Top 22+ Unparalleled Routes In the PNW’s Protected Landscapes

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)

The scenic drives you can find in the Pacific Northwest are absolutely remarkable. They offer travelers a way to experience the region’s natural beauty at their own pace, passing through diverse landscapes that all reveal a different side of the PNW, and a side that's simply more beautiful than the last. This is especially true for the protected lands and forests of this region, as so many remain untouched, unspoiled.

Many of these drives take you past historic landmarks, trailheads, wildlife habitats, and panoramic overlooks that invite you to stop and explore. Plus, there are simply so many options that the routes vary in length and terrain, giving you your pick of how long you want to be gone and the precise view you'd like to see. That's why Seattle Travel proudly presents some of the PNW's best protected lands driving routes.

These 22 scenic drives wind through national forests, monuments, and protected lands in the Pacific Northwest. We'll give you their locations, approximate mileage, and a description of what you can expect along the way. Sources include the U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service, Washington State Department of Transportation, Oregon Department of Transportation, and regional tourism boards for Washington, Oregon, and Idaho.

Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Washington, Olympic National Park & National Forest
  • Approx. 330 miles

    Encircles the Olympic Peninsula with coastal beaches, temperate rainforests, and mountain overlooks. Visitors can explore Hurricane Ridge, the Hoh Rainforest, and Rialto Beach in a single trip. Wildlife sightings may include elk, bald eagles, and sea otters.

North Cascades Highway (WA)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Washington, through North Cascades National Park
  • Approx. 140 miles

    Sweeping alpine vistas with rugged peaks, glacier views, and emerald lakes along Highway 20 connecting the Skagit Valley to the Methow Valley. Seasonal closures are common due to snow, so plan for a summer or early fall trip. Along the way, stop at overlooks like Washington Pass for panoramic views.

Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Oregon, Mount Hood National Forest
  • Approx. 105 miles

    A loop drive passing orchards, waterfalls, alpine meadows, and the iconic slopes of Mount Hood. This route offers plenty of roadside fruit stands and wine tasting opportunities. Clear days provide spectacular views of surrounding peaks like Mount Adams.

Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Oregon, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
  • Approx. 75 miles

    Historic highway lined with waterfalls, basalt cliffs, and river viewpoints. Highlights include Multnomah Falls, Vista House, and the Bridge of the Gods. This route is especially stunning in autumn when foliage colors pop.

Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Oregon, Deschutes National Forest
  • Approx. 66 miles

    Winds past alpine lakes, lava flows, and mountain peaks south of Bend. Popular stops include Sparks Lake, Elk Lake, and the Lava River Cave. Summer offers kayaking and hiking, while winter brings cross-country skiing.

Chinook Scenic Byway (WA)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Washington, Mount Rainier National Park & surrounding forest
  • Approx. 107 miles

    Mountain pass drive with close-up views of Mount Rainier and river valleys. The road follows the White River and Naches River, with campgrounds and picnic areas along the way. Wildflower meadows peak in mid-summer.

Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Oregon, Wallowa-Whitman National Forest
  • Approx. 218 miles

    Takes in deep river canyons, rugged peaks, and remote ranchland near the Idaho border. Viewpoints overlook North America’s deepest river gorge. The byway passes through charming towns like Joseph and Halfway.

Mount Baker Highway (WA)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Washington, Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
  • Approx. 57 miles

    Climbs from farmlands near Bellingham to alpine meadows and the Mount Baker Ski Area. The end of the road offers iconic views of Mount Shuksan. Hiking trails branch off to high mountain lakes and ridgelines.

Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Oregon, Wallowa-Whitman National Forest
  • Approx. 106 miles

    Loops through mining towns, mountain lakes, and forested slopes in Eastern Oregon. Historical markers tell the story of the Oregon Trail and gold rush era. Popular stops include Anthony Lakes and the Sumpter Valley Railroad.

Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Washington, Colville National Forest
  • Approx. 40 miles

    Crosses the highest maintained pass in Washington with forest and mountain scenery. Interpretive signs explain the region’s logging and fire history. In autumn, larch trees turn a brilliant gold.

Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Oregon, Fremont-Winema National Forest
  • Approx. 140 miles

    Connects Crater Lake to Lava Beds National Monument with volcanic landscapes. The route offers a mix of calderas, cinder cones, and lava flows. Birdwatchers may spot sandhill cranes in nearby wetlands.

San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Washington, San Juan Islands National Monument
  • Approx. 48 miles driving + ferry segments

    Combines island roads and ferry rides with marine views, small harbors, and coastal parks. Orca whale watching tours operate from Friday Harbor. Cycling is a popular way to explore the islands.

McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Oregon, Willamette National Forest
  • Approx. 82 miles

    Travels through lava fields, mountain passes, and forested valleys in Central Oregon. Dee Wright Observatory provides 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks. In spring, roadside meadows bloom with wildflowers.

Palouse Scenic Byway (WA)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Washington, crossing parts of the Palouse Scenic Corridor
  • Approx. 208 miles

    Rolls through wheat fields, river valleys, and basalt cliffs in Eastern Washington. Steptoe Butte offers the best views of the patchwork farmland. The landscape is especially photogenic at sunrise and sunset.

Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Oregon & Washington, Umatilla National Forest
  • Approx. 145 miles

    Traverses forested ridges, meadows, and wildflower-filled hills. The byway links several small communities rich in western heritage. Deer and elk are frequently seen near the roadside.

White Pass Scenic Byway (WA)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Washington, Gifford Pinchot National Forest & Mount Rainier National Park
  • Approx. 119 miles

    Links Yakima Valley to Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens regions. Offers vistas of Mount Adams from the road’s higher elevations. Fishing spots dot the route along the Cowlitz River.

Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Oregon, Umpqua National Forest
  • Approx. 172 miles

    Follows two wild rivers with waterfalls, canyon views, and access to Crater Lake. Popular stops include Toketee Falls and Watson Falls. The byway showcases the dramatic transition from high country to coastal forest.

Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Oregon, Willamette National Forest
  • Approx. 40 miles

    Encircles a turquoise reservoir surrounded by steep forested slopes. Popular for boating, hiking to hot springs, and scenic camping areas. Early mornings often bring mist that lingers over the water for a picture-perfect scene.

Camas to Carson River Route (WA)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Washington, Gifford Pinchot National Forest
  • Approx. 54 miles

    Follows the Wind River and Trout Creek through deep forest and small mountain communities. Offers quiet picnic areas and access to waterfall trails. The drive also connects to lesser-known trailheads for more secluded hikes.

Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Oregon, follows the Rogue River corridor
  • Approx. 172 miles

    Parallels the wild and scenic Rogue River through canyons, forests, and historic towns. Offers access to fishing spots, rafting launches, and viewpoints overlooking rapids and waterfalls. In autumn, the route is framed by vibrant foliage that lights up the riverbanks.

Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Washington, Idaho, and British Columbia
  • Approx. 280 miles

    International loop through mountains, lakes, and wildlife preserves. Known for birdwatching, alpine scenery, and charming small towns along the way. The route’s mix of U.S. and Canadian segments offers a blend of cultures and landscapes.

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)

22 Unparalleled Routes In the PNW's Protected Landscapes, Olympic Peninsula Loop (WA), North Cascades Highway (WA), Hood River to Mount Hood Scenic Byway (OR), Columbia River Gorge Scenic Highway (OR), Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway (OR), Chinook Scenic Byway (WA), Hells Canyon Scenic Byway (OR), Mount Baker Highway (WA), Elkhorn Drive Scenic Byway (OR), Sherman Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway (OR), San Juan Islands Scenic Byway (WA), McKenzie Pass–Santiam Pass Scenic Byway (OR), Palouse Scenic Byway (WA), Blue Mountain Scenic Byway (OR/WA), White Pass Scenic Byway (WA), Rogue–Umpqua Scenic Byway (OR), Cougar Reservoir Loop (OR), Camas to Carson River Route (WA), Rogue River Scenic Highway (OR), Selkirk Loop (WA/ID/BC), Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor (OR)
  • Location: Oregon Coast, between Brookings and Gold Beach
  • Approx. 12 miles

    Dramatic coastal drive with sea stacks, natural arches, and cliffside viewpoints. Short trails lead to secluded beaches and hidden coves. Sunset here paints the ocean and sky with unforgettable colors.

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