We've spent the past summer partnering with Holiday Inn to find the most epic road trip. To decide on the final route, we had travelers show us their favorite places to visit.
The only places in America outside of the Pacific Northwest that experience more rainfall are Alaska and Hawaii. And all of that rain has made the forests of Oregon and Washington into surreal, verdant wonderlands. In addition, the Pacific Northwest experiences an incredible variety of climates, including coastal, high mountain, alpine, semi-arid, and rainforest. So, starting in Forks, Washington, which is home to the continental U.S.'s highest annual rainfall, the most epic road trip through the Pacific Northwest will take you to some of the most beautiful natural wonders, bustling cities, and amazing historic sites.
The Portland Japanese Garden is the best spot to go for views of the city. On a hill above Portland, the impeccably landscaped gardens feature trees, flower beds, ponds, and more. It's 5.5 acres of stunning, zen beauty, and many consider it to be the most authentic Japanese garden outside of Japan. Pro tip: it's right next door to the equally incredibly International Rose Test Garden!
The Columbia River Gorge is home to countless waterfalls, but few are more picture perfect than Multnomah Falls. The two-tiered falls, spanned by a footbridge, look like something from a fairytale. Hike to the top of the upper falls and get an incredible view of the whole gorge!
For another epic waterfall view, head to Palouse Falls State Park. You can view the falls from above, or hike down to the base and take a swim in the water below! It's the perfect way to cool off and really enjoy the natural setting.
Mount Rainier National Park is utterly breathtaking, and even after you've visited, you might still have a hard time convincing yourself that it is, in fact, a real place. Snowcapped mountain peaks, lush alpine forests, and fields covered in bright wildflowers make for an incredible and unforgettable landscape. If you're short on time, head to the Paradise Jackson Visitor Center for a quick hike and some great views, and if you want to spend the night here, look into booking a stay at the Cedar Creek Treehouse.
For an iconic Pacific Northwest view, drive out of Seattle to Snoqualmie Falls. The observation deck offers a killer view, but the Salish Lodge and Spa right on the riverbank above the falls is absolutely awesome. If the lodge looks familiar, it's probably because it was the filming location for exterior shots of the Great Northern in "Twin Peaks"!
Olympic National Park is a must-see for anyone exploring the Pacific Northwest. The forests and mountains are typical of the landscapes across the region, and the beaches, with their tide pools and sea stacks, are unlike the beaches anywhere else in the country. Drive Hurricane Ridge, hike along Ruby Beach, explore Sol Duc Falls, hunt for glaciers, and feel the magic of this special park!
The Pacific Northwest is known for its mountains and coast, but it's also home to rainforests! Hoh Rainforest in Olympic National Park is one of the best hikes in the park. The temperate rainforest features dense stands of trees all covered in verdant moss and lined with lush ferns. It's a surreal spot for some awesome exploring!
From the coast to the mountains to the cities, the Pacific Northwest is an adventure-lover's paradise. It's a special region, where quirky is the norm, and parks hide rainforests and glaciers at the same time. Pack up your coziest flannel and your sturdiest hiking boots and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime!
