
4 Pacific Northwest Daytrip Ideas Worth Staying For
Friday, August 7, 2020 11:00 AM by Experience Olympia & Beyond

Friday, August 7, 2020 11:00 AM by Experience Olympia & Beyond
If you’re like us, you have a deep desire to explore the iconic outdoor scenery of the Pacific Northwest. Search around, and you will find, there’s no better basecamp then our backyard! Any direction you drive, there’s an adventure waiting to be had, and by staying locally, you’re perfectly positioned to try it all. Plan your trip today.
Our team is busy concocting monthly daycation itineraries. Let us take away the indecision and pressure of making plans and give you an easy option to enjoy ALL our region has to offer.
South - Mount Saint Helens
approximately 2 hours south by car
Many locals still remember where they were on May 18, 1980—the day Mount Saint Helens erupted. Over 40 years later, the mountain is a picturesque reminder of the incredible power of nature. With hiking trails, scenic overlooks and several visitor centers along the route, it’s a journey worth making. Along the way, catch dinner and a handcrafted brew at Talking Cedar.
North - Olympic National Forest
approximately 1 hour north by car
A quick drive up scenic Highway 101, and you’ll find yourself in the densely forested Olympic National Forest. The forest is massive (it takes 7 or 8 hours to drive around the circumference), and there are many spots to stop and explore along the way. Before you go, call and order a picnic lunch.
West - Pacific Ocean & Beaches
approximately 1.5 hours west by car
Want to feel the sand between your toes or breathe in a refreshing salt spray? An excursion out to the beaches along the Pacific Ocean may be just what the doctor ordered. In the heat of summer, you can cool off in the brisk waters, and wintertime is perfect for watching the waves roll in. No trip is complete without coffee for the road, so stop by and visit with a local barista before you go.
East - Mount Rainier
approximately 1.5 hours east by car
When the sun is shining, locals often venture outdoors to ‘live like the mountain is out.’ That mountain they’re talking about is Mount Rainier. Practically anywhere you journey inside the Olympia region, you’ll see this snowcapped peak inspiring you to visit and explore. Need a lunch or dinner spot along the way? Take a pit stop in Yelm for a slice of pizza at Pizzeria La Gitana or a tasty burger at Uptown Lounge.
STAY OVERNIGHT FOR MORE ADVENTURES
Don’t forget to share.
Don’t miss out on any of these easy to plan adventures. Check back monthly for new trip ideas and daycations (or staycation if you’re a local) and don’t forget to share! Tag your social posts #DecidedlyDifferent and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter (@Experience_Oly) and Instagram (@ExperienceOly).