Washington has one of the most diverse landscapes in the country. If you need proof, all you have to do is check out the Olympic Peninsula. Not only is it one of the most majestic places in the Pacific Northwest (and the country), it’s filled to the brim with natural wonders.
You can see why some of it by taking the Highway 101 Loop, also known as the Olympic Peninsula Loop. You will pass by charming coastal towns, forested hikes, mountain peaks, lakes, and ocean beaches.
Visiting The Hoh Rainforest would mean taking a slight detour from Highway 101, but it’s recommended.
Good Canal is the shadow of Olympic National Park and known for its peaceful waterfront property and fresh oysters.
The Chimacum Valley is a historic farming community known for grass-fed meats, artisan cheeses, and organically-grown fruits and vegetables.
While the Sequim Lavender Festival Street Fair has been canceled for 2020, the lavender farms are still open.
One point of interest on the drive is Forks, which was the setting for the Twilight novels. Of course, the actual town of Forks is quite small and much less sparkly than those stories of vampires and werewolves would imply, but it’s still worth checking out if you’re a Twilight fan.
The rest of the drive is full of mountainous terrain, lakes, waterfalls, and wilderness.
Between the mystical sea stacks, the tide pools often packed with sea life, and the otherworldly fog that tends to surround the shoreline, you’ll feel like you’re on another planet.
If you can only do one road trip this summer, make it this one.
