Pacific Northwest Travel Guide
The Pacific Northwest (also referred to as the PNW or Cascadia) consists of Washington and Oregon in the US along with British Columbia in Canada. Although Northern California isn’t typically considered part of the PNW, Redwood National and State Parks just south of the Oregon border is an exception. Known for its sweeping mountain ranges, jagged coastline, lush evergreen forests, fantastic seafood, moody weather, and progressive cities, the Pacific Northwest is one of the best places to travel in North America.
The PNW is an outdoor lover’s paradise!
This place is brimming with hiking opportunities, adventure sports, and scenic road trips. You’ll be left in awe by national parks like Mt. Rainier and Crater Lake. A drive along the Oregon Coast or around the Olympic Peninsula will rival just about any road trip on the continent. And the PNW is also home to the only temperate rainforest in North America! More than just a haven for hikers, you’ll also love exploring the sights and eating your way through major cities like Seattle, Portland, and Vancouver.
Destinations
Pacific Northwest Basics
U.S. States: Washington and Oregon
Canadian Territory: British Columbia
Timezone: Pacific Standard & Pacific Daylight
Climate: Temperate Oceanic on the west (cool temperatures and frequently cloudy skies), and Arid Desert or Semi-Arid on the east (dry and warm). Areas of alpine climate exist throughout the region.
Major Airports:
Seattle-Tacoma (SEA) – Washington
Portland (PDX) – Oregon
Vancouver (YVR) – British Columbia
Best Time to Visit
SUMMER
The most popular time to visit the Pacific Northwest is from June through early September. The PNW is known for its nearly perfect summers, but heat waves can happen. Wildfire season tends to pick up in July and typically lasts through late September.
AUTUMN
Late September through October is a great time to visit the PNW. Despite its “evergreen” status, there are plenty of areas in the Pacific Northwest that see fall colors. Come mid-September, temperatures are moderate and the summer crowds thin; however, the possibility of wildfires remains until around November.
WINTER
Winters are chilly and grey in the Pacific Northwest, with misty rain falling almost continuously from late November through March. Higher elevations in the mountains get plenty of snow during this time, so it’s a great time to visit for skiing or snowboarding.
SPRING
Weather from April through mid-May can be a bit unpredictable in the Pacific Northwest. Days alternate from cool and rainy to warmer with occasional sunshine. Late May is your best bet at catching summer-like temperatures while beating the crowds.
bucket list experiences
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Pacific Northwest Travel Guides
