Embark on a one-week adventure across Washington State, nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest (PNW). Known for its diverse landscape, this beautiful state offers spectacular mountains, lush rainforests, and giant waterfalls that will leave you breathless. Whether traveling from SFO Airport in San Francisco or planning a summer getaway, this adventure guide ensures an unforgettable time. Begin your journey by exploring Seattle, the largest city in the state, and use it as a gateway to iconic spots like Mount Rainier, the North Cascades, and the Olympic National Parks. Each of these national parks showcases the natural wonders of the Pacific Ocean and Rocky Mountains, making it the perfect starting point for your 7-day road trip.
Venture further to hidden gems like Leavenworth, a quaint Bavarian village, and Winthrop, an old western town with charm to spare. These charming villages provide excellent ways to stay, eat, and explore, offering a slice of the Midwest Adventurers’ dream. For tranquility, head to Lake Chelan for wine tasting or enjoy a day hike in the Enchantments, surrounded by alpine lakes. Traveling in October promises cheaper flights, empty places, and the perfect time to enjoy the region’s beauty without the crowds. Add a ferry ride to Puget Sound’s nearby islands or paddle along the coast, and you’ve got an itinerary packed with endless opportunities for returning trips.
Mount Rainier National Park
Our road trip to Washington State wouldn’t have been complete without exploring Mt Rainier National Park. This was the first park we visited during the fall, and the views blew us away. Mount Rainier, an active volcano, stands tall with an elevation of 14,411 ft (4,392 m), making it the highest mountain in the state. Located 50 miles southeast of Seattle, this iconic destination is best enjoyed on a sunny day, offering breathtaking scenery and endless hiking trails. During our visit in October, snow covered many of the famous spots, but we still enjoyed places like Christine Falls, Longmire, Narada Falls, Myrthe Falls, and Reflection Lakes.
Consider Ashford or Packwood, two small towns near the park, for a relaxing stay. Both have cozy Airbnbs and VRBOs that provide easy access to the trails. We loved the Packwood Lodge & Cabins, which are surrounded by the woods and a fantastic local brewery. Though the summer season is the busiest, it’s worth visiting during the quieter months. Check out Washington trail guides or suggestions for the best tips to plan your stunning hikes.
Leavenworth & Colchuck Lake
In the heart of the Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth is a Bavarian-styled village that feels like a slice of Bavaria in Washington State. This cute town offers a delightful experience with its colorful and charming buildings adorned with Bavarian facades. We spent two nights at LOGE Camps Leavenworth on our trip, which was great. The town’s center is a joy to visit, with the serene Waterfront Park nearby, where you can relax or enjoy a traditional German dinner at one of the authentic restaurants.
We stopped in Leavenworth mainly to see the hidden gem, Colchuck Lake. Known as the best alpine lake in the region, this natural wonder lies about 15 miles away in The Enchantments. The hike to the lake is an 8-mile out-and-back trail, which is heavily trafficked, but starting 1 hour before sunrise helped us avoid crowds and capture the best light for pictures. The Colchuck Lake Trail took us about 2 hours one way, and the jaw-dropping views made it one of the most rewarding hikes we’ve ever experienced.
Don’t miss the stunning Tumwater Canyon Bridge, also called the Red Bridge, spanning the Wenatchee River, especially in the fall when the scenery is most picturesque. Whether you’re drawn by the alpine lake, the charming town, or the picturesque buildings, Leavenworth should be on your bucket list for any Washington State road trip.
North Cascades National Park
Located in the north of Washington State, near the border with Canada, North Cascades National Park is a paradise for any adventure lover. The park is an alpine wonderland filled with turquoise lakes, rugged peaks, and the stunning Cascade Range, dotted with glaciers and thick forests. Whether you love hiking trails or other outdoor activities, this park offers endless exploration opportunities. The North Cascades Scenic Highway (SR-20) cuts through the center of the park, making it easy to access breathtaking viewpoints and enjoy the scenery.
Be sure to visit Diablo Lake, Ross Lake, and George Lake, artificially created lakes designed for power generation in the region. These vibrant lakes’ unique colors are an unmissable part of the park’s charm. The trails are easily accessible and lead to some of the most rewarding views in this natural haven.
What can you see in North Cascades National Park?
North Cascades National Park is a protected area with beautiful places worth seeing. Most of the park’s wonders require hiking or venturing off the main roads. We spent two days exploring this stunning park. On the first day, we drove along the Scenic Highway 20, stopping at several vista points near the lakes, which offered breathtaking views.On the second day, we tackled the Maple Pass Trail, a moderate hike known for its incredible views. The trail showcased the park’s natural beauty in every step. We captured unforgettable pictures featuring the serene landscapes. This two-day experience in North Cascades National Park is one that every traveler should include in their journey.
Where to stay in North Cascades National Park?
During our trip to the national park, we stayed in Winthrop, WA, a small, old western village nestled in the Methow Valley along the North Cascades Scenic Byway. This quaint town became our base for exploring the area. We spent two nights at the Methow River Lodge, which was fantastic. We enjoyed peaceful morning walks by the river each morning, taking in the serene views and watching horses at a nearby stud.The drive from Winthrop to the park took about 40 minutes, and the picturesque route was just as enjoyable as the destination. The village is charming, with inviting bars, cafes, and stores where you can relax after a day of daily adventures in the area. Winthrop is more than just a stop—it’s an experience that adds character to your journey.
Seattle
On our way to Olympic NP, the final national park in Washington, we stopped in Seattle for one night. It was my first time visiting this vibrant city, and I was genuinely excited to explore its unique charm. This brief visit was a highlight of my life, giving me a glimpse of Seattle’s energy and culture before returning to nature.
Where to stay in Seattle?
We stayed at the Warwick Seattle Hotel while visiting the vibrant city. The beautiful room offered a nice view of downtown, adding to the experience. The price was reasonable, around $90-100 per night, making it an excellent choice for travelers.I recommend this hotel to anyone planning their trip. Everything was well worth everything, from the seamless booking process on (their website here) to the delicious breakfast. This hotel is an excellent pick if you’re looking for a comfortable and affordable stay.
What to see in Seattle?
Staying at a hotel in the center of downtown allowed us to explore Seattle’s famous landmarks easily. We strolled to the Space Needle, then headed to Kerry Park in the affluent neighborhood of Queen Anne, where the picturesque setting offered stunning city views. The following day, we visited the historic Pike Place Market, known for its farmer’s market vibe, artisan products, and local foods. A highlight was seeing the original location of Starbucks, which was founded in this vibrant city.
Olympic National Park
What to see in Olympic National Park?
Olympic National Park was the last park we visited during our road trip to Washington. This enormous park is known for its diverse landscapes, offering a mix of beaches, mountains, and lush rainforests. Ideally, you should spend 3-4 days exploring many different areas, but we only had one full day to enjoy this natural wonder. We started our adventure with the serene Lake Crescent and then hiked to the beautiful Marymere Falls. From there, we explored the breathtaking La Push Beaches before ending the day at the enchanting Sol Duc Falls. Each location gave us a unique glimpse into the park’s beauty and made our short visit memorable.
Where to stay in Olympic National Park?
We rented an Airbnb at Lake Sutherland, staying in the cozy Olympic Lake House during our visit to Olympic National Park. This retro cabin, nestled close to the park and surrounded by mountains and the peaceful water of the lake, felt truly magical. Spending 2 nights here was a dream, and waking up early to catch the sunrise over the water was a moment I’ll never forget. Starting mornings by the lake is an excellent idea for planning your trip. The calm and serene environment will stay with you forever, making it a perfect base for exploring the region’s natural beauty.
This trip itinerary through Washington State is designed to be useful for your journey. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram at @travelbydignity and @lechwardamian for more travel tips, updates, and stunning visuals of our favorite destinations. You can save this post on Pinterest for quick access later and share it on your favorite platform to inspire others.
Final Thoughts
Washington State is a dream destination for nature and adventure lovers. Every moment is unforgettable, from the vibrant streets of Seattle to the breathtaking beauty of Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks. The state’s diverse landscapes, including mountains, beaches, and rainforests, offer endless exploration opportunities. Stay in charming spots like the Olympic Lake House or cozy cabins near the parks. Visit hidden gems like Leavenworth and Winthrop, or enjoy serene mornings by Lake Sutherland. Take scenic hikes, marvel at iconic attractions like the Space Needle, and experience the charm of Pike Place Market. Whether you’re wine tasting, hiking, or simply soaking in the views, Washington’s beauty will inspire and stay with you forever.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Washington state?
The best time to visit Washington State is during late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer (July to August) is also great but can be more crowded and expensive.
2. What is the best way to see the Washington state national parks?
The best way to see Washington state’s national parks is by hiking, which offers scenic views and close encounters with nature. You can also drive through scenic routes, especially in Olympic, Mount Rainier, and North Cascades National Parks.
3. Why travel to Washington state?
Washington state offers stunning landscapes, from lush forests to majestic mountains, perfect for outdoor adventures. It also boasts vibrant cities like Seattle with rich cultural and culinary experiences.
4. When to visit Washington National Parks?
The best time to visit Washington National Parks is from late spring to early fall (May to September) when the weather is pleasant, and most trails are accessible. Summer offers the warmest weather, but it can be crowded.