Pacific Northwest Highlights
A Pacific Northwest loop built around alpine sunrises, rainforest mornings, and long scenic drives. Plan for early starts and flexible weather windows.
Unscheduled
Mount Rainier - Sunrise/Paradise area
Early light on the mountain and the best chance for clear skies.
Check weather and road status; sunrise light is strongest on clear mornings.
Crater Lake sunrise (Rim Village)
Best morning light on the lake with minimal wind.
Arrive early; mornings are cold at elevation.
Rim Drive viewpoints
Drive to key overlooks for different lake angles.
Stop at Watchman and Cloudcap for varied perspectives.
Skyline Trail (Paradise loop)
Classic Rainier hike with glacier and meadow views.
Carry layers and microspikes early season. Start early for parking.
Hoh Rain Forest morning loop
Hall of Mosses and Spruce Nature Trail loops.
Arrive early for parking; trails are best in soft morning light.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport - arrival + supplies
Land at SEA, pick up your rental, and stock up for the week.
Grab groceries and a cooler before leaving the city.
Drive to North Cascades (Diablo Lake)
Arrive in the Diablo Lake area after a morning drive.
Allow 3-4 hours from Rainier to North Cascades.
Diablo Lake Overlook
Iconic turquoise lake overlook with mountain backdrop.
Midday light shows the lake color best.
Portland International Airport - departure
Return the rental car and fly home from Portland.
Allow 3.5-4 hours from Crater Lake to Portland.
Washington Pass Overlook
Short walk to a dramatic pass view.
Wind can be strong; bring a layer.
Reflection Lakes sunset
Mirror-like lake reflections of Rainier in late light.
Arrive early for parking and calm water.
Ruby Beach sunset
Sea stacks and driftwood at golden hour.
Check tide tables for the best beach access.
Kerry Park sunset (Seattle)
City skyline with Mount Rainier on clear evenings.
Arrive early for parking and a clear view.
Olympic National Park - Hurricane Ridge sunset
Wide alpine views with sunset light over the Olympics.
Long drive day from North Cascades; adjust timing as needed.
Drive to Crater Lake (Rim Village)
Arrive at Crater Lake in time for an early start.
Plan for 6-7 hours of driving from Olympic.