8 day road trip itinerary for visiting Washington

Jul 05, 2023 By Juliana Daniel

With so much beauty to explore in the area, deciding which parks should be on your itinerary can be challenging. That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide – a perfect Washington National Park itinerary that will make exploring these breathtaking lands a breeze!

From finding lodging and planning activities to determining the best times of year for visiting each park, you'll find everything you need here! Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as we take you through all the things that make these incredible places special!

Washington Itinerary DAY 1: Arrive in Seattle, drive to Port Angeles

Start your Washington National Park Itinerary by visiting the stunning city of Seattle. From there, make your way to Port Angeles at the Olympic National Park Visitor Center, where you can pick up maps and other information for exploring the park.

Enjoy a scenic drive with magnificent views as you travel along the rural roads of Washington en route to your destination. After checking into your hotel, you can spend the evening exploring the charming downtown area of Port Angeles before retiring for a restful night's sleep.

Remember to take plenty of photos along the way! Make sure your camera battery is charged so you don't miss a moment of this incredible journey!

Washington Itinerary DAY 2: Olympic National Park

On day two, make your way to the heart of Olympic National Park. Take a scenic drive along Hurricane Ridge Road with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Stop at the Deer Park Vista Point for a breathtaking panoramic view of Mount Olympus before continuing to the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center.

Here, you can learn more about this unique temperate rainforest and explore its lush trails with incredible wildlife sightings! After spending some time in the park, visit nearby Ruby Beach for a sunset stroll along Puget Sound.

Enjoy a delicious dinner in Port Angeles before turning in for the night, ready for another exciting day exploring Washington's national parks!

Washington Itinerary DAY 3: Mount Rainier National Park

On day three, we set out for Mount Rainier National Park. Begin your exploration by visiting the Paradise Visitor Center and checking out the view from the observation deck overlooking Mount Rainier's snowy peak.

Next, hike to Tipsoo Lake and marvel at stunning wildflowers like lupines and avalanche lilies that bloom in the summertime.

Afterward, head west to Longmire for a historic village tour before stopping off at Narada Falls for breathtaking views of the cascading waters. As you walk around the park, savor each stop along this incredible journey!

Finish your day with an unforgettable dinner and a peaceful evening in one of the many campgrounds or lodges. With so much to explore, you won't want to miss a single moment of your Mount Rainier adventure!

Washington Itinerary DAY 4: Leavenworth

On day four, head to the Bavarian-style village of Leavenworth. Stroll down Front Street and explore charming shops, art galleries, and delicious eateries. Be sure to visit at least one of the many wineries in town for some award-winning local vintages.

In the evening, take in a show at the Icicle Creek Theater or catch a live music performance at one of several venues around town. As night falls, wander through Waterfront Park and marvel at its brightly lit cobblestone pathways.

Take plenty of pictures as you explore this quaint yet lively destination! End your day with a pleasant meal in one of Leavenworth's cozy restaurants before retiring for the night. With its unique atmosphere and activities, Leavenworth is the perfect way to end a perfect Washington National Park Itinerary!

Washington Itinerary DAY 5: Lake Chelan

On day five of your perfect Washington National Park Itinerary, go to the stunning Lake Chelan. Enjoy breathtaking views and serene waters as you cruise the lake on a boat tour or paddle around in a kayak or canoe.

Swim, fish, and soak up the sun on the shoreline's sandy beaches before returning to town for lunch. Afterward, explore nearby trails like Lakeshore Trail for spectacular scenery and great wildlife sightings!

Stop at one of several small towns along the lake for shopping and sightseeing. Remember to take plenty of pictures during this unforgettable adventure so you can remember it forever! As night falls, head back to your hotel or campground for a pleasant evening surrounded by nature.

Lake Chelan is the perfect place to relax and take in all that Washington's national parks have to offer! You'll always want to stay in this incredible destination with its beautiful scenery, plentiful activities, and quaint townships. Enjoy your stay at Lake Chelan – one of the highlights of your perfect Washington National Park Itinerary!

Optional: Hiking The Enchantments

Hiking The Enchantments is an unforgettable experience, but preparing is important to make the most of your trek. With incredible views and unique wildlife, these alpine meadows are a sight to behold – but getting there isn't easy!

To ensure a successful journey:

  1. Start by researching the area and familiarizing yourself with its terrain.
  2. Ensure you're well-prepared for the conditions and know which trails are right.
  3. Pack essentials like warm clothes, food and water, first aid supplies, navigation devices, and maps.

It's also important to plan when it comes to lodging. Since the Enchantments are in a designated wilderness area, camping is the only option – so make sure you have a permit before setting out.

The hike can be challenging, so having the right gear and staying mindful of your surroundings is essential. Be prepared for changes in elevation and weather conditions, and don't forget to rest when needed – after all, it's supposed to be a fun adventure!

When done properly, hiking The Enchantments will reward you with an unforgettable experience that few people enjoy. Follow these steps and prepare yourself for a journey of discovery that will give you lasting memories of Washington's incredible natural beauty!

FAQs

What is the best way to visit Washington National Park?

The best way to explore the Washington National Parks is with a well-planned itinerary that allows you to make the most of your time in the area. Choosing parks and activities that fit within your available timeframe and lodging options for each night is important. With some

research and preparation, you can create an unforgettable trip full of wonderful memories!

Is camping allowed in all national parks?

Camping is allowed in all of Washington's national parks, but each has different regulations. Check individual park websites for specific rules and regulations before planning camping trips. Additionally, some areas may require permits or reservations – so it's important to plan!

What should I pack for a national park trip?

When packing for a national park trip, bring the essentials – from warm clothes and rain gear to navigation devices and first aid supplies. It's also important to check each park's website for additional items or restrictions. This packing will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Washington's amazing parks!

Conclusion

With its incredible outdoors, Washington has no shortage of amazing national parks to explore. This perfect Washington National Park itinerary will ensure you make the most of your trip and visit some of the most breathtaking locations in the Pacific Northwest. From soaked rain forests to vibrant desert wildflowers, each destination included in this itinerary has something unique to amaze you. In addition, if your time allows, take advantage of hiking The Enchantments - an alpine lake basin in the heart of Washington's Cascades.

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