Discover breathtaking stops of West Coast in our San Francisco to Seattle road trip
The San Francisco to Seattle drive offers breathtaking coastal views, diverse landscapes, and a remarkable journey through some of the most picturesque destinations. From charming coastal villages to magnificent redwood forests and dramatic mountain scenery, this road trip encompasses the beauty of three distinct American states.
Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit national parks and explore some of the country’s most charming towns. It’s a road trip like no other; guaranteeing you an action-packed adventure filled with timeless attractions & activities.
In this guide, we’ve listed down our version of the San Francisco to Seattle road trip itinerary. To make it easier for you, we’ve included an array of optional destinations, tons of activities, and additional useful links for better understanding. This article will ensure that you tick off all your travel requirements in order to plan a successful San Francisco to Seattle road trip.
Planning Tips for San Francisco to Seattle Drive
Best Route to Reach Seattle from San Francisco
There are multiple route options for the drive from San Francisco to Seattle. Most visitors often stick with the coastal route, which offers stunning views along the Pacific Coastline. While some prefer taking an inland route, which provides a different landscape perspective. However, in terms of having the best possible viewing experience, the Pacific Coast remains a clear winner.
For our San Francisco to Seattle journey, we will be taking a combination of coastal & inland routes. There’s so much to uncover along the west coast that you may still have something left off for your next trip. It offers unparalleled coastal beauty and the opportunity to enjoy iconic attractions such as Big Sur, Oregon’s coastal towns, and the stunning Oregon Coastline.
Driving Times for San Francisco to Seattle
The drive from San Francisco to Seattle is 808 miles via I-5N. If you drive non-stop, it would approximately take 12hr 24mins to reach. So, theoretically, you could be covering this drive in two days, but to make it a road trip, we ideally suggest spanning this journey over a minimum of seven days to a maximum of two weeks.
Allowing two weeks of time gives you ample opportunity to make stops at various points of interest, enjoy scenic routes, explore charming towns, and experience the diverse landscapes and attractions that lie between San Francisco and Seattle.
Best Time to Visit
The San Francisco to Seattle drive can be enjoyed at any time of the year, but summers are generally considered the best time for this road trip. However, if you prefer to avoid crowds and enjoy the bright sunny days of California and Oregon, spring and fall are also great options.
It’s important to note that certain attractions, such as Crater Lake National Park and Lassen Volcanic Park, may be inaccessible during the winter and spring months. While the facilities might be open, poor visibility can limit the ability to fully appreciate the scenic views. If visiting these attractions is a priority, we recommend planning your trip between June and October for the best chances of optimal conditions.
Please keep in mind to always check the weather conditions and accessibility before embarking on this road trip.
What to Pack
California’s weather is notoriously unpredictable. The temperature can vary by day and throughout the day too. So, you’ll anyway have to be prepared for any weather-changing circumstances for this road trip. We recommend packing enough layers, waterproof jackets, lightweight sweaters or fleeces, and comfortable long-sleeve t-shirts. Additionally, comfortable hiking shoes or sturdy walking shoes are recommended, as they will come in handy for exploring hiking trails and other outdoor activities along the way
How to Rent a Car
To rent a car in the United States, I suggest Rentalcars.com. It’s one of the best rental services I’ve ever come across, offering affordable vehicles for the said duration. With max safety assurance, you can be sure of booking the right vehicle for your California road trip.
San Francisco to Seattle Road Trip Map
Here’s a driving route map for San Francisco to Seattle –
San Francisco to Seattle – A Glance
Here’s a quick glance at all the stops included in our San Francisco to Seattle road trip itinerary. We suggest doing them in order so that you also follow the route mentioned in this post.
| Points of Interest | Driving Distances |
|---|---|
| San Francisco to Sonomo | 54 minutes (44.5 miles) |
| Sonoma to Mendocino | 2hr 36mins (122 miles) |
| Mendocino to Redwood National Park | 3hr 57mins (183 miles) |
| Redwood National Park to Ashland | 2hr 10mins (114 miles) |
| Ashland to Crater Lake National Park | 2hr 16mins (101 miles) |
| Crater Lake National Park to Bend | 2hr 03mins (102 miles) |
| Bend to Portland | 3hr 11mins (163 miles) |
| Portland to Mount Rainer National Park | 2hr 20mins (138 miles) |
| Mount Rainer National Park to Seattle | 1hr 35mins (85.6 miles) |
San Francisco to Seattle Road Trip Stops
San Francisco, California
The city of San Francisco is a playground for all age-group travellers looking to get the best out of the Californian experience. It thrives on the energy of its people and has much more to offer than you can even imagine. While we don’t want to overwhelm you with information here, it is definitely worthwhile to check out our ultimate guide on San Francisco for a comprehensive overview of the city and its attractions.
If you’re interested in taking a large detour from San Francisco, you may also want to check our road trip guide on 10 Day California Road Trip. This is one epic itinerary which we hand-curated from scratch covering places like Santa Margarita, Yosemite National Park, and Hermosa Beach.
There are a lot of extraordinary places along the Pacific Coastal Highway to check out! If you’re planning a classic Californian road trip, we highly recommend including this scenic route. It also makes for a great detour as a round trip from San Francisco, allowing you to experience the stunning coastal landscapes and visit various attractions along the way.
We recommend these amazing stays to keep you up with San Francisco’s best accommodation options. We personally tried a few of them and it’s worth booking these hotels in advance.
San Francisco: Beacon Grand | Hotel Caza Fisherman’s Wharf | Infinity Hotel SF
Around San Francisco: Hotel Amari | Beresford Arms | Grand Hotel
Also, here are some of our suggested optional tours to book!
Sonoma, California
From bustling cafes & restaurants to outdoor adventures and hiking trails, Sonoma houses a rich tapestry of experiential activities. Located in the northern region of California, Sonoma has long been celebrated for its world-renowned wineries, captivating art galleries, and laid-back rustic atmosphere. It’s a city designed to be savoured and enjoyed, where you can connect with others while sipping a glass of red wine and marvelling at the majestic redwoods that serve as a stunning backdrop
While we feel there are a lot of things to cover in Sonoma, we listed down some of the best activities to explore during your first visit. If you need a more detailed read, check out 17 Best Things to Do in Sonoma.
Explore Sonoma’s Wineries
There is an unparalleled sense of tranquillity in immersing oneself in the California countryside. In recent years, Sonoma’s wineries have been a major tourist draw. With 60,000 acres of vineyards sprawling across the region, it’s easy to get lost in the enchanting wine regions while exploring a diverse range of wine varietals.
Many of the wineries in Sonoma are family-owned establishments, offering fascinating insights into the behind-the-scenes processes of wine production.
Here’s a handy guide from Sonoma County to explore all the distinct wine regions. If you’re looking for Instagram-able places to post amazing stories, then explore the unexplored hipster wineries of Sonoma.
Is it better to visit Sonoma or Napa?
Napa is one of the world’s most renowned wineries. Considering its popularity, Napa pulls in millions of travellers every year, out of which, most are day-trippers & weekend getawayers. On the other hand, Sonoma is a quieter, more relaxed and family-owned winery offering a laid-back wine-tasting experience. It’s also cheaper than Napa, which gives a good reason to tick off Sonoma.
Experience Sonoma’s Gastronomy
Sonoma is a paradisical place for all food lovers. The region is renowned for its “farm-to-table” concept, emphasizing the use of fresh, seasonal produce. While joining guided winery tours in the area allows you to taste some of these culinary delights, there are also exceptional restaurants in the city that showcase the best of Sonoma’s gastronomy. Notable establishments include John Ash & Co, the Tides Wharf & Restaurant, Folktable, Barndiva, and Single Thread.
Sonoma Eateries | 17 Top-Notch Restaurants in Sonoma County
Stay at Sonoma’s Cabins
If you’re looking to spend an overnight stay in the Californian region, then look no further than Sonoma. Home to gorgeous cabins, you’ll be completely overwhelmed by the options it presents. The cabins seamlessly blend rustic charm with modern contemporary decor and vintage interiors, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. Plus, most of these cabins are located within the winery region of Sonoma – so it’s a great option to explore the surroundings.
Where to stay – Cinnamon Bear Creekside Inn | Seven Branches Venue & Inn
Mendocino, California
Mendocino, a charming coastal village, is perched atop California’s coast, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. While it may be small in size, its sheer beauty should not be underestimated. Despite its remote getaway feel, Mendocino is actually one of the most visited villages in California.
Mendocino perfectly encapsulates the allure of the rugged California Coast, showcasing sweeping views of the coastline, towering redwood forests, picturesque saltbox houses, scenic viewpoints, and coastal hiking trails. This idyllic village is a haven for nature lovers and provides ample opportunities to explore the stunning surroundings. A visit to Mendocino is truly an experience that captures the essence of California’s coastal beauty.
Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park
Nestled on the cliff of Mendocino Coast, Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park is a main highlight of this quaint village. The lighthouse, constructed in 1909, stands proudly overlooking the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean. Since its construction, the historic buildings around the lighthouse have been restored.
One particular highlight is the Blacksmith & Carpentry Shop, which now hosts a marine science exhibit, offering fascinating insights into the coastal ecosystem. Additionally, you can visit the Lighthouse Museum to learn about the history and significance of the lighthouse itself.
Mendocino Headlands State Park
The stunning Mendocino Headlands State Park is known for its jaw-dropping coastal views, colourful wildflowers, and dense vegetation. Along the buffs, you would find easy walking trails which allow you to soak in panoramic ocean views. The towering arches and sea caves make quite a spectacle to capture amazing photos. Additionally, a visit to Big River Beach is highly recommended, as it maintains a surprising sense of tranquillity and remains uncrowded, allowing you to enjoy the beach’s serenity to the fullest.
Mendocino’s Coastal Hikes
With numerous state and local parks around Mendocino, it’s pretty obvious that you’d be itching to go on an adventurous hike. Hiking is ingrained in the outdoor culture of this village, and the coastal hikes in Mendocino are absolutely stunning. The one which we really want to highlight is Van Damme State Park. Located in Little River, this park is a nature paradise offering various difficult trails. The Fern Canyon Trail is the most popular of all.
Some other parks you could explore include Russian Gulch State Park (known for Fern Canyon and Waterfall Loop Trail) and Hendy Woods State Park (popular for its Discovery Trail).
Where to stay – Seagull Inn Bed & Breakfast | Seafoam Lodge
Redwoods National Park
Redwoods National Park is one of the breathtaking places to visit in our San Francisco to Seattle road trip. Home to the tallest trees, redwood forests, spectacular beaches, and stunning vantage points – it’s an incredible experience for first-time visitors to witness the beauty of Redwoods National Park.
Guide | Ultimate Guide to Visiting Redwoods National Park
What is the best time to visit Redwoods National Park?
Due to the mild coastal temperatures of this region, Redwoods National Park is a year-round destination. Winter months tend to be the wettest period of all, so hiking may not be a suitable option to consider. However, if you’re looking to enjoy the best of all activities, then consider travelling between May and September.
While there’s a plethora of things to do at Redwoods, we want you to have a delightful experience by visiting the most famous landmarks. Here are some of the notable ones –
Visit Stout Grove
Stout Grove is an absolute must-visit location in Redwoods National Park. Featuring 300-foot redwoods, it stands as one of the most photographed groves on Earth. These majestic trees can be found in the northernmost part of the park, specifically in Jedediah Smith Redwoods. While reaching this destination requires a bit of a hike, the effort is undoubtedly worth it for the awe-inspiring experience it offers.
Explore Fern Canyon
Are you a fan of the Jurassic Park movies? If so, you may already be familiar with this location. Known for its natural beauty, Fern Canyon has made several appearances in the franchise. True to its name, the canyon is adorned with lush ferns, with a gentle creek flowing through its narrow expanse. As you make your way to Fern Canyon, be sure not to miss the nearby attractions of Lady Bird Johnson Grove and Redwood Creek Overlook.
Gold Bluffs Beach
There is nothing quite as serene as camping on Gold Bluffs Beach, with its picturesque view of the Pacific Ocean. As the sun sets, the skies transform, painting the horizon with dramatic shades of orange and pink. These evenings offer a breathtaking sight that is truly unforgettable.
Where to stay| A Handy Guide to Redwoods Lodging
Ashland, Oregon
Located in the scenic region of Southern Oregon, Ashland is one of the most beautiful & creative towns in America. Despite its small size, this charming city boasts a remarkable array of galleries, theatres, and restaurants that are scattered throughout.
Moreover, Ashland is surrounded by breathtaking canyons and stunning parks, adding to its natural beauty. One highlight not to be missed is the internationally renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival, which takes place annually and offers an unforgettable experience for theatre enthusiasts and visitors alike.
Here are two things which I feel you should definitely visit in Ashland –
Explore Pacific Crest Trail
Stretching from Mexico to Canada, the Pacific Crest Trail is an awe-inspiring long-distance trail covering a distance of 4,270 km. It showcases some of the country’s most stunning landscapes, towering peaks, and breathtaking wilderness. We suggest covering a certain portion of this trail by hiking through the sweeping valleys of the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument. Along this path, expect to cross unexplored vantage points and staggering scenes.
Visit Lithia Park
Lithia Park is one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Ashland. Home to colourful plants and flowerbeds, the park sprawls a large area boasting a vivid atmosphere. Established in 1892, Lithia Park has expanded over time and now extends up to the foothills of the Siskiyou Mountains. All you gotta do is take a self-exploratory walk in this beautiful park.
Where to stay – Lithia Springs Resort | The Bard’s Inn | Stratford Inn | Timbers Inn & Suites
Crater Lake, Oregon
Located an hour and a half’s drive north of Ashland, Crater Lake, also known as ‘Lake Majesty,’ is not only the deepest lake in America but also one of the cleanest in the world. As you journey through the densely forested areas of the state, you will see the breathtaking sights of Crater Lake, which appears absolutely stunning, especially on a bright sunny day.
Crater Lake was formed after the collapse of Mount Mazama nearly 7,000 years ago. The dramatic formation resulted in the creation of the deepest blue lake in America. Today, the lake is encircled by rugged and crumbling cliffs, adding to its picturesque and rugged charm.
Although Crater Lake National Park is said to be a year-round destination, we didn’t really have a pleasing experience during winter. Despite the facilities being open, the visibility of the lake was severely limited, resulting in poor views from all angles. Therefore, we suggest planning your visit during the summer, particularly in June, to maximize your experience.
Read More | A Handy Guide to Crater Lake National Park
Where to stay – Crater Lake Resort | Dawson House Lodge
Bend, Oregon
Nestled at the foothills of the Cascades, Bend is a charming and lively town brimming with amazing outdoor opportunities. From skiing and mountain biking to hiking and kayaking, there are plenty of adventures to invigorate your heart. This picturesque mountain town is renowned for its abundance of river trails, stunning lakes, and a high desert climate. It’s a destination you can’t afford to miss while exploring on our San Francisco to Seattle road trip.
Here are some amazing things to do in Bend, Oregon –
Explore Bend’s Brewpubs
When you’re done enjoying all the adventure activities in Bend, make your way to one of the town’s brewpubs to savour the local craft beers. You will be amazed by the multitude of breweries this small town has to offer. These local hotspots are not only renowned for their exceptional craft beer skills, but they also provide tasting experiences, guided tours, and entertaining events to enhance your visit.
Read | 18 Killer Breweries and Brewpubs in Bend, Oregon
A few of our personal favourite includes –
- Boneyard Beer Pub: Great nightlife scene, comfy outdoor seating.
- Crux Fermentation Project: Known for amazing food bites with craft beers
- Boss Rambler Beer Club: Known for smacking classic burgers.
Go Hiking
Bend cannot go unexplored without venturing its popular hiking trails. The Green Lakes Trail and Broken Top are among the most renowned trails in the region Moreover, there are leisurely pathways designed specifically for kids, allowing them to embark on their own little adventures. Additionally, bikes and scooters are available for rent, providing alternative ways to explore these trails.
Portland, Oregon
From exploring the vibrant urban core of Downtown to getting lost in the labyrinth of Powell’s City of Books, Portland offers a plethora of fascinating activities to engage in. It is one of our favourite cities to visit and serves as an excellent starting point for travellers planning to continue their journey to Mount Rainier and Seattle.
Things to do in Portland –
Explore the Peal District
Pearl District has revamped itself into this new avatar of luring hordes of tourists. It’s one of Portland’s trendiest neighbourhoods, known for its remarkable assortment of bookstores, boutiques, modern cafes, and charming galleries. Initially, it was occupied by factories and textile industries, but they have now been converted into airy open-air condos and restaurants, adding to the neighbourhood’s charm.
Visit the Portland Japanese Garden
Sometimes, it’s quite essential to get away from the hustle & bustle of city life, and that’s precisely what Portlanders do by taking a brief respite at the Portland Japanese Garden. The entire space is filled with decorated lawns, which are perfectly manicured with paved pathways, overlooking small waterfalls and fountains. While exploring the garden, be sure not to miss visiting Umami Cafe, where you can indulge in traditional Japanese tea. It’s a great way to unwind yourself with serene views.
Where to stay in Portland – The Paramount Hotel | Hotel Lucia | Heathman Hotel
Mount Rainer National Park
Isn’t Mount Rainer on everyone’s road trip bucket list? If it isn’t, it’s high time to start planning a trip to this magnificent place. Located 85 miles southeast of Seattle, Mount Rainer National Park is the most renowned natural landmark in Washington State.
On the one hand, visiting an active volcano can be a daunting experience, but on the other hand, nothing can compare to the visual spectacle offered by this remarkable place. It is truly worth it to take in the panoramic views of the 26 glaciers that adorn the mountains.
When is the best time to visit Mount Rainer?
The best time to visit Mount Rainier is during the summer season. The temperatures are warm, providing ideal conditions for exploring the alpine meadows. To witness the vibrant display of wildflowers in full bloom, it is recommended to visit the park in the early weeks of August.
Mount Rainier National Park encompasses five distinct regions: Mowich Lake/Carbon River, Longmire, Paradise, Ohanapecosh, and Sunrise/White River. For a first-time traveller, we recommend dedicating a couple of days to exploring the Paradise and Sunrise regions of the park. These areas are highly popular for good reason, as they offer a hiking paradise for adventure lovers of all kinds.
Where to stay – Packwood Lodge & Cabins | Cowlitz River Lodge
Seattle, Washington
Despite being overshadowed by towering buildings and skyscrapers, Seattle is gloriously blessed with an abundance of lakes, forests, islands, and majestic mountain peaks. We have visited this place numerous times, and yet the city never fails to impress us with its wide range of activities and attractions.
In Seattle, you can embark on a journey to the bustling Pike Place Market, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of its diverse neighbourhoods, savour a glass of wine, attend captivating live concerts and shows, indulge in the thriving culinary scene, and so much more. No matter what activities you engage in or which places you explore, you will always find that there’s never enough of this dynamic and bustling city.
Visit Capitol Hill
Among all the neighbourhoods, Capitol Hill in Seattle stands out as the coolest and most vibrant. With dozens of bars, clubs, and a thriving culinary scene, this area is perfect for letting loose and immersing yourself in the active nightlife. Capitol Hill is also well known for hosting live concert events and performances, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.
Explore Discovery Park
Discovery Park, located in the Magnolia neighbourhood, is the largest park in Seattle. It serves as a gathering place for people of all age groups to meet, interact, share stories, and engage in meaningful conversations. Despite the park being busy with visitors throughout the day, it still manages to exude a serene atmosphere, allowing visitors to soak in the tranquillity of the surroundings. It’s a wonderful place for visitors to unwind, relax, and enjoy a delightful picnic, providing a soothing respite during their journey.
Seattle Art Museum
Visiting the Seattle Art Museum is an absolute must for first-time visitors exploring the city. It would be a significant oversight to not notice the striking 48-foot-tall Hammering Man Sculpture located just outside the entrance. The museum showcases permanent art collections as well as temporary exhibits that span various artistic fields, including contemporary pieces, European art, and Native American art.
Where to stay in Seattle – Belltown Inn | Mayflower Park Hotel | Seattle Gaslight Inn
Popular Guided Tours & Excursions
In addition to the suggested activities, we highly recommend considering the following guided tours to enhance your San Francisco to Seattle road trip. These experiences complement the itinerary beautifully and have the potential to elevate your overall visiting experience:
Further Readings & Resources
New York to Boston: New York to Boston Road Trip: A Perfect Weekend Escape in 2022
Los Angeles to Yosemite: 9 Sensational Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip Stops
Los Angeles to Joshua Tree: 5 Beautiful Los Angeles to Joshua Tree Road Trip
Amarillo to Santa Fe: 9 Beautiful Amarillo to Santa Fe Road Trip Stops
Chicago to Niagara Falls: 9 Spectacular Chicago to Niagara Falls Road Trip Stops
A couple of in-depth American Itineraries –
California: 10-Day California Road Trip: One Epic California Itinerary
Highlights of Alaska: 7 Day Alaska Itinerary : How To Spend One Week in Alaska
Ultimate Alaska: 10 Day Alaska Itinerary: Kenai & Denali Road Trip
