Road Trip: Northwest US & Canada

Start your trip in the beautiful Seattle, where we recommend that you take at least 2 nights so that you can get a smooth start to your adventure without rushing it. Take some time to explore the city famous for its many coffee shops, the tall Space Needle tower and the old Pike Place Market.

After a couple of days of city life, it's time to start getting ready to hit the road and pick up the campervan!

Once you've started the engine, it's time to navigate towards Olympic National Park, between 2 and 2,5 hours from Seattle depending on how scenic you'll make the drive. In Olympic National Park you'll find everything from lush rainforests and rugged coastline to towering mountains and serene lakes. Whether you're into hiking, camping, or just soaking up stunning scenery, this place has it all. The landscapes are very diverse, and you've got the chance to see wildlife like elk and black bears if you're lucky! Some of our favourite trails include the Hoh Rain Forest Trail, an easy-to-moderate trail that'll take you deep into one of the park's forests. The Hall of Mosses and Spruce Nature Trail loops are perfect for a short but stunning walk among towering trees draped in moss. And finally there's the Hurricane Ridge, for breathtaking mountain views. This moderately challenging trail rewards you with amazing views of the Olympic Mountains, and on clear days, you can even see as far as Canada.

Travel to Mount Rainier National Park, dominated by the awe-inspiring peak of Mount Rainier. This active volcano, covered in glaciers and wildflower meadows, offers breathtaking scenery. Hike through Paradise, known for its vibrant blooms in summer and stunning views. Explore the old-growth forests and cascading waterfalls of the Wonderland Trail. Sunrise provides another excellent vantage point with fewer crowds and spectacular sunrises. Whether you’re hiking, climbing, or simply taking in the views, Mount Rainier National Park’s dramatic landscapes and diverse ecosystems provide endless opportunities for adventure and photography.

Continue to Mount Baker, a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its record-breaking snowfall, Mount Baker offers excellent skiing and snowboarding in winter. In summer, the area transforms into a hiker’s paradise, with trails leading through alpine meadows, past crystal-clear lakes, and up to panoramic viewpoints. The Heather Meadows area is particularly popular for its stunning scenery and accessible trails. The Mount Baker Highway provides a scenic drive with numerous stops for hiking, picnicking, and photographing the stunning landscapes. Mount Baker’s year-round beauty and recreational opportunities make it a highlight of your journey.

Cross the border into Canada to reach Vancouver, a city that seamlessly blends urban sophistication with natural beauty. Stroll through Stanley Park, a vast urban oasis with scenic trails, beaches, and the famous Seawall. Explore diverse neighborhoods like Gastown with its historic charm, and Granville Island, known for its public market and artisan shops. The city’s culinary scene is vibrant, offering everything from food trucks to fine dining. Take a walk or bike ride along the Seawall for stunning views of the skyline and mountains. Vancouver’s dynamic mix of outdoor activities and cultural attractions makes it a must-visit destination.

Take a ferry from Vancouver to Vancouver Island, where you’ll find a blend of charming towns, rugged wilderness, and stunning coastal landscapes. Start in Victoria, the island’s capital, known for its historic architecture, beautiful gardens, and British charm. Visit the Butchart Gardens, stroll along the Inner Harbour, and explore the Royal BC Museum. Venture to the island’s west coast to Tofino for surfing, whale watching, and exploring Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. The island’s diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to serene beaches, offer endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

Return to the mainland and head to Whistler, a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts. In winter, enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding. In summer, the area transforms into a hub for mountain biking, hiking, and golfing. The pedestrian village of Whistler offers a lively atmosphere with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. On your way, stop in Squamish, known for its rock climbing, hiking, and the stunning Sea to Sky Gondola, which provides breathtaking views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains. Whistler and Squamish’s combination of adventure and scenic beauty makes this a highlight of your trip.

Travel to Kelowna in the Okanagan Valley, known for its warm climate, beautiful landscapes, and thriving wine industry. Tour some of the region’s top wineries, enjoying tastings and vineyard tours. The scenic beauty of Okanagan Lake provides opportunities for boating, swimming, and paddleboarding. Explore the city’s vibrant downtown with its shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby Myra Canyon offers stunning views and trestle bridges on the Kettle Valley Rail Trail. Kelowna’s mix of outdoor activities, fine wine, and scenic beauty provides a relaxing and enjoyable conclusion to your journey.