Washington State offers something most road trippers only dream about: three incredibly unique national parks, each within a short driving distance of the other. This Washington National Parks road trip itinerary is the perfect way to explore the lush rainforests of Olympic, the glacier-capped peaks of Mount Rainier, and the rugged alpine beauty of the North Cascades—all in one unforgettable journey.
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Why Take a Washington National Parks Road Trip?
From dramatic coastlines to volcanoes and remote alpine lakes, Washington’s national parks showcase some of the most diverse landscapes in the country. A Washington National Parks road trip lets you experience this variety without needing to cross state lines.
Here’s what makes this trip special:
- Olympic National Park: Explore tidepools, waterfalls, and mossy rainforests all in one park.
- Mount Rainier National Park: Hike beneath a 14,000-ft volcano surrounded by wildflowers.
- North Cascades National Park: Discover some of the least-visited but most jaw-dropping peaks in the U.S.
Renting a Car for Your Road Trip
To explore all three parks efficiently, renting a car is essential. Look for a reliable vehicle with good clearance—especially if you’re visiting early in the season or plan to explore lesser-traveled roads.
Need wheels? Book your rental car here to find the best rates.
Best Time to Visit Washington’s National Parks
Planning a Washington National Parks road trip requires seasonal awareness, as snowpack and road closures can significantly impact access — especially in Mount Rainier and North Cascades.
- Olympic National Park: Open year-round, but Hurricane Ridge can stay snowy into late spring. Best time to visit is June to September.
- Mount Rainier National Park: Snow can linger into July, and wildflower season peaks late July to mid-August. September brings fewer crowds and golden meadows.
- North Cascades National Park: North Cascades Highway (SR-20) often opens in late May or June. Best time is August to early October for full access and prime hiking conditions.
Best Overall Window: Mid-July through early October offers the most trail access and best conditions. For fewer crowds, late September to early October is ideal.
We visited in early July and sunrise corridor in Mount Rainier was still closed and trails were completely snow-covered. Luckily, we had micro-spikes and trekking poles to help us hike in the snow.
What to Pack for Your Washington National Parks Road Trip
Be prepared for variable temps and remote areas. Essentials include:
- Waterproof rain jacket and backpack cover
- Layered hiking clothing for 40°F–80°F temps
- Daypack with water, snacks, first-aid kit, and headlamp
- Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen
- Hiking boots with strong traction
- micro-spikes if you are visiting earlier in the summer
- America the Beautiful Annual Park Pass
- Offline navigation tools (AllTrails+ or Gaia GPS)
- Bug spray (especially early summer)
- Bear spray (important in North Cascades)
- NOTE: You CANNOT fly with bear spray. There are places you can rent it at or purchase.
The Best Washington National Parks Road Trip Route
The most efficient route is a clockwise loop that begins in Seattle and follows this order:
Seattle → Olympic National Park → Mount Rainier National Park → North Cascades National Park → Seattle
- Seattle to Olympic: ~2.5 hours (includes ferry time)
- Seattle-Bainbridge Ferry is the most efficient option.
- Olympic to Mount Rainier: ~3.5 hours
- Mount Rainier to North Cascades: ~4 hours
- North Cascades to Seattle: ~2.5 hours
This route minimizes backtracking and allows you to take advantage of the North Cascades Highway if it’s open.
Olympic National Park — Spend 3 to 5 Days
Olympic is incredibly diverse, with each area offering a unique experience. You can explore glacier-capped peaks, lush temperate rainforests, alpine ridgelines, and wild beaches — all within a single park. Spreading your time across different regions ensures you see the best of what Olympic has to offer, from the inland mountains to the rugged Pacific coastline.
Top Hikes:
- Hurricane Hill Trail: Paved, 3.2 miles round-trip with sweeping mountain views
- Hall of Mosses: Short 0.8-mile loop through dense, otherworldly rainforest
- Pro tip: continue along Hoh River Trail to explore more of the rainforest, just remember to turn around when youre halfway done wanting to hike.
- Mount Storm King: Challenging 4.1-mile hike with ropes and epic lake views
Must-See Sights:
- Hurricane Ridge: Easily accessible viewpoint and visitor center
- Rialto Beach & Hole-in-the-Wall: Iconic tidepools and coastal rock formations
- Note: make sure you check the tide levels before visiting here or else you won’t be able to visit this iconic spot.
- Lake Crescent: Deep blue glacial lake perfect for paddling or relaxing
Other Activities:
- Tidepooling at Salt Creek Recreation Area
- Kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake Crescent
Hidden Gems:
- Spruce Railroad Trail: Flat lakeside trail with tunnels and great views
- Madison Falls: An easy walk to a scenic waterfall near Elwha
- Beach 4: Less crowded alternative to the popular beaches, with tidepools and dramatic driftwood
Where to Stay: Port Angeles, Forks, or Sequim
Planning Tip:
- Stay in Port Angeles to explore the eastern part of the park, then head to Forks for easy access to the coastline and rainforest.
- Arrive to the Hoh Rainforest early. They implement one car in one car out once the parking lot is full.
- Check the tide levels before visiting the beaches
Mount Rainier National Park — Spend 2 to 3 Days
Mount Rainier offers some of the most stunning alpine scenery in the U.S., from wildflower meadows to dramatic glaciers. It’s essential to focus your time in the Paradise and Sunrise areas for the best views, iconic hikes, and alpine lakes. These areas provide an accessible yet rugged experience, but there are also some hidden gems tucked away from the crowds. Whether you’re looking to hike up close to the mountain or simply enjoy a scenic drive, Rainier will not disappoint.
Top Hikes:
- Skyline Trail: 5.5-mile loop with nonstop Rainier views, meadows, and potential marmots
- Naches Peak Loop: 3.3-mile trail near Chinook Pass with postcard-worthy vistas
- Burroughs Mountain Trail (from Sunrise): Moderate to strenuous trail with close-up Rainier views
Must-See Sights:
- Reflection Lakes: Best at sunrise or golden hour
- Box Canyon: Short walk with views into a deep, narrow slot canyon
- Paradise Visitor Center & meadows
Other Activities:
- Photography at Tipsoo Lake
- Picnicking at Sunrise Point
Hidden Gems:
- Grove of the Patriarchs: Short trail to giant old-growth trees (check for bridge repairs)
- Bench and Snow Lakes Trail: Moderate hike to two stunning alpine lakes with fewer crowds
- Silver Falls Loop: Easy waterfall hike near Ohanapecosh
Where to Stay: Ashford (for Paradise), Enumclaw or Packwood (for Sunrise)
Important: As of writing this blog post, no decisions have been made if timed entry reservations will be required for the 2025 summer season. Check the park website or recreation.gov for information on visiting the park.
North Cascades National Park — Spend 2 to 4 Days
North Cascades is a true wilderness experience, with rugged, glacier-carved landscapes, alpine lakes, and towering peaks. This park is perfect for visitors who want to get away from the crowds and dive into remote, pristine nature. Whether you’re driving the North Cascades Highway or hiking to a secluded lake, there’s something here for everyone. The park’s beauty is well worth the effort, and it’s home to some of Washington’s most breathtaking, lesser-known spots.
Top Hikes:
- Maple Pass Loop: 7.2-mile loop with incredible views throughout
- Blue Lake Trail: 4.6 miles round-trip to a clear alpine lake surrounded by peaks
- Thunder Knob Trail: Short, beginner-friendly trail with views of Diablo Lake
Must-See Sights:
- Diablo Lake Overlook: Famous turquoise water and mountain backdrop
- Ladder Creek Falls: Short lit-up trail near the Gorge Powerhouse
- Washington Pass Overlook: Easily accessible vista point on Hwy 20
Other Activities:
- Kayaking or SUP on Diablo Lake
- Driving the North Cascades Highway (when open)
Hidden Gems:
- Rainy Lake Trail: Short, paved trail to a beautiful alpine lake
- Ross Dam Trail: Steep trail to views of Ross Lake and a suspension bridge
- Cascade Pass Trail: Spectacular views for moderate effort if you’re up for a longer hike
Where to Stay: Marblemount, Winthrop, or Mazama
Bonus Stops Along the Way
These stops aren’t part of the parks, but they’re worth adding to your itinerary:
- Leavenworth: A charming Bavarian-themed mountain town with great restaurants and river access
- Salt Creek Recreation Area: Near Port Angeles, with excellent tidepooling and coastal views
- Tipsoo Lake: Just outside Rainier’s Sunrise entrance, perfect at sunrise or golden hour
Tips for a Smooth Road Trip
- Get an America the Beautiful Pass to save money on park entry
- Book lodging early, especially in peak season
- Have a backup plan for rainy days or smoky skies (common in August/September)
- Fuel up before entering parks — especially North Cascades, where gas is limited
- Check road & trail conditions on the official NPS sites before heading out
Final Thoughts on the Ultimate Washington National Parks Road Trip
This Washington National Parks road trip is your chance to experience three drastically different ecosystems—rainforest, alpine wilderness, and volcanic landscapes—without ever leaving the state. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or scenic drives, Washington’s national parks deliver unforgettable moments every single day.
Check out our other blog posts to help plan more National Park trips!
