These 8 Road Trips In Washington Will Lead You To Places You’ll Never Forget

We naturally thrive on adventure here in the PNW, and there really is an endless list of must-visit places in Washington. From majestic mountains to old-growth forests, resplendent lakes to stunning cascades, you'll get a front-row seat to Washington's most spectacular wonders -- from behind the wheel! We've mapped out eight of the very best road trips in Washington, perfect for satisfying -- and fueling! -- your wanderlust.

1. Chinook Pass

You'll witness unbelievable views of Mt. Rainier along this Scenic Byway on SR-410, a two-lane pass running from west of the Cascades starting in Enumclaw towards the eastern side in Naches Valley. During your trip, you can visit Mud Mountain Dam Park, as well as Federation Forest State Park, Crystal Mountain Resort and more!

2. Chuckanut Drive

Also known as State Highway 11, this quest starts on I-5 at Exit 231 in Burlington traveling north past Allen and Bow. You'll be able to view the remarkable shoreline and plenty of Evergreen beauty during your relaxing drive until you reach the final stop at Larrabee State Park!

3. Olympic Peninsula

This 150-mile-trip begins in Port Gamble, heading westbound on WA-104. Continue north onto SR-101/Olympic Highway and enjoy the stunning view of Discovery Bay. The road will loop around into Gardiner, through Blyn, Sequim State Park, Elwha, Maple Grove, Beaver, Forks, and more until you reach the Pacific coastline and come to an end in the charming town of Kalaloch!

4. Whidbey Island

Begin this exciting venture on the south end of Whidbey Island, heading north on SR-525 which later turns into SR-20 by Coupeville. Be sure to stop and see Fort Casey & Fort Ebey State Park on your way up to the final destination at Deception Pass Park!

5. North Cascades Highway

Some of our state's most jaw-dropping natural features can be found near the North Cascades, so it's no surprise this is a popular scenic route to drive through. Beginning in Sedro-Woolley, head eastbound on SR-20 and observe the amazing landscape in Concrete, Rockport, Marblemount, as well as the Ross Lake National Recreation Area, Winthrop, and Twisp until you reach the end in Okanogan.

6. Palouse

This lengthy trip begins in Opportunity near Spokane Valley on WA-27 (Pines Road), heading south. You'll be mesmerized out your window while you pass through the small towns and warm countryside! It may be tempting to make a detour to visit Steptoe Butte Park where you can enjoy a break and completely take in the radiance of the Palouse hills. Continue south on WA-27 through Tekoa, Garfield, and Palouse. You'll finally reach Pullman where you can turn back on Route 270 and then onto SR-195 north to head back.

7. North Pend Oreille

After a trip on this byway in the northeastern corner of our state, you'll be reminded there's always more splendor to be seen in Washington! Start out near the town of Tiger on SR-31, also known as the International Selkirk Loop, and head north passing through Ione, Metaline & Metaline Falls. You'll finally complete your trip when you hit the Canadian border!

8. Grand Coulee Dam

This Central Washington trip is just what you need if you're up for a scenic adventure! You'll enjoy traveling through the amazing canyons that were once gouged out from the Missoula floods 13,000+ years ago at Dry Falls Park. Although you may need to re-route in the winter depending on road conditions, this trip is best to begin in Othello, heading north on SR-17 through Moses Lake. When you hit Coulee City, turn eastbound onto SR-2 and then shortly after, turn north onto SR-155/Coulee Blvd. Keep on the same road through Electric City & Coulee Dam on 155 until you reach the wonderful town of Omak!

Which adventure will you tackle first? What do you think are the best road trips in Washington? Share your favorites with us in the comments below!

And for more epic experiences around The Evergreen State, definitely chec out these bucket-list-level adventures!