Key Takeaways:
- Explore Diverse Landscapes: The West Coast offers a variety of stunning scenic byways, from coastal cliffs to lush forests and towering mountains.
- Iconic Destinations: Must-see highlights include the Pacific Coast Highway, Columbia River Gorge, and Redwood Highway, each providing unique and memorable experiences.
- Endless Adventures: These scenic routes provide countless opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring charming small towns.
With extensive experience and a passion for exploration, West Coast Road Trip meticulously crafts itineraries and insider tips to ensure you experience the best of the West Coast. From scenic drives to camper van road trips, our authoritative guides make every journey exceptional, turning travel dreams into unforgettable realities.
In this article, we'll take you on a journey through seven of the most spectacular scenic byways on the West Coast. From the rugged cliffs of the Pacific Coast Highway to the lush forests of the Olympic Peninsula, these routes offer unforgettable experiences for travelers seeking adventure and stunning vistas.
Pacific Coast Highway (California)
The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, is arguably one of the most scenic drives in the world. Stretching over 600 miles along California's rugged coastline, this highway offers travelers unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean, pristine beaches, and charming coastal towns.
Big Sur
Big Sur’s beauty is raw and untamed, with the Santa Lucia Mountains rising abruptly from the ocean. This stretch of the highway is renowned for its stunning cliffs, redwood forests, and panoramic ocean views. The area is also home to numerous state parks where you can hike, explore hidden coves, and witness some of the best sunsets in the world.
Monterey Bay
Home to the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, this area offers vibrant marine life and rich historical significance. The aquarium showcases the region's diverse marine ecosystems, including sea otters, kelp forests, and deep-sea creatures. Beyond the aquarium, Monterey Bay is surrounded by charming towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea and Pacific Grove, each offering unique dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.
Hearst Castle
Located in San Simeon, Hearst Castle is a historic estate that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. The estate features 165 rooms, including grand reception areas, lavishly decorated bedrooms, and impressive libraries. The gardens and pools are equally spectacular, making it a must-visit landmark along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Bixby Creek Bridge
One of the most photographed bridges in California, Bixby Creek Bridge offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the rugged cliffs that drop into the Pacific Ocean. The bridge itself is an architectural marvel, with its graceful arch spanning 714 feet.
Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway (Oregon)
The Columbia River Gorge is a stunning river canyon that stretches for over 80 miles, forming the boundary between Washington and Oregon. This scenic byway offers travelers a diverse landscape of waterfalls, lush forests, and dramatic cliffs, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Multnomah Falls
As Oregon's tallest waterfall, Multnomah Falls drops a spectacular 620 feet in two major steps. This breathtaking sight is easily accessible from the highway and features a charming lodge at its base, offering snacks, souvenirs, and stunning views. The Benson Bridge, which spans the falls, provides an excellent vantage point for photography.
Vista House
Perched atop a 733-foot cliff, Vista House offers panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge. This historic observatory, built in 1918, memorializes Oregon pioneers and provides visitors with interpretive displays about the area's natural and cultural history. The architecture of Vista House is as impressive as the views it offers, making it a must-see landmark.
Hood River
Known as the windsurfing capital of the world, Hood River is a vibrant town that offers a mix of adventure sports and small-town charm. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including windsurfing, kiteboarding, hiking, and biking. The town is also famous for its orchards and vineyards, making it a great stop for sampling local wines and fresh produce.
Latourell Falls
One of the first major waterfalls along the byway, Latourell Falls plunges 249 feet over a columnar basalt cliff. The falls are located within Guy W. Talbot State Park, where you can enjoy a short hike to the base of the falls for an immersive nature experience.
Redwood Highway (California)
The Redwood Highway, also known as U.S. Route 101, takes you through the heart of Northern California's majestic redwood forests. This scenic byway offers awe-inspiring views of the tallest trees on Earth, as well as charming coastal towns and rugged coastline.
Avenue Of The Giants
This world-famous scenic drive is a 31-mile stretch of old Highway 101 that winds through Humboldt Redwoods State Park. You'll be surrounded by towering redwoods, some of which are over 350 feet tall and more than a thousand years old. Numerous pullouts and trails allow you to stop and explore the forest up close, including the Founders Grove and the Dyerville Giant.
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Known for its dense redwood forests and diverse wildlife, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park offers miles of hiking trails through ancient groves and along scenic creeks. Don’t miss the Fern Canyon, a lush, narrow gorge with walls covered in ferns, creating a prehistoric atmosphere. Elk herds are frequently spotted grazing in the meadows near the park’s entrance.
Crescent City
Nestled along the rugged northern coast, Crescent City serves as the gateway to the Redwood National and State Parks. Visit the Battery Point Lighthouse, which is accessible during low tide, or explore the town's rich maritime history at the Crescent Harbor Gallery. The nearby beaches and tide pools provide excellent opportunities for coastal exploration and wildlife viewing.
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Named after the explorer Jedediah Smith, this park is renowned for its unspoiled old-growth redwood forests and crystal-clear Smith River. Take a scenic drive on Howland Hill Road, a narrow dirt road that winds through some of the park’s most impressive groves. The Stout Grove trail offers a short, easy walk among some of the tallest trees in the park, providing a serene and humbling experience.
Olympic Peninsula Loop (Washington)
The Olympic Peninsula Loop circles the Olympic National Park and encompasses everything from rugged coastlines to temperate rainforests and towering mountains. This scenic drive is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Washington State.
Hoh Rain Forest
One of the finest examples of a temperate rainforest in the world, the Hoh Rain Forest is a lush, green wonderland teeming with life. Wander along the Hall of Mosses trail, where you'll see trees draped in moss and ferns carpeting the forest floor. The area receives an average of 140 inches of rainfall per year, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.
Hurricane Ridge
For breathtaking mountain views, head to Hurricane Ridge in the heart of Olympic National Park. The drive up to the ridge offers stunning vistas. Once at the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and, on clear days, even see across the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Canada. Hiking trails range from easy walks to more challenging routes, all offering spectacular scenery.
Lake Crescent
Nestled in the foothills of the Olympic Mountains, Lake Crescent is a pristine glacial lake known for its clear, deep blue waters. Take a leisurely drive around the lake or stop for a swim, kayak, or picnic. The nearby Marymere Falls trail is a popular, easy hike that leads to a beautiful 90-foot waterfall.
Cape Flattery
As the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States, Cape Flattery offers dramatic ocean views and a sense of remote beauty. The short hike to the lookout point takes you through a forest and leads to stunning vistas of sea stacks, cliffs, and the Pacific Ocean. Keep an eye out for sea lions, puffins, and even the occasional whale.
Three Capes Scenic Loop (Oregon)
The Three Capes Scenic Loop is a picturesque drive along the Oregon coast, offering stunning ocean views, lush forests, and charming coastal towns. This scenic byway highlights the natural beauty of Oregon's rugged coastline and provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Key highlights include:
- Cape Meares: Home to the historic Cape Meares Lighthouse, this cape offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the chance to spot migrating whales. The short hike to the lighthouse is filled with scenic overlooks and interpretive signs about the area's history. Don't miss the Octopus Tree, a unique Sitka spruce with a fascinating, multi-limbed structure.
- Cape Lookout: Jutting two miles into the ocean, Cape Lookout provides some of the most spectacular views on the Oregon coast. The Cape Lookout Trail is a moderately challenging hike that takes you through old-growth forests to the tip of the cape, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the ocean and, if you're lucky, sightings of whales and sea lions.
- Cape Kiwanda: Known for its massive sand dunes and unique sandstone formations, Cape Kiwanda is a favorite spot for adventurers and photographers. Climb the dunes for a thrilling experience and enjoy the sweeping views of the coastline. The nearby town of Pacific City offers charming shops, restaurants, and the iconic Haystack Rock, which is accessible at low tide.
- Netarts Bay: A peaceful estuary teeming with wildlife, Netarts Bay is an excellent spot for kayaking, clamming, and birdwatching. The bay's calm waters and abundant marine life make it a great destination for nature enthusiasts. The surrounding area also features several hiking trails that offer scenic views of the bay and the surrounding landscape.
The Three Capes Scenic Loop is a delightful journey through some of Oregon's most beautiful coastal landscapes. Whether you're hiking through ancient forests, exploring historic lighthouses, or simply enjoying the ocean views, this scenic byway offers a memorable and enriching travel experience.
Cascade Loop (Washington)
The Cascade Loop is a 440-mile scenic byway that takes travelers through some of Washington State's most diverse and breathtaking landscapes. This loop encompasses everything from snow-capped mountains and alpine meadows to lush forests and serene lakes, offering a quintessential Pacific Northwest experience.
Stevens Pass Greenway
This stretch of the Cascade Loop takes you through the stunning Cascade Mountains, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys. As you drive through Stevens Pass, you'll encounter pristine alpine lakes, rushing rivers, and a variety of wildlife. Popular stops include Deception Falls and the scenic town of Skykomish, where you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.
Leavenworth
A charming Bavarian-themed village nestled in the foothills of the Cascades, Leavenworth is known for its alpine architecture, festive atmosphere, and outdoor activities. Explore the quaint shops, indulge in German cuisine, and enjoy seasonal festivals such as Oktoberfest and the Christmas Lighting Festival. The surrounding area offers excellent opportunities for hiking, rafting, and wine tasting.
Lake Chelan
This 50-mile-long glacial lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain backdrop. Lake Chelan is a haven for boating, fishing, and water sports. The town of Chelan, located at the lake's southern end, is a popular destination for wine enthusiasts, with numerous vineyards and tasting rooms to explore.
North Cascades National Park
Known as the "American Alps," this national park is home to rugged mountain peaks, glaciers, and dense forests. The North Cascades Highway (State Route 20) provides access to stunning viewpoints, hiking trails, and picnic areas. Highlights include Diablo Lake, with its striking turquoise waters, and the breathtaking views from Washington Pass Overlook.
Whidbey Island
Conclude your loop with a visit to Whidbey Island, a tranquil retreat with charming small towns, scenic beaches, and rolling farmlands. The island offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking in Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve and exploring the tide pools at Deception Pass State Park. Don't miss the picturesque town of Langley, with its art galleries, boutiques, and waterfront views.
Final Thoughts
The West Coast of the United States is a treasure trove of scenic byways, each offering unique and breathtaking experiences for travelers. From the majestic redwoods of Northern California to the rugged coastlines of Oregon and the diverse landscapes of Washington, these routes provide endless opportunities for adventure, exploration, and unforgettable memories.
Whether you're driving along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, marveling at the waterfalls of the Columbia River Gorge, or exploring the natural beauty of the Olympic Peninsula, these scenic byways showcase the best that the West Coast has to offer. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the stunning vistas and hidden gems that await you on these seven scenic byways. Your next great adventure may just be around the corner.
Frequently Asked Questions About West Coast Scenic Byways
When is the best time to drive the Pacific Coast Highway?
The best time to drive the Pacific Coast Highway is during late spring to early fall (May to October), when the weather is mild and the chance of fog is lower, offering clearer views of the coastline.
Are there any toll roads on the scenic byways of the West Coast?
Most scenic byways on the West Coast do not have tolls. However, some bridges and specific sections, like the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, do require tolls.
How long does it take to drive the entire Pacific Coast Highway?
Driving the entire Pacific Coast Highway from Leggett, California, to Dana Point, California, typically takes around 10-12 hours without stops. However, it's recommended to take several days to fully enjoy the sights and attractions along the way.
Is it safe to drive the West Coast scenic byways in winter?
While many scenic byways are accessible in winter, some routes, particularly those in mountainous areas like the Cascade Loop, can be challenging due to snow and ice. It's essential to check road conditions and be prepared for winter driving.
What are some family-friendly activities along the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway?
Family-friendly activities along the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway include visiting Multnomah Falls, exploring the Vista House, and hiking to Latourell Falls. The area also offers picnic spots and educational opportunities about the local environment and history.
Can you camp along the West Coast scenic byways?
Yes, there are numerous campgrounds along the West Coast scenic byways, including state parks, national parks, and private campgrounds. Popular spots include Big Sur, Olympic National Park, and various sites along the Redwood Highway.
Are there any guided tours available for these scenic byways?
Yes, guided tours are available for many scenic byways on the West Coast. Options range from bus tours along the Pacific Coast Highway to ranger-led hikes in national parks and specialized tours focusing on local history, wildlife, or wine tasting.