Day-by-Day Guide for a Road Trip from Glacier National Park to the Pacific Northwest

Embarking on a road trip from Glacier National Park to the Pacific Northwest is an adventure of a lifetime, blending rugged wilderness, charming small towns, and the serene beauty of the coastline. This guide offers a detailed, day-by-day itinerary spanning approximately 10 days, covering over 1,000 miles of breathtaking landscapes and diverse experiences. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family on a budget, or someone seeking luxury, this journey has something for everyone. Below, we’ll explore adventures, cultural highlights, travel tips, and more to ensure a memorable trip.

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Day 1: Glacier National Park, Montana – Exploring the Crown of the Continent

Start your journey in Glacier National Park, often called the “Crown of the Continent” for its stunning alpine scenery. Arrive the previous evening and settle into a campground like Apgar or a lodge like the Many Glacier Hotel for a touch of rustic luxury.

Begin your day with the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, a 50-mile drive offering jaw-dropping views of glacier-carved peaks, turquoise lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Stop at Logan Pass (6,646 feet) for a short hike on the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail (2.7 miles roundtrip). This moderate trek rewards you with panoramic vistas—perfect for adventurers and families alike.

In the afternoon, head to Bearhat Mountain or the Highline Trail if you’re a solo traveler craving a challenge. For a cultural twist, visit the park’s visitor center to learn about the Blackfeet, Salish, and Kootenai tribes who’ve called this land home for centuries. Cap the day with a sunset at Lake McDonald, where the water reflects the fiery sky.

Travel Tip: Pack layers—weather shifts fast at high elevations.
Budget Hack: Opt for camping ($20/night) over lodges ($150+/night).

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Day 2: Glacier National Park to Missoula, Montana

Bid farewell to Glacier and drive southwest toward Missoula, a vibrant college town. Take Highway 2 to US-93, passing through the Flathead Valley’s rolling hills and farmland. Stop in Kalispell for coffee at a local roastery like Montana Coffee Traders—a budget-friendly treat at $3 a cup.

Arrive in Missoula by noon and explore its outdoorsy charm. Solo travelers will love the Clark Fork River Trail, a scenic 3-mile loop perfect for stretching your legs. Families can visit Caras Park for a picnic or the Missoula Art Museum to enjoy free admission and local exhibits. For a cultural experience, grab lunch at the Good Food Store, a co-op with organic Montana specialties like huckleberry jam.

Check into a mid-range hotel like the DoubleTree ($120/night) or camp at Missoula KOA ($40/night). Evening bonus: Catch live music at The Top Hat, a local hotspot.

Travel Tip: Refuel in Kalispell—gas is cheaper than in Missoula.
Adventure Note: Rent a kayak ($20/hour) for a paddle on the Clark Fork.

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Day 3: Missoula to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Head west on I-90 toward Coeur d’Alene, a gem in Idaho’s panhandle. The drive winds through the Bitterroot Mountains, offering stunning forest views. Stop at the 50,000 Silver Dollar Bar in Haugan, Montana, a quirky roadside attraction with walls covered in silver dollars—free to visit and a hit with kids.

Arrive in Coeur d’Alene and spend the afternoon at Lake Coeur d’Alene. Families can rent a pedal boat ($25/hour) or swim at City Beach, while solo travelers might prefer a hike up Tubbs Hill (2-mile loop) for lakefront solitude. For culture, explore the Coeur d’Alene Tribe’s history at the nearby North Idaho College museum.

Dine at Moon Time, a cozy spot serving local craft beer and hearty dishes like elk burgers ($15). Stay at the budget-friendly Flamingo Motel ($90/night) or splurge at the Coeur d’Alene Resort ($200+/night) for luxury.

Budget Hack: Pack a picnic for the lake to save on dining.
Luxury Touch: Book a sunset cruise ($40/person) on the lake.

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Day 4: Coeur d’Alene to Spokane, Washington

Today’s short drive lets you linger in Spokane, Washington’s second-largest city. Take I-90 west and arrive by mid-morning. Start at Riverfront Park, home to the 1974 World’s Fair Pavilion and a 1909 carousel ($2.50/ride)—a steal for families. Solo travelers can rent a bike ($10/hour) to explore the Centennial Trail along the Spokane River.

For a cultural dive, visit the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture ($12/adult), showcasing Native American artifacts and regional history. Grab lunch at the Flying Goat, where artisanal pizzas cost $12–$15. In the afternoon, stroll the blooming Manito Park gardens (free entry).

Stay at the historic Davenport Hotel ($150/night) for luxury or the Ramada by Wyndham ($85/night) for a deal. Evening option: Catch a show at the Spokane Civic Theatre.

Travel Tip: Look for hotel deals midweek—Spokane rates drop outside weekends.
Adventure Note: Try the park’s zip line ($20) for a thrill.

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Day 5: Spokane to Leavenworth, Washington

Drive west on US-2 toward Leavenworth, a Bavarian-themed village nestled in the Cascade Mountains. Stop at Grand Coulee Dam (1.5 hours from Spokane) for a free tour of America’s largest concrete structure—a marvel for all ages.

Arrive in Leavenworth by afternoon and soak in its alpine charm. Adventure seekers can hike the 3-mile Icicle Gorge Trail, while families might prefer a horse-drawn carriage ride ($20/person). Indulge in German culture with bratwurst and a pretzel at München Haus ($10–$15).

Luxury travelers should book the Posthotel Leavenworth ($300+/night), complete with a spa, while budgeters can camp at Leavenworth KOA ($45/night). Evening bonus: Sip local wine at Icicle Ridge Winery.

Travel Hack: Visit midweek to avoid crowds and snag lodging deals.
Cultural Note: Check for seasonal festivals like Oktoberfest.

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Day 6: Leavenworth to Seattle, Washington

Take US-2 west over Stevens Pass, a scenic route through the Cascades, and arrive in Seattle. Solo travelers can dive into Pike Place Market, watching fishmongers toss salmon and sampling chowder ($8). Families will love the Space Needle ($35/adult, $25/child) and nearby Chihuly Garden and Glass ($32/adult).

For culture, explore the Museum of Pop Culture ($30/adult) or stroll the historic Pioneer Square district. Dine at The Pink Door, an Italian gem with harbor views ($20–$30/plate). Stay at the budget-friendly Green Tortoise Hostel ($40/night) or the luxe Fairmont Olympic ($250+/night).

Travel Tip: Park outside downtown ($10/day) and use public transit.
Adventure Note: Kayak Elliott Bay ($25/hour).

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Day 7: Seattle to Olympic National Park

Take the ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge Island ($9/adult) and drive to Olympic National Park via US-101. Stop at Hurricane Ridge for sweeping mountain views—hike the 1.6-mile Hurricane Hill Trail for adventure. Families can explore the Hoh Rainforest’s moss-draped Hall of Mosses (0.8 miles).

Camp at Kalaloch Campground ($24/night) or stay at Lake Crescent Lodge ($180/night) for comfort. Evening bonus: Stargaze on Kalaloch Beach.

Budget Hack: Bring groceries—park dining is limited.
Luxury Touch: Book a guided rainforest tour ($60/person).

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Day 8: Olympic National Park to Astoria, Oregon

Drive south on US-101 to Astoria, Oregon’s oldest city. Stop at Cape Disappointment State Park en route for rugged coastal views. In Astoria, climb the Astoria Column (free) for a 360-degree panorama, and visit the Columbia River Maritime Museum ($15/adult) for seafaring history.

Dine on fish and chips at Bowpicker ($10) and stay at the budget-friendly Astoria Crest Motel ($90/night).

Travel Tip: Skip overpriced souvenirs—snap photos instead.
Adventure Note: Explore the Goonies film sites.

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Day 9: Astoria to Cannon Beach, Oregon

A short drive lands you in Cannon Beach, home to Haystack Rock. Solo travelers can hike the 4-mile Ecola State Park trail, while luxury seekers relax at the Stephanie Inn ($300+/night). Evening: Beach bonfire (bring your own wood).

Budget Hack: Camp at Saddle Mountain ($15/night).
Cultural Note: Visit local art galleries for free.

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Day 10: Cannon Beach to Portland, Oregon

End in Portland via US-26. Explore Powell’s Books, the world’s largest indie bookstore (free entry), and the kid-friendly Oregon Zoo ($20/adult). Dine at a food cart pod ($8–$12/meal) and stay at the Mark Spencer Hotel ($120/night).

Travel Tip: Use TriMet transit to save on parking.
Luxury Touch: Splurge on a Willamette Valley wine tour ($100/person).

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Final Thoughts

This 10-day road trip from Glacier National Park to the Pacific Northwest blends adventure, culture, and relaxation. With options for every budget and traveler type, it’s a journey to savor mile by mile.

Happy Travels!