By A road trip through Washington’s national parks offers an unparalleled adventure for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. From misty rainforests to towering volcanoes and rugged mountain peaks, this 10-day journey is a chance to explore the Pacific Northwest’s diverse landscapes in a single, awe-inspiring loop. Covering Olympic, Mount Rainier, and North Cascades National Parks, this itinerary is perfect for hikers, photographers, and anyone looking to experience the wild heart of Washington.
Overview of Washington’s National Parks
Washington’s three national parks each represent a unique ecosystem, offering a rich variety of natural wonders:
- Olympic National Park: Coastal rainforests, rugged beaches, and snow-capped peaks.
- Mount Rainier National Park: Glaciers, alpine meadows, and majestic waterfalls.
- North Cascades National Park: Jagged mountains and stunning turquoise lakes.
Starting and ending in Seattle, this road trip takes you on a scenic circle through some of the state’s most breathtaking regions, blending iconic landmarks with hidden gems for an unforgettable adventure.
A Snapshot of Each Park
Olympic National Park
Spanning nearly a million acres, Olympic National Park is a true wonderland of ecosystems, including temperate rainforests, pristine beaches, and mountain wilderness. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can explore moss-covered trees in the morning and watch a sunset over dramatic sea stacks by evening.
Mount Rainier National Park
Home to the towering Mount Rainier, this park is known for its alpine meadows, wildflower blooms, and glaciers. The park’s scenic drives and hiking trails offer spectacular views of the mountain, which stands as the highest peak in Washington.
North Cascades National Park
Often referred to as the “American Alps,” North Cascades is a rugged, remote park filled with jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and dense forests. It’s one of the least crowded parks, making it perfect for those seeking solitude and adventure.
10-Day Road Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Seattle to Port Angeles
Begin your journey in Seattle with a scenic ferry ride across Puget Sound to Bainbridge Island. From there, head west toward Port Angeles, your gateway to Olympic National Park. This charming town is the perfect place to relax after the drive, and you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront to start your adventure.
- Things to Do:
- Take the Seattle–Bainbridge Island ferry for stunning views.
- Visit the Olympic National Park Visitor Center.
- Stroll the Port Angeles Waterfront Trail.
Day 2: Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent
Drive up to Hurricane Ridge for panoramic mountain views, then head to Lake Crescent, a serene glacial lake perfect for outdoor activities. Whether you’re kayaking or simply enjoying a picnic by the water, this is a great day for relaxation and exploration.
- Things to Do:
- Hike the Hurricane Hill Trail.
- Rent a kayak at Lake Crescent Lodge.
- Visit Marymere Falls.
Day 3: Hoh Rain Forest and Ruby Beach
The Hoh Rain Forest is a highlight of Olympic National Park, with its lush, moss-covered trees and tranquil atmosphere. Afterward, head to Ruby Beach to see the dramatic sea stacks and enjoy a sunset by the ocean.
- Things to Do:
- Hike the Hall of Mosses Trail.
- Photograph the sea stacks at Ruby Beach.
- Stay overnight in Forks or Kalaloch Lodge.
Day 4: Sol Duc Falls and Hot Springs
Visit Sol Duc Valley, where you’ll find waterfalls and natural hot springs. A short hike will take you to Sol Duc Falls, followed by a relaxing soak in the hot springs to rejuvenate before your next leg of the journey.
- Things to Do:
- Hike to Sol Duc Falls.
- Soak in the Sol Duc Hot Springs.
- Drive to Ashford, staying overnight near Mount Rainier.
Day 5: Mount Rainier – Paradise Region
Explore the Paradise area of Mount Rainier National Park, famous for its wildflower meadows and awe-inspiring views of glaciers. Spend the day hiking or simply enjoying the stunning vistas.
- Things to Do:
- Hike the Skyline Trail.
- Visit Myrtle Falls and Reflection Lakes.
- Stop by the Henry M. Jackson Visitor Center.
Day 6: Sunrise and Chinook Pass
Head to the Sunrise region for less crowded alpine vistas and beautiful views of Mount Rainier. The drive via Chinook Pass offers plenty of photo opportunities, and you may even spot some wildlife along the way.
- Things to Do:
- Hike the Sunrise Rim Trail.
- Visit Tipsoo Lake.
- Stay overnight in Packwood or Enumclaw.
Day 7: Drive to North Cascades National Park
Make your way north to North Cascades National Park, passing through the Bavarian-inspired town of Leavenworth. As you near the park, the scenery becomes more dramatic, with towering peaks and alpine lakes waiting to be explored.
- Things to Do:
- Explore downtown Leavenworth.
- Visit the North Cascades Visitor Center.
- Stop at Gorge Creek Falls Overlook.
Day 8: Diablo Lake and Cascade Pass
Take in the stunning views of Diablo Lake, known for its vibrant turquoise color, then head to Cascade Pass for a challenging but rewarding hike through the heart of the park.
- Things to Do:
- Stop at Diablo Lake Overlook.
- Hike the Cascade Pass Trail.
- Visit Ross Lake Overlook.
Day 9: Winthrop and Deception Pass
Start your journey back west with a stop in Winthrop, a historic town with wooden boardwalks and old-west charm. Continue to Deception Pass State Park to walk across the famous Deception Pass Bridge, offering spectacular views of the surrounding coastline.
- Things to Do:
- Stroll through Winthrop.
- Explore Deception Pass State Park.
- Watch the sunset from Bowman Bay.
Day 10: Whidbey Island and Return to Seattle
Spend your final day exploring the charming coastal towns of Whidbey Island, including Coupeville and Langley. Take in the scenic views before catching the ferry back to Seattle, completing your epic road trip.
- Things to Do:
- Visit Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve.
- Explore Langley’s boutique shops.
- Return to Seattle via the Mukilteo Ferry.
Hidden Gems Along Your Road Trip
Though Washington’s national parks are filled with well-known landmarks, some of the best experiences happen off the beaten path. These hidden gems offer quiet trails, scenic overlooks, and peaceful spots away from the crowds. Here are some must-visit locations:
- Day 1: Dungeness Spit (longest natural sand spit in the U.S.)
- Day 2: Elwha River Valley (serene hiking trails)
- Day 3: Tree Root Cave (suspended tree roots)
- Day 4: Ancient Groves Trail (peaceful old-growth forest loop)
- Day 5: Bench and Snow Lakes Trail (serene alpine lakes)
- Day 6: Silver Falls Loop (mossy bridges and cascades)
- Day 7: Icicle Gorge Trail (easy loop along a rushing river)
- Day 8: Thunder Knob Trail (spectacular Diablo Lake views)
- Day 9: Rosario Beach (quiet tide pools and art sculptures)
- Day 10: Fort Casey State Park (historic lighthouse and coastal bunkers)
Best Times to Visit
The best time for a Washington National Parks road trip is from June to October when trails are clear of snow, and the parks are fully accessible.
- June–August: Wildflowers in bloom, waterfalls at their peak, and mild weather.
- September–October: Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and stunning fall foliage.
- Winter–Spring: Coastal regions are great for exploration, but expect snow closures in mountain areas.
Packing List
- Waterproof jacket and layered clothing
- Hiking boots or trail shoes
- Hydration pack or water bottle
- Camera or GoPro
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Snacks and reusable containers
- National Parks Pass
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Maps or GPS (service may be limited)
Final Thoughts
This 10-day Washington National Parks road trip offers a journey through some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the U.S. From ancient forests and alpine meadows to glacier-fed lakes and volcanic peaks, this adventure will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re hiking, photographing, or simply soaking in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest, this is the ultimate road trip for outdoor enthusiasts.
