park is highly underrated park, especially for hikers and backpackers. The scenic drives and overlooks give you a glimpse of the beauty of this place, but to truly discover the majesty of the North Cascades, you’ll have to hit the hiking trails. Here are the 9 best things to do […]
Exactly How to Hike the Maple Pass Loop | North Cascades
The Maple Pass Loop offers a little bit of everything…wildflowers, old growth forests, a visit to a lovely alpine lake, and (the best part) panoramic views of the North Cascades. Although it is not located in North Cascades National Park, you bump right up against the park border. From the highest points along the trail, […]
Day 8: North Cascades National Park
On the Road: 95 miles, 2 hours to Marblemount; 175 miles, 4 hours to Glacier
North Cascades is a large, sprawling park that is made up of several sections. Today, you will drive through the heart of the park, visiting the most popular viewpoints with the option to go hiking.
Morning: Drive to North Cascades National Park
From Twisp and Winthrop, head west along Highway 20. It’s a beautiful drive as you head into the jagged mountains that make the North Cascades so spectacular.
Just beyond the hairpin bend, stop off at the Washington Pass Overlook. From here, you have an outstanding view of Highway 20 and Liberty Bell Mountain.
Washington Pass Overlook
Midday: Take Your Pick from Three Optional Hikes
Technically, these hikes are located just east of the official national park border but they are beautiful and worth the time and effort. These are listed in order from east to west, as you drive on Highway 20.
Blue Lake. A few miles west of the Washington Pass Overlook is the trailhead for Blue Lake. This 5-mile round-trip hike is easy to moderate so it’s great for all ages and ability levels. The trail ends at the Blue Lake, a brilliantly blue lake that is surrounded by towering mountains.
Blue Lake
Maple Pass Loop. 7.2 miles, moderate to difficult. The Maple Pass Loop offers a little bit of everything…wildflowers, old growth forests, a visit to a lovely alpine lake, and (the best part) panoramic views of the North Cascades. We liked this hike more than Blue Lake…it’s a fun but challenging hike and the views are outstanding.
Maple Pass Loop
Rainy Lake. 2 miles, easy. This paved trail takes you to a viewpoint of Rainy Lake. This walk shares the same trailhead as the Maple Pass Loop.
Rainy Lake
Afternoon: More Sights in North Cascades National Park
Continue west on Highway 20. Visit the Diablo Lake Overlook for one of the best views of the day and one of the most unique photos you will take on this trip. Diablo Lake gets its unusual color from the melting glaciers. The glaciers grind against the rocks, forming a powdery silt. The water washes this silt into the lake, giving it this milky green-blue color.
Diablo Lake
Farther down the road, take in the view from Gorge Lake Overlook, where you can see the Skagit Gorge and the Gorge Dam.
In Newhalem, you can walk the Trail of the Cedars, a 0.3 mile flat, easy trail that takes you through an old growth forest that faintly resembles the temperate rainforests of Olympic National Park. However, the temperate rainforests you saw in Olympic and Mount Rainier are more impressive, so this is skippable, in my opinion.
Trail of the Cedars
Finally, at the North Cascades Visitor Center, you can walk the short, easy Sterling Munro Trail to view the Pickett mountain range.
You are now on the western edge of North Cascades National Park. Get settled at your hotel and have dinner.
Where to Stay
If you plan to hike the Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm trail tomorrow, stay in Marblemount. If you plan to visit Mount Baker tomorrow, you can also stay in Marblemount. However, you will have more hotel and restaurant options if you stay in Bellingham or along Highway 542 at Glacier.
MARBLEMOUNT: We stayed at the North Cascades Inn. It’s nothing fancy, but it’s clean, the rooms are large, and the Wi-Fi works well. There are also a few restaurants within walking distance.
BELLINGHAM: We stayed here after our visit to Mount Baker and before driving to the airport. We stayed at the TownePlace Suites but there are many more hotels to choose from.
GLACIER: This tiny town is located on Highway 542 near Mount Baker. We stayed at the Blue T Lodge. Rooms were basic but clean and quiet. For dinner, we ate next door at Chair 9 Pizza & Bar.
You will stay at this hotel for 1 night.
Day 9: North Cascades National Park or Mount Baker
Today you will make a choice. Would you like to hike an awesome trail in North Cascades National Park or would you rather explore Mount Baker?
OPTION #1: Cascade Pass & Sahale Arm Hike
For hikers, I recommend hiking the Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm trail in North Cascades National Park. This was our final hike after a six-week road trip through the national parks of Colorado and Washington state and it was one of the best.
Often labeled as the best day hike in North Cascades National Park, the Sahale Arm hike is gorgeous every step of the way. You’ll hike through evergreen forests, through fields of heather and wildflowers, past marmots, mountain goats, and maybe even bear. Once at the Sahale Glacier Camp, you get to enjoy spectacular views over Doubtful Lake and layers of jagged, snow-capped peaks.
This challenging hike is 12 miles out-and-back with 4,150 feet of total elevation gain. It’s tough but it’s worth it.
Before doing this hike, check the national park service website about the status of Cascade River Road. This gravel road is only open during the summer and typically opens early to mid-July.
Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm Hike: North Cascades National Park
Detailed trail guide for the Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm hike.OPTION #2: Mount Baker
Mount Baker lies to the north of North Cascades National Park. In the summer it is a hiking destination and in the winter it is a skiing destination.
If you are not an avid hiker, I still recommend making the trip to Mount Baker (at least if the skies are clear) because the views are beautiful. Plus, there are two short, easy trails you should put on your to-do list.
Here are four hikes to do in the Mount Baker area.
Skyline Divide. This hike is 9 miles long with an elevation gain of 2,500 feet. This hike offers incredible, high alpine views with great views of Mt. Shuksan, Mt. Kulshan, and the North Cascades off in the distance.
Ptarmigan Ridge Trail. This hike is also 9 miles in length with 1,350 feet of elevation gain. Get close-up views of Mt. Baker with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Artist Ridge. This easy hike (only 1.2 miles and fairly flat) offers panoramic views of Mt. Baker and Mt. Shuksan.
Table Mountain. A bit longer and more challenging than Artist Point (2.6 miles with 725 feet of elevation gain), this trail steeply climbs up to the top of Table Mountain for panoramic views of the area.
We spent one day at Mount Baker, but stormy weather and low-lying clouds made it impossible to do the hikes on this list. Guess we’ll have to come back someday, not that we mind. The North Cascades are gorgeous and the type of place we would love to visit again in the (hopefully) near future.
Where to Stay
Spend the night near the airport.
The Hyatt Regency Lake Washington at Seattle’s Southport is a beautiful property. Rooms look out over Lake Washington. There are onsite restaurants and bars.
The Cedarbrook Lodge has standard rooms and suites that can accommodate families. It’s a nice pick if you want a property that gets excellent reviews and is not a chain hotel.
But since you are near the airport, there are a bunch of chain hotels to choose from (great for those of you who rack up hotel points). The Residence Inn by Marriott Seattle Sea-Tac Airport, Aloft Seattle Sea-Tac Airport, and the Hilton Garden Inn Seattle Airport all get awesome reviews.
Day 10: Fly Home
On the Road: Minimal
Fly home or continue to your next destination.
How to Modify this Washington Itinerary
With Less Time
If you want to do this Washington itinerary but don’t have 10 days, what should you eliminate?
To make this a 9-day itinerary, remove day 9 (the Cascade Pass hike and Mount Baker). At the end of day 8, drive to the airport.
To make this an 8-day itinerary, combine days 6 and 7. On day 6, drive through Leavenworth, have lunch, continue past Chelan, and get settled into your hotel in Twisp or Winthrop.
It gets tough to make this a 7-day itinerary. You will have to eliminate either a day from Olympic National Park or Mount Rainier National Park.
7 Day Washington Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Washington, drive to Port Angeles
Day 2: Olympic National Park
Day 3: Mount Rainier National Park
Day 4: Mount Rainier National Park
Day 5: Drive through Leavenworth and Chelan to Twisp/Winthrop
Day 6: North Cascades National Park
Day 7: Fly home
If you only have 7 days, you can also eliminate one national park, so you are not zipping through all three. Combine Olympic and Mount Rainier into one trip and save the North Cascades for a future visit.
With More Time
If you have more than 10 days for this Washington itinerary, here is where I recommend putting your extra time.
Add on one to two days for the Enchantments. One extra day gives you enough time to day hike the Core Enchantments. If you plan to backpack the Enchantments, add a second day.
The Enchantments
Add more time in Mount Rainier National Park. We spent 6 days here and never ran out of things to do. There are other sections of the park that are not included on this itinerary but they are worth the extra time. Take a look at our Things to Do in Mount Rainier article for more ideas of what you can see and do here.
Add more time in Olympic National Park. With one to two more days, you can explore the southern and eastern parts of Olympic National Park and/or add on more hikes. Take a look at our Things to Do in Olympic National Park to learn more.
Add one more day so you can visit Mount Baker and hike the Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm Trail.
Add one to two days to visit Seattle.
Add one to three days to visit the San Juan Islands.
14 Day Washington Itinerary for Hikers
If you love hiking, spend more time in Olympic and Mount Rainier to hike the trails, spend several days in and around the North Cascades, and don’t miss the Enchantments, which was our favorite hike in Washington.
Day 1: Arrive in Washington, drive to Port Angeles
Day 2: Olympic National Park
Day 3: Olympic National Park
Day 4: Olympic National Park
Day 5: Mount Rainier National Park
Day 6: Mount Rainier National Park
Day 7: Mount Rainier National Park
Day 8: Leavenworth
Day 9: Hike the Enchantments
Day 10: Lake Chelan
Day 11: North Cascades National Park
Day 12: Cascade Pass & Sahale Arm hike
Day 13: Mount Baker
Day 14: Fly Home
14 Day Washington Itinerary for Non-Hikers
If hiking isn’t so much your thing, split your time between the national parks and more sights in Washington, such as the San Juan Islands and Seattle.
Day 1: Arrive in Washington, drive to Port Angeles
Day 2: Olympic National Park
Day 3: Olympic National Park
Day 4: Olympic National Park
Day 5: Mount Rainier National Park
Day 6: Mount Rainier National Park
Day 7: Leavenworth
Day 8: Lake Chelan
Day 9: North Cascades National Park
Day 10: San Juan Islands
Day 11: San Juan Islands
Day 12: Seattle
Day 13: Seattle
Day 14: Fly Home
Best Time for This Washington Itinerary
The best time for this itinerary is in the summer months (mid-July through the end of September), when the roads in all three of the national parks are open. Outside of these months, you will have to alter this itinerary to account for road closures.
Olympic National Park
The main park roads in Olympic National Park stay open all year. There are a few interior roads and high-elevation roads, such as Obstruction Point Road, that close due to snowfall. But for the most part, you can visit Olympic National Park all year.
Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier can also be visited all year. Summer and early fall are the best times to visit, since all of the park roads and hiking trails will be open. The wildflowers typically bloom from mid-July through mid-August. If you want to see Mount Rainier during the peak blooming season, plan your visit for early August.
In Mount Rainier, there are several roads that close in the fall and don’t reopen until spring. If you plan to do this itinerary between October and June, you will have to skip several sections of the park (such as Sunrise).
Here are the opening and closing dates for the roads in Mount Rainier National Park:
- Stevens Canyon Road: open during the summer and early fall
- Sunrise Road: opens in late June or early July and closes in late September or early October
- Chinook Pass and Cayuse Pass: Chinook Pass and Cayuse Pass are generally open from Memorial Day through mid-November, depending on snowfall
North Cascades National Park
Highway 20, the main road in North Cascades National Park, is typically closed from early November through early May, although these times can change depending on snowfall amounts. If you plan to do this Washington itinerary between November and May, you will need to skip North Cascades National Park.
Cascade River Road, the gravel road that ends at the trailhead for the Cascade Pass to Sahale Arm hike, is only open from early July through October.
Planning Your Washington Road Trip
Hotel Reservations
Here is a list of where you will need to make your hotel or campsite reservations for this Washington itinerary. If you plan to visit Washington state during the busy summer and fall months, I recommend making your reservations 4 to 6 months in advance.
- Port Angeles: 2 nights
- Mount Rainier National Park: 3 nights
- Leavenworth: 1 night
- Twisp or Winthrop: 1 night
- Marblemount, Glacier, or Bellingham: 1 night
- Seattle – Tacoma International Airport: 1 night
National Park and National Forest Fees
- Olympic National Park: $30, valid for 7 days
- Mount Rainier National Park: $30, valid for 7 days
- North Cascades National Park: Free
- Enchantments: Northwest Forest Pass: $30 annual or $5 per day
- Maple Pass Loop: Northwest Forest Pass: $30 annual or $5 per day
- Mount Baker: Northwest Forest Pass $30 annual or $5 per day
America the Beautiful Pass
This annual park pass costs $80 and is valid for one year. You will get free admission to any national park or federal recreation sites that you visit within 365 days of purchasing this pass. This pass includes Olympic and Mount Rainier National Parks and the Northwest Forest Pass for the Enchantments, the Maple Pass Loop, and Mount Baker.
For this Washington itinerary, you will almost break even if you purchase the America the Beautiful Pass. However, if you plan to visit more national parks or federal recreation sites within the year, then it is worth it to purchase this pass.
Click here to learn more.
Links to the Washington National Parks
Here are the links to each national park website. Check park conditions and road closures as you make your travel arrangements and just before your trip. Roads can close due to road construction projects and forest fires can close parts of these parks, so it is very important to stay updated and the best place to do so is on the National Park Service websites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you visit all three Washington national parks in one trip?
Yes. This itinerary is designed as a loop starting and ending in Seattle that visits Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier, and North Cascades National Park in the most efficient order.
How many days do you need for a Washington road trip?
Ideally, plan 10 days to visit Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier, and North Cascades National Park on one road trip. With 7 days, you can still see two parks, while 14 days gives you more time for hiking, Seattle, or the Enchantments.
Where should you start this Washington road trip?
The best place to start is Seattle, which has the largest airport in the state and is located within driving distance of all three national parks.
Do you need a car for this itinerary?
Yes. Renting a car is essential for this trip since public transportation to the national parks is very limited and many viewpoints and trailheads require driving.
Is this Washington road trip good for non-hikers?
Yes. While there are many incredible hikes in Washington’s national parks, you can still see many highlights with scenic drives, short walks, and viewpoints.
More Information for Your Trip to Washington
If you are planning a trip to Washington State, don’t miss our other guides to help you plan the perfect itinerary.
Washington Travel Guide: Start here for an overview of the best places to visit in Washington, including the national parks, scenic drives, and top outdoor experiences.
Olympic National Park: Learn about the best things to do in Olympic National Park, from walking the Hall of Mosses in the Hoh Rainforest to visiting the rugged beaches along the Pacific coast.
Mount Rainier National Park: Plan your visit to Mount Rainier with our guides to the best hikes, top viewpoints, and how to spend two or more days in the park.
North Cascades National Park: Discover one of the most underrated national parks in the U.S., with spectacular mountain scenery, alpine lakes, and incredible hiking trails.
Planning a bigger adventure? See our complete guide to U.S. National Parks with travel tips, itineraries, and hiking guides for parks across the United States.
If you have any questions about this Washington itinerary, let us know in the comment section below.
Explore More of Washington
If this is part of a bigger road trip through the USA, visit our United States Travel Guide and our Washington Travel Guide for more inspiration and travel planning tips.
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