A Visitor's Guide to Mount Rainier National Park

Home to three National Parks, Washington State is a nature-lover’s dream destination. From the sprawling mountains of the North Cascades to the hidden rainforest of Olympic, there’s something for everyone in this Pacific Northwest state. But there’s one National Park that stands out as a crowd favorite when it comes to Washington, and that’s Mount Rainier.

Mount Rainier is the most glaciated mountain in the lower 48. This park stays cold well into the summer months, and attracts visitors of all ages to come and explore its forests, climb to its peak, and discover its secret lakes and waterfalls created by snowmelt. In the summer, you can spot beautiful wildflowers and incredible wildlife as you explore the park, and still experience the same snowy landscapes as winter visitors in some areas of the park.

We recently spent the holiday weekend in Mount Rainier and explored the best areas of the park. Here is my guide to help you plan your visit.

The view from an overlook accessible from a trail near the Sunrise Visitor Center.

First things first…

Mount Rainier is located about 2 hours south of Seattle, WA, and is bordered by the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie and Gifford-Pinchot National Forests. These areas are home to animals such as black bears, marmots, elk, and deer, so be on the lookout for any creatures as you drive through the park!

The entry fee for Mount Rainier is $30 per vehicle or the America the Beautiful Pass. During COVID-19, Mount Rainier is doing fee collection.

Pets are allowed to join you during your visit, but they are limited to certain areas of the park, such as parking lots, campgrounds, and picnic areas. There is a dirt road in the Sunrise section of the park where you can walk your dog. Dogs are not permitted on park trails.

There are two campgrounds in the park, White River and Ohanapecosh, but there are also tons of boondocking and dispersed camping spots in the nearby forests.

Mount Rainier National Park

Sections of the park

There are five main sections of the park: Ohanapecosh, Longmire, Paradise, Sunrise, and Carbon River. Each section has something unique to see and do.

In Ohanapecosh, experience old growth forests, deep canyons, and gorgeous views! We didn’t spend too much time in this section because the road was closed ten miles in due to winter damage.

The Longmire area leads into Paradise, which is the subalpine area in the southern end of the park. Longmire is where the park’s founders stayed during their time in the area, so this is an important area to stop and experience on your way up to the subalpine!

On the way from Longmire to Paradise there are plenty of amazing views to see!

In Paradise, you’ll find yourself up next to the mountain. Here, you’ll be able to experience the subalpine in the southern side of the park, much of which stays snowy well into summer. Here, we were able to do the Nisqually Vista Trail, a small snow hike that leads to a glacial view of Nisqually Glacier.

The Carbon River section is located in the Northwest corner of the park, and is known for being the park’s temperate rainforest. This area is generally cool and rainy, and is a great place to experience some of the most unique Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Mount Rainier is perfect for solo travelers looking to get out of their comfort zones!

Sunrise is our personal favorite section of the park. Here, you’ll reach elevations of 6,400 feet and might meet animals like black bears and marmots. Here, there are plenty of hiking trails that are accessible in early summer, despite the snow, just make sure that you know your hiking level! This is one of the best places to see Emmons Glacier.

Sunrise at Sunrise Point is an incredible experience

Best underrated things to do

While Mount Rainier is known for hiking and mountaineering, there are plenty of really underrated things to experience! These are our favorite things we did during our time in the park.

Get up for sunrise… at Sunrise

Sunrise in the PNW is incredibly early, but you’ll never experience a sunrise like the ones from Sunrise Point in the park. Here, you’ll be above the clouds and get incredible and almost private views of Mount Rainier as soon as the sun comes up. In early July, we got up at 4:30 to drive from the park entrance to Sunrise Point for sunrise at 5am.

A secret no-name lake in Mount Rainier National Park with the famous mountain hiding behind some clouds

Search for hidden waterfalls and lakes

While it is still a hike, it’s not a long one to find the best secret lake and waterfall. The Glacier Basin Trail that starts in White River Campground is home to tons of small yet beautiful waterfalls, and if you’re brave enough, a secret glacial lake with no official name that might take a little bit of effort to find!

Drive up to Tipsoo Lake

This part of the park is free to visit and has an beautiful reflective lake perfect for catching views of Mount Rainier, experiencing some July snow, and having a picnic in the picnic area. The drive up here also has views that can’t be beat!

The view of Mount Rainier from Tipsoo Lake in July

Mount Rainier is truly an incredible National Park to visit, and easily the best in the state of Washington. Home to one of the tallest mountains in the country, this is a site that can’t be missed during your time in the Pacific Northwest. From wildflower to wild animals, to awakening your own wild self, Mount Rainier is sure to give you experiences you won’t soon forget.

Where to Explore in (and around) Bend, OR

If you’re at all familiar with the Pacific Northwest, you’ve probably heard of Bend. To me, it’s the mountain version of Sedona. It’s surrounded by National Forest Land, and everyone here recreates outdoors, from river surfing to climbing. It’s a city that welcomes vanlifers, and has some of the best nature in Central Oregon right on its doorstep.

We had the chance to spend about a week in Bend while we waited for our new dog, Lassen to be able to get his shots, so we took advantage of our time there, and explored every corner. These are the top 3 things to do in and near Bend, OR.

Tumalo Falls

Tumalo Falls is located closest to the downtown area of all the spots on this list. It is part of a busy recreation area in the Deschutes National Forest that follows a stream of waterfall runoff. When we were there, the road to the actual parking area was closed, but it was a short and easy 2.5 miles of road hiking to the falls. Once you get there, there are three viewpoints, a mid-height one that you’ll see first, an easily accessible top of the falls view, and a more hidden trail to beneath the falls (where you might get a bit wet!).

Tumalo Falls is dog and family friendly and welcomes people recreating as hikers and mountain bikers. There is a $5 fee to park in the main parking lot if the road is open (but I believe they accept the America The Beautiful Pass as well).

On the way to Tumalo Falls

Smith Rock State Park

Smith Rock State Park is easily one of the most popular things to do in Bend, OR for hikers and climbers. When I asked what people suggested in Bend, this was the first thing to come up. I’d been here once last summer as well when I was driving the Lower 48, but because we had the new dog with us, I knew it would be a good choice, since the park is dog friendly. At Smith Rock, there is a $5 day use fee (and they do not accept Interagency Passes like America The Beautiful as they are a state park).

Smith Rock is known for its towering rock spires, winding Crooked River, and its over 1000 sport climbing routes. Needless to say, as a hiking/climbing couple, we had to at least check it out. Smith Rock is a desert, though, and currently, due to a public health safety law, all water fountains in the park are turned off. Please make sure you prepare for hot weather and bring more water than you think you need.

Smith Rock State Park

Crater Lake National Park

While Crater Lake isn’t specifically in Bend, Bend is the closest big city north of the park. The National Park officially reopened on June 6, 2020, and currently, the only parts of the park that remain closed are due to weather. Crater Lake is the ninth deepest lake in the world, and the deepest in the United States, so even if the trails are closed due to snow, it’s not impossible to get a grand view worthy of the photo albums during your trip to Crater Lake.

Until the snow melts, only Crater Lake’s West Rim Drive will be open, as well as the Rim Village gift shop. Even though this is only 13 miles of road, it will give you the best and closest views of Wizard Island and the nearby mountains in the distance.

Read more about Crater Lake in my full guide to the park. Click the button below to read!

Crater Lake National Park at the end of its winter season

Bend, OR is one of the most outdoorsy towns in the Pacific Northwest. It’s known for its outdoor sports, rivers, and nearby parks. And on top of that, it’s incredibly dog and van friendly! So next time you’re passing through Oregon, make sure you stop and take a hike—the view is worth it.

What I Packed for One Week in The Cascades

This past week, I went on a far different trip than what I’d normally plan for myself. I’d been thinking about getting my Wilderness First Aid certification for a while, and when I got an opportunity to do so with my favorite volunteer group, GIVE Volunteers, I jumped at the chance. This wasn’t just going to be a two-day, 16-hour WFA course, we’d also be learning outdoor leadership, international guide skills, and risk management. The entire program lasted one week and took place in the North Cascades of Washington during the last months of the Pacific North West’s deep winter. Since it was such a unique program, I figured it would be most useful to you, as readers, to know what I packed for this environment.

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Cascade backcountry

Outdoor Essentials

As this was a wilderness education course, we were required to bring a sleeping bag and other types of outdoor gear, as well as the expected gear. Half of my big 65L bag was taken up by my favorite zero degree sleeping bag from Madera Outdoor. As we didn’t know how effective the heat in our lodging would be, it was essential to pack for the worst, just in case.

Other outdoor gear that I’m so glad I brought along included my Merrell Moab hiking shoes, since they’re already broken in and fully waterproof. The best socks for this excursion actually ended up being my hiking socks, so make sure you bring a few pairs of those as well if you’re heading to Washington’s mountains in the snow season. A day pack is also essential for staying outside for long periods of time! Other than that, most of our outdoor gear was provided. If you’re not going to the Cascades with a tour group, though, I’d suggest investing in either microspikes or snowshoes for hiking, as well as trekking poles—I wouldn’t have made it through the week without them!

The woods by our lodge in the Cascade Mountains

Cold Weather Essentials

It was between 20 and 40 degrees pretty much the entire week, so layers were key. As we learned in our WFA course, “be bold, start cold!” which means starting with a base layer and adding layers as you get colder from being outside, since exertion will warm you up quick! I brought a few base layer shirts, one fleece, one sweatshirt, and my ski coat. As for bottoms, I had leggings as a base layer, and then on really cold days, added (second hand) wool ski pants. My outer layer for snow was always a goretex shield. It’s also important to always carry extra socks in case yours get wet! It’s also essential to make sure you have waterproof gloves (for making snowballs, obviously). Two other things I wouldn’t have done this week without were my Buff and a warm beanie.

In terms of non-clothes, bringing an extra blanket was a great decision for sleeping in a cabin in the woods in the middle of the Cascades in winter!

Waterfall in Cascade backcountry

Overall, I was able to fit all of this gear and a few more non-essentials (laptop, book, snacks, etc…) in one 65L backpacking bag and one 22L daypack. The truth is, the cold allows you to re-wear so many of your clothes, so you don’t need to worry about packing an entirely fresh outfit for everyday, especially if you’re visiting the Cascades to spend time outside. The Cascades are absolutely beautiful, yet might feel a bit overwhelming to visit in the winter. But don’t avoid it, embrace the cold—you’ll be met with some of the most beautiful and authentic nature you’ve ever seen.

If you are interested in doing a program with GIVE Volunteers, make sure you put me (Halle Homel) down as a reference, and email or message me via my contact page with any questions you may have!

Your Guide to Crater Lake National Park

When I was traveling through the continental 48 during the summer of 2019, Crater Lake was the last stop before I touched ground back in my home state of California. Now, I’ve mentioned Crater Lake in plenty of blog posts so far (here, here, and here), but I’ve also gotten a couple questions asking for more information about actually visiting the park.

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Now, Crater Lake is the only National Park in Oregon, and it’s one of the smallest big parks in the country. I tend to categorize the parks into “small” and “big” parks, the big parks being the ones with an entry gate, possible campgrounds, and use the America the Beautiful Pass. Crater Lake, while it is smaller in acreage, contains about 30 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail, a dormant volcano, and the deepest lake in the country.

These are my tips and tricks for getting the most out of your trip to Crater Lake. So, grab your 0 degree sleeping bag (it’s cold out there!), some yummy snacks, and a park map, and let’s explore one of the most unique locations in the country.

View of Wizard Island from Sun Notch

Getting there

Crater Lake is located about an hour and a half south of Bend, OR. You’ll drive through some of the most beautiful forests to get there, no matter which entrance you come in through. When you arrive, you will be met with that classic entrance gate. Without the America the Beautiful Pass, park entry costs $25 per car.

Phantom Ship, as seen from Sun Notch

About the park

Crater Lake is the ninth deepest lake in the world, and the deepest in the United States. Because of this, it has a beautiful deep blue color to it. Crater Lake is one of the many volcanic parks in the country, and is also home to an unexpected crop of pinnacles formed by lava flow.

While the park is open year-round, during the winter months, the road is closed to cars. Yearly, the park receives over 500 inches of snow, and the best months to go are July, August, and September. The park is never very warm though, the highest average temperature only reaching 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and dropping into the 40s at night. Because of this, it’s incredibly crucial to have the right gear, and a 0 degree sleeping bag just in case, even if you’re camping in your vehicle or RV. (I highly recommend the sleeping bags available from Madera Outdoor—they’re warm, lightweight, vegan, and you’ll receive 20% off your order.)

There is a scenic loop road that will bring you all around the lake and park in the summer months. The 33 mile long road will bring you to all of the 30 overlooks, as well as the park’s hikes, except those located on the offshoot that is Pinnacles Road. Pinnacles Road is where you can find a small waterfall hike called Plakni Falls as well as the Pinnacles Trail, which has one of the most unique views in the park. Here, you’ll also find the park’s dry campground, Lost Creek.

The strange Pinnacles area of Crater Lake National Park

Staying in the park

There are two campgrounds in the park, and I actually highly recommend staying in Lost Creek campground, even for vanlifers. The campground is only $5, and you’ll get the extra security of being in the park (always a plus for solo female travelers), as well as the convenience of not having to leave. It does not take reservations, and did not have running water during summer of 2019.

The other campground is called Mazama, and is located near Rim Village, which give you close access to the visitor center, clean water, gift shop, and in-park gas station. It costs between $21 and $43 to camp here, so I’d recommend this for families and tourists, rather than overlanders. All campsites in the park, including those at Lost Creek come with a bear locker.

There is also lodging available in the park. As with all national parks, I’d recommend booking your lodging (or even camping) reservations a few months in advance through the park’s official website and whatever reservation system they have set up. There are two motels available in Crater Lake: Crater Lake Lodge ($202 per night), and The Cabins at Mazama Village ($164 per night).

You can also eat at the restaurant in the park, which is called the Rim Village Café, and buy groceries and snacks at the Mazama Village Store. The Crater Lake Lodge also offers a dining experience inside the park.

Plaikni Falls

Hiking in Crater Lake

I constantly heard that Crater Lake isn’t worth spending more than a day in because all the hikes are the same, which is simply not true! There are tons of little hikes to do, which are great for families and beginner level hikers that will take you to places like waterfalls (Plaikni Falls), the unique pinnacles (Pinnacles Trail), and views of the lake and it’s famous Wizard Island and Phantom Ship (Sun Notch).

There are longer hikes in the park perfect for moderate to advanced hikers. Fantastic moderate hikes are Watchman Peak and Discovery Point, which both offer amazing scenic panoramic views of the lake.

For my advanced hikers, the best hike you can do is Cleetwood Cove. This is the only legal access to the water in Crater Lake National Park. Here, you can swim, take boat tours, or just relax by the water. Other amazing advanced hikes are Wizard Summit (trailhead only accessible by boat), and Mount Scott (the park’s highest point).

Crater Lake is beautiful, even on a cloudy day

Crater Lake truly is one of the most unique landscapes in the country that I’ve personally visited (so far). While it’s very cold, and a smaller park, its beauty is unmatched by any of the country’s other famous lakes. From camping to hiking to simply being an amazing vacation spot, Crater Lake has something for every type of traveler to experience, and is sure to help you appreciate the outdoors just a little bit more.

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To read more about Crater Lake and many of the other national parks in the country, check out my ebook: Around the States in 90 Days in the shop!

A Guide to the Most Famous Mountain Ranges in the Continental US

It’s no secret that mountains are my favorite landscape. I’ve traveled the entire continental 48 and visited the most famous mountain ranges in the country (minus Alaska). For people who are new to the outdoors, learning the country’s geography can be confusing, especially because some of these mountain ranges are absolutely huge, stretching into Canada at times.

This is my quick guide to the four most famous mountain ranges in the US. You might’ve heard of them, and if you haven’t, you’ll be adding them to your list by the time you’re finished reading.

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Glacier National Park, part of the Rocky Mountains, located in Montana

The Cascade Mountains

The Cascades is one of the bigger mountain ranges in the country, stretching from Northern California to British Columbia, Canada. Many of the western mountain ranges include volcanoes, and the Cascades are no exception. The Cascades are home to famous mountains such as Washington’s Mount Rainier and Oregon’s Mount Hood. The Cascades also include North Cascades National Park in northern Washington, a national park interspersed with forest land, and one of the most dog friendly parks in the country.

I love the Cascade Range. It’s full of incredible views and is located in what I would consider one of the best regions of the United States, the Pacific Northwest. It’s home to some of the most challenging, as well as some of the most beautiful hikes I’ve ever completed, and I definitely plan on returning in 2020. I highly suggest having some good gear for your time in the Cascades, and don’t attempt any hikes you don’t know for sure you’re prepared for.

North Cascades National Park, part of the Cascade Mountain Range, located in Washington

The Sierra Nevadas

I’ve visited the Sierras a few times, during small trips to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, two national parks connected by a road through forest land, as well as larger trips to Yosemite. And no matter what time of year you visit, they’re absolutely beautiful, and are home to the tallest mountain in the continental 48: Mount Whitney, which stands at 14,505 feet tall.

The Sierra Nevadas stretch horizontally across the states, rather than vertically like the other ranges on this list, and lie between California’s Central Valley and the Great Basin in Nevada, although most of the mountain range is located in California. It includes both Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, the Sequoia National Forest, the Inyo National Forest, Devils Postpile National Monument, and the famous Yosemite National Park.

Half Dome in Yosemite National Park, part of the Sierra Nevadas, located in California

The Appalachian Mountains

The most famous mountain range east of the Mississippi, the Appalachian Mountains stretch across the eastern United States. The Appalachians are home to one of the most famous thu-hikes in the country: the Appalachian Trail, and include famous spots such as Great Smoky Mountains National Park (the most visited National Park in the country), and the Blue Ridge Mountains. While these mountains don’t quite reach the heights that the other ranges on this list do, they once did, but due to their age, have eroded. Now, the highest point in the Appalachians lies at only 6,683 feet.

The Appalachians are absolutely gorgeous. I’ve done some absolutely beautiful hiking there, in the Smokies and in Shenandoah National Park. While they aren’t as tall as my mountains out west, they’re often far greener than anything I’m used to seeing due to the amount of rain they get back east.

The Great Smoky Mountains, part of the Appalachian Mountains, located in Tennessee and North Carolina

The Rockies

The Rocky Mountain Range is one of the largest mountain ranges in the area, stretching from Canada all the way to New Mexico. Of course, the most famous spot in the Rockies is Rocky Mountains National Park in Colorado, which is why we often refer to the part of the Rockies located in the states as the “Colorado Rockies.” You’ll be surprised to find out, though, that some of the other famous mountains in the middle of the country are actually part of the Rockies as well, including the Grand Tetons and Glacier National Park.

The Rockies are home to some of the biggest and most beautiful mountains I’ve ever seen. Most parts of them are extremely cold due to their elevation, the tallest mountain in the range being Mount Elbert in Colorado, standing at 14,440 feet. Apart from tall mountains, I’ve seen some of the most incredible wildlife in the Rockies, from mountain goats, grizzly bears, and big horned sheep in Glacier to elk and deer in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains National Park.

(When hiking in these areas, please carry bear spray, especially if you’re hiking solo. I never once felt that I was in danger, but it’s always good to be prepared for anything.)

The Grand Tetons, part of the Rocky Mountains, located in Wyoming

Of course, there are plenty of other, smaller mountain ranges in the country, and a few I haven’t explored yet, up in Alaska, but if you’re starting to plan your trip around the US, these are four sections of the country you definitely can’t pass up, especially if you’re a hiker, camper, or general lover of the outdoors. These mountains have left a mark on me as a traveler, and I can’t wait to return to them in the future.

Which one is on the top of your 2020 bucket list? Let me know in the comments!

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If you’re planning a 2020 (or whenever!) trip around the US and want to include all four of these beautiful places, my ebook, Around the States in 90 Days will be a great resource for you. Check it out in the shop!

Top 5 Most Instagramable Natural Spots in Oregon

Oregon is hands down one of my favorite places in the US. It’s almost as diverse as California, yet rivals it when it comes to changing seasons. I just had the opportunity to spend my Thanksgiving week properly visiting Portland. And while Portland is a cool little city, I kept finding myself drawn to Oregon’s nature. The Pacific North West is one of the best places in the country for mountains, pine trees, and even beaches, and I’ve compiled a list of my favorite natural places in Oregon to photograph (or, those that I’ve been to so far).

To follow me on Instagram for more pictures like these, and plenty of travel inspiration, click HERE or visit the CONTACT page.

Geotag Disclaimer: if you choose to use geotags on your Instagram feed, please be responsible, and keep local secrets you find that aren’t on this list, well, secret. Geotags have the tendency to draw crowds and ruin natural spaces, so in line with Leave No Trace, let’s leave no map too.

So, grab your camera or phone, don’t forget a good snack, and hop in the car. This ride’s about to get insanely pretty.

Crater Lake National Park

Haystack Rock

While this one might be a bit obvious to those of you engrossed in the crazy world of Instagram, it’s a spot that tops many Oregon travelers’ bucket lists by a long shot. Located on Cannon Beach, Haystack Rock is a huge rock formation known for its famous reflection in the sand. This is easily one of the most popular spots in Oregon, and for good reason. The Oregon coast is a famous stretch of coastline, and this is easily the most famous beach on the drive.

Cannon Beach is a dog friendly beach, and has free parking only a couple blocks away. It’s only about an hour from Portland, and is super easy to find.

A tip for my vanlifers: It’s a bit (and by a bit, I actually mean a lot) hard to find affordable camping, let alone safe boondocking spots, so if you’re living that vanlife, you might want to dive up over the state line and stay at the rest stop that’s 40 minutes away.

Haystack Rock on Cannon Beach, Oregon Coast

Hoyt Arboretum

If you’re staying in Portland, this is an awesome place to go to lose yourself amongst the PNW’s famous pine trees and redwoods. The Hoyt Arboretum is located within Washington Park, and is basically a living museum. You can grab a map at the visitor center, or just wander the marked trails. Each area of the park features a different type of tree, from redwoods to maple. This was actually the first time my family was able to snag a glimpse of our West Coast redwoods.

The Hoyt Arboretum is completely dog friendly, and free to enter, but you do have to pay for parking. You can hike about a mile (one way) to Pittock Mansion from the visitor center if you want a view of the city too!

Redwood Deck in the Hoyt Arboretum, Portland

Smith Rock State Park

Located about 30 minutes outside of Bend, Smith Rock State Park is known by rock climbers across the country. I am not a rock climber, and I came here with a friend from the road when we both happened to be in Bend. There are quite a few hiking trails here for all hiking abilities, if you’re not into climbing, and there are spectacular views all around. This is the best place for you to head if you’re in Oregon and craving some desert-esque landscapes. It reminded me of this park in Los Angeles that I used to visit with my parents called Vasquez Rocks (which I largely credit my love of the outdoors to).

Smith Rock does allow dogs and has paid camping available.

Smith Rock State Park

Crater Lake

I’ve talked about Crater Lake a couple times on here, but it’s the deepest lake in the country, so how could it not make it onto this list? With its deep, blue water and towering pine trees, Crater Lake is far more than just a lake. This National Park includes a beautiful scenic drive, volcanic-formed pinnacles, and a little island dubbed Wizard Island. Even if you’re not a big hiker, you’ll be able to grab some of the best and bluest shots to fill that ‘gram with at Crater Lake.

A tip for my vanlifers: Lost Creek Campground is a bit out of the way, but only costs $5 a night! It gets super cold, even in the summer, so make sure you have the right gear!

Crater Lake National Park, aka one of the coldest days I’ve spent on the road so far

Multnomah Falls:

On the same level of Insta-popularity as Haystack Rock, you’ve likely seen a picture or two of Multnomah Falls come across your feed. This was a bucket list item of mine for a long time. Multnomah Falls is part of the Columbia River Gorge area, on National Forest Land, and is a 620 foot tall two-tiered waterfall that features a bridge. You can hike to the top, or you can get that perfect shot from the bottom (it was raining, so my family chose the latter).

There is free parking just across the street, and the falls is a dog friendly area. Just a few minutes down the road, you’ll find Wahkeena Falls as well, another large waterfall in the area with a hiking trail.

Multnomah Falls in late November

There are plenty of super beautiful spots throughout Oregon, but these are easily my favorites I’ve been to so far. Oregon in itself is incredibly pretty, so make sure you get off that beaten path a little bit too.

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To learn more about my favorite places in the country, make sure you check out my full 3 month, 48 state road trip itinerary, available now in the shop!

Your Guide to the National Parks of the PNW

It’s no secret that the Pacific Northwest is one of the most desirable travel destinations in the United States, especially in terms of nature. While there are plenty of beautiful hikes and natural areas to visit in Oregon and Washington, from Multnomah Falls, to Mount Hood, to Forest Park, there are also four National Parks hiding in these two beautiful states. You’ve probably heard of Mount Rainier, but what about the other three?

Well, in Washington, you’re in luck because all of the state’s National Parks are within only a few hours drive of each other, and in Oregon, Crater Lake stands as one of the most unique landscapes in the country. (For other unique bucket list locations, check out THIS ARTICLE).

This is your complete guide to all four National Parks in the PNW, so get ready for some hiking and sightseeing, it’s gonna be a beautiful ride.

Olympic National Park, Shore Section, WA

Crater Lake, OR

I figured it might be useful to start with Crater Lake because it’s not only the smallest of the four National Parks in the PNW, but it’s also the only one in Oregon. Located in southern Oregon, Crater Lake is positioned at a very high elevation, making it only fully accessible during the warmer months. Crater Lake’s water is extremely blue, and deep, and there’s only one trail that actually allows you lake access. This is the deepest lake in the United States, and the ninth deepest lake in the world.

Crater Lake is definitely a small park. While there are plenty of little trails, which I spent my very cold day there hiking, there are only a select few longer trails, and only two campgrounds, one of which currently has no water (Lost Creek). Regardless of its size, Crater Lake is absolutely stunning. It’s only here that you’ll find water this blue surrounded by mountains, pine trees, and sometimes snow.

Crater Lake National Park, OR

North Cascades, WA

By now, I’ve talked about North Cascades a couple times (HERE and HERE), so I’m gonna keep this short.

North Cascades is the secret National Park of Washington. It’s made up of the famous Cascade Mountains, and is interspersed with National Forest land. There are quite a few campgrounds in the North Cascades, and plenty of diverse trails to explore, and on top of that, it’s dog friendly. This is another small park, but it’s a great getaway for a few days, as there’s plenty to explore as long as you have gas in the tank.

North Cascades National Park, WA

Olympic, WA

Olympic National Park is one of Washington’s most famous National Parks, and it’s also its most diverse. Located on the Olympic Peninsula, most of the park isn’t drivable. The roads simply go around the park, cutting into each of the park’s unique landscapes: the mountains, lake, rainforest, and shore section.

I spent three nights exploring Olympic, and got to see three of these four landscapes. I spent two nights up in Fairholme Campground near Lake Crescent, and took one of those days to explore the Hoh Rainforest, the only temperate rainforest in the continental US that you can drive into. To get there from Fairholme, you simply head south through Washington’s famous city of Forks (which you might recognize from the Twilight series). This awesome spot is home to some pretty cool wildlife, like banana slugs, and you can hike through the rainforest to your heart’s content (and you can even get a backpacking permit if you want). The rainforest offers one of the most unique views of Washington’s landscape, and truly allows you to get a feel for just how diverse this strange and beautiful northern state really is.

The third night, I spent the night in a privately owned campground near Rialto Beach because it was simply the better deal than staying in Mora Campground run by the NPS. Rialto Beach is one of my favorite beaches in the country. It’s home to crazy rock formations, tidepools, fallen driftwood trees, and is surrounded by pine, making it the perfect combination of mountains and beach (aka my favorite things ever). Olympic is truly a park with something for every type of explorer, and if you don’t like one section, you can just move on to the next—they’re so different, it’ll feel like you’re in a different place entirely.

Rialto Beach, Olympic National Park, WA

Mount Rainier, WA

While Mount Rainier is probably the most famous National Park in Washington, it’s definitely my favorite (which is funny because I actually spent the least amount of time here). Mount Rainier is at a very high elevation, and is pretty much always covered in snow (the mountain, not the park). From some of the hikes in the park, you’ll be able to see glaciers, wildlife such as foxes and bears, and plenty of wildflowers (most of the year).

Mount Rainier is a huge park with different sections to explore, and while I only got to see a very small part of it during my stay at White River Campground, it was one of my favorite nights on the road due to the overall landscape of the place and the welcoming rangers.

Mount Rainier does get some crazy weather. Luckily it was only raining when I was there, but there’s always a world where it might snow, so come prepared with warm clothes, and an extra warm sleeping bag (shop my favorite sleeping bag at Madera Outdoor HERE).

View of a glacier in Mount Rainier National Park, WA

From the towering peaks of Mount Rainier to the deepest lake in the country, the Pacific Northwest is full of diverse landscapes and beautiful National Parks. The Washington National Parks are only a couple hours away from each other, and Crater Lake, while further south, will encourage you to explore its surrounding natural areas, and even cute towns like Bend. The Pacific Northwest is only just getting started in terms of being a popular tourist destination, and it’s sure to get even more popular over the years, considering its popularity on social media. So, head out now to these beautiful spaces, and enjoy the unique solitude of the northern mountains. And don’t forget to take plenty of pictures.