Pacific Northwest Itinerary: 14-Day Road Trip from Calgary

The Pacific Northwest is an area I’ve been dreaming of exploring more. After driving along the Pacific Coast Highway in California, an Oregon and Washington Coast Road Trip seems like the perfect plan.  Are you ready for the ultimate Pacific Northwest road trip? 

From hiking to tall waterfalls and exploring charming small coastal towns (and even a German-inspired town), the Pacific Northwest has so much to offer.

In this post, I’ll share a complete and detailed 14-day Pacific Northwest road trip itinerary from Calgary to the Oregon Coast and back to Calgary, a perfect blend of natural beauty, family-friendly attractions, and cultural experiences.

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📖 TL;DR? Here’s a recap of a 14-day Pacific North West Road Trip

• Day 1: Drive from Calgary to Sandpoint.
• Day 2: Full day of fun at Silverwood Attraction Park.
• Day 3: Explore Sandpoint.
• Day 4: Travel to Columbia Gorge.
• Day 5: Scenic drive through Columbia River Gorge,.
• Day 6: Visit Lincoln City and Tillamook.
• Day 7: Explore Manzanita and Cannon Beach areas.
• Day 8: Full day at Cannon Beach.
• Day 9: Enjoy Seaside and Astoria.
• Day 10: Experience Long Beach.
• Day 11: Drive from Astoria to Leavenworth.
• Day 12: Discover the Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth.
• Day 13 & 14: Return to Calgary

Day 1: Calgary to Sandpoint

Note: Instead of driving through Banff and Kootenay National Parks, you could use the Cowboy Trail and then the Crowsnest Pass.

🚙 Calgary to Sandpoint: 585 km (162 miles)

There are many stops you can do along the drive, but here is what we recommend (assuming you’ve already been to Banff and will not stop): 

Big Horn Cafe in Radium Hot Springs

• Big Horn Cafe is a specialty coffee shop located in Radium Hot Springs, BC.
• They offer artisan coffee and specialty lattes. 
• Great stop to stretch your legs.
• Grab your coffee to-go and enjoy while the kids are burning off some energy at the playground nearby.

Yahk Soap & Candle Co.

• Yahk Soap & Candle Co. is a charming shop located in Yahk, BC.
• They specialize in handmade soaps, candles, bath products, and skincare items. 
• The store is known for its unique feature—a goat living on the roof—the kids will love it.
• There is also an ice cream shop.

Canada-USA Border

• On this itinerary, you’ll cross the border at the Eastport-Kingsgate Border Crossing
• It’s open 24 hours 7 days a week
• Don’t forget your passports

Froyo Mama in Bonners Ferry

• Froyo Mama is a family-owned and operated self-serve frozen yogurt shop in downtown Bonners Ferry. 
• A variety of toppings, such as homemade granola, fruits, nuts, and candies, are available to customize your treat.
• You can enjoy creating your own frozen yogurt combinations.

Boundary County Museum in Bonners Ferry

• The Boundary County Museum showcases the history of North Idaho and the indigenous Kootenai people. 
• You can find original artifacts, period rooms, exhibits, and displays.
• The kids can ask for the scavenger hunt!

Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge and Myrtle Falls in Bonners Ferry

• The Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge provides diverse habitats for a wide variety of wildlife in the Selkirk Mountains. 
• The refuge features wetlands, meadows, riparian areas, and forests, making it a sanctuary for over 300 species of wildlife. 
• The Myrtle Falls Trail is an easy hike suitable for children, leading to a beautiful waterfall. 
• The auto tour route provides opportunities to view wildlife from the comfort of your vehicle.

Arrive in Sandpoint

Enjoy the evening in Sandpoint.

Day 2: Silverwood Attraction Park

Spend the entire day at Silver wood Attraction Park. It’s the largest theme and water park in the American Northwest. The park features more than 70 rides, slides, shows, and attractions, including thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and the Boulder Beach Water Park.

Boulder Beach Water Park is next to the Silverwood Attraction Park and is included with admission to Silverwood. You can relax in the lazy river and enjoy wave pools.

Day 3: Enjoy Sandpoint

Sandpoint is part of the International Selkirk Loop and a charming destination. Here is how I recommend spending our full day in Sandpoint:

Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail

• The Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail stretches approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) along the northwest edge of Lake Pend d’Oreille. 
• You can park at the City Beach public parking lot and walk to the trailhead.
• It’s a flat, well-maintained and accessible path suitable for all ages.
• Kids will love climbing around the little ruins.

City Beach

• City Beach is a popular destination for families. 
• You’ll find sandy shores, picnic areas, playgrounds, and designated swimming zones. 
• Maybe grab an ice cream at the concession (next to the kids’ playground)

Downtown Sandpoint

• Downtown Sandpoint has a charming atmosphere with a variety of shops, eateries, and galleries. 
• Explore unique boutique shops and sample local cuisine at the Cedar Street Bridge Public Market, over Sand CreekThe Cedar Street Bridge

Lake Pend Oreille Cruises

• Experience the beauty of Lake Pend Oreille aboard a family-friendly cruise. 
• Lake Pend Oreille Cruises offers a variety of tours, including sunset cruises, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views as the sun sets over the water. 

Day 4: Sandpoint to the Dallas

🚙 Sandpoint to The Dalles: 547 km (340 miles)

From Sandpoint, it’s a long driving day to reach the Columbia Gorge. I recommend stopping around the Dalles for the night so you can start fresh the next morning.

But be warned, there isn’t a lot to do along the way. I suggest a stop in Spokane at the Riverfront Park for a few hours.

Riverfront Park in Spokane

You can spend at least half a day there. Here’s an overview of some highlights for families:

• Spokane Falls Walk: The park’s trails and pedestrian bridges provide multiple points to appreciate the cascading waters.
• Numerica SkyRide: For a unique perspective of the falls, consider taking the Numerica SkyRide. This gondola ride transports you over the Spokane Riveré
• Looff Carrousel: Your kids will love the historic Looff Carrousel, a beautifully restored 1909 hand-carved carousel. 
• Ice Age Floods Playground: Your children can explore play structures inspired by the region’s geological history. 
• Splash Pad: On warm days, the splash pad offers a refreshing way for your kids to cool off. Remember to bring your little ones microfiber towels and a change of clothes.

Drive to The Dalles

There isn’t much to see from Spokane to The Dalles, so you can continue driving and enjoy the amenities at your hotel or campground.

Day 5: Columbia Gorge

Take the day to enjoy the Columbia River Gorge Scenic Drive. You’ll have a total of about 90 miles (145 km) to drive, but it will take the entire day (so many places to stop!!)

The Columbia River Gorge Scenic Drive is celebrated as America’s first scenic highway and a National Historic Landmark. Here are the best stops on the Historic Columbia River Gorge Scenic Drive:

Hood River

Further east, the town of Hood River awaits with its charming downtown area. You can explore local shops, enjoy a meal at family-friendly restaurants, or visit nearby lavender farms where your kids can pick flowers and learn about farming.

Bridge of the Gods

Crossing the Bridge of the Gods into Washington State provides a thrilling experience as you traverse the Columbia River. The bridge offers scenic views and a sense of adventure that your family will remember.

Multnomah Falls

Multnomah Falls is Oregon’s tallest waterfall, at 620 ft. It’s a beautiful multi-level waterfall. You can see the waterfall from the road and the main viewpoint, but I recommend hiking the entire 2.3-mile (3.7 km) out-and-back trail to the viewpoint above the waterfall.

Note that the main parking lot is a paid lot and is pretty small. You can try to park at the Wahkeena Falls parking lot and walk the 0.5-mile trail between both trailheads. 

Wahkeena Falls

The Wahkeena Falls is a 242-foot waterfall. It’s named after the Yakama word for “most beautiful”. It’s smaller than the nearby Multnomah Falls but still beautiful.

It’s a quick walk to reach the waterfalls. If you wish to see the Lemmons Viewpoint, it’s a 2.4-mile hike (out-and-back). 

Pro-Tip: You can do the 5.1-mile (8.2 km) loop between Wahkeena Falls and Multnomah Falls.

And as a bonus, you’ll see a few extra waterfalls, including Fairy Falls, Ecola Falls, Wiesendanger Falls, and the Dutchman Falls.

Bridal Veil Falls

It’s only a quick walk to the Bridal Veil Falls. It’s a 0.6-mile (1.0 km) out-and-back trail to reach the waterfalls. There is a nice little viewing desk. It’s possible to continue walking on the interpretive trail.

Latourell Falls

The Latourell Falls are the first waterfalls you’ll see on the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic road when you’re starting from Portland.

The falls are 224 feet high. You’ll find a 2.0-mile (3.2 km) loop trail. It’s considered moderate on AllTrails, but most families will be able to do it. You’ll have a great view of the waterfalls and the trestle bridge along the way.

End your day in Portland.

You can explore a little of Portland if you still have time and energy. But make sure to have dinner at one of the Portland Food Truck Courts. Here are my two recommendations:

• Cartopia Food Cart Pod
• Hawthorne Asylum Food Cart Pod

They are both pretty close to each other.

Day 6: Lincoln City & Tillamook

Today, you’ll finally get to see the Pacific Ocean! Start driving toward Lincoln City. It’s a 98 miles (km) drive.

Lincoln City

Here are some ideas of things to do in Lincoln City:

• Beach Activities: The D River State Recreation Site is a popular spot for families to access the beach.
• Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area: Devil’s Lake offers a freshwater alternative to the ocean. You can swim, kayak, or have a lakeside picnic. The park also features a kids’ playground.
• Prehistoric: Prehistoric is a shop and museum featuring fossils, minerals, and meteorites. Your kids will be fascinated by the ancient artifacts and can even take home a unique souvenir.

Pacific City

Here are some ideas of things to do in Pacific City:

• Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area: It has expansive sand dunes and tide pools. Your family can hike up the dunes for panoramic ocean views and explore the tide pools to discover marine life.
• Bob Straub State Park: It offers tranquil beaches and trails. 
• Green Acres Beach & Trail Rides: For a unique experience, consider horseback riding along the beach with Green Acres. They offer guided trail rides suitable for beginners and children.
• Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge: You can walk the trails and observe various bird species in their natural habitats.

After a long day, relax for the evening in Pacific Beach.

Day 7: Pacific Beach to Cannon Beach

Start driving along the Coast and explore some of the beaches and towns on the way to Cannon Beach.

Tillamook

Here are some ideas of things to do in Tillamook (and on the way to Tillamook):

• Munson Creek Falls: It’s a short, family-friendly trail. It’s only 0.5 miles (0.8 km) out-and-back trails that take you to a viewpoint of one of Oregon’s tallest waterfalls. 
• Tillamook Air Museum: Housed in a historic World War II blimp hangar, the Tillamook Air Museum features a collection of vintage aircraft. Your kids can explore the inside of aircraft cockpits.
• Tillamook Creamery: You can tour the Tillamook Creamery facility to learn about cheese-making processes. Make sure to try some samples of their renowned dairy products. 
• Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint: You can tour Oregon’s shortest lighthouse and take in panoramic ocean views. The area also features the Octopus Tree, a unique Sitka spruce with multiple trunks.

Rockaway Beach

Here are some ideas of things to do in Rockaway Beach:

• Beach Activities: The expansive beach provides ample space for families to relax and play.
• Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad: Experience a 90-minute train ride along the coast with the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad. 
• Kelly’s Brighton Marina: You can try crabbing right off the dock (for only $17) or join a guided crabbing excursion in Nehalem Bay.

Short Sands Beach

Short Sands Beach is a short hike, only about 0.3 miles (0.5 km), that takes you to the beach. If possible, plan on visiting places close to the low tide so you can explore the tide pools. It’s apparently one of the best beaches in the area.

Oswald State Park

On the way from Rockaway Beach to Manzanita, you can stop at Oswald State Park, where you can hike the Elk Flats Trail, a 2.9 mile (4.7 km) hike, or the short 0.5 miles (0.8 km) trail to the Devil’s Cauldron Overlook.

Nehalem Bay State Park

🛂 Day-use parking permit required. Nehalem Bay State Park offers biking trails, bird-watching opportunities, and sand dunes ideal for jumping and rolling. 

Hug Point State Recreation Site

You’ll find a sandy cove backed by lush vegetation. Also, a short walk north from the parking area, you’ll find a seasonal waterfall, sandstone caves, and tide pools teeming with marine life, all accessible during low tide. It’s possible to explore remnants of the original stagecoach road, 

Pro-Tip: Monitoring tide schedules is essential, as the area can become inaccessible during high tide. 

After a long day, relax for the evening in Cannon Beach.

Day 8: Cannon Beach, Oregon

Enjoy a full day in and around Cannon Beach. Here are some ideas of things to do in Cannon Beach:

• Tolovana Beach State Recreation Site: At the south end of Cannon Beach, Tolovana Beach offers a long sandy shoreline. You’ll also have stunning views of Haystack Rock. Plus there is a kids’ playground.
• Haystack Rock: Standing at 235 feet, Haystack Rock is one of Oregon’s most recognizable landmarks. You can explore the surrounding tide pools teeming with starfish, sea anemones, and other marine life at low tide. The area also serves as a nesting site for seabirds, including puffins (no need to fly to Iceland!). 
• Ecola State Park (🛂 Day-use parking permit required): You’ll find great scenic hiking trails perfect for kids, such as Crescent Beach Trail (2.1 miles – 3.5-km), Clastsop Loop Trail (2.9 miles – 4.7 km) and of course the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse Viewpoints (0.4 miles – 0.6 km). Lots of options to choose from.
• Downtown Cannon Beach: The charming downtown area has art galleries, boutiques, and eateries. You kids will enjoy visiting Bruce’s Candy Kitchen for a sweet treat and exploring Geppetto’s Toy Shoppe. The town’s walkable layout makes it easy to explore.
• Cannon Beach History Center and Museum: The Cannon Beach History Center and Museum offers exhibits on the area’s past, including the original cannon that gave the town its name.

Day 9: Seaside & Astoria

Start your day early, driving toward Seaside, then to Astoria, where you’ll spend the night.

Seaside

Here are some ideas of things to do in Seaside:

• Painted Rock Beach: Accessible via a gravel footpath, this secluded spot features a collection of rocks with colorful paintings and messages.You are encouraged to contribute with your own painted rocks. 
• Seaside Cove: It’s the best place for tide pooling in Seaside. Make sure to search around the rocks to see sea stars, mussels, and barnacles. 
• Lewis and Clark Salt Works: Visit the Lewis and Clark Salt Works, a historical site where the explorers boiled seawater to obtain salt. 
• Seaside Beach and Promenade: The 1.5-mile Seaside Promenade, known locally as “The Prom,” provides a scenic paved walkway to take in ocean views.
• Seaside Aquarium: One of the oldest aquariums on the West Coast, the Seaside Aquarium offers interactive exhibits where your kids can observe marine life up close. A highlight is the opportunity to feed the resident harbor seals.

Astoria

Here are some ideas of things to do in Astoria:

• Lewis and Clark National Historic Park (and Fort Clatsop National Memorial) ( 🛂Park fee required – included in America is Beautiful Annual Pass): It commemorates the historic expedition of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. Fort Clatsop offers a replica of the explorers’ winter encampment. Your kids can participate in ranger-led programs, watch demonstrations, and learn about the expedition’s challenges and achievements. 
• Astoria Riverfront Trolley: Hop on the Astoria Riverfront Trolley. The historic trolley runs along a three-mile route, with conductors sharing insights about the area’s history and attractions.
• Columbia River Maritime Museum: This museum offers interactive exhibits about the region’s rich maritime history. Your family can explore displays on shipwrecks, fishing, and navigation, and even board the Lightship Columbia, a floating lighthouse anchored outside.
• Astoria Column: On top of Coxcomb Hill, the 125-foot Astoria Column provides panoramic views of the city, the Columbia River, and the Pacific Ocean. Your kids can enjoy launching small wooden gliders, available for purchase on-site, from the summit.

After a long day, relax for the evening in Astoria, where you’ll stay for the next two nights.

Day 10: Exploring the Washington Coast

After breakfast, start driving across the river to Washington State. No need to pack or check out of your accommodation as you’ll come back later in the day.

Long Beach Peninsula

Here’s an overview of some top attractions in Long Beach Peninsula in Washington:

• Beach Activities: With 28 miles of sandy shoreline, the world’s longest beach on a peninsula is located.
• Griffiths-Priday State Park (🛂 Day-use parking permit required): Don’t miss the Copalis Spit, a natural peninsula within the park and a haven for migratory birds. You can also hike the Copalis River Spit Trail, a 3.2-mile (5.1 km) out-and-back route leading to a secluded beach.
• World Kite Museum: The World Kite Museum is an engaging place where your kids can learn about different types of kites worldwide.
• Horseback Riding: Local tour companies offer guided rides along the shoreline,  like The Long Beach Horse Rides.
• Cape Disappointment State Park: Don’t mind the name 😉 You can explore scenic trails, visit historic lighthouses, and enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

On your way back to Oregon, I highly recommend visiting Fort Stevens State Park if you still have time and energy. 

Fort Stevens State Park

🛂 Note that a Day-use parking permit is required. Fort Stevens was a military installation active from 1863 to 1947. It was originally built during the Civil War to defend against potential threats, but it later played roles in both World Wars. 

• You can tour the remnants of the fort, including concrete gun batteries and underground passages, to learn about its military history.
• You can visit the remains of the Peter Iredale, a sailing ship that ran aground in 1906 and is now a popular beach attraction. 

Day 11: Astoria to Leavenworth

🚙 Astoria to Leavenworth: 476 km (296 miles)

It’s a long drive from Astoria to Leavenworth and will be almost 500 km. But there are some fun stops to do along the way. Here are some ideas to make the drive more enjoyable:

Beaver Falls, OR

Beaver Falls is a beautiful 48-foot waterfall cascading into a pool. It’s a short 0.6-mile (1 km) hike to the waterfall. 

🚙 It’s located near Clatskanie, OR and about an hour from Astoria.

Chehalis-Centralia Railroad & Museum, WA

In Chehalis, Washington, this museum offers heritage train rides aboard vintage 1920s railcars. It provides a nostalgic ride through the scenic Lewis County countryside. All rides depart at 10:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m on Saturdays and Sundays.

🚙 It’s about an hour’s drive from Beaver Falls trailhead.

Snoqualmie Falls

Snoqualmie Falls is a stunning 268-foot waterfall. The observation offers panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding landscape.

Drive to Leavenworth

🚙 Continue driving to Leavenworth, it’s a good two hour drive.

Extra Day or 2? Make sure to explore Mount Rainier National Park

Note that timed entry tickets are required to drive on the Paradise corridor. 

Begin with a morning steam train excursion on the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad, departing from Elbe at 9:00 AM or 11:00 AM. This 1-hour and 15-minute journey aboard the historic Polson No. 70 steam engine offers breathtaking views of the mountain’s foothills. Reservations are recommended due to the popularity of these rides.

After your train adventure, drive to Mount Rainier National Park’s Paradise area. Please note that from May to September, timed entry reservations are required between 7:00 AM and 3:00 PM for the Paradise Corridor.

Consider hiking the Nisqually Vista Trail, an easy, paved 1.2-mile loop that provides stunning views of the Nisqually Glacier. For a slightly more challenging trek, the 1.75-mile Alta Vista Trail offers panoramic vistas and vibrant wildflowers during late summer. Both trails are accessible from the Paradise area and typically take about an hour to complete.

Don’t miss Myrtle Falls, located near the Paradise Inn. A short walk leads to a picturesque waterfall with Mount Rainier as a backdrop, making it a perfect spot for photos.

Day 12: Leavenworth

Leavenworth is a charming Bavarian-themed village. The town’s distinctive alpine architecture and German-inspired cuisine create an authentic European atmosphere. Here is some things you might want to do on your day in Leavenworth:

• Leavenworth Adventure Park: Leavenworth Adventure Park is Washington State’s first Alpine Coaster. It’s a gravity-driven coaster that winds through scenic alpine terrain.The park also offers a 27-foot climbing wall and a gemstone mining sluice, providing fun for all ages. Reservations are recommended.
• Leavenworth Reindeer Farm: Visit the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm. This family-run farm offers guided tours where you can hand-feed and interact with reindeer.. Due to limited availability, especially for children under 12, booking in advance is essential.
• Icicle River Nature Trail: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Icicle River Nature Trail, a one-mile loop (1.6 km) through the Icicle River Valley.
• Hidden Lake Trail: Consider the 1.5-mile (2.4 km) round trip to Hidden Lake
• Enchantment Park Playground and Pump Track: Located near downtown Leavenworth, Enchantment Park has a skate park, a playground, and a paved pump track.

Day 13 and 14: Leavenworth to Calgary

🚙 There are 621 miles (1032 km) between Leavenworth and Calgary, so you’ll want to still the drive into two days. I recommend staying overnight in either Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, Sandpoint, or Bonners Ferry and doing the rest of the drive (including crossing the border) the next day.

Final Thoughts

This 14-day road trip through the Pacific Northwest has amazing sights and fun for the whole family. From the stunning waterfalls of the Columbia River Gorge to the charming Bavarian village of Leavenworth, you’ll see lots of beautiful places. The kids will love splashing at water parks, exploring tide pools, and riding roller coasters. 

Some of the best stops are Silverwood Theme Park, Multnomah Falls, and, of course, the Oregon Coast. There’s a nice mix of outdoor adventures, historical sites, and family-friendly attractions.