Plan Your Trip Pacific Northwest Road Trips - Washington, Oregon and the Pacific Northwest - page 71

Start at Washington's capital, Olympia, a progressive city known not only for its bur-
eaucrats but also for its music, arts and outdoor-loving population. Now go west on US
101 to SR 8, which turns into US 12 and then meets back up with US 101, where you'll
turn north. Lake Quinault is a deep-blue glacial relic where you can stay at a historic
lodge and explore nearby hiking trails.
To the north is ethereally beautiful Ruby Beach, dotted with offshore rock sentinels. A
bit further up on a side road lies the surreal Hoh Rain Forest, home to the Hall of Moss
Trail - a place taken out of a Tolkien novel, with old-man's beard moss and ferns cover-
ing ancient trees.
Keeping on track, you'll pass Forks - the town made famous for Twilight vampires.
Further east is Lake Crescent, where you can hike, fish and stay at another celebrated
lodge. Not far away are Olympic Hot Springs and Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort. Now take
another side road to Hurricane Ridge, a wind-lashed and high-altitude ridge with breath-
taking views.
Next up is Port Townsend, a darling Victorian-esque seaside town with historic build-
ings and art galleries. To the south on yet another offshoot, Staircase is a drier section of
Olympic National Park where you can camp on Lake Cushman and take in some glorious
hikes. Finally, you'll end back where you started, at Olympia.
When to Go
There's less rain during the summer months from June to September.
The Route
From Olympia, head west on US 101 and eventually veer north toward Lake Quinault.
Pass through Ruby Beach and (after a side trip to the Hoh Rain Forest) turn east past
Lake Crescent, then take detours to Hurricane Ridge and Port Townsend. Finally turn
south to close your loop.
Time & Mileage
Expect to log around 435 miles over four days on this peninsula.
Sea to Sky Highway
This short drive reveals the essence of British Columbia's coast, with majestic sea and
mountain views, opportunities to get active or watch wildlife, and a peek into rich Native
American cultures and pioneer history.