Should you choose to road trip the Pacific Coast along Oregon and Washington, prepare to encounter historic seaside resorts, traditional fishing villages, and more natural wonders than you can handle. The Pacific Coast is a world unto itself. This was the end of Lewis and Clark's westward journey and even today holds some secrets for travelers that are just waiting to be discovered. You'll drive down windy roads, along seaside cliffs, past hidden beach coves, through lush valleys with waterfalls, and into towering, old-growth forests.
21625 Butteville Road Northeast, Aurora, OR, United States
Before finishing up your Pacific Coast road trip in Seattle, make a detour to Vashon, and see the Bicycle Swallowed by a Tree. This is the kind of thing that you have to see to believe... but it's totally real. There are tons of stories as to how this little red bike wound up in the tree, but either way, stop and take some pictures.
Next, head to the Westport Maritime Museum and Grays Harbor Lighthouse. This local museum, in a historic Coast Guard building, is definitely worth a visit. There are exhibits on knot-tying, marine life, the science and history of the coast, beachcombing (super helpful for your next stroll along the shore) and, of course, the lighthouse itself.
Best time to visit: Since summer is the high tourist season, September, after Labor Day, is ideal. The weather is still beautiful from September through October and you can avoid the crowds, since most people are back to work and kids are back in school. However, since the crowds are slightly diminished during fall, lots of older RVers choose fall weekends for road trips along this route. Springtime is a bit unreliable in regards to the weather, and can be quite rainy-- this part of the country is known for its grey skies. If you visit between November and June you might get a glimpse of the gray whales on their annual migration.