A Beginners Guide to Exploring The Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest (PNW) is a stunning region of the United States and Canada which encompasses parts of Washington, Oregon, and even British Columbia. Within this amazing area, you can explore numerous national parks, take stunning scenic drives and visit bustling cities and quaint coastal towns. With so much to do, there’s a lot of people who want to know how to plan an awesome road trip here and this beginners guide is going to help you do just that!

Basic info:

• Name: Pacific Northwest (PNW)
• What is it? A beautiful region to explore in the northwestern US states and Canada
• Locations: Oregon, Washington and British Columbia
• Things to do: Scenic drives, hiking, national parks and more (see top recommendations)

Best Ways to Explore The PNW:

The Pacific Northwest is accessible by air, road, and rail from major cities in the United States and Canada. Taking a road trip through the area is one of the best ways to explore it but there are also several airports you can land in if you’re visiting from far out of the area:

Nearest Major Airports:

• • Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA): Located in Seattle, Washington, this is the main hub for the region, offering direct flights from across the U.S. and abroad.
  • Portland International Airport (PDX): Situated in Portland, Oregon, this airport is ideal for exploring Oregon’s coast, wine country, and mountain areas.
  • Vancouver International Airport (YVR): Located in Vancouver, British Columbia, it’s a gateway for those exploring the Canadian side of the PNW.

Driving and Scenic Routes: If you’re coming from California, take Interstate 5 up through Oregon and Washington. Highway 101 along the coast offers breathtaking ocean views in the entire Oregon and Washington Coastlines, charming towns, and plenty of places to stop.

Rail Options: Amtrak’s Coast Starlight runs between Los Angeles and Seattle, while the Cascades route travels between Eugene, Portland, Seattle, and Vancouver, offering beautiful views along the way.

Photos:

Best Time to Visit:

• Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak season with mild, sunny weather ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C). It’s ideal for hiking, beach trips, and exploring national parks. However, this is also the busiest time, so book accommodations and tours in advance.
• Fall (September to November): Fall brings cooler temperatures (50°F to 70°F or 10°C to 21°C) and vibrant foliage, especially in October. It’s a great time for hiking, wine-tasting in the Willamette Valley, and enjoying the quieter season.
• Winter (December to February): Winter is a rainy season in the lowlands, with temperatures from 35°F to 50°F (2°C to 10°C), but it’s perfect for skiing and snowboarding in the Cascade Mountains. Snow falls mostly in higher elevations, while cities like Seattle and Portland experience mild winter temperatures.
• Spring (March to May): Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms, wildflowers, and fewer crowds. Temperatures range from 45°F to 65°F (7°C to 18°C), and it’s a beautiful time to explore gardens, coastal areas, and national parks before summer crowds arrive.

Top Destinations in the PNW:

The PNW is home to both vibrant cities and natural wonders, making it an ideal destination for a variety of travelers.

Seattle, Washington: Seattle is the largest city in the PNW and a hub for art, technology, and outdoor recreation. Here’s some top things to do here: 

• • Pike Place Market: A bustling public market overlooking Elliott Bay, known for fresh seafood, flowers, and artisanal foods.
  • Space Needle: An iconic observation tower offering 360-degree views of the city, mountains, and Puget Sound.
  • Chihuly Garden and Glass: A stunning glass-art exhibit featuring the work of artist Dale Chihuly.
  • Nearby Outdoor Spots: Mount Rainier National Park and the San Juan Islands are ideal day trips for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic views.
  • Explore hotel options.

Portland, Oregon: Known for its food scene, and abundant green spaces, Portland is a favorite for nature enthusiasts and food lovers. Here’s some highlights of what to do here:

• • • Powell’s City of Books: The world’s largest independent bookstore, covering an entire city block with books on every subject imaginable.
    • International Rose Test Garden: Home to over 10,000 rose bushes, this garden blooms beautifully from May to October.
    • Washington Park: A sprawling green space with gardens, trails, and the Oregon Zoo.
    • Nearby Outdoor Spots: The Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood are just an hour away, offering hiking, skiing, and scenic drives.
    • Explore hotels.

Vancouver, British Columbia: Vancouver combines urban sophistication with outdoor adventure, making it one of the most livable cities in the world. Here’s some top spots there to see:

• • • Stanley Park: A 1,000-acre urban park with forested trails, beaches, and the famous Seawall.
    • Granville Island: Known for its public market, artisan shops, and unique eateries.
    • Grouse Mountain: Just 15 minutes from downtown, Grouse Mountain offers hiking, skiing, and panoramic views of the city.
    • Nearby Outdoor Spots: Whistler is about two hours away, perfect for winter sports or hiking and biking in the summer.
    • Explore hotel options.

National Parks to see in the PNW:

The PNW is home to some of the most beautiful national parks in North America, showcasing diverse ecosystems and unique landscapes.

Olympic National Park, Washington: Olympic National Park offers alpine peaks, lush rainforests, and rugged coastline. Here’s some top things to explore there:

• • • Hoh Rainforest: Known for its moss-draped trees and lush greenery.
    • Hurricane Ridge: A high-altitude viewpoint with panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains.
    • Rialto Beach and Ruby Beach: Stunning beaches with sea stacks, driftwood, and tide pools.
    • Hikes in Olympic National Park

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington: Dominated by the snow-capped Mount Rainier, this park is a paradise for hikers and climbers. Here’s some top sights there:

• • • Paradise: Known for wildflower meadows and scenic trails with close-up views of the mountain.
    • Sunrise: The highest point accessible by car, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon: Famous for its deep, clear blue lake formed by a collapsed volcano, Crater Lake National Park is a must-visit for scenic views and unique landscapes. Here’s some top sights there:

• • • Rim Drive: A scenic 33-mile drive around the lake with numerous viewpoints.
    • Wizard Island: A volcanic cinder cone accessible by boat tours during summer.

Activities for First-Time Visitors:

Hiking and Outdoor Adventures: The region is known for its incredible hiking trails, from coastal paths to mountain summits.

• • Popular Hikes: Mount Si near Seattle, Dog Mountain in the Columbia River Gorge, and Garibaldi Lake in British Columbia.
  • Water Sports: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and whale-watching are popular along the coast and in the San Juan Islands.

Wine Tasting in Oregon’s Willamette Valley: Oregon’s wine country, particularly known for Pinot Noir, is just an hour from Portland. Many wineries offer tastings with scenic views of vineyards and rolling hills.

Exploring Coastal Towns: The Oregon and Washington coastlines are dotted with charming towns perfect for a weekend getaway.

• • Astoria, Oregon: The oldest American settlement on the West Coast, known for its Victorian architecture and maritime museum. See top hotels.
  • Cannon Beach, Oregon: Cannon Beach is famous for its iconic Haystack Rock and art galleries. See hotel options.
  • Port Townsend, Washington: Known for its Victorian buildings, scenic waterfront, and vibrant arts community. See hotel options.

Tips for First-Time Visitors:

• Pack for Wet Weather: The PNW is known for its rainy weather, so bring waterproof clothing, especially if you’re visiting during fall or winter. Layering is also essential as temperatures can change quickly.
• Book Accommodations Early for Summer: Summer is the busiest season, and popular destinations like Olympic National Park and Mount Rainier book up quickly. Consider reserving accommodations several months in advance.

Final Things to Know:

The Pacific Northwest is a region of unparalleled natural beauty and diverse experiences. From vibrant cities and serene coastal towns to towering mountains and lush forests, the PNW offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re hiking in Olympic National Park, exploring the streets of Seattle, or tasting wine in Oregon, this guide will help you make the most of your first trip to one of North America’s most captivating destinations.

Related:

• Best places to visit on the Oregon Coast
• Best places to visit on the Washington Coast
• Eastern Oregon