Looking for your next adventure destination? Look no further than the breathtaking scenery of the Pacific Northwest. We absolutely love where we live, and with so many stunning landscapes, it was hard to narrow down our list. There truly is something for every kind of traveler in the Pacific Northwest. From serene hot springs to majestic mountains, here is our list of seven must-visit spots for van travelers:
1. Summer Lake Hot Springs (Oregon):
Nestled in a remote location two hours south of Bend, Oregon (another spot on our list!), Summer Lake Hot Springs offers a blissful retreat for van dwellers. With both indoor bathhouses and outdoor hot springs, you can soak your cares away while enjoying the beauty of nature.
Now, if you’re looking for an upscale spa, this isn’t it, but that’s what makes it so special. The atmosphere here is all about disconnecting from the hustle and reconnecting with the serene surroundings. The best part? You can dry camp right on site, making it a perfect spot for van travelers. Plus, with no light pollution for 50 miles in any direction, the stargazing is phenomenal. Just remember, reservations are required, so plan ahead to secure your spot.
2. Alvord Desert & Steens Mountain (Oregon):
Forget the guidebooks and preconceived notions! Southeast Oregon, often dismissed as a barren wasteland, surprised us with its dramatic and awe-inspiring beauty. Imagine a landscape straight out of a moon landing: desolate, stark, and parched. This is the Alvord Desert, a vast dried-up lake bed nicknamed the "playa" that stretches out like a flattened piece of crumpled paper.
The otherworldly beauty is unlike anything else. This 12-mile-long, 7-mile-wide playa sits beneath the majestic Steens Mountain, its snow-capped peak a stunning contrast to the parched earth. During the dry season (July-November), you can drive right out onto the playa and camp under a sky teeming with stars. Trust us, it's an experience you won't forget. There are no roads here (or speed limits!), just the freedom to cruise freely in any direction, with only tire tracks marking your path. It’s a wildly thrilling experience!
While you’re in the area, head to the nearby Steens Mountain. The crown jewel is Steens Mountain Loop Road, the highest road in Oregon. This 52-mile route starting in the hamlet of Frenchglen winds past campsites, lakes, and culminates at the 9,733-foot summit. Before you hit the road again, make a final stop at The Fields Station Cafe. This adorable, old-timey cafe/store/gas station is famous for its delicious milkshakes.
3. San Juan Island (Washington):
Hop on a quintessential Washington State ferry to San Juan Island where you’ll cruise into Friday Harbor, a charming town buzzing with activity. Friday Harbor is a great basecamp for all sorts of outdoor adventures, and we recommend touring the island by bike.
You won’t want to miss the opportunity to shuck your own oysters at Wescott Bay Shellfish Company. Lime Kiln Lighthouse and State Park is another must-see and is considered one of the best whale-watching spots on Earth. It also features an interpretive center which highlights the history of the area. While on the island, get your fill of fluffy animal cuteness by stopping at Krystal Acres Alpaca Farm.
These are just a few highlights, though. If you're looking to truly escape the crowds, consider venturing beyond Friday Harbor and exploring some of the archipelago's lesser-known islands by sea kayak. Just be sure to track the tides – these peaceful island waters can transform into challenging currents depending on the time of day.
4. North Cascades (Washington):
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the North Cascades, where towering mountains meet crystal-clear aquamarine waters. Take a scenic drive along the North Cascades Scenic Highway (or do the whole Cascade Loop), making sure to stop at Diablo Lake for awe-inspiring views. Leave time to explore Winthrop–a quaint Western town featuring old-time boardwalks and charming boutiques. In winter, it transforms into a haven for cross-country skiers, boasting the largest network of trails in the Western Hemisphere!
If you're ultra-adventurous, consider tackling the Enchantments – a hike that truly lives up to its name. The scenery is simply breathtaking. Honestly, the superlatives don’t do it justice. As an added bonus, you'll likely encounter the local mountain goat population, providing endless photo opportunities. Just remember, permits are required for hiking the Enchantment area, so plan ahead to secure your spot. End your epic adventure with a refreshing (and maybe slightly shocking!) plunge in one of the many pristine alpine lakes.
I’d be remiss not to mention Leavenworth, a must-visit if completing the Cascade Loop. This charming Bavarian town transforms into a winter wonderland during the holidays, but its festive spirit and delicious food (think sausages, pretzels, and strudel!) are a year-round draw. Truly, the North Cascades is an all-season playground.
5. Olympic National Park (Washington):
Explore the lush landscapes and incredible biodiversity of Olympic National Park, from the enchanting Hoh Rainforest to the majestic Sol Duc Falls to the rugged coastline of Rialto Beach. The visitor center at the Hoh Rainforest is fascinating, and the short Hall of Mosses hike is like stepping into a fairytale. Just a heads up, this place is popular (especially weekends), and the park uses a metered entry system, which means you’ll wait in line to park.
For some of the best sunset views, head to Rialto Beach near La Push. Here, you can picnic on the beach or take the three-mile round trip hike to Hole-in-the-Wall, an iconic arch. If the tide is high, you’ll need to hike the overland trail. If the tide is low, you can easily hike the coastline, exploring tide pools along the way.
Last but certainly not least, Sol Duc Falls may be the most picturesque waterfall in the Olympics. The easy 0.8-mile hike through the old-growth forest is a true delight. For a dose of coastal charm, take a detour to the picturesque town of Port Townsend.
Hot Tip: From Port Townsend take a ferry to Whidbey Island and enjoy a scenic drive to Anacortes, where you can hop on another ferry to Friday Harbor (#3 on our list).
6. Bend/Sisters Area (Oregon):
Experience outdoor adventure galore in the Bend/Sisters area of central Oregon–our family’s favorite spot for a weekend retreat. Hike and climb the iconic spires of Smith Rock, or float the scenic Deschutes River. When it's time to unwind, there's nothing like a cold beer and lawn games at Crux Fermentation Project.
In the charming town of Sisters, reminiscent of Stars Hollow, grab a coffee at Sisters Coffee Company before tackling the challenge of South Sister for jaw-dropping panoramic views. Don’t miss the opportunity to paddleboard Clear Lake. Bend/Sisters area offers adventure, relaxation, and small-town charm–all in one unforgettable package.
7. Short Sand Beach (Oregon):
Nestled between the charming towns of Manzanita and Cannon Beach, Short Sand Beach beckons surfers and families alike. To reach the beach, you’ll take a wooded stroller-friendly half-mile trail that follows a creek. Our kids love to stop and climb the large tree roots along the way. The payoff at the end? A sandy paradise with perfect surfing waves, tide pools teeming with sea life, and even a seasonal waterfall and lagoon! There’s a reason our family spends time here every summer!
While you’re in the area, be sure to stop by the Cannon Beach Bakery for one (or several) of their famous almond poppy seed muffins!
Pack your bags, fuel up your van, and get ready to embark on unforgettable adventures in the stunning landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. While you're in the area, don't forget to visit us in the beautiful Columbia River Gorge (we’ll save our top tips for The Gorge for another blog post). And if you have a dirt bike with you, hit Ryan up for some awesome trail riding!
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