5-Day Washington State Road Trip: From Snow-Capped Peaks to Alpine Lakes and Bavarian Charm
If you’re dreaming of towering mountains, sparkling alpine lakes, and charming towns straight out of a storybook, look no further. This 5-day road trip through Mount Rainier, Leavenworth, Mount Baker, and North Cascades will take you through some of Washington’s most stunning landscapes—complete with hikes that’ll make your legs sore and meals that’ll make your stomach very happy. Ready to hike, eat, and explore the PNW like never before? Let’s dive in. Since this itinerary has you visiting 2 National Parks, I highly recommend buying a Parks Pass!
**Please note that this itinerary is geared for the summer months, July and August!
Day 1: Seattle – Coffee, City Views, and a Seafood Feast
Morning:
Welcome to Seattle, the city where caffeine runs through your veins and the views never disappoint. Start your day right by grabbing a coffee at Victrola Coffee Roasters or—if you want to go full tourist mode—the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Capitol Hill. This is where you can sip on fancy brews and feel like a true coffee connoisseur.
Once you’re caffeinated and ready, stretch your legs by heading to Discovery Park. This is Seattle’s largest green space, offering everything from beach views to old-growth forest. Try the Loop Trail for a 2.8-mile adventure through varied terrain, and don’t forget to snap some photos of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains in the distance.
Lunch:
By now, you’ll be craving something more substantial. Head over to Pike Place Market and feast on fresh seafood—grab a clam chowder in a bread bowl from Pike Place Chowder. It’s a classic for a reason, and it’ll fuel you up for the day ahead.
Afternoon:
It’s time for a little touristy fun—head to the Space Needle for stunning city views (and maybe some touristy selfies). If you’re feeling artsy, swing by Chihuly Garden and Glass for some trippy glass art, or explore the funky Fremont District for quirky shops, street art, and the iconic Fremont Troll (because who doesn’t want to see a giant troll under a bridge?).
Dinner:
End your first day with a classic Seattle dinner at The Pink Door in Pike Place Market. It’s Italian food, jazz, and burlesque all rolled into one. Whether you’re there for the pasta or the performance (or both), this is a perfect spot to kick off your adventure.
Day 2: Seattle to Mount Rainier National Park – Gateway to the Mountain
Morning:
Time to leave the city behind and head southeast to Mount Rainier National Park. It’s about a 2-hour drive, but make sure to stop at a roadside diner along the way for that good ol’ greasy spoon breakfast. As of 2024, the Park is requiring time entry reservation unless you get in the Park before 7am. More info here.
Afternoon:
Arrive at the park and kick things off with a hike. The Skyline Trail is a 5.5-mile loop that offers stunning views of the mountain, glaciers, and wildflower-filled meadows. If you’re up for something a little easier, the Paradise Loop Trail is a shorter, 1-mile trek that still gives you great views of Rainier. If you’d like a longer hike, check out Bench and Snow Lake Trail (2.2 miles). If you’d like to see as much of Mount Rainier National Park in a day, check out my blog here.
Dinner:
You’ll be hungry after that hike, so head to Copper Creek Inn, where you can dig into a hearty meal of local salmon, steak, or, if you’re feeling indulgent, a slice of marionberry pie. It’s the kind of pie that makes you want to cry (from joy, obviously).
Day 3: Mount Rainier to Leavenworth – A Bavarian Escape with a Stunning Lake Hike
Morning:
After fueling up with a hearty breakfast, hit the road for Leavenworth, a charming Bavarian-style town about a 3-hour drive north. On the way, stop for a break and grab a snack in Wenatchee, where you can find fresh local fruit—Washington is known for its apples and cherries, so definitely take advantage of that.
Afternoon:
Arrive in Leavenworth and take in the adorable Bavarian architecture. But don’t just stroll around the town—get ready for one of the best hikes in the state: Colchuck Lake. The Colchuck Lake Trail is a 8-mile round-trip hike that takes you through alpine meadows, past cascading waterfalls, and up to the jaw-dropping Colchuck Lake with its striking blue water. Seriously, the lake looks like something straight out of a postcard. You’ll want to spend some time just soaking in the views (and maybe taking a selfie to make your friends jealous).
Dinner:
After your hike, head into town for some hearty German fare at Andreas Keller Restaurant. Grab a bratwurst, some sauerkraut, and a giant pretzel. If you’re really feeling the Bavarian vibes, you can even try some schnapps. You’ve earned it!
Day 4: Leavenworth to Mount Baker/North Cascades – Glaciers, Lakes, and Mountain Views
Morning:
Pack up your gear and head north towards the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and North Cascades National Park (about a 3-hour drive). On the way, stop by Snoqualmie Falls, just outside of Seattle, for a quick 0.5-mile trail to one of the most stunning waterfalls in the state.
Afternoon:
Once you arrive in the Mount Baker area, you’ll be greeted by dramatic peaks and glaciers. One of the best ways to see this beauty up close is by heading to Artist Point. This spot offers views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan, two of the most photogenic mountains you’ll ever lay eyes on. If you’re in the mood for a short hike, check out the Hannegan Pass Trail (6.8 miles) for a more challenging adventure through alpine meadows and past glaciers. It’s tough, but the views at the top are worth it.
If you’re not in the mood for a long hike, take a drive through North Cascades National Park and stop at Diablo Lake. The lake’s brilliant turquoise color and surrounding peaks will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a dream.
Dinner:
For a cozy, post-hike meal, grab dinner at The Milano Restaurant in Bellingham, about an hour’s drive from Mount Baker. They serve hearty Italian food—think pastas, pizzas, and local wines. After a day in the mountains, this is exactly what your body needs.
Day 4: North Cascades to Mount Baker Area – Alpine Bliss
Morning: Today’s adventure takes you to the Mount Baker Area (about 2.5 hours). Mount Baker is one of the snowiest places on Earth (yes, really), so be prepared for some stunning, snow-capped peaks and glaciers.
Afternoon: Take a hike to Artist Point for some of the best views in the area. The Hannegan Pass Trail is a moderately challenging hike that takes you through alpine meadows, with the grand finale being panoramic views of Mount Baker, Mount Shuksan, and glaciers. The scenery is so unreal, you’ll be tempted to just stand there, slack-jawed, for hours. Picture Lake is an iconic spot right next to the road (pictured below, no pun intended).
Dinner: For dinner, head to The Milano Restaurant in nearby Bellingham. They’ve got fantastic Italian dishes that’ll warm you up after a day of hiking. Grab a glass of wine and prepare for your next leg of the journey.
Day 5: North Cascades to Seattle – A Farewell with Scenic Views and Local Fare
Morning:
On your final day, head back towards Seattle. You’ve seen some of the most breathtaking landscapes the state has to offer, but before you leave the mountains behind, make a stop at Snoqualmie Pass. The view from here of the jagged peaks will remind you why you fell in love with the PNW in the first place.
Lunch:
Arriving back in Seattle, it’s time for one last indulgence. Head to Canlis, an upscale restaurant known for both its incredible food and unbeatable views of the city. Whether you’re craving seafood, steak, or something more exotic, this place delivers. You’re in for a treat.
Afternoon:
If you’ve got time, take a quick walk through Kerry Park for one last view of the iconic Seattle skyline. Or, pop over to Fremont to see the quirky Fremont Troll (you have to see it—trust us).
Dinner:
For your final meal in the city, treat yourself to some fresh seafood at The Walrus and the Carpenter in Ballard. Oysters, craft cocktails, and a cozy atmosphere make this the perfect send-off after a trip that’s been full of nature, adventure, and delicious food.tle—so you can pretend you’re royalty while you feast.
And there you have it—5 days of mountains, lakes, charming towns, and unforgettable hikes in Washington State. From the glaciers of Mount Baker to the serene beauty of Colchuck Lake and the iconic views of Mount Rainier, this road trip has everything you need for an epic adventure. Pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready to make some memories in one of the most beautiful places in the world. You’ll leave with sore legs, full bellies, and a camera roll full of the best views you’ll ever see.
