Exciting Journeys Beginning in Seattle
Exploring the Best Road Trips from Seattle
Seattle, a vibrant city nestled in the Pacific Northwest, is not only known for its coffee culture and tech industry but also serves as a gateway to some of the most stunning road trips in the region. Here are some unmissable destinations within driving distance from Seattle.
Olympic National Park (1.5 to 3 hours from Seattle)
Just a stone's throw away from the city, Olympic National Park offers a breathtaking blend of camping, hiking, boating, and fishing amidst lush forests and rugged coastlines. The park is RV-friendly, with campgrounds inside the park for small trailers and nearby RV parks for larger rigs.
Mount Rainier National Park (around 4 hours, ~250 miles)
Famous for its glaciers, wildflower meadows, and the iconic volcano, Mount Rainier National Park is a paradise for hikers, climbers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Accessible by RV, the park offers a multitude of trails and scenic spots to explore.
Chuckanut Drive (about 30 mins, ~20 miles)
For a shorter drive with stunning views, head to Chuckanut Drive, a scenic coastal byway offering panoramic vistas of Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands. With plenty of pullouts and picnic spots, this route is perfect for a relaxing afternoon drive.
Bellingham and nearby areas (1 to 1.5 hours north)
Venture north to Bellingham and discover Deception Pass State Park, Mount Baker Wilderness, and the gateway town of Anacortes with ferry access to the San Juan Islands. These areas provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and RV camping.
Longer Road Trips
For those seeking a more extensive adventure, consider the Seattle to Boise Road Trip (~8-9 hours, ~550 miles), which takes you through the forests of southern Washington and Oregon, ending in Boise with its nature attractions like the Greenbelt and nearby slopes.
Alternatively, embark on the 14-day Washington and Canada Road Trip, which includes stops at the San Juan Islands, Olympic Peninsula, Vancouver, Whistler, Victoria, Cascades National Park, Leavenworth, and Mount Rainier National Park.
Nearby Cities
If you're looking for city sightseeing, Tacoma and Olympia are just an hour south of Seattle. For a longer drive (around 3 hours), head south to Portland, Oregon, known for its unique culture, interesting neighborhoods, and "weird" vibe. To the north, Vancouver, BC, Canada, is a mere 1.5 hours away, requiring a border crossing.
Rent a Camper Van
To make the most of these road trips, consider renting a camper van. Exploring the Pacific Northwest region, especially Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, and the scenic routes like Chuckanut Drive, becomes a seamless adventure with a Class B RV rental.
These destinations offer diverse experiences, from city sightseeing in Seattle and Vancouver to immersive outdoor adventures in national parks and scenic drives, all suitable for a Class B RV. So, book your road trip plans in advance and embark on an unforgettable journey from Seattle!
Notes:
[1] Olympic National Park Road Trip Guide
[3] Olympic National Park RV Camping
[4] Mount Rainier National Park RV Camping
[5] Seattle to Boise Road Trip
- The Pacific Northwest's beauty can be fully experienced during a camper van road trip, as one journeys from Seattle, visiting Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, and the scenic Chuckanut Drive, à la the Seattle to Boise Road Trip or the Washington and Canada Road Trip, offering diverse experiences that blend urban lifestyle, outdoor adventures, and picturesque drives.
- City explorers might opt for nearby destinations like Tacoma, Olympia, Portland, or Vancouver, BC, while those seeking a longer road trip adventure can embark on unforgettable journeys from Seattle, making their travel a seamless lifestyle of exploration and discovery.
