Our 2024 summer road trip took us to the amazing Pacific Northwest. Along our unforgettable 2300-mile journey, we explored through the rugged mountain peaks of Washington to the unforgettable coastlines of Oregon, immersed ourselves in the diverse natural wonders of Crater Lake, and spiraled back through the majestic redwoods to the coast of northern California. Our completed itinerary for our family adventures in the Pacific Northwest is outlined below. Follow along with our crazy crew through our linked blog posts along the way!
Pacific Northwest Road Trip - Stop 1:
Seattle, Washington
After arriving in Seattle mid-morning, we loaded our minivan with snacks and water before heading out to explore the city. With just one day to take it all in, we focused on two iconic landmarks: the Space Needle and Pike Place Market.
The Space Needle, standing 605 feet tall, offers stunning 360-degree views of the Seattle skyline, mountains, and Puget Sound. Built for the 1962 World’s Fair, its futuristic design has become a symbol of the city. An elevator ride takes visitors to the observation deck, where the sweeping views capture Seattle’s unique charm.
Next, we headed to Pike Place Market, one of the oldest continuously operating public markets in the U.S. More than just a shopping spot, the market buzzes with energy—vendors calling out, vibrant produce, and the mouthwatering scent of local food. A standout moment was the famous fish toss at Pike Place Fish Market, where fishmongers impressively hurl seafood with style. We wandered through stalls of fresh flowers, crafts, and artisan goods, soaking in the market’s rich character.
After a night in Seattle, we began our 2,300-mile journey through the rugged landscapes of Washington, Oregon, and Northern California.
Our Family Adventures Through the Pacific Northwest
Day 2 - Mount Rainier National Park
The next morning, we set out on a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Mt. Rainier National Park, guided by lush forests, sparkling lakes, and the stories from our Shaka Audio Tour.
Mount Rainier, an active volcano and the most glaciated peak in the lower 48, offers stunning landscapes and countless things to explore. We managed to see both the Paradise and Sunrise Corridors in one day — a whirlwind of waterfalls, wildflower trails, and epic mountain views.
Our adventure began in Paradise, with a stroll along Longmire’s Trail of Shadows to learn about the area’s hot spring resort history. We visited Christine Falls, then Narada Falls, before reaching the Paradise Visitor Center, where the girls earned Junior Ranger badges and we hiked the Nisqually Vista Trail.
After stopping at Reflection Lake, we grabbed lunch and panoramic views on a gondola ride. That afternoon, we explored the Sunrise Corridor, ending at the park’s highest drivable viewpoint.
After a long day of adventures, we left Mt Rainer for our nearby accommodations at Alta Loge. Though we packed a lot into one day, the experience was unforgettable — a mix of geology, history, and jaw-dropping natural beauty. If you can swing it, we recommend splitting your visit into two days to fully enjoy everything this iconic national park has to offer.
Follow along on our post “8 Things to do in Mount Rainier National Park with Kids” to learn more.
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Pacific Northwest Road Trip - Stop 3:
North Cascades National Park
We began our journey to North Cascades National Park along the scenic North Cascades Highway (SR-20), planning to explore viewpoints, take short hikes, and visit Diablo Lake. The North Cascades, part of a vast volcanic range, are home to 300+ glaciers, rugged peaks, and rich biodiversity—earning the nickname “American Alps.” Yet, it remains one of the least visited U.S. national parks.
Our first stop was Rockport, where we paused at Howard Miller Steelhead Park along the Skagit River. Though we missed the wintering bald eagles, the scenery impressed us. At Marblemount, the last refueling stop before the park, we stocked up. Entering Ross Lake National Recreation Area, we visited the park’s Visitor Center for maps and walked nearby trails.
In Newhalem, we crossed a suspension bridge to the Trail of the Cedars and glimpsed the historic Gorge Powerhouse. Further east, we reached Colonial Creek Campground, where we dipped our toes in the chilly but stunning Diablo Lake. The lake’s vibrant teal hue, created by glacial rock flour, was mesmerizing. At Diablo Lake Overlook, we followed a hidden trail to a breathtaking view.
Our final stops included the fairy-tale-like Happy Creek Trail and peaceful Ross Lake. Though the park’s remote nature added a layer of complexity to our visit, the reward was a day full of awe, discovery, and pure mountain magic.
Follow along on our post “The Ultimate North Cascades National Park Itinerary for Kids” to learn more.
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Pacific Northwest Road Trip - Stop 4:
Anacortes, Washington
Whale watching in Washington was a dream come true, especially in the charming town of Anacortes. Nestled on Fidalgo Island, Anacortes offers breathtaking natural beauty, making it the perfect starting point for whale watching adventures. The Spirit of Orca tour stood out due to its intimate group size and respectful approach to wildlife.
We set off on the Salish Sea, taking in the serene waters and rugged coastlines. Along the way, we spotted majestic bald eagles and curious seals. The highlight was seeing a pod of orcas up close—one young orca even put on a playful display with breaching and tail splashing. Watching these incredible creatures in their natural environment was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The orca sighting was truly the highlight of our trip. Watching these incredible creatures in their natural habitat, breaching and splashing, was an experience I’ll never forget. It’s moments like these that remind me of the power and beauty of nature. I feel so grateful to have had the chance to witness it firsthand.
Follow along on our post “Experience the Thrill of Whale Watching in Washington” to learn more.
Pacific Northwest Road Trip - Stop 5:
Olympic National Park - Mountains and Hot Springs
Olympic National Park, located on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, is a vast natural reserve spanning over 922,000 acres. Established in 1938, the park features a stunning variety of landscapes—from alpine peaks and lush rainforests to wild coastlines and glacial valleys. It’s home to unique wildlife, including black bears, elk, marmots, and sea otters.
Our adventure began with a scenic drive from Anacortes to Coupeville and a peaceful ferry ride to Port Townsend. After arriving in Port Angeles, we checked into the Olympic Lodge.
Our first stop the next morning was Hurricane Ridge, where sweeping views and alpine wildflowers greeted us. We hiked the High Ridge Trail to Sunset Point, catching sight of Mount Angeles and a curious black-tailed deer. Next, we continued to Hurricane Hill Trail, winding through peaceful forest and switchbacks, before turning back short of the summit due to time.
From there, a spontaneous detour led us to Elwha Valley, where we took a short walk to Madison Falls, set in a quiet, mossy canyon.
Next, we ate lunch at Lake Crescent Lodge and dipped our toes into its glacier-carved, crystal-clear waters. A brief stop at Salmon Cascades gave us a moment to reflect on the salmon’s epic migration
We then stopped at Salmon Cascades, where the rushing river painted a peaceful scene, before hiking to Sol Duc Falls, a stunning multi-stream waterfall surrounded by old-growth forest. Our day ended with a rejuvenating soak at Sol Duc Hot Springs, the perfect way to unwind beneath the trees.
Follow along on our post “The Perfect Itinerary for Spending 2 Days in Olympic National Park” to learn more.
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Pacific Northwest Road Trip - Stop 6:
Olympic National Park - Beaches and Rain Forests
We began Day 2 at Rialto Beach, arriving early to catch low tide. Though the tide hadn’t fully receded, the dramatic shoreline, crashing waves, and massive drift logs were mesmerizing. Just before leaving, we spotted bald eagles and playful otters—a magical, unexpected moment.
Next, we visited Ruby Beach, famous for its reddish sand and sea stacks. At low tide, tide pools revealed colorful sea stars, anemones, crabs, and mollusks. The girls explored with excitement, discovering marine life in every crevice. It felt like a living science lesson by the sea.
After our coastal adventures, we headed inland to the Hoh Rain Forest, one of the largest temperate rainforests in the U.S. A long entry line reminded us how popular this spot is, especially later in the day. Once inside, we hiked the Hall of Mosses Trail, surrounded by towering Sitka spruces, moss-draped trees, and fern-covered ground. Informational signs along the path deepened our appreciation for this lush, rain-fed ecosystem.
From there, we drove to Kalaloch to visit the legendary Tree of Life, an ancient Sitka spruce clinging to life above a hollowed-out cliff—an awe-inspiring symbol of nature’s resilience.
Our journey wrapped up in Aberdeen, where we stayed the night.
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Follow along on our post “The Perfect Itinerary for Spending 2 Days in Olympic National Park” to learn more.
Pacific Northwest Road Trip - Stop 7:
Mount St. Helens & the Ape Cave Lava Tubes
We spent our last day in Washington on an unusual adventure — trading sunshine for shadows as we explored the incredible Mt St Helens Ape Caves, one of the longest lava tubes in Washington. Formed nearly 2,000 years ago during a quiet volcanic eruption, this two-mile underground tunnel offers a rare peek into the fiery past of Mount St. Helens.
The caves are located near Cougar, Washington, and the scenic drive in builds anticipation with its dense forests and mountain views. Armed with headlamps, gloves, and plenty of backup flashlights, we descended into the darkness.
We tackled the Upper Cave, a rugged path filled with boulders, tight squeezes, and even an 8-foot lava wall climb — a fun challenge for our adventurous girls. The eerie silence, lava sculptures, and sense of isolation made it feel like a true underground expedition.
Exploring the Mt St Helens Ape Caves was a highlight of our trip — spooky, educational, and completely unforgettable. A must-do for any Washington adventurer!
Follow along on our post “Why Mt St Helens Ape Caves are the Best Washington Lava Tubes” to learn more.
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Pacific Northwest Road Trip - Stop 8:
Astoria
Once we left Washington, we continued our family road trip along the Oregon Coast. It was the perfect adventure, filled with salty air, rugged shorelines, and charming towns. We kicked things off in Astoria, the oldest U.S. settlement west of the Rockies. The maritime history was fascinating, and the iconic Astoria-Megler Bridge was impressive.
We explored the Lewis & Clark National Historical Park and even visited filming locations from The Goonies, which Dustin loved!
Follow along on our post “The Ultimate Itinerary for an Oregon Coast Road Trip” to learn more.
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Experience the Road Trip via a Tour!
Our Family Adventures Through the Pacific Northwest
Seaside
After staying the night in Astoria, we made our way to Seaside, a quintessential beach town that quickly became one of our favorites. Just a short drive from Astoria, Seaside offered everything we were looking for—coastal charm, beautiful views, and a relaxing vibe. We parked near the beach and strolled along the Seaside Promenade, a 1.5-mile oceanfront path that was perfect for a morning walk. Lined with vintage-style lampposts, the Promenade offered stunning views of the Pacific, and we took our time enjoying the scenery.
The kids had a blast on the wide sandy beach, running along the shoreline, building sandcastles, and playing in the surf. It was the perfect spot to relax and let the kids burn off some energy. Afterward, we wandered through downtown Seaside, which had a laid-back, family-friendly vibe. There were quaint shops, ice cream stands, and places to grab a bite. We stopped for some local treats, soaking in the small-town atmosphere. Seaside had that perfect mix of fun and relaxation, and it was a great way to kick off our day along the coast.
Follow along on our post “The Ultimate Itinerary for an Oregon Coast Road Trip” to learn more.
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Pacific Northwest Road Trip - Stop 10:
Cannon Beach
In Cannon Beach, we were absolutely awestruck by Haystack Rock, one of the most iconic landmarks along the Oregon Coast. Standing 235 feet tall, it was even more impressive in person than we had imagined. The kids couldn’t wait to explore the area, so we timed our visit for low tide, when the tide pools around the base of the rock are revealed. They had a blast searching through the pools, discovering vibrant sea stars, crabs, anemones, and other marine life. It felt like a mini underwater adventure right at the edge of the shore.
As we wandered closer to the rock, we were thrilled to spot puffins nesting on the cliffs. The natural beauty of Cannon Beach, with its mix of stunning coastline and wildlife, left us all in awe. It was definitely one of the highlights of our trip.
Follow along on our post “The Ultimate Itinerary for an Oregon Coast Road Trip” to learn more.
Pacific Northwest Road Trip - Stop 11:
OVerlooks AND VIEWPOINTS
Just a few miles south of Cannon Beach, Silver Point Interpretive Overlook is the kind of stop that makes you pull over even if you hadn’t planned to. From this roadside viewpoint, you’ll get an incredible perspective of Haystack Rock rising from the sea, with miles of coastline stretching in both directions.
As you wind your way up Highway 101 just past Manzanita, the Neahkahnie Mountain Viewpoint rewards you with a jaw-dropping vista. It’s one of the highest drivable points on the Oregon Coast, offering a bird’s-eye view of the expansive Pacific Ocean, often layered in mist or glowing under a coastal sunset.
Follow along on our post “The Ultimate Itinerary for an Oregon Coast Road Trip” to learn more.
Pacific Northwest Road Trip - Stop 12:
Tillamook
Tucked just before you reach Garibaldi, the Three Graces are a trio of striking sea stacks standing guard in Tillamook Bay. At low tide, you can explore the tide pools and rocky shoreline surrounding them.
No Oregon Coast road trip is complete without a visit to the Tillamook Creamery. This iconic stop is more than just a place to taste cheese—it’s a full-on experience with interactive exhibits, a self-guided factory viewing tour, and of course, an epic ice cream counter.
Follow along on our post “The Ultimate Itinerary for an Oregon Coast Road Trip” to learn more.
Pacific Northwest Road Trip - Stop 13:
Newport
Our last stop for the day was Newport, where we stayed for a couple of nights. It turned out to be the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and coastal charm, making it a memorable part of our trip.
One of the highlights for Buttercup was trying deep-sea fishing. We headed out on a charter boat from the harbor, and though none of us were seasoned anglers, the experience was amazing. We got to reel in rockfish and lingcod.
Afterward, we explored Newport’s historic bayfront, where we wandered through charming shops, seafood restaurants, and galleries. The whole area had a lively, yet laid-back vibe that felt quintessentially coastal.
Follow along on our post “The Ultimate Itinerary for an Oregon Coast Road Trip” to learn more.
Pacific Northwest Road Trip - Stop 14:
Depoe Bay
While Dustin and Buttercup went fishing, Spider Monkey and I took a short trip to Depoe Bay, a place known as the “Whale Watching Capital of the Oregon Coast.” The town is famous for its amazing whale-watching opportunities, and we were all excited to see gray whales up close. Unfortunately, the weather didn’t cooperate during our visit—cloudy skies and choppy waters made it difficult for us to spot any whales.
Despite this, we were still able to enjoy the stunning coastline and the natural beauty of Depoe Bay. We walked along the scenic harbor, where we could hear the waves crashing against the basalt cliffs and watch the water spout up through the spouting horn, a blowhole formation that sprays water high into the air. Even though we didn’t get to see whales, the experience was unforgettable. The small town’s charm, the dramatic coastline, and the feeling of being so close to the ocean made it a memorable stop on our trip.
Follow along on our post “The Ultimate Itinerary for an Oregon Coast Road Trip” to learn more.
Pacific Northwest Road Trip - Stop 15:
Cape Perpetua
Just south of Yachats, Cape Perpetua rises 800 feet above the ocean, offering some of the most dramatic views on the entire Oregon Coast. Start at the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center, part of the Siuslaw National Forest, where you can grab maps, learn about local geology and wildlife, and take in sweeping views right from the deck.
From there, follow the trail to Devil’s Churn, a narrow inlet where waves crash with incredible force, echoing through the rocks like thunder. At high tide, it’s a dramatic and humbling display of the Pacific’s power. Nearby, Thor’s Well and Spouting Horn put on an equally wild show, with seawater shooting skyward through blowholes in the volcanic rock—perfect for photography.
Follow along on our post “The Ultimate Itinerary for an Oregon Coast Road Trip” to learn more.
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Experience the Road Trip via a Tour!
Pacific Northwest Road Trip - Stop 16:
Florence
Our last stop along the Oregon coast was Florence, where we were eager to explore the famous Sea Lion Caves. This incredible natural wonder, known as America’s largest sea cave, is home to hundreds of wild Steller sea lions, especially during the fall and winter months. Unfortunately, the elevator to the cave was under maintenance during our visit, so we couldn’t venture down into the cavernous depths. However, we weren’t disappointed! We still had a fantastic time watching the sea lions from the viewing area above.
The sea lions were lounging on the rocky outcroppings just outside the caves, basking in the sun and occasionally barking at each other. It was a mesmerizing sight to see them so close in their natural habitat. From the clifftop, we also had sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, which made the experience even more spectacular.
Follow along on our post “The Ultimate Itinerary for an Oregon Coast Road Trip” to learn more.
Pacific Northwest Road Trip - Stop 17:
Crater Lake National Park
After exploring the Oregon coast, we ventured inland to Crater Lake National Park. Crater Lake National Park is a stunning gem in southern Oregon, famous for its deep blue waters and dramatic volcanic history. Formed over 7,000 years ago when Mount Mazama erupted, the lake offers breathtaking views and unique geological features. The park’s crystal-clear water and towering cliffs make it a must-see for families.
We started at Rim Village for panoramic views of the lake and Wizard Island. Then we started the scenic 33-mile Rim Drive loop, stopping at multiple viewpoints to capture the beauty of the park.
After an adventurous hike down the Cleetwood Cove Trail, we were at the water’s edge. Here we put our toes in the frigid, crystal clear water.
Before long, it was time for our boat tour! On the tour we got to experience its clear waters and learn about its volcanic history. We saw Wizard Island up close and took in the breathtaking Phantom Ship formation. Along the way, the Old Man of the Lake, a floating tree trunk that has been drifting for over a century, also made an appearance.
To top off our day, Dustin took a frigid dip in the 55 degree water!
Follow along on our post “5 Incredible Things to Do in Crater Lake National Park” to learn more.
Pacific Northwest Road Trip - Stop 18
Redwood National Park
Pacific Northwest Road Trip - Stop 19
Mendocino & Fort Bragg
Pacific Northwest Road Trip - Stop 20
San Francisco
The Family Verdict
Make sure to check out our road trip adventures in the American Southwest and our other family road trip adventures!
Follow along on our other amazing family travel adventures at www.adventureisinoursouls.com.
Recommended Supplies
Don’t miss out on these recommended supplies for your family adventure!
For Packing:
For the Airport / Airplane:
Basics:
Outdoors:
- Pocket Binoculars
- Travel Umbrella
- Adult Hiking Hydration Backpack
- Kid’s Hiking Hydration Backpack
- Water Bladder Cleaning Tablets
- Microfiber Towels
- Women’s All Around Jacket
- Women’s Water-Resistant Hiking Pants, These and These
- Women’s Quick Dry Pants and These
- Women’s Quick Dry Shirts
- Women’s Long Sleeve UV Rash Guard
- Women’s Hiking Socks
- Women’s Rain Jacket
- Kid’s Quick Dry Pants
- Kid’s Quick Dry Shorts
- Kid’s Quick Dry Shirts
- Kid’s Long Sleeve UV Rash Guard
- Kid’s Hiking Socks and These
- Kids Rain Jacket
- Kid’s Rain Pants
- Foldable Kid’s Hat
- Men’s Rain Jacket
