Fancy a truly special road trip in the USA? Welcome to the Northwest, where lush forests, majestic mountains, national parks and vibrant cities come together with fresh seafood, craft beer and orca-watching around the San Juan Islands.
The northwest of the United States is often known as the American Northwest, the Pacific Northwest, or simply the Northwest. Covering Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana and Wyoming, it is one of the USA’s most diverse and impressive regions.
An unforgettable road trip through the Northwest USA can take you along the dramatic Pacific coast, from Oregon through Washington and towards Canada.
It is also well worth adding a detour to explore the spectacular national parks of the Canadian Rockies.
A visit to Glacier National Park, renowned for its majestic glaciers and impressive mountain scenery, is a real highlight. In Port Angeles, Washington State, you can also explore Olympic National Park, which is known for its remarkable variety of ecosystems, from dense rainforests to scenic coastal beaches.
Another standout is Yellowstone National Park, which spans Wyoming, Montana and Idaho and is known for its unique geothermal activity and fascinating wildlife.
Portland is a popular stop thanks to its vibrant cultural scene, creative spirit and focus on sustainable living. Along the Pacific coast, you can enjoy countless spectacular views and visit picturesque places such as Cannon Beach.
Beyond the cities and coastline, the natural wonders of the Northwest USA offer many more unforgettable experiences.
Enjoy exquisite wines and delicious local specialities whilst admiring the breathtaking views of Mount Hood and Mount Adams. This culinary tour takes you along the Hood River Fruit Loop through extensive ‘Oak Grove’ oak groves.
Here, you’ll discover an area brimming with historic charm. Vast orchards, vineyards, historic landmarks and spectacular views alternate along the route. Cycle to award-winning wineries, savour a delicious lunch featuring local produce, and be enchanted by the breathtaking scenery.
This tour is another great reason to hop on a bike. Explore Portland and discover everything there is to know about the city. Along the way, you’ll visit a selection of the 40 local breweries and microbreweries that make Portland the ‘beer capital’ of the USA.
At the same time, you’ll get to know this American cycling hub just like a local! You’ll also sample the best craft beer the state of Oregon has to offer.
In the Cascade Mountains in the Pacific Northwest, there are many guided hikes to choose from. One particularly beautiful route, the Salt & Diamond Creek Waterfalls Hike, leads through the Willamette National Forest to Salt Creek Falls, the second-largest waterfall in Oregon.
On this roughly 4-hour hike, you’ll cross a wooden footbridge and join a wooded circular trail that follows the riverside path along Salt Creek and Diamond Creek. Halfway along the route – at the foot of Diamond Creek Falls – you’ll enjoy a stunning view of the cascades of Salt Creek Falls. It’s a wonderful spot for a picnic.
Ride deep into the wilderness of Montana. This area is home to the Blackfeet Native Americans, and you’ll immerse yourself in their rich spiritual and cultural heritage. An indigenous guide will explain the traditions, history and legends of these indigenous peoples. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of wildflower meadows, breathtaking mountain lakes and the surrounding peaks.
Here you’ll experience the heart of the Rocky Mountains, close to the southern boundary of Glacier National Park, and, with a bit of luck, you may spot grizzly bears and moose in the wild. Enjoy a picnic in a tepee or extend your stay with an overnight camping trip.
Hike from the northern entrance of Yellowstone to the southern entrance of Grand Teton National Park. Visit famous sites such as the Continental Divide, Old Faithful, Fountain Paint Pots, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Hayden Valley and Mud Volcano.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable ranger guide, you’ll spot wildlife such as bison, moose, deer, coyotes, bears, bald eagles and perhaps even wolves.
Portland is a city well worth visiting, where there is always something new to discover and whose dedicated residents are actively promoting sustainability, innovation and accessibility throughout the region. It boasts a first-class public transport network, excellent shopping and large city-centre parks with a wealth of cultural attractions.
In Portland, you can enjoy live music, spot some quirky characters and experience a brewing scene that’s second to none. Portland has so much to offer that you should allow a little extra time to explore the beautiful surrounding countryside as well. Mount Hood, the Columbia River Gorge and the wine regions are all ideal destinations for day trips.
Seattle is a vibrant metropolis in the Pacific Northwest, boasting a lively food scene, unique neighbourhoods and a breathtaking coastal setting. Puget Sound and Lake Washington form the city’s eastern and western boundaries, making it an ideal place for sightseeing trips by water and other water-based activities.
Iconic landmarks
Visit the Space Needle, a 609-foot city landmark and relic of the 1962 World’s Fair, for sweeping views of Seattle from the observation deck. Pike Place Market is the oldest continuously operating farmers’ market in the United States and a popular place for both locals and visitors. Wander through stalls selling fresh bread, cheese specialities and fish caught that day.
Seattle is not only a city for wine and beer lovers but also the birthplace of Starbucks. You can still visit the original shop next to Pike Place Market. The city is famously fuelled by caffeine, with more coffee shops than any other city in the US.
The best time to visit the northwest of the USA depends on what you’re looking for and which destinations you’d like to visit. The Northwest includes states such as Washington, Oregon, Idaho and parts of Montana, Wyoming and northern California.
We recommend the low season, from April to early June, as the ideal time to visit. During the months between the winter and summer seasons, there are few tourists, and the temperatures are moderate.
Summer (June to August): Warm and dry, ideal for outdoor activities. Downside: peak season
Autumn (September to November): Stunning autumn colours, cooler temperatures, plenty of rain, fewer crowds.
Spring (April to May): Cherry blossoms, wildflowers, mild weather. May is drier.
Winter (December to February): Cold with snow, ideal for winter sports.
Where would you most like to wake up? In a cabin with mountain views, a coastal retreat, a B&B in the heart of the Willamette Valley, or a historic boutique hotel in the centre of Hood River? We know beautiful places to stay and will match them to your travel style.
"We had a fantastic trip and are so glad we booked through Little America. We experienced beautiful places, great accommodations, and activities. Ms Buschbeck's recommendations were perfect, and the service was superb from start to finish. We would gladly book with them again!"
Yes, the Northwest USA is well worth visiting if you enjoy big landscapes, wildlife, coastal drives and characterful cities. The region combines Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana and Wyoming, with highlights ranging from Olympic National Park and Glacier National Park to Portland, Seattle, Yellowstone and the Pacific coast.
For most travellers, we would suggest at least 2 to 3 weeks in the Northwest USA. That gives enough time to include a few national parks, a stretch of coast, and cities such as Seattle or Portland without turning the journey into a series of long driving days.
The best way to see the Northwest USA is usually by hire car, because many of the region’s most rewarding places sit between cities, coastlines, mountain roads and national parks. Little America can shape the route around your pace, choosing scenic stops rather than simply linking the biggest names.
