The family vacation to the Pacific Northwest was nothing short of spectacular. We started our adventure by flying into Seattle, picking up a rental car, and going to the Olympic Peninsula. Our first stop was Port Angeles, where we explored Olympic National Park.
We stayed in a unique Airbnb treehouse, which added a touch of magic to our time in the area. Highlights included hiking through the lush Hoh Rain Forest, visiting the coastal splendor of Ruby and Rialto Beaches, and standing at the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States—Cape Flattery.
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From misty coastal views to dense, emerald forests, the Olympic Peninsula felt like stepping into a fairytale. We also visited iconic spots like the Treaty Line from Twilight near Forks, which was a fun nod to pop culture. Madison and Marymere Falls were stunning, with water cascading down mossy cliffs. Lake Crescent’s clear, blue waters were incredibly picturesque, and though we just missed a spectacular sunset at Ediz Hook by mere seconds, the view was still unforgettable.
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After our Olympic Peninsula adventure, we journeyed to Mt. Rainier National Park, which quickly became a top contender for the most scenic national park we've visited. The snow-capped peak of Mt. Rainier dominated the skyline, and we spent our days exploring the park’s incredible landscapes. Every corner was picture-perfect, from Christine and Nerada Falls to the tranquil waters of Reflection Lake. Catching the sunset over Seattle at Kerry Park was a great way to wrap up our time around Mt. Rainier before returning to the city.
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Seattle offered a lively mix of urban and natural experiences. We wandered through Pike Place Market, tried some unique local food—including a memorable stop at Biscuit Bitch—and admired quirky sights like the Gum Wall. The view from the Seattle Great Wheel gave us a beautiful panorama of the city and its surroundings.
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Toward the end of our trip, we made our way to the North Cascades National Park, a region known for its rugged beauty and less crowded trails. Staying in a cozy Airbnb barn in Rockport was the perfect base for exploring this area. We hiked the Sterling Munro Trail and admired Ladder Creek Falls, where lush greenery framed cascading water. One of the most breathtaking moments was the view from the Diablo Lake Overlook, where the lake’s brilliant turquoise waters contrasted dramatically with the surrounding forested mountains. We also visited Ross Lake National Recreation Area, where the sheer wilderness of the North Cascades truly shined. This park's solitude and raw beauty offered a peaceful contrast to some of the busier spots we'd visited, making it a perfect way to wind down our Pacific Northwest adventure.
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Sam Craft
November 18, 2024
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