Sometimes we want to take a trip but the thought of getting on the interstate with hundreds of other people doesn’t seem very welcoming. The fewer people, the better, or at least if you’re going to be stuck in traffic you need to have some beautiful views and clean air. Here are a few of our favorites!
5. SR-155
If you take State Route-155 from Coulee City to the Grand Coulee Dam you’ll get a glimpse into a fascinating event in Washington’s geologic history. When the floodwaters poured through our region at the end of the last ice age they caused permanent changes to our landscape.
4. SR-206
Most people refer to it as the Mount Spokane Drive, State Route-206 takes you through Spokane to Mead and to the entrance of Mount Spokane State Park. Keep an eye out for moose crossing the road, as I got stuck behind a mama and it’s baby, and other wildlife along your scenic drive through the state park. If you have the time explore a bit of the park where you can set off on a hiking trail, check out the Vista House and it’s gorgeous view, go geocaching, or head out on the water for a bit of boating. The drive near the top isn’t for the faint of heart, though.
3. The Palouse Scenic Byway
There is nothing that beats a leisurely drive out in the country, especially at sunset. The Palouse is no exception, and is vastly underrated. The Scenic Byway is a 208-mile network between seven local highways. The beautiful byway passes by such memorable spots as Palouse Falls State Park, Elberton Ghost Town, and The Junk Castle. Cruise through beautiful Eastern Washington until you reach the state line.
2. SR-14
Its not surprise that one of the most popular places to be in the northwest is along the Columbia River, but being on the Oregon side can often mean that you’ll run into traffic jams, stand still traffic, packed lots, and long wait times. So what do you do? Avoid Interstate 81 and take State Route-14 and drive along the Washington side and enjoy all the views as you pass Cape Horn, Beacon Rock, and all the sights of Oregon. If you stay on the road long enough you’ll also run into the country’s first World War 1 memorial in Maryhill that replicates the famous Stonehenge Monument.
#1. Strait of Juan De Fuca Scenic Byway
Located on the northern shore of the Olympic Peninsula, this byway begins near Port Angeles and takes you past cliffs and old growth forest to the Makah Indian Reservation by Neah Bay. Along the scenic drive, you’ll also pass such beautiful towns as Challam Bay and Joyce. If you’ve got free time in September, set off on the byway for the epic one-day Great Strait Sale, a massive garage sale where you’re sure to find hidden treasures.
