5 Best Places To Visit In North America’s Pacific Northwest

Oct 18, 2021

Last Updated on: Jan 30, 2025

Travel Blog

America’s Pacific Northwest is the ideal destination for travelers looking for natural beauty, great food, and a host of sumptuous cultural attractions. From great music to stunning food and flavourful beverages, the Pacific Northwest is the best getaway.

Many travelers are lured by the natural beauty of the region, which stretches from the states of British Columbia, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. Some also agree that it stretches well beyond these three states and into the wilderness of Alaska, Wyoming, and Montana.

In this article, we are going to discuss the seven best places, which you should visit if you are planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest. We will also discuss a very important natural attraction, which acts as a magnet for tourists and travelers in the region.

The Pacific Northwest and the Quaking Aspen

Quaking Aspen Every naturally beautiful region in the world has come to be defined by an element, which is the heart and soul of the place. In the case of the Pacific Northwest, most travel writers agree that the beautiful quaking aspen tree is the soul, which runs through the region.

The quaking aspen runs through the length and breadth of the Pacific Northwest, stretching an impossible 47 latitudes. What is more astonishing is the fact that it is one of the longest stretching natural vegetations in the world, covering more than 110 longitudes and 9 Time Zones!

The trees have found a place in numerous movies, music, and other cultural anecdotes. ‘Pando’ in Utah’s Fishlake Natural Forest is believed to be the largest single living organism in the world. The world attraction comprises more than 8000 quaking aspen trees stretching a massive 100+ acres in diameter.

The quaking aspen tree is a cultural and religious marker. In other words, it is revered in indigenous traditions. People believe that the moving (quaking nature of the tree) especially when there is a breeze is like nature talking to a supernatural entity.

List of 5 Best Places to visit in America’s Pacific Northwest

1. North Cascades National Park (Washington)-

North Cascades National Park imageIf you are someone who likes to explore nature at its finest, you should take a trip to the world-famous North Cascades National Park. Situated in the state of Washington, the national park is home to America’s longest river system in the west, the Columbia River. It is also home to Lake Chelan, one of the deepest lakes in the country.

There are a host of recreational activities, which are suited for all kinds of travelers. Whether you want to go hiking with your family or would love some adventure time with your friends, you can rest assured that there are ample opportunities.

2. Crater Lake National Park (Oregon)-

Crater Lake National Park imageThe Crater National Park in Oregon is one of the most naturally beautiful destinations in the Pacific Northwest. Created by a volcanic eruption of Mount Mazama, the famous Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the entire United States. Just to put it in perspective, the depth of the lake is nearly 2000ft!

A major reason why tourists flock to the park is that it boasts of more than 40 Caves. Going through the caves, exploring the natural habitat is an experience in itself. You can also visit the Old Man Log, which has been on the Crater Lake for more than a hundred years.

3. Columbia River Gorge (British Columbia)-

Columbia River Gorge imageThe Columbia River Gorge is more than 80 miles long and more than 4000ft deep. It is also a great place for people looking to enjoy a boat ride. The river has been an integral part of trade and commerce in the region as it connects British Columbia with California.

If you are planning a Camping Trip with your family members or your friends, you might want to check out the Columbia River Gorge. Many travel writers and animal photographers also use the gorge for its excellent nature and animal viewing.

4. St. Helens Mountain (Washington)-

St. Helens Mountain imageMany people might have heard about the Pacific Ring of Fire. Just to be clear, this is different from the famous movie franchise, Pacific Rim. St. Helens is an active volcano located in the Cascade ranges. St. Helens sits majestically on more than 8000ft.

In the past few years, St. Helens and the surrounding Cascade Range has become a favorite of hikers. Many new companies have also started offering adventure sports and horseback riding along with the picturesque ranges. If you love ziplining, you should try it out here.

5. Mount Hood (Oregon)-

Mount Hood imageLike St. Helen’s, Mount Hood is also part of the Cascade Range. It is located in the state of Oregon and is its highest peak. The volcano is located at a height of more than eleven thousand feet, making it one of the tallest peaks in the country.

Mount Hood is a favorite for skiers, with the highest skiing peak located more than seven thousand feet up in the air. Many people visit the location for its fun winter times. Whether you like hiking, skiing, or snowboarding, you will love Mount Hood.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best weather in the Pacific Northwest?

Pacific Northwest is one of the sunniest cities in Oregon. Say bye-bye to swampy rainy days. This weather makes it easy for tourists to hiking trails, performing water activities, and do winter sports.

What places are in the Pacific Northwest?

It includes the U.S states of Idaho, Oregon, and Washington, and the Canadian Province Of British Columbia.

Is Wahington is the prettiest place to be?

Well, it is a nice place and it has its own features. But I still think Pacific Northwest is truly a place to visited. Not once but often. 

List of things that can be done on a vacation in the Pacific Northwest?

  1. Seaside Oasis is a place where you can relax.
  2. You can visit the Seattle Classic spots.
  3. Have a whale of a time at the Salish Sea. 

The Final Word

In addition to the above locations, tourists can also visit the Snoqualmie Waterfalls or the John Day Ecosystem Fossil Beds, or even the Pacific Rim Natural Park. Many tourists and travelers who seek a break from hectic urban lives seek out solace at the above-mentioned locations of the Pacific Northwest.

If you are an outdoors person, you would love the fresh crisp air, the abundant natural beauty, and the plethora of activities, you would be able to do in the Pacific Northwest. Hiking, skiing, camping, bird watching, trekking, sailing, etc. are all possible in the most enjoyable fashion in the region.

The local cuisines, the culture, and the entertainment only sweeten the deal. Can you pick a favorite from the list of travel destinations we have mentioned in the article? Let us know in the comments section below.

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Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.

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BY  Sibashree Sep 5, 2025

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