Local Host service in Seattle; Destination Guide including maps and detailed driving directions.
Itinerary:
Day #1 Seattle. Arrive in Seattle and pick up your rental car at the airport. The remainder of the day is yours to explore.
Day #2 Seattle–Olympic National Park. Travel by ferry or by car to Olympic National Park, where you will find a land of contrast and endless possibilities for recreation and sightseeing. Explore beaches, the Hoh Rainforest, or glacier-capped peaks. With three major ecosystems and almost a million acres to choose from, Olympic National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is full of possibilities. Approximately 174 miles/280 km.
Day #3 Olympic National Park–Seaside. Drive down the Olympic Peninsula, enjoying incredible views of the Pacific Ocean. Cross the mighty Columbia River and into Oregon, arriving in the picturesque village of Seaside. Here you’ll find spectacular ocean views, miles of beaches, a variety of outdoor activities, excellent shopping, and unforgettable dining. Approximately 255 miles/410 km.
Day #4 Seaside–Coos Bay. Continue your journey on scenic Highway 101 and be dazzled by one of the most spectacular coastlines in the world. You may want to visit Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, where wind-sculpted sand dunes tower 500 feet above sea level and offer numerous activities. Approximately 215 miles/346 km.
Day #5 Coos Bay. A full day to explore Coos Bay, a city rich in history as a ship-building and lumber center. Today you may want to go on a whale-watching excursion, try your hand at clamming, play a round of golf, explore by bicycle, or shop for souvenirs in one of the many boutiques. Why not try some Oregon coast specialties, such as a steaming bowl of clam chowder or delicious crab cakes?
Day #6 Coos Bay–Medford. Today, travel inland and into southern Oregon. This region is known for its agricultural products, year-round outdoor activities, and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. In Medford’s rolling hills, you can delight in award-winning wines, artisan cheeses, and specialty chocolates. Medford’s historic downtown is beautifully restored and filled with art galleries, bookstores, coffeehouses, specialty boutiques, and antiques. Approximately 173 miles/278 km.
Day #7 Medford–Crater Lake National Park–Portland. Today, visit the nation’s deepest lake, Crater Lake, created over 7,000 years ago by volcanic eruptions. During your time here, you can take a trolley tour, hike, fish, or participate in a ranger-led program. You may also just want to kick back, relax, and enjoy the peace and tranquility of this special place. Travel north, skirting the scenic Cascade Mountain Range, and arrive in Portland, the “City of Roses,” for a 2-night stay. Approximately 329 miles/529 km.
Day #8 Portland. A full day at leisure to explore this vibrant city. Stroll through the International Rose Test Garden, browse the farmers market, take a cruise on the Willamette River, or explore one of the city’s many art galleries. Portland is also known for its foodie culture, so be sure to check out the wide selection of restaurants, local fresh foods, and the many local breweries and distilleries.
Day #9 Portland–Mount St. Helens–Mount Rainier National Park Area. Journey back into Washington and visit Mount St. Helens, where you’ll enjoy miles of trails that you can explore by car or on foot. Visit the Johnston Ridge Visitors Center to learn more about the dramatic volcano eruption of 1980 and how it has shaped the landscape in the last 30 years. Continue to Mount Rainier National Park, another active volcano, where you can experience guided walks, bicycling, fishing, boating, and scenic drives. Be sure to have your camera handy for the abundance of incredible photo opportunities. Approximately 256 miles/411 km.
Day #10 Mount Rainier National Park Area–Seattle. Spend more time in the park this morning or return to Seattle. Drop off your rental car at the airport prior to departure. Approximately 107 miles/172 km.