Region 1 – Pacific Coast Byways

The 350-mile Pacific Coast Scenic Byway epitomizes the Evergreen State. It outlines the entire Olympic Peninsula, meanders through Olympic National Park, through lush rain forests, along oyster-packed inlets and ocean beaches, then extends south to the border with Oregon. Imagine strolling under the moss-draped canopy of an old-growth rainforest, hiking in alpine meadows with jaw-dropping mountain views, or walking along miles of wild and sandy beaches with sea stacks and tidepools. Plan to pack your binoculars and boots and take your time… you’re in for a treat anytime of the year!

Key points of interest:

• Olympic National Park – Hurricane Ridge, south of Port Angeles, provides the most popular access to Olympic National Park. A paved road twists and turns 17 miles up to the 5,200-foot summit. There you’ll find jaw-dropping 360-degree views of mountain peaks, forested valleys, and the Pacific Ocean all the way to Canada.
• Rainforests and Waterfalls – Waterfall seekers can find over 20 waterfalls on the Olympic Peninsula. Hoh Rainforest, one of the last old-growth temperate rainforests in the western hemisphere. This is one of the most remarkable places on the planet! Annual rainfall measures in feet (14 feet a year is the average), so remember your rain gear.

Located entirely within the traditional home of the Makah Tribal Nation, the Cape Flattery Tribal Scenic Byway is the first tribal road in the nation to be awarded scenic status. This is the only road leading to the northwestern-most tip of the contiguous United States.

At just 12 miles in length, this is the shortest scenic byway in Washington, but it is long on scenery and culture and not to be missed if you’re traveling the north Olympic Peninsula.

Key points of interest:

• Makah Cultural and Research Center to learn about the people and cultures of the Makah Tribe.
• Cape Flattery Trail is an easy .75 mile trail that includes a series of boardwalks through the rainforest that overlooks the stunning Pacific Ocean and the nearby sea stacks and coves. Tatoosh Island Lighthouse can be seen in the distance from the Cape Flattery Trail.

Nestled along the Strait of de Fuca, this 61-mile coastal route begins west of Port Angeles. It’s long on curves (249 all together) and is a favorite among those who love remote places where wild forests meet the sea. The historic fishing villages of Clallam Bay and Sekiu offer an authentic Northwest outdoor experience.

Key points of interest:

• Hwy 112 Whale Trail – Bring your binoculars and set your sites on frolicking pods and spouting blow holes. There’s a pretty good chance you’re going to see some whales during the migration in the spring and fall.
• Salt Creek Recreation Area – Known world-wide for its tide pools, Salt Creek Recreation Area includes the Tongue Point Marine Life Sanctuary and Audubon Trail and hiking trails to Striped Peak. After leaving Salt Creek, drive west along Crescent Beach Road for views of the stunning beach and surf. The loop will take you to the town of Joyce and the photogenic, historical Joyce General Store

Winding along the Pacific shoreline from the fishing village of Westport to South Bend, this byway epitomizes life by the ocean. Named in honor of the tiny red berry, which once grew wild in the region, you’ll discover a year-round calendar of cranberry-celebration along the Cranberry Coast Scenic Byway.

Key points of interest:

• Cranberry Museum – Visit the Cranberry Museum and learn both the history of this garnet-colored berry as well as key phases of the industry from bog preparation and planting to marketing cranberry products.
• Grayland – Grayland is one of Washington’s beach vacation towns, with local activities including surfing, camping, clamming, crabbing, fishing, flying kites, and dog friendly beaches. The Grayland Beach State Park offers, sandy beaches, grassy dunes, campsites, RV spots, rentable yurts and stylish tent sites.

The shadows are deeper in this part of the world, and the power and beauty of the ocean invite introspection. Roll up the cuffs of your pants and walk along the beach or light a fire in the fireplace and relax.

This is a place of tales, long naps and sunsets that last forever. It’s where history started before words could be written, and where the lore of the Quinault outlines the topography better than any map.

Key points of interest:

• Ocean Shores – a family beach destination with miles of sandy beaches, perfect for frolicking in the surf, digging for clams, or just enjoying the crashing waves.
• Quinault Cultural Center and Museum – located in Taholah, this cultural center contains history, artifacts and arts & crafts of the Quinault people.