#Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Castro Valley, CA to Seattle, WA
The west coast boasts of some of the most stunning attractions in the United States. Starting your journey from Castro Valley, California, all the way to Seattle, Washington, you'll be treated to magnificent sights along the Pacific coastline. This road trip route covers a distance of approximately 1,191 miles, taking you through scenic byways, historic landmarks, and charming towns.
Your halfway point is Azalea, OR, a small town that borders two national forests, nestled in the mountains. Take a break, stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat, as you prepare for the second leg of your trip.
Top 5 Things to do
##1. Redwood National and State Parks
The Redwood National and State Parks span over 133,000 acres of pristine forests, towering trees, and rugged coastlines. The park features hiking trails, picnic spots, and scenic drives. You can also take a guided tour to learn about the natural and cultural history of the park. The Redwood National and State Parks is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Northern California.
Interesting fact: The Redwood trees can grow over 350 feet tall and live for over 2,000 years.
##2. Crater Lake National Park
The Crater Lake National Park, located in Southern Oregon offers breathtaking views of the Crater Lake, one of the deepest lakes in the world. The park features hiking trails, boat tours, and cross-country skiing for the adventurous. Don't miss out on the panoramic views of the park from Watchman Peak.
Interesting fact: Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and the ninth deepest in the world.
##3. Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier stands at the center of the Mount Rainier National Park, a snow-capped volcano that towers over the Cascade Range. The park features scenic drives, hiking trails, and waterfalls. You might also spot some wildlife like elk, black bears, and marmots.
Interesting fact: Mt. Rainier is considered one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world.
##4. Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a biosphere reserve. The park is home to the only temperate rainforest in the contiguous United States and a diverse range of wildlife. Visitors can explore the park by hiking, camping, and kayaking. Lake Crescent, the Hoh Rainforest, and Hurricane Ridge are must-visit destinations in the park.
Interesting fact: Olympic National Park has over 3,000 miles of streams and rivers.
##5. Space Needle
The Space Needle is a renowned landmark located in Seattle, standing over 600 feet tall. The Space Needle boasts of a 360-degree view of the city, the Puget Sound, and the mountains. Visitors can dine in the revolving restaurant at the top or try out the virtual reality bungee jump experience.
Interesting fact: The Space Needle is made of 467 tons of steel and was built in less than a year for the 1962 World's Fair.
In conclusion, this road trip from Castro Valley to Seattle is one of the most scenic drives on the west coast. The route covers 1,191 miles and takes approximately 22 hours of driving time, but you'll want to extend your stay to take in all that these amazing destinations have to offer. Don't forget to drive safely, take in the views, and enjoy the incredible sights along the Pacific coastline.