Hey all, I'm going on a trip to the pacific NW, and need some suggestions. I know there have been a thousand threads about this, and I've read them, but this is a bit different.
This is first and foremost a family trip, with my parents. Their footing is no longer the best, so I'm looking for suggestions that don't involve really long hikes or really treacherous terrain.
Here is our itinerary:
Aug 16 and 17: Columbia River Gorge
Aug 18: Seattle
Aug 19, 20, and 21: Orcas Island
Aug 22, 23 and 24: Victoria BC
Aug 25: Seattle
So please, any great opportunities near any of those that don't involve much really long hikes or really sketchy terrain. Driving is fine.
And of course, there is the chance that I might wake up and shoot a sunrise without them, so maybe one or two "out there" suggestions wouldn't hurt
When your on Ocras Island, make sure you go to the top of Mt. Constitution. It will be a birds eye view of the San Jaun Islands. It's a short walk up a shallow hill. You'll see Mt. Baker and the cascades from up there. Should be a nice sunrise spot as well.
Also, just before you take the left up to Constitution, there are 3 waterfalls to visit. It's trail walking, not that long. You may want to scope it out before you take them down there. Maybe it will be your morning trip by yourself.
Concerning the Gorge. Just take old HWY 30 (east on I84 from Portland and take exit 22 (Corbett I think). Drive east past The Women's Forum overlook, Crown point then you will pass many waterfalls. Several are right next to the road or couple with real easy hikes. Also drive around Mt Hood, several nice shots with easy access. Trillium lake for one, Timberline etc.
Personally I would only spend 1 day there, then go to Cannon beach, Pacific city then drive north from there on 101...
Matt, if you are going to Victoria you must go to Buchard Gardens, besides being a great place to take some snaps I think everybody in your family will enjoy going. I was there several years ago and was really impressed with the place. Regards, Dean
When catching the ferry at Anacortes, take a left before descending down to the ferry area to Washington Park. Its great for sunsets and has a nice driving loop. Ive attached a map of the route through our traditional tulip fields instead of straight freeway driving. This is much more scenic even without the flowers.
btw La Conner is an excellent stop for meals and unique local shopping. Anacortes is a great town and a speed trap as is the stretch below Padilla Bay
Scenic Route from I-5 to Anacortes San Juans Ferry and Washington Park
