7 Most Scenic Drives in The Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest is a region where dramatic coastlines, snow-capped peaks, and dense evergreen forests meet winding mountain roads and vast open skies. Stretching across Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and parts of northern California, the area’s natural diversity makes it one of the most rewarding destinations for road trippers in North America.

Each drive in the Pacific Northwest offers a distinct experience, from ocean views framed by rugged cliffs to routes that cut through volcanic landscapes and lush river valleys. Travelers seeking breathtaking scenery, small-town escapes, and outdoor adventure will find the following seven drives among the most scenic in the region.

Pacific Coast Scenic Byway (Oregon Coast Highway 101)

Running the full length of Oregon’s coastline, the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway follows Highway 101 for nearly 363 miles from Astoria in the north to Brookings near the California border. The drive hugs the Pacific Ocean, offering views of sea stacks, lighthouses, and windswept beaches. Travelers can stop by attractive places such as the resort town of Seaside, famous for its two-mile beachfront walk, and the busy Garibaldi fishing port on Tillamook Bay.

Other highlights include Cannon Beach, where the iconic Haystack Rock rises from the surf, and Cape Perpetua, where travelers can hike through old-growth forest to views 800 feet above the ocean. Quaint coastal towns such as Newport and Florence invite visitors to enjoy local seafood, maritime museums, and small art galleries. The route is both leisurely and majestic, ideal for those who want to experience Oregon’s coastal beauty at its most pristine.

Cascade Loop (Washington State)

Washington’s 440-mile Cascade Loop is a circular journey that captures nearly every landscape the state has to offer. Beginning and ending near Seattle, the route travels through the lush Skagit Valley, the alpine passes of the North Cascades, and the desert-like plateaus of central Washington.

Highlights include the scenic stretch through North Cascades National Park, where glacial peaks rise sharply above turquoise lakes, and the delightful Bavarian-style town of Leavenworth, known for its festivals and mountain views. The loop also passes Lake Chelan, a narrow 50-mile-long lake surrounded by vineyards and orchards. Each turn boasts new terrain, making the Cascade Loop a quintessential drive for those wanting a comprehensive tour of Washington’s natural splendor.

Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (Oregon and Washington)

The Historic Columbia River Highway was the first scenic highway in the United States, and more than a century later, it remains one of the country’s most picturesque routes. Stretching about 75 miles east of Portland, it follows the Columbia River Gorge, where basalt cliffs rise dramatically from the water’s edge.

The highway is lined with numerous waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls, which drops an impressive 620 feet. Viewpoints such as Crown Point and the Vista House offer panoramic looks across the gorge and into Washington state. In addition to its natural beauty, the drive is a journey through history, with carefully preserved stone guardrails, tunnels, and bridges that highlight early twentieth-century engineering.

North Cascades Highway (Washington State Route 20)

The North Cascades Highway passes over what is often called the “American Alps” for its rugged, snow-capped peaks and steep, forested valleys. Spanning about 130 miles between Sedro-Woolley and Winthrop, it traverses some of the most dramatic terrain in the Pacific Northwest. The highway climbs through Ross Lake National Recreation Area and North Cascades National Park, where travelers can stop at overlooks to see jagged summits and glacier-fed lakes.

Diablo Lake, famous for its striking turquoise color caused by glacial silt, is a favorite viewpoint. In summer, wildflowers line the meadows, while in fall, larch trees turn a brilliant gold. The road is typically closed in winter due to heavy snow, which makes the summer months an ideal time to explore this unforgettable mountain drive.

Mount Hood Scenic Byway (Oregon)

Encircling Oregon’s tallest peak, the Mount Hood Scenic Byway offers a 105-mile route through a blend of forest, farmland, and alpine terrain. Beginning near Troutdale, the drive climbs through the Columbia River Gorge before reaching the slopes of Mount Hood. Travelers can stop at Timberline Lodge, a National Historic Landmark built in the 1930s, which sits at an elevation of 6,000 feet and provides access to year-round skiing. The route continues through the Hood River Valley, where orchards and vineyards offer a patchwork of color in every season. On clear days, Mount Hood’s snow-covered summit dominates the skyline, making this drive a favorite for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (Oregon and Idaho)

The Hells Canyon Scenic Byway loops for 213 miles through northeast Oregon and western Idaho, following the rim of North America’s deepest river gorge. The route showcases dramatic contrasts, from rolling farmland near La Grande to the remote, rugged terrain overlooking Hells Canyon. The Snake River cuts through cliffs more than a mile deep, creating some of the most awe-inspiring views in the region.

Along the byway, travelers can visit the historic town of Joseph, known for its bronze art foundries and proximity to the Wallowa Mountains. Hikers and photographers are drawn to viewpoints such as Hat Point, which offers sweeping vistas of the canyon and river below. The drive captures the wild spirit of the inland Northwest and rewards those who venture off the beaten path.

Olympic Peninsula Loop (Washington State)

The Olympic Peninsula Loop is a 330-mile journey around one of the most diverse landscapes in the United States. Beginning in Olympia, the route circles Olympic National Park, taking travelers through temperate rainforests, coastal beaches, and glacier-carved mountains. The drive passes Lake Crescent, with its deep blue waters surrounded by forested hills, and Rialto Beach, where massive driftwood logs and sea stacks define the shoreline.

In the Hoh Rain Forest, moss-draped trees create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the country. Travelers can also stop in the seaside town of Port Angeles or detour to Hurricane Ridge for panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains. The peninsula’s ever-changing scenery makes this loop an unforgettable Pacific Northwest adventure.

The Spirit of the Northwest

The Pacific Northwest’s scenic drives showcase a region where nature’s grandeur is on full display. From the coastal cliffs of Oregon to the alpine passes of Washington, each route tells a story of geological power, cultural history, and ecological diversity. These drives invite travelers not only to witness the beauty of the landscape but to immerse themselves in the spirit of exploration that defines the region.

Whether one seeks solitude among mountains, the rhythm of the ocean, or the charm of small towns, the Pacific Northwest’s roads lead to some of the most remarkable vistas in America. Every curve reveals a new perspective, reminding travelers why this corner of the continent remains a timeless destination for those who love the open road.