9 Scenic Washington Road Trip Routes Perfect for Traveling Families

Planning a Washington road trip for the family will be hit differently—like, “I can’t believe this view isn’t Photoshopped” differently. Between snow-capped peaks, island ferries, storybook forests, and wine country detours (yes, mama, we see you), this is the place to turn road trips into lifelong core memories.

Mountains, islands, waterfalls, and even volcanoes? Washington doesn’t mess around when it comes to epic road trips. Here’s how to explore it all—kid chaos and car snacks included.

Whether you’ve got a car full of curious kiddos, a toddler who thinks car naps are a form of betrayal, or older kids who only look up from their tablets for snacks, this list has something for every type of traveling family.

Let’s roll through the nine most scenic Washington State road Trip Routes Perfect for Traveling Families, made for memory-making with your favorite little travel buddies.

Top 9 Scenic Washington Road Trip for Families

1. The Pacific Coast Route:

Route: Long Beach Peninsula → Westport → Waterfall Trail → Lake Crescent → Cape Flattery → Hurricane Ridge → Port Townsend → Lake Cushman → Hood Canal → Thurston Byway

If you’ve got a week (or even a long weekend) and want to cram in all the Washington greatness—beaches, waterfalls, alpine lakes, mountain views, and charming towns—this loop is your golden ticket.

Start on the Long Beach Peninsula, where kids can race the waves, fly kites, and pose next to the world’s largest frying pan (because road trip rules = quirky photo ops). Head north to Westport for fresh fish ’n chips and a peek at the historic lighthouse before cutting inland toward the Waterfall Trail, where you can hop out for short, kid-friendly hikes to tumbling cascades.

From there, it’s on to glassy-blue Lake Crescent—perfect for skipping rocks—and the dramatic cliffs of Cape Flattery, where boardwalk trails lead to “wow” views at the very tip of the continental U.S. Don’t skip Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park, where the mountain air is fresh and the chipmunks are bold.

Swing down to Port Townsend for Victorian charm, ice cream strolls, and maybe a ferry ride before heading to Lake Cushman for swimming, paddling, or a good old-fashioned lakeside picnic. Then cruise along the Hood Canal, where the water shimmers beside the road, and wrap things up on the scenic Thurston Byway—a winding, peaceful stretch that feels like the perfect exhale after a jam-packed adventure.

This route’s got it all: salt air, mountain peaks, charming small towns, and plenty of “Mom, can we stop here?!” moments. Spoiler: you’ll probably say yes.

Kid-friendly highlights:

• Long Beach Peninsula – Fly kites, hunt for seashells, and take a silly photo next to the world’s largest frying pan.
• Westport – Climb to the top of Grays Harbor Lighthouse and count how many fishing boats you see.
• Waterfall Trail – Short hikes to splashing waterfalls where you can feel the mist on your face.
• Lake Crescent – Skip rocks, picnic by the shore, or rent a canoe for a gentle paddle.
• Cape Flattery – Walk the boardwalk trail to see the very tip of the continental U.S.
• Hurricane Ridge – Spot deer and marmots while taking in mountain-top views.
• Port Townsend – Stroll through a storybook downtown and grab an ice cream cone.
• Lake Cushman – Splash in the lake, kayak, or enjoy a family picnic in the sun.
• Hood Canal – Watch the water sparkle, look for seals, and stop at roadside seafood shacks.
• Thurston Byway – A peaceful, winding drive—perfect for spotting farm animals and rolling hills.

2. The Islands: Ferry Rides and Orca Tales

Route: Anacortes → Orcas Island → San Juan Island → Lopez Island → Deception Pass State Park

If your perfect family road trip involves driving your car onto a boat, spotting whales before lunch, and ending the day with sunset views over glassy water, this route is calling your name.

Kick things off in Anacortes, the gateway to Washington’s ferry system and your jumping-off point for island adventures. First stop: Orcas Island, where you can hike up Mount Constitution for panoramic views, explore tide pools at low tide, and refuel with homemade pastries in Eastsound.

Next, sail over to San Juan Island—home to the charming town of Friday Harbor, the educational Whale Museum, and Lime Kiln Point State Park, one of the best land-based orca-watching spots in the world. Then it’s on to Lopez Island, affectionately called “the friendly island,” where gentle bike trails, sandy beaches, and relaxed picnic vibes make it perfect for families with younger kids.

On your way back to the mainland, detour to Deception Pass State Park, where towering bridges, forest trails, and driftwood-covered beaches will have you snapping family photos faster than your toddler can spot a seagull.

With ferries, small-town charm, and enough natural beauty to fill a photo album (or three), this route feels like stepping into a Pacific Northwest postcard—minus the tourist crowds if you plan it right.

Kid-friendly highlights:

• Anacortes – Watch the ferries come and go, grab a scoop of ice cream, and spot harbor seals in the marina.
• Orcas Island – Climb the lookout tower at Mount Constitution for “wow” views, explore tide pools, and visit the historic Rosario Resort.
• San Juan Island – Learn about whales at The Whale Museum, watch for orcas at Lime Kiln Point State Park, and explore the quirky shops in Friday Harbor.
• Lopez Island – Bike gentle trails, dig in the sand at Spencer Spit State Park, and say hello to the famously friendly locals.
• Ferry Rides – Bring snacks, sit on the deck, and watch for seals, porpoises, and maybe even whales along the way.
• Deception Pass State Park – Cross the dramatic bridge (hold onto your hats!), explore driftwood-covered beaches, and follow easy trails with big rewards.

3. Volcano Country: Lava, Legends & Learning Moments

Route: Peace Arch State Park → Artist Point → Skagit Valley Tulip Festival → Snoqualmie Falls → Space Needle → Mount Rainier → Mount St. Helens

If you want the ultimate “bucket list” family drive through Washington—complete with gardens, mountains, waterfalls, and skyline views—this route checks every box.

Start at Peace Arch State Park, straddling the U.S.–Canada border, where kids can run through manicured gardens while you snap photos with one foot in each country. Head east to Artist Point, a jaw-dropping overlook near Mount Baker where the scenery feels like it was painted just for you.

In spring, roll through the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, a kaleidoscope of color that makes even the grumpiest road-trippers say “Wow.” Then chase the roar of Snoqualmie Falls, a 268-foot cascade with easy viewpoints (and coffee shops nearby for the grown-ups).

Next, shift from nature to city at the Space Needle in Seattle. Take in panoramic views from the top, explore the glass floor, and let the kids burn energy at the Seattle Center’s playgrounds.

Your grand finale? The volcanic legends. Mount Rainier offers wildflower meadows, glacier views, and ranger programs that make learning feel like an adventure. Then head to Mount St. Helens to see firsthand the incredible landscape reshaped by the 1980 eruption—a living, breathing science lesson with crater views you’ll never forget.

From international borders to iconic peaks, this road trip blends Washington’s most famous sights into one unforgettable family adventure.

Kid-friendly highlights:

• Mount St. Helens – Visit Johnston Ridge Observatory to see the crater, touch real volcanic rock, and learn how the 1980 eruption changed everything.
• Ape Cave – Explore a mile-long lava tube (bring flashlights or headlamps for extra fun!).
• Mount Rainier (Paradise & Sunrise) – Spot wildflowers in summer, build snow forts in winter, and collect a Junior Ranger badge at the visitor center.
• Grove of the Patriarchs – Take a short, magical hike over a suspension bridge to see giant 1,000-year-old trees.
• Mount Adams – Paddle on nearby lakes, try easy forest hikes, and look for deer and eagles.
  • Ranger Programs – Join kid-friendly talks about volcanoes, glaciers, and wildlife—you might even get a stamp in your Junior Ranger book!

4. Cascade Loop Scenic Byway: The Ultimate Family Adventure Loop

Route: Everett → Skykomish & Snohomish River Valey → Leavenworth → Apple Capital (Wenatchee)→ Lake Chelan → Washington Pass Overlook → North Cascades

A Washington Road Trip with everything: mountain peaks, riverside towns, quirky Bavarian villages, and some of the most scenic highway miles in the country. The Cascade Loop is the ultimate choose-your-own-adventure for families.

This stretch of the Cascade Loop blends riverside charm, alpine adventure, and some of Washington’s most jaw-dropping mountain views—perfect for a family road trip that balances outdoor fun with small-town magic.

Start in Everett, where you can fuel up (both the car and the crew) before heading into the Skykomish & Snohomish River Valley, a scenic stretch dotted with old train towns, river viewpoints, and plenty of spots for a snack stop.

From there, roll into Leavenworth, Washington’s own Bavarian village, where pretzels are as big as your head and the streets feel straight out of a storybook. Continue east to the Apple Capital region (Wenatchee), where orchards and farmers markets burst with seasonal fruit—perfect for an impromptu picnic.

Cool off at Lake Chelan, a sparkling 50-mile-long lake that’s tailor-made for swimming, paddling, and sandy playtime. Then climb high into the mountains for the Washington Pass Overlook, where jagged peaks and sweeping views will have you pulling out the camera every two seconds.

Finish with the North Cascades, a wonderland of glacier-fed lakes, dense forests, and wildlife. Whether you’re hiking a short trail or just soaking in the view, this last leg leaves you with the perfect “wow” ending to your family adventure.

Kid-friendly highlights:

• Everett – Visit the Imagine Children’s Museum with hands-on exhibits, a rooftop playground, and pretend-play zones.
• Skykomish & Snohomish River Valley – Watch trains roll by, skip stones in the river, and grab homemade ice cream from a roadside stand.
• Leavenworth – Pretend you’re in a fairy-tale village, munch on giant pretzels, and visit the Nutcracker Museum for quirky fun.
• Apple Capital (Wenatchee) – Pick fresh apples, wander through farmers markets, and bike the paved Apple Capital Loop Trail.
• Lake Chelan – Splash at the beach, take a boat ride, or ride the Lady of the Lake ferry to the remote village of Stehekin.
• Washington Pass Overlook – Peer out over the mountains, hunt for funny-shaped peaks, and take a family photo with the jaw-dropping backdrop.
• North Cascades – Spot waterfalls from the car, look for chipmunks, and take a short hike to a turquoise alpine lake.

5. Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway: Waterfalls and Wind

Route: Hulda Klager Gardens → Fort Vancouver National Historic Site → Camas & Washougal → Beacon Rock State Park → Gorge Waterfalls → Maryhill Museum of Art → Columbia Hill State Park

This scenic route through Southwest Washington offers a magical blend of blooming gardens, riverside towns, towering basalt cliffs, and art-filled surprises—ideal for families who love their road trips with a little bit of everything.

Start your journey with a stroll through Hulda Klager Gardens in Woodland, where kids can stretch their legs among blooming lilacs and storybook landscaping inspired by one woman’s botanical passion. Then dive into history at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, where little ones can explore log cabins, peek into blacksmith shops, and earn Junior Ranger badges while learning about pioneer life.

Continue on to Camas and Washougal, two charming towns along the Columbia River brimming with playgrounds, riverside parks, and small-town eats (don’t skip the donuts). Next up is Beacon Rock State Park, home to an iconic climbable monolith—with a safe, zig-zagging trail and epic views at the top.

From there, the Gorge Waterfalls take center stage—cue short hikes to thundering cascades like Hardy and Rodney Falls, where misty spray and rainbow sightings await. Wrap up your road trip with culture and views at the Maryhill Museum of Art, a surprisingly family-friendly gem in the high desert, then end at Columbia Hills State Park, where you can see Native American petroglyphs and enjoy a peaceful riverside picnic before heading home.

This route is proof that you don’t need to choose between nature, history, and art—Southwest Washington has it all, with just the right amount of adventure and quiet beauty for the whole family.

Kid-friendly highlights:

• Hulda Klager Gardens – Smell the flowers, follow garden paths like a maze, and learn how one woman created a floral wonderland (spring is magical here!).
• Fort Vancouver National Historic Site – Walk through an old-timey fort, watch blacksmiths at work, and earn a Junior Ranger badge while learning about pioneer life.
• Camas & Washougal – Run wild at riverfront parks, grab treats at local bakeries, and visit the Two Rivers Heritage Museum for hands-on fun.
• Beacon Rock State Park – Hike up the famous rock on a safe zigzag trail—like climbing a mountain made for kids with railings all the way up!
• Gorge Waterfalls – Feel the mist on your face, take short family hikes, and search for rainbows at Hardy, Rodney, and other kid-friendly waterfalls.
• Maryhill Museum of Art – Explore a castle-like museum with art that’s not boring (seriously), cool sculptures outside, and epic river views for picnic time.
• Columbia Hills State Park – Spot ancient petroglyphs, take easy nature walks, and skip rocks at the Columbia River shoreline.

6. North Central: Desert Vibes and Lakeside Escapes

Route: Loup Loup Ski Bowl → Omak (Dark Sky Stargazing) → Okanogan Ghost Town → Grand Coulee Dam → Sun Lakes & Dry Falls State Park → Moses Lake → Ginkgo Petrified Forest

This road trip through North Central Washington blends outdoor adventure, natural science, and a splash of spooky history — all ideal for curious kids and parents who want something unique! Start with snowplay and skiing at Loup Loup Ski Bowl, a hidden gem perfect for beginners. Then, head to Omak, where dark skies make for dazzling stargazing (bring a telescope or just lie on a blanket and watch the Milky Way shimmer overhead).

Next up? A little ghost town exploration in Okanogan, where old west vibes meet educational fun. Then it’s time for a big wow-factor moment at Grand Coulee Dam, one of the largest concrete structures in the world—with free laser light shows in summer!

Cool off at Sun Lakes–Dry Falls State Park, where you can learn about the Ice Age floods that shaped the region, then play at the beach or paddle in a rented kayak. Splash around at Moses Lake for a sunny swim stop or some family-friendly paddleboarding, and wrap it up with a walk among ancient stone logs at Ginkgo Petrified Forest, where lava and trees collided millions of years ago.

Kid-friendly highlights:

• Loup Loup Ski Bowl – Snowball fights, beginner ski slopes, and hot cocoa breaks make this a winter wonderland.
• Omak – Stay up past bedtime for stargazing in a real Dark Sky location with some of the clearest skies around.
• Okanogan Ghost Town – Explore old-timey buildings and imagine life in the Wild West.
• Grand Coulee Dam – Tour one of the largest dams in the country and watch a nighttime laser light show on the dam face.
• Sun Lakes–Dry Falls State Park – Learn how massive Ice Age floods shaped the land, then go swimming, hiking, or kayaking.
• Moses Lake – A sunny spot for splashing in the water, paddleboarding, and lakeside picnics.
• Ginkgo Petrified Forest – Discover trees turned to stone over millions of years and see real fossils up close.

7. South Central: Vineyards, History & Fruit-Stand Fun

Route: Oak Creek Wildlife Area → Yakima → Umtanum Creek Canyon → Toppenish → Prosser → Tri-Cities

Hello, wine country with a kid-friendly twist. This area is ripe with roadside fruit stands, playgrounds tucked into wineries (yes, really), and a whole lot of sunshine. It’s where parents can sip and kids can play.

This sun-soaked stretch of Washington is where wild adventures and world-class wine blend into one unforgettable family-friendly road trip. Starting in the wide-open beauty of Oak Creek Wildlife Area, kids can spot elk herds and stretch their legs on easy trails before the journey dips into the agricultural heartland.

In Yakima, families will love the mix of playground stops, taco trucks, and for adults, a sneak peek at the Yakima Wine Walk—an easygoing downtown stroll with tasting rooms offering everything from robust reds to refreshing whites. It’s one of the few wine experiences where strollers are just as welcome as stemmed glasses.

From there, Umtanum Creek Canyon serves up a scenic family hike with a swinging suspension bridge, wildlife, and wildflowers galore. Toppenish brings history to life with more than 70 murals that make the town feel like an open-air storybook, while Prosser shines with its own walkable wine village and many tasting rooms that welcome families with games, shaded patios, and even juice flights for the little ones.

Finally, land in the Tri-Cities, where three rivers meet and water adventures, children’s museums, and more vineyard views await. Whether you’re sipping or skipping rocks, South Central Washington is the perfect blend of grown-up indulgence and kid-approved fun.

Kid-friendly highlights:

• Oak Creek Wildlife Area – Watch elk and bighorn sheep, explore short nature trails, and enjoy picnic spots with mountain views.
• Yakima – Ride bikes along the Greenway, snack on local produce, and stroll downtown while parents sample the wine walk (kid-friendly stops included!).
• Umtanum Creek Canyon – Cross a fun suspension bridge, hike the scenic canyon, and cool off in the creek.
• Toppenish – Spot colorful murals around town and explore the train museum.
• Prosser – Let kids play while parents taste wine—many stops have games, grape juice tastings, and open lawns.
• Tri-Cities – Cool off at splash pads, bike along the Columbia River, and visit the REACH Museum for interactive exhibits.

8. Northeast Corner: Forests, Lakes, and Peaceful Trails

Route: Republic → Ferry Country Rail Trail → Long Flume Heritage site → Colville Tribal Sculptures → Pewee Falls Overlook → International Selkirk Loop → Spokane → Ritzville

Want to feel like you’ve escaped the world? This off-the-beaten-path corner is full of quiet lakes, forest drives, and wildlife sightings galore. Think less crowds, more nature—and zero screen time needed.

This lesser-known corner of Washington is packed with surprises—and not just the “wow, I didn’t expect that here!” kind. Kicking off in Republic, a historic gold rush town, your journey winds through forested trails, tribal landmarks, and waterfalls that tumble near the Canadian border. Ride the peaceful Ferry County Rail Trail and stop at the Long Flume Heritage Site for a glimpse into the logging history that shaped the region.

Admire powerful cultural expressions in the Colville Tribal Sculptures, then marvel at the jaw-dropping Pewee Falls Overlook—a hidden gem with serious waterfall drama. Loop through international territory on the Selkirk Loop (passport not required!), before dropping into vibrant Spokane for food, arts, and city sparkle. Finish with small-town Americana in Ritzville, where grain elevators meet old-school charm.

This is the road trip for those craving history, heritage, and a slice of Washington most travelers never see.

Kid-friendly highlights:

• Republic – Visit the Stonerose Interpretive Center to dig for real fossils and stroll the charming main street for treats.
• Ferry County Rail Trail – Bike or walk along a car-free path with lake and forest views—perfect for spotting wildlife.
• Long Flume Heritage Site – See a restored historic wooden flume and learn how loggers floated timber through the mountains.
• Colville Tribal Sculptures – View striking art that tells stories of the Colville Tribe’s culture and history.
• Pewee Falls Overlook – Take in views of a tall, thundering waterfall tucked into the forest (short, easy walk to the viewpoint).
• International Selkirk Loop – Spot mountain peaks, rivers, and wildlife along this scenic drive that passes near the Canadian border.
• Spokane – Play at Riverfront Park, ride the historic Looff Carousel, and slide down the giant red wagon playground.
• Ritzville – Explore the Railroad Depot Museum, admire vintage farm equipment, and take a stroll through the quiet historic downtown.

9. Southeast Corner: Small Towns, Scenic Hills & Farm Fresh Everything

Route: Steptoe Butte → Pullman → Palouse Falls → Historic Dayton Depot → Patit Creek Campsite → Walla Walla

Start high—literally—at Steptoe Butte, where panoramic views of the Palouse’s rolling green (or golden!) hills stretch to the horizon. It’s the kind of vista that makes you pull out your camera… then put it down to just soak it all in. Cruise into Pullman, a college town with a cozy vibe and plenty of local eats (and yes, kid-friendly stops too).

Next up: Palouse Falls, Washington’s official state waterfall and an awe-inspiring sight tucked into a canyon like nature’s secret. History buffs, rejoice—Dayton’s Historic Train Depot and the Patit Creek Campsite offer a peek into pioneer life and Lewis & Clark’s travels.

End your journey in Walla Walla, a town where world-class wine meets stroller-friendly sidewalks. Whether you’re sipping a bold red or chasing bubbles on a downtown green, it’s a perfect final stop on this scenic adventure.

Kid-friendly highlights:

• Steptoe Butte – Drive to the summit for 360° views of rolling hills and spot tractors working the fields below.
• Pullman – Play at Sunnyside Park, visit the playground at Reaney Park, or grab a treat from a local bakery.
• Palouse Falls – View the dramatic waterfall from an easy-access overlook and watch for rainbows in the mist.
• Historic Dayton Depot – Step inside Washington’s oldest train depot and learn about railroad history through kid-friendly exhibits.
• Patit Creek Campsite – See a recreation of Lewis & Clark’s 1806 camp and imagine life on the trail.
• Walla Walla – Stroll through downtown, let kids play at the Pioneer Park playground, and enjoy an ice cream stop while parents explore a tasting room or two.

Bonus Tips for Family Road Trips in Washington:

• Pack layers – even in July, the coast might throw you a foggy curveball.
• Download offline maps – cell service in the mountains is not a guarantee.
• Plan for extra stops – because when a goat farm or giant roadside fruit stand appears, you stop.
• Make it a scavenger hunt – spot waterfalls, ferry boats, bald eagles, volcanoes!

Washington State isn’t just scenic—it’s made for exploration, especially when you’re road-tripping with kids who are curious, restless, or just along for the snacks. These nine routes offer something for every kind of family, from beach lovers to little hikers, future volcanologists to ferry fanatics.

So stock up on snacks, charge the tablets (for backup!), and start mapping your perfect Washington State adventure—one kid-friendly stop at a time.