8-Day Pacific Northwest National Parks Loop: Seattle → Olympic → North Cascades → Mount Rainier → Portland & Columbia Gorge → Mount Hood → Mount St. Helens (Apr 26–May 3)
Start at Pike Place Market for coffee, pastries, and lively vendor stalls — a classic Seattle introduction. Check vendor hours (many open 8:00–17:00; individual shops vary).
Enjoy Pacific Northwest/Italian-influenced dining near the market or a signature Tom Douglas spot — reservations recommended; check open times (commonly 17:00–21:00).
Check mountain & ferry road conditions for Olympic National Park (Hurricane Ridge/Hoh Road) — spring weather can change quickly; call park or check NPS website.
Drive west (or take Bainbridge ferry + drive) toward Port Angeles as your base for Hurricane Ridge — plan ~2–3 hours depending on route and ferry choice.
Outstanding mountain and valley views from Hurricane Ridge; roads and facilities can still be affected by snow in late April, so check current road status before you go (NPS).
Stunning turquoise water views from the Diablo Lake overlook; great short stops for photos and quick walks. These overlooks are typically open year-round.
Services are limited in the Cascades; bringing a picnic ensures flexibility. If stopping in Marblemount, small cafes open limited hours — check in advance.
If conditions allow, Cascade Pass offers classic alpine scenery; note that in late April many higher trails still have snow — check trail and avalanche conditions at the ranger station.
Start early for the drive to Mount Rainier (allow 2–4 hours from North Cascades area depending on where you stayed); pack layers — conditions change rapidly.
Paradise offers legendary wildflower meadows later in summer, and winter/spring snow scenery now; check road access to Paradise and possible closures (many roads are seasonal).
Easy to moderate trails that showcase old-growth trees and glacier-fed views; trail accessibility depends on snowpack — check the NPS road & trail updates.
Iconic two-tiered waterfall with an easily accessible viewpoint; the lodge often opens mid-morning for snacks and lunches — check current hours and parking advisories.
Easy loop around Trillium Lake with postcard views of Mount Hood reflected in calm water; lake access is usually open year-round but watch for muddy trails in spring.
Drive back to Portland for an evening in the city or stop in smaller towns (e.g., Hood River if you prefer a second Gorge visit); plan ~1.5–2 hours driving time.
Choose an accessible viewpoint trail to see the blast zone and regrowth; some routes have seasonal closures — check Forest Service updates before hiking.
Wrap up the trip with a relaxed dinner near your departure point — verify restaurant hours near the airport or in downtown Seattle depending on your flight.