The Evergreen Escape: An RV Road Trip from Ferndale to the Cascades

Road Trips


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December 20th, 2024


RV driving down scenic road. Travel in motor home.
It is the perfect time to embrace the open road and explore the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. This leisurely RV trip will take you from the charming town of Ferndale, Washington, to the majestic Cascades National Park, with plenty of relaxing stops along the way.

Day 1: Ferndale - A Victorian Delight
  • Morning: Start your journey in Ferndale, a town steeped in Victorian charm. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe, like The Woods Coffee, and wander through the historic downtown, admiring the colorful architecture and browsing the antique shops.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Ferndale Heritage Society Museum to delve into the town's rich history. Afterwards, take a scenic drive along the Chuckanut Drive, stopping at scenic overlooks to soak in the views of the Puget Sound.
  • Evening: Settle into your RV at Larrabee State Park, Washington's first state park. Enjoy a peaceful evening with a waterfront view, perhaps with a picnic dinner and a good book.

Day 2: Coastal Delights and Mountain Vistas
  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely morning at Larrabee State Park. Take a gentle stroll along the beach, or if you're feeling active, try some kayaking or paddleboarding.
  • Afternoon: Head east on Highway 20, stopping at the Chuckanut Manor for a delicious lunch with stunning views. Continue towards the Cascades, taking your time to appreciate the changing scenery.
  • Evening: Arrive at ** Deception Pass State Park**. This iconic park boasts dramatic cliffs, breathtaking bridges, and stunning sunsets. Enjoy a campfire dinner under the stars.

Day 3: Island Life and Artistic Pursuits
  • Morning: Explore Deception Pass State Park. Hike the Sand Dunes Trail for panoramic views, or visit the Rosario Beach tide pools to discover fascinating marine life.
  • Afternoon: Take a ferry to Whidbey Island. Visit the charming town of Coupeville, known for its historic waterfront and quaint shops.
  • Evening: Indulge your artistic side with a visit to the Penn Cove Gallery in Coupeville. Enjoy browsing local art and perhaps finding a unique souvenir. Stay overnight at a peaceful RV park on Whidbey Island.

Day 4: Mountains and Majestic Lakes
  • Morning: Ferry back to the mainland and continue east on Highway 20. Stop at the North Cascades National Park Visitor Center in Newhalem to learn about the park's diverse ecosystems and plan your adventures.
  • Afternoon: Drive to Diablo Lake, a stunning turquoise lake nestled in the heart of the North Cascades. Take a scenic boat tour or simply relax by the shore and soak in the breathtaking scenery.
  • Evening: Set up camp at the Colonial Creek Campground and enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by nature's beauty.

Day 5: Hiking and History in the High Country
  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely morning at Diablo Lake. Take a gentle walk along the Thunder Knob Trail for stunning views, or try some fishing in the crystal-clear waters.
  • Afternoon: Visit the North Cascades Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to environmental education. Take a guided nature walk or learn about the region's history and culture.
  • Evening: Enjoy a delicious meal at the Diablo Lake Overlook Restaurant, savoring the panoramic views and reminiscing about your adventures so far.

Day 6: Scenic Drives and Relaxing Soaks
  • Morning: Continue east on Highway 20, crossing the Washington Pass. This dramatic mountain pass offers breathtaking vistas of the North Cascades. Take your time, stopping at scenic overlooks to capture the beauty.
  • Afternoon: Arrive in the charming town of Winthrop, known for its Western-themed architecture and relaxed atmosphere. Explore the shops and enjoy a leisurely lunch.
  • Evening: Treat yourselves to a relaxing soak at the Scenic Hot Springs, a hidden gem in the Methow Valley. Enjoy the therapeutic waters and the peaceful surroundings.

Day 7: Wineries and Wildlife
  • Morning: Explore the Methow Valley. Visit a local winery, like Lost River Winery, and enjoy a tasting of Washington wines.
  • Afternoon: Head towards Cascades National Park, making a stop at the Ohme Gardens County Park in Wenatchee. Stroll through these beautiful gardens and enjoy the diverse plant life.
  • Evening: Arrive at Cascades National Park and set up camp. Enjoy a peaceful evening under the stars, listening to the sounds of nature.

Day 8 and beyond:
  • Explore the wonders of Cascades National Park at your own pace. Take a scenic drive along the Cascade Loop, hike to a stunning waterfall, or visit the historic Stevens Pass.

Tips for RVers:
  • Plan your route carefully, allowing for plenty of rest stops and downtime.
  • Book your campsites in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Pack for all types of weather, as conditions can change quickly in the mountains.
  • Take advantage of senior discounts at national parks and other attractions.
  • Most importantly, relax, enjoy the journey, and create lasting memories!

This itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can customize it to fit your interests and preferences. With its stunning scenery, charming towns, and abundance of activities, Washington State is the perfect destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating RV adventure. So, hit the road and enjoy the freedom of owning an RV!

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