Discovering the Pacific Northwest: A 2-Day Journey from Washington to the Oregon Coast
Welcome to the Pacific Northwest, where natural wonders, rugged coastlines, and charming towns await. Join us for a two-day adventure as we explore the diverse landscapes of Northwestern Washington and the Oregon Coast. From majestic mountain ranges to mystical forests, from crystal-clear lakes to dramatic rock formations, we'll experience the breathtaking beauty of this region firsthand. So, let's pack our bags, hit the road, and start our journey.
Day 1
Northwestern Washington
Our first pit stop is Port Angeles, a quaint town with stunning waterfront views. As the gateway to Olympic National Park, it's the ideal spot to grab a coffee and fuel up before our journey.
Next up is Hurricane Ridge, where we'll take a scenic drive and be greeted by breathtaking panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains. This spot is a nature lover's paradise, from snow-capped peaks to wildflower meadows.
Lake Crescent is a crystal-clear glacial lake surrounded by lush greenery. We'll take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline and maybe even dip our toes in the refreshing waters.
Our short brisk hike at Sol Duc Falls will lead us to a cascading waterfall surrounded by towering trees and ferns. The peaceful sound of rushing water and the mist in the air will leave us feeling rejuvenated.
After a pit stop in Forks, we'll head to the mystical Hoh Rain Forest, where we'll wander through ancient trees and moss-covered logs. This enchanted forest feels like something out of a fairy tale.
We'll wrap up our day with a sunset at Rialto Beach, watching the waves crash against towering sea stacks. The vibrant colors of the sky at dusk will leave us in awe of the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
As soon as you cross the state border to Oregon, Astoria, Seaside, and Cannon Beach are all great options for a comfortable stay. These towns are located along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway and offer a variety of accommodations to fit any budget and style. In Astoria, you can stay in a historic hotel and stroll along the Columbia River waterfront, while in Seaside, you can enjoy the classic beach town vibe with plenty of shops and restaurants. Cannon Beach offers cozy lodges and charming bed and breakfasts. Wherever you stay on the Oregon coast, you'll find plenty of opportunities to stock up on supplies, refuel, and explore its natural beauty.
Day 2
Oregon Coast
We'll wake up early to catch the first light of the day at Ecola State Park, where we'll be greeted by stunning panoramic views of the Oregon Coastline. After taking in the scenery, we'll head to iconic Haystack Rock, towering out of the Pacific Ocean and one of the most photographed landmarks in the Pacific Northwest.
Next, we'll stop by the Tillamook Creamery factory to learn how their dairy products are made and indulge in their creamy ice cream. We'll order the flight to try more flavors and satisfy our sweet tooth.
We'll continue to Devil's Punchbowl, created after the collapse of the roof of a sea cave. The circular rock formation and the crashing waves create a dramatic spectacle.
Our next stop is Thor's Well, a natural drainpipe and hole in a rock that looks like it drains the ocean. Watching the waves crash against the rocks and disappear into the hole is a mesmerizing sight.
Last, we'll visit Heceta Head Lighthouse, one of many lighthouses along the coast, standing tall on a rugged cliff. We'll take in the panoramic views of the coast and the ocean from the top of the lighthouse before heading back to rest after a day full of adventure.
As our two-day journey ends, we reflect on the memories we've made and the beauty we've witnessed. From the stunning panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains to the dramatic spectacle of the Devil's Punchbowl, the Pacific Northwest has left an indelible mark on our hearts. As we head back home, we can't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to explore the natural wonders of this region. Hope that you've enjoyed coming along on this adventure with us and that it inspired you to explore the Pacific Northwest. Until next time, happy travels!
