7 Perfect Destinations for a Long Weekend in The Pacific Northwest

In the Pacific Northwest, even a short weekend away can turn into a full research project. The fact of the matter is, there are simply too many destinations to choose from! One minute you might be considering the waterfall views of Snoqualmie, and the next you are picturing yourself sipping wine in Dundee above the Willamette Valley or hiking coastal cliffs in Yachats. From soaking in mineral pools in Lava Hot Springs to skiing Bald Mountain in Sun Valley or exploring island charm in Coupeville, narrowing it down can feel impossible. The following seven destinations, however, should help focus your plans, highlighting the perfect destinations for a long weekend in the Pacific Northwest with vineyards, coastal trails, mountain landscapes, and year-round adventure for your travels in 2026.

Cashmere, Washington

Lying at the foot of the Cascade Mountains is Cashmere, a beautiful town in Central Washington. Given its mountain location, there is plenty of hiking in the surrounding area, starting with Cashmere Canyons Preserve, a 2,100-acre area reopening in the spring that allows public hiking on 12 miles of trails. As you hike throughout this preserve, you will be able to appreciate views of the Wenatchee Valley, the Enchantments, and the Entiat Mountains.

For some local history, visitors should also make sure to stop by the Cashmere Museum and Pioneer Village, which is reopening in the spring and features more than 13,000 square feet of Native American and pioneer artifacts, geological finds, and 19th- and 20th-century cabins. To lodge directly in the town, you can plan your stay at the Cashmere Inn, a cozy and modern inn with budget, standard, and premium room options.

Sun Valley, Idaho

Sun Valley is a four-season resort in Central Idaho, centered around both Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain. As you might expect, the skiing here in the winter is phenomenal, with the Sun Valley Resort offering over 2,000 acres of terrain and 3,400 vertical feet to explore. In the warmer months, the Wood River Trail offers more than 20 miles of paved pathways perfect for biking between Sun Valley and nearby Ketchum.

When it is time to grab some grub, you can enjoy your meal with a stunning view at the Sun Valley Club, which overlooks Bald Mountain and serves house-made soup, sandwiches, burgers, and more. There is both an outdoor patio and an indoor lounge for you to dine in, depending on the weather! To conclude your days on the slope, you can unwind in none other than the cozy Sun Valley Lodge, which was built in 1936, featuring granite details in each room, upscale furnishings, an onsite spa, a fitness center, and more.

Yachats, Oregon

Changing gears from winter recreation to summer, Yachats is a wonderful destination for anyone looking to experience the best of the Oregon Coast. With over a dozen hiking trails in the area to choose from, there is no shortage of ways to appreciate its coastal beauty. Thor’s Well is a great hike to add to your list: a 0.6-mile route that leads to a massive, seemingly bottomless sinkhole that swallows the seawater around it. Just south of town, Cape Perpetua Scenic Area provides sweeping ocean viewpoints and access to dramatic tide pools and forested trails.

For an afternoon of whale watching, stormwatching, or tidepool viewing, you also might enjoy a visit to the Yachats State Recreation Area, which is just a short walk from the town’s Ocean View Drive. You will find that same coastal beauty at the Yachats Inn, which is right on the waterfront, offering amenities like a heated pool, a hot tub, fireplaces, and more.

Lava Hot Springs, Idaho

If you have been craving a weekend away where you can simply relax, Lava Hot Springs is just the destination for you. This town is home to the Lava Hot Springs World-Famous Hot Springs, a series of year-round hot pools sourced from natural mineral springs. The temperatures range between 102 and 112℉. Visitors can also float the Portneuf River in summer, drifting through gentle rapids right through the center of town.

If you want to add a little more adrenaline to your weekend, you can also book an experience with Lava Zipline Adventure, which has a three-hour zipline and ropes course that will certainly bring you some thrills. In town, the Riverside Hot Springs Inn & Spa provides everything you need for a restorative weekend. With private hot springs access, a spa, and an on-site restaurant, total relaxation is practically guaranteed!

Snoqualmie, Washington

Snoqualmie is perhaps most famous for being the home of the Snoqualmie Falls, one of Washington’s most beloved natural attractions. These falls attract over 1.5 million visitors each year, plunging nearly 270 feet, with two observation decks offering spectacular views. Nearby Snoqualmie Point Park also offers panoramic Cascade Mountain views and easy walking trails ideal for a laid-back afternoon.

While in town, also make sure to check out the Northwest Railway Museum, which offers seasonal train rides, a railway history campus, and a train shed exhibit hall. To round out your perfect weekend, you can check into the Salish Lodge & Spa, a contemporary mountain lodge with plenty of amenities like a restaurant and terrace bar, a spa, a lounge, a coffee bar, and much more.

Dundee, Oregon

Dundee is just 45 minutes southwest of Portland and is a fantastic gateway to the northern portion of the Willamette Valley. You can easily design an itinerary around the area’s vineyards, beginning with Dobbes Family Winery, which specializes in Syrah and Pinot Noir production, offering both classic and elevated tastings at the winery.

In a town renowned for its world-class wine, the culinary scene has risen to meet the challenge, as well. For the ultimate wine and food pairing, head to Trellis in Dundee. They specialize in fresh, Pacific Northwest cuisine and boast a cellar stocked with over 250 different labels. Follow a perfect meal with a restful night at La Bastide Bed and Breakfast. This cozy destination features eight intimate guest rooms and includes a fresh breakfast with every stay.

Coupeville, Washington

For a quick and quiet island escape, look no further than Coupeville. This little village on Whidbey Island is located only an hour and a half from Seattle. The seafood here is unbeatable, showcased through restaurants like Osprey Fish Co., which serves fish and chips, raw oysters, Penn Cove mussels, and more. After a good meal, stroll about a block up to the Coupeville Wharf, a hub with kayak rentals, picnic tables, and a gift shop where you can find a weekend souvenir. Ebey’s Landing Trail is another highlight, offering blufftop hikes with sweeping views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. For a weekend of complete disconnection, you might also enjoy a stay at Captain Whidbey. Located near Ebey’s Landing National Historic Reserve, this inn offers a lodge, cabins, and Scandinavian-style rooms surrounded by rugged beauty.

Weekend Adventures, All Year Long

Whether you are planning one last weekend on the slopes before winter winds down or are already looking ahead to warmer days, the Pacific Northwest has a destination ready for you. Towns like Lava Hot Springs and Sun Valley are good options for those wintery days, while Yachats, Cashmere, and Coupeville have plenty to do in spring and summer. All you have to do is pull out your calendar and decide on the dates!