Seattle is a stunningly beautiful city, located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States.
From its beautiful mountain ranges and cascading rivers to its lush green forests and vibrant city skyline, Seattle has something for everyone when it comes to breathtaking views.
With its diverse range of scenic drives, Seattle provides travelers with an opportunity to explore some of the most stunning settings this great city has to offer.
Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or simply want to appreciate the beauty of nature, Seattle has plenty of scenic drives that will provide you with an unparalleled experience.
From breathtaking shorelines along Puget Sound and Elliott Bay to majestic snow-capped mountains on Mt. Rainier, there is no shortage of stunning vistas for you to take in as you drive through Seattle’s diverse terrain.
If you’re looking for a more adventurous drive, take a trip up the iconic Stevens Pass, one of the most picturesque drives in Washington State that takes visitors through several high mountains passes with spectacular views of alpine lakes and dense forests.
For visitors who prefer a leisurely drive, they can tour around Mercer Island, an island located just east of downtown Seattle, and soak in unique panoramic views from every angle.
No matter what kind of scenic drive you’re seeking out in Seattle, there’s sure to be something here that will captivate your senses and leave you wanting more.
Scenic Drives In Seattle
Seattle is the largest city in both the state of Washington and the Pacific Northwest region of North America. Located on an isthmus between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, Seattle is a vibrant coastal city boasting an array of picturesque landscapes and rich culture.
With its numerous parks, world-renowned coffeehouses, iconic landmarks, bustling urban neighborhoods, and vast art scene, Seattle has something for everyone to enjoy.
Located just south of the Canadian border, Seattle lies between the Cascade Mountain Range to the east and Olympic National Park to the west, making it one of the most geographically diverse cities in the country.
The nearby mountains and forests provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation such as skiing, snowboarding, hiking, camping, kayaking, fishing, and more.
The city’s downtown area is home to some of its most iconic landmarks including the Space Needle, an observation tower built for Seattle’s 1962 World’s Fair, as well as Pike Place Market, a bustling public market featuring hundreds of unique vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, flowers, and other goods since 1907.
Other popular attractions include the Museum of Pop Culture (formerly Experience Music Project), the historic Pioneer Square district, and numerous public parks such as Woodland Park Zoo.
The city also features a wealth of cultural attractions such as art galleries displaying works from local artists; music venues featuring performances by national acts; theaters showcasing classic plays; renowned restaurants offering up delectable Pacific Northwest cuisine; plus numerous boutiques specializing in everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewelry.
Seattle is home to many professional sports teams including Major League Baseball’s Mariners as well as Seahawks in NFL football.
The Emerald City also hosts many major annual events like Bumbershoot – an arts and music festival held at Seattle Center each year, Sasquatch Music Festival, and Seafair, an, encompassing celebration that includes hydroplane races on Lake Washington among other festivities.
The Emerald City offers something for everyone with its countless attractions ranging from outdoor recreation to cultural experiences, making it one of America’s premier destinations for travelers who want to experience a little bit of everything all rolled into one amazing city.
Why Scenic Drives Are A Great Way To Explore Seattle
Exploring Seattle by taking scenic drives is a great way to get the most out of your visit. Not only does it allow you to take in the beauty of the city, but it also gives you the opportunity to travel through some of its unique and diverse neighborhoods.
You can cruise down the coastline, drive up into the hills, or explore the freeways, all while getting a firsthand look at Seattle’s landmarks and attractions.
Seattle is known for its gorgeous views, and taking a scenic drive will give you plenty of chances to appreciate them.
The best part about these drives is that they are completely free and open to anyone who wants to enjoy them. On any given day, you can witness breathtaking sunsets along the Puget Sound and Mount Rainier towering over the skyline.
On other days, you may find yourself driving past Puget Sound’s islands which offer some of Seattle’s most beautiful sights.
There are also many other scenic opportunities available in Seattle that are not necessarily related to driving. One of these activities is kayaking along Alki Beach or Elliott Bay Marina where you can take in stunning views of Downtown Seattle and Elliot Bay from different angles.
Furthermore, if you’re up for something more adventurous than sightseeing from your car window, then why not rent a mountain bike on one of Washington state’s famous trails or even go on a guided fishing tour?
But perhaps one of the best things about taking scenic drives around Seattle is how it allows travelers to experience all that this historic city has to offer without having to worry about traffic congestion or parking fees.
There are so many interesting places throughout Seattle worth seeing and exploring either by car or public transportation that it’s easy to create an itinerary based on what areas interest you most.
Plus with so much variety available for those interested in experiencing local culture, there really is something for everyone when planning your trip around this incredible city.
The Olympic Peninsula Scenic Byway
The Olympic Peninsula Scenic Byway is an incredible road trip through the majestic beauty of Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula.
Starting in Seattle, this journey will take you through breathtaking coastal towns, lush rainforests, and stunning views of snow-capped mountains.
Begin your adventure in Seattle by heading north on I-5 to Everett. Here you can explore the historic waterfront city before continuing onto Port Angeles.
Along the way, you’ll find picturesque landscapes with meadows full of wildflowers and towering evergreen trees. You may even glimpse some wildlife like deer or elk on your drive!
Continue up the coast to Neah Bay where you’ll get a first-hand look at the rugged wilderness of this region and its stunning coastline.
Drive around Ediz Hook or hike out to Cape Flattery for stunning ocean views. Don’t forget to visit Makah Cultural Museum while you are there, as it provides insight into the ancient culture of this area.
Next, continue up Highway 101 along Clallam Bay and Sekiu before arriving at Port Townsend. This charming Victorian seaport is home to a thriving art community complete with galleries, shops, and boutiques.
Make sure to visit Fort Worden State Park for remarkable views of the San Juan Islands from atop Battery Kinzie Point or spend a night camping under starry skies before moving on.
Head further inland through lush forests filled with floral fragrances that will leave you breathless until you reach Quilcene and Brinnon along Hood Canal where oysters await.
After taking in more spectacular scenery along Dosewallips Road and Duckabush River Trail be sure to make a stop at Lake Crescent for some fun water activities like kayaking or swimming.
Finally, after reaching your destination in Forks, wind down your journey with a relaxing stroll at Second Beach or La Push Beach while enjoying breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific Ocean before heading back home to Seattle.
The Olympic Peninsula Scenic Byway is truly one of the most beautiful drives in all of Washington State, not just because of its stunning views but also because it offers a unique window into exploring regional history and culture amid dramatic natural beauty.
The Mount Baker Scenic Byway
The Mount Baker Scenic Byway is a stunning stretch of road located just outside of Seattle, Washington.
It winds its way through some of the most picturesque terrains in the Pacific Northwest, taking travelers on a journey past snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and sparkling rivers.
The byway passes through areas such as Whatcom County and Skagit Valley, giving visitors ample opportunities to witness incredible natural beauty. Along the way, visitors can enjoy views of Mount Baker, an iconic 10,781-foot stratovolcano that towers over the landscape.
Aside from majestic scenery, the byway also offers numerous outdoor activities for those looking to explore further.
Hiking trails provide access to areas like Picture Lakes and Artist Point, while mountain biking routes take riders over challenging terrain with breathtaking views around every corner.
Boaters can cast their lines into streams and lakes along the route or launch kayaks and canoes onto larger bodies of water nearby.
Birdwatching is another popular activity among those eager to catch glimpses of species like bald eagles and ruffed grouse.
Meanwhile, campers can take advantage of several camping spots tucked away in hidden gems within this remote area.
No matter what time of year they visit, people are sure to find something special along this remarkable stretch of highway.
In warmer months they can take a leisurely drive through fields decorated with wildflowers in bloom or wander among vibrant meadows filled with colorful butterflies fluttering around them.
While winter brings more extreme temperatures and plenty of snowfall for avid skiers and snowboarders looking for winter sports adventures. There is something for everyone along the Mount Baker Scenic Byway.
The Chuckanut Drive Scenic Byway
The Chuckanut Drive Scenic Byway is a popular scenic drive near Seattle, Washington that provides breathtaking views of the Salish Sea and the San Juan Islands.
Stretching from Interstate-5 at Burlington, north of Bellingham, Chuckanut Drive offers an abundance of natural beauty and adventure.
This 22-mile stretch of road hugs the rocky shoreline and passes through old-growth forests, quaint hamlets, and past stunning vistas, and geological points of interest.
The drive takes you through the Chuckanut Mountains, a subrange in the Cascade Range showcasing rare coastal geology including sea cliffs, fossils from ancient sand dunes, endemic wildflowers, and even some dinosaur tracks.
On one side of Chuckanut Drive, you’ll find views of Samish Bay and on the other side, you’ll be dazzled by the breathtaking skylines of Bellingham Bay.
Along with lush forest land and open meadows sprinkled with farms and small townships, this scenic drive also provides special glimpses into ancient glacial movements.
Visitors can explore these fossilized examples left behind – like the “Devil’s Kitchen,” an old rock formation created by glaciers thousands of years ago.
When taking a trip along the Chuckanut Scenic Byway there are many must-sees stops to add to your itinerary: Larrabee State Park offers beautiful beach access just south of Fairhaven; Bald Mountain Trail is a kid-friendly hike with amazing panoramic views; enjoy fresh seafood at Taylor Shellfish Farms in Bow; or take a quick detour to Whatcom Falls Park for some peaceful nature watching.
If outdoor adventures aren’t your style, no worries – there are plenty of other activities to partake in along this scenic route.
History buffs will revel in learning about the area’s rich heritage – visit various museums such as Whatcom Museum or Old City Hall; learn about local oyster farming at Taylor Shellfish Farm; take a tour around downtown Bellingham for its various murals; or grab some grub at one of the many restaurants on Chuckanut Drive.
Whether it be a day trip or an overnight stay, visitors will be sure to find something unique while exploring this historic West Coast highway.
The Snoqualmie Valley Scenic Byway
The Snoqualmie Valley Scenic Byway located in Seattle offers breathtaking views of the Cascade Mountains and lush valleys filled with emerald-green evergreens.
This picturesque route winds its way from Duvall to North Bend and follows the Snoqualmie River as it curves through the valley.
Along the way, visitors can admire stunning mountain vistas, rolling farmlands, crystal-clear lakes, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil woodlands.
The Snoqualmie Valley Scenic Byway is a 90-mile-long scenic highway that links several small towns such as Carnation, Fall City, Snoqualmie Pass, and North Bend.
It is a perfect day trip for those looking to escape into nature while remaining close to a major city. In addition to its striking landscapes and unique wildlife, this byway also passes by historic sites such as the Northwest Railway Museum and the Tokul Creek Fish Hatchery.
The elevation changes along the route range from 500 feet near Duvall to 1,575 feet at Snoqualmie Pass near North Bend, making it an ideal spot for all kinds of outdoor recreation such as hiking, biking, kayaking, skiing, or snowboarding.
There are plenty of places along the way where visitors can stop to take pictures or enjoy meals provided by local restaurants.
The most popular attractions include Rattlesnake Lake Recreation Area with its beautiful lakefront picnic area; Twin Falls State Park with its two gorgeous waterfalls; Big Trees Trail on Mount Si featuring old-growth trees; and Snoqualmie Falls which is one of the most gorgeous falls in Washington State.
Whether you are looking for an afternoon getaway or a weekend escape into nature’s beauty, the Snoqualmie Valley Scenic Byway offers something for everyone.
With its natural beauty coupled with plenty of cultural and recreational activities for all ages, it’s no wonder why this stretch of road has been rated one of America’s top 10 scenic drives.
The Whidbey Island Scenic Isle Way
The Whidbey Island Scenic Isle Way is a stunningly scenic route located in and around the beautiful Seattle area.
It begins near the historic Deception Pass and winds its way southward along Whidbey Island, featuring breathtaking views of Puget Sound and Mount Rainier.
In addition to its spectacular natural beauty, the Whidbey Island Scenic Isle Way takes travelers through charming towns and hamlets, each with its own unique flavor. From lively Oak Harbor to picturesque Langley, you can experience a wide array of cultures along the way.
The drive offers plenty of interesting historical attractions as well. At Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve, visitors can explore an authentic 19th-century village amid majestic bluffs overlooking Admiralty Inlet.
Further south at Fort Ebey State Park, you can revel in a preserved World War II gun battery nestled among lush coastal forests.
You’ll also find two lighthouses on the route: Crescent Harbor and Point Partridge Lighthouse Park. Both offer sweeping panoramas of the Salish Sea and opportunities to spot local wildlife such as bald eagles, harbor seals, and orcas.
On top of that, there are numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation ranging from beachcombing to kayaking to hiking.
Whether it’s exploring trails or simply taking in breathtaking views at state parks like Fort Casey or Joseph Whidbey State Park, you are sure to find something to enjoy on the Whidbey Island Scenic Isle Way.
And don’t forget about visiting some of the island’s many wineries for a taste of locally produced wine or beer.
With so much beauty and exploration just waiting for you in this region of Washington, one drive along this route is sure to create lasting memories.
The North Cascades Scenic Highway
The North Cascades Scenic Highway is one of the most beautiful and breathtaking scenic drives in Seattle.
Spanning over 200 miles from Everett to the Canadian border, this remarkable highway offers gorgeous views of sparkling rivers, cascading waterfalls, jagged peaks, and lush forests.
Take your time as you wind through breathtaking vistas along the Cascade foothills and then through the rugged mountains of North Cascades National Park.
You’ll marvel at Lake Chelan and Ross Lake, two majestic glacial lakes that lie within the park’s boundaries and enjoy incredible sights of snow-capped mountain ranges.
Along the way, be sure to look for wildlife such as deer, elk, eagles, bears, and more. There are numerous small towns and landmarks throughout the route offering a glimpse into local culture and history.
Continue on to enjoy more stunning views at Diablo Lake Overlook where you can admire sapphire blue waters framed by evergreen trees.
This special spot is a great place for photos with its majestic backdrop of craggy mountain peaks like Colonial Peak and Pyramid Peak that stand tall above it all.
Nearby Newhalem Creek Campground is a great place to camp or take a break from your drive before continuing onto Marblemount which features an old fashion general store built in 1916 complete with a gas station.
The North Cascades Scenic Highway isn’t complete without visiting Washington Pass Overlook where you’ll find sweeping panoramic views of mountain ridges including Liberty Bell Mountain, one of its most recognizable landmarks, as well as Early Winter Spires or Cutthroat peak stretching far out into the horizon.
From here you can also take a short but very rewarding hike along Maple Pass Loop Trail which treat hikers with magnificent up-close views of jagged granite cliffs rising abruptly above turquoise glacier-fed lakes amidst sprawling meadows filled with wildflowers in summertime.
From its picturesque beginnings in Everett to its end at Manning Provincial Park in British Columbia, the North Cascades Scenic Highway is an unforgettable drive full of natural wonders around every turn.
Whether you’re looking for an afternoon escape or planning for an extended weekend getaway, this scenic journey takes you away from it all.
The Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort Scenic Drive
The Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort Scenic Drive is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of Seattle.
As you make your way down this winding road, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the majestic Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound.
From the casino resort itself, you can take in views of the Kitsap Peninsula and downtown Seattle’s skyscrapers in the distance.
Along this scenic drive, nature lovers can stop at nearby beaches, parks, and other attractions that offer unique beauty.
For those seeking a more adventurous route, there are numerous options for hiking, biking, and camping along the route. You’ll even find some excellent fishing spots along your journey.
From snow-capped peaks to sparkling waterfalls and lush forests, you’ll be treated to many incredible sights as you explore this beautiful area of Washington state.
You may even want to detour from the main road and take some side roads that will lead you through small towns and rural areas with breathtaking mountain vistas.
For those looking for adventure on their way back home, try taking a ferry ride across Puget Sound or exploring one of the many islands in the area by boat.
The Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort Scenic Drive should definitely be on everyone’s list when they visit Seattle.
With its myriad of breathtaking sights, numerous possibilities for outdoor activities, and charming small towns along the route, it makes for an unforgettable journey through some of Washington’s most jaw-dropping scenery.
The Bainbridge Island Scenic Loop Drive
The Bainbridge Island Scenic Loop Drive is a scenic route located in Seattle, Washington.
Taking visitors on a journey through the beautiful countryside of Puget Sound, this drive is an ideal way to explore some of the best sites that the state has to offer.
Starting from Downtown Seattle, the drive stretches for around 40 miles and passes by numerous iconic points of interest, including impressive views of Mount Rainier and Elliot Bay, as well as serene beaches, lush forests, and plenty of wildlife.
Along the way, visitors can stop at many popular attractions such as Blakely Harbor Park or Fay Bainbridge Park where they can enjoy stunning views or take part in outdoor activities like hiking or kayaking.
There are also plenty of opportunities to sample local produce and delicacies like fresh seafood and shellfish.
With so much to see and do along this route, it’s no wonder that it has become one of Seattle’s most beloved destinations for sightseers and locals alike.
For those looking for an even more immersive experience along the drive, there are numerous historical landmarks scattered around the region that provide insight into its past.
From historic lighthouses to Japanese Internment Camps from World War II and homesteads from early pioneers of Washington State, there’s something here for everyone who wants to uncover more about Bainbridge Island’s rich past.
This scenic loop drive is an excellent way for travelers to explore some of Seattle’s most breathtaking scenery without having to venture too far from city life. From vibrant rural townships to spectacular coastal views, this tour promises something unique with every turn you make.
So if you’re looking for a truly unique experience while visiting Seattle, be sure not to miss out on exploring The Bainbridge Island Scenic Loop Drive.
The Stevens Pass Greenway Scenic Byway
The Stevens Pass Greenway Scenic Byway is a gorgeous and captivating scenic drive located just outside of Seattle in Washington State.
This picturesque drive winds through the Cascade Mountains and offers views of majestic snow-capped peaks, lush green forests, wildflower meadows, and sparkling rivers.
With its breathtaking views, it’s easy to see why this route is one of the most popular scenic drives in the Puget Sound region.
Starting near Skykomish to the east, you’ll have over 70 miles of stunning landscapes to explore. Head up Stevens Pass with its towering mountainsides on either side of you and then make your way toward Baring.
Take a break at Deception Falls before you continue on to Leavenworth where you can explore Bavarian-style buildings and charming boutiques lined up along its main street.
Stop for lunch at one of the many tasty restaurants or cafes that line both sides of Icicle Road as you head toward Peshastin.
Then take a detour up Chumstick Road for some stunning views from atop one of its volcanic rock outcroppings before heading on to Lake Wenatchee State Park.
As you continue your journey, make sure to stop at the Ohme Gardens where terraced gardens are surrounded by panoramic mountain vistas that provide spectacular views.
You’ll traverse across tranquil Skagit River Valley before heading back down West Summit Avenue towards US 2/US 97 near Nason Creek Campground.
The Stevens Pass Greenway Scenic Byway not only provides travelers with an opportunity to experience breathtaking natural beauty; it also allows them to discover diverse cultural attractions along the way, like historic sites, art galleries, wineries, regional farms, and more, making it truly one of a kind.
Whether you’re looking for an idyllic getaway or simply want a leisurely drive through some extraordinary scenery, this incredible byway is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
The Lake Chelan Scenic Byway
The Lake Chelan Scenic Byway in Seattle is a must-see for any traveler to the area.
The byway takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of Seattle and the surrounding countryside, providing sweeping views of Lake Chelan and its surrounding mountains.
Along the drive, you’ll be able to take in breathtaking sights from high elevations, valleys, and meadows along with picturesque views of the lake.
The route passes through lush forests, charming towns, and mountain passes that offer panoramic vistas of Washington State’s stunning landscape.
No matter where you are on the Lake Chelan Scenic Byway, you’ll always have plenty to see and explore. From majestic peaks to sparkling waterfalls along rushing rivers, there is beauty around every corner.
You can also make stops to experience local culture and nearby wineries or just relax in a peaceful park or picnic area.
Additionally, keep an eye out for wildlife taking advantage of this unique environment; deer and elk have often been seen grazing in meadows near the road while birds soar overhead.
There are many points of interest along the Lake Chelan Scenic Byway that can be easily explored by car or bicycle as well as on foot with dedicated pathways for hikers and bikers alike.
Visitors can tour historic sites such as old railroad stations or Native American settlements before ending their day at one of many rustic lodges or campgrounds located nearby.
No matter what type of adventure you decide upon, a trip along the byway promises to be truly unforgettable.
Tips for Enjoying the Drive
One of the best ways to experience Seattle is to embark on a scenic drive.
This beautiful city boasts some of the most picturesque views around, and you can take in all the sights from the comfort of your car. Here are some tips for enjoying scenic drives in Seattle:
Plan Ahead: While you don’t need to know every detail before departing, it’s always best to have an idea of where you’d like to go and what roads you’d like to take.
Plan out your route so that you can make sure to hit all the destinations that pique your interest. Researching nearby attractions and points of interest can also be beneficial, as this will give you plenty of options for places to stop along the way.
Dress Comfortably: Make sure you wear comfortable clothes when on a scenic drive – it’s likely that you’ll be spending several hours in your car, so don’t forget any necessary items such as hats, sunscreen, or sunglasses.
It’s also important to stay hydrated during long drives, so bring water and snacks with you in case of hunger strikes while on the road.
Take Your Time: Don’t rush through your drive; instead, take time to appreciate each view and stop at any interesting spots along the way.
Pull over if something catches your eye, whether it be a stunning vista or an old-fashioned roadside diner, and take a few moments to enjoy it. Being mindful of your surroundings will help ensure that your trip is both enjoyable and memorable.
Listen To Music: Listening to music while driving is one of the easiest ways to enhance the experience; put together a playlist or choose one station that resonates with you and let it play throughout your journey. This will help keep energy levels up if you’re feeling tired.
Bring A Camera: Don’t forget a camera! Taking photos along your scenic drive may seem like an obvious suggestion but often times we forget about capturing these precious memories until after they are gone.
A few snaps here and there will help immortalize all those beautiful sights from your road trip for years (or even decades) to come.
Best Time To Visit:
The best time to visit Seattle for a scenic drive is during the summer months when the sun is shining and the weather is warm.
From June to August, Seattleites enjoy nearly endless days of sunshine with temperatures staying in the mid-60s to mid-80s.
This can make for an ideal time to take in some of Seattle’s most breathtakingly beautiful drives, including routes through Discovery Park, Mt. Si, and Lake Washington.
The summer weather brings out the lush green beauty of the Pacific Northwest, making it an especially pleasant time of year for a drive.
Alongside stunning views of Puget Sound and its surrounding islands, visitors can also see wildflowers dotting the hillsides in shades of lavender, pink, and yellow as they drive by.
In addition to its natural beauty, visiting Seattle any time from June to August offers travelers access to a plethora of outdoor activities for all ages.
With longer days allowing for more hours of exploration after work or school ends, visitors can take advantage of opportunities like kayaking along Lake Union or biking around Gas Works Park. Feeling adventurous? Try tandem paragliding off Tiger Mountain in Issaquah.
No matter what kind of outdoor activities you’re looking for while visiting Seattle during these months, one thing’s certain, you won’t be disappointed.
Whether you prefer to drive around and explore or get out and experience nature up close and personal, there are endless options available that will provide lasting memories for years to come.
Additionally, many restaurants throughout the city specialize in seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients that further contribute to your unforgettable experience.
So if you’re planning a trip to Seattle anytime between June and August, don’t think twice about taking at least one day (if not more!) out of your schedule to explore some spectacular sights on car rides around town.
Preparing For The Drive:
The best place to start planning a scenic drive in Seattle is on the official website for Visit Seattle. The website offers detailed information about popular attractions, accommodations, and activities throughout the city, as well as helpful advice on how to plan your trip.
The first stop on any scenic drive around Seattle should be Mt. Rainier, National Park. This stunning park offers spectacular views of snow-capped alpine peaks and glaciers, as well as an abundance of hiking trails through vibrant meadows and old-growth forests full of towering firs and cedars.
Additionally, visitors can take a guided tour of crystal-clear Nisqually Lake or explore its picturesque flower gardens.
Another must-see stop during a scenic drive in Seattle is North Cascades National Park, located just two hours north of downtown Seattle.
This stunning park showcases some of Washington’s most impressive mountain scenery and is home to hundreds of miles of hiking trails through pristine forests and along boulder-filled streams. It also contains dozens of waterfalls that cascade down dramatic cliffs into deep glacial valleys below.
Finally, no visit to Seattle would be complete without exploring Olympic National Park, located just two hours west of downtown Seattle in Washington’s remote Olympic Peninsula region.
Home to one of America’s last remaining virgin rainforests, this vast park features rugged coastline beaches, lush temperate rainforests full of giant trees, towering mountains covered in snow year round along with plenty of wildlife too.
Visitors can explore ancient Native American villages or go whitewater rafting on wild rivers before taking in one last view from atop Hurricane Ridge before heading back home.
No matter what type of scenery you’re looking for, snow-capped alps or lush rainforest, there’s something for everyone when taking a scenic drive around Seattle.
From majestic national parks to quaint towns nestled amongst lush forests; with so many sights to see it can be hard picking which ones to visit first.
Thankfully Visit Seattle offers plenty of helpful advice when planning your next journey; so make sure you check out their website and start mapping out your perfect scenic getaway today.
Must-Have Supplies:
Must-Have Supplies for Scenic Drives in Seattle
When planning a scenic drive in Seattle, it’s important to make sure you have the right supplies for a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some of the must-have items for any Seattle scenic drive:
To start off, you’ll need an up-to-date road map or GPS system so you can easily get from point A to point B. This is especially important if you’re unfamiliar with the area and its roads, as well as alternative routes in case of heavy traffic or detours.
It’s also a good idea to bring along a few paper maps, just in case your electronic device runs out of battery or fails to work.
Secondly, don’t forget to bring plenty of snacks and drinks with you, preferably non-perishables that won’t spoil during your journey.
Pack light yet filling snacks such as trail mix, granola bars, nuts, dried fruit, and protein bars; and drinks like water bottles, juice boxes, and cans of soda. Of course, if you plan on stopping off at restaurants along the way then these aren’t absolutely essential.
Thirdly, depending on what time of year it is and how long your journey will take make sure you pack either sunscreen or warm clothing/blankets – depending on whether it’s summer or wintertime.
For instance, during winter months an extra layer or two can make all the difference when temperatures drop throughout the day; whereas during summer months regular applications of SPF30+ sun cream are necessary to avoid sunburns and overheating.
Last but not least don’t forget a charged portable phone charger, just in case your mobile device runs out of battery during your trip.
And if there’s room left in your car why not bring along some games (like cards) so you can keep everyone occupied between stops?
Road Conditions
The roads in Seattle are generally very well maintained, with plenty of services available to help keep them in tip-top condition.
The potholes are regularly filled, the lanes are kept free from traffic congestion, and signs inform drivers of any changes or restrictions they need to be aware of while driving.
The roadways throughout the city feature wide shoulders which accommodate bike riders, as well as plenty of space to pull off safely if needed. Snow removal is also a priority during the winter months to ensure safe travel for all on the roads.
In addition to their well-maintained conditions, many roads in Seattle provide an array of scenic drives that allow visitors to take in all that this beautiful city has to offer. Along the winding highways and byways, visitors can catch glimpses of majestic mountains, sparkling lakes, lush verdant forests, and picturesque islands off shore.
In fact, one popular drive is called “The Grand Loop”, providing travelers with a fantastic view from different angles and varying elevations as they go along its path through some incredible sights including Mount Rainier National Park and Snoqualmie Falls.
For those looking for an even more unique experience, drivers can take advantage of some lesser-known routes that provide breathtaking views such as Battle Point Park on Bainbridge Island where people can look out over Puget Sound or down at the quaint town below them.
Or perhaps make their way towards Green Mountain Lookout where they can witness spectacular views stretching nearly 360 degrees around them as they stand atop its peak thanks to its open fire lookout platform.
When it comes to road conditions in Seattle there’s no doubt that they have been carefully crafted with both safety and awe-inspiring beauty in mind, making driving around this great Pacific Northwest City a truly enjoyable experience for all.
Conclusion
In conclusion, scenic drives in and around Seattle offer visitors a unique chance to experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
From awe-inspiring mountain views, to dense forests, breathtaking coastlines, and charming small towns, Seattle is home to some of the most majestic road trips anywhere in the world.
With numerous trails winding through the area’s national parks, you can find outdoor activities ranging from hiking to fishing and more.
A scenic drive through Seattle also gives you an opportunity to explore its vibrant arts and culture scene with plenty of galleries, theatres, music venues, and restaurants to choose from.
Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or an action-packed adventure trip with your family or friends, don’t miss out on the chance to experience one of these beautiful drives.
With so much to see and do in Seattle, scenic drives make for a memorable journey that will be remembered for years to come.