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Plan a summer road trip

Pack the car and head out this summer. Photo credit: Stock photo

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Summer is right around the corner and it's never too early to plan a road trip. Washington offers plenty of scenic and adventurous road trip options during the summer months. From the rolling hills of the Palouse to the rugged coastline of the Olympic Peninsula, there is something for every type of traveler.

One popular route is the North Cascades Highway, which winds through the stunning North Cascades National Park. The highway offers panoramic views of the towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and cascading waterfalls. The road is also dotted with charming small towns like Winthrop and Mazama, where visitors can explore local shops and restaurants.

Another iconic drive is along the Olympic Peninsula, which is home to Olympic National Park. The drive offers a diverse range of landscapes, from pristine beaches to lush rainforests. Along the way, travelers can stop at the quaint seaside towns of Port Angeles and Port Townsend, or explore the Hoh Rainforest, one of the few temperate rainforests in the world.

For wine enthusiasts, a road trip through the Yakima Valley is a must-do. The region is known for its world-class wineries and vineyards, as well as its stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can explore the charming towns of Yakima and Prosser, or take a scenic drive through the rolling hills of the valley.

For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Palouse Scenic Byway offers a unique and unforgettable experience. The route takes travelers through the rolling hills and farmland of eastern Washington, which are especially picturesque in the summer when the fields are golden and the skies are blue. Along the way, visitors can stop at the small towns of Colfax and Pullman, or take a hike in Kamiak Butte State Park.

Another great place to drive through during the summer months is Mount Rainier National Park. Visitors can also take a scenic drive along the Paradise Loop Road, which offers breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding landscape. For an opportunity to get out of the car during the trip the park boasts over 260 miles of hiking trails, as well as a variety of other outdoor activities like fishing, camping, and horseback riding.

A Washington summer road trip wouldn't be complete without a stop at one of the state's many beaches. The Long Beach Peninsula, located in southwestern Washington, is a popular destination for beachgoers. The peninsula offers miles of sandy beaches, as well as opportunities for clam digging and kite flying.

A wealth of summer road trip opportunities await you and your family! All you have to do is gas up the car and head out.

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