Top Pacific Northwest spring road trip ideas | PEMCO

Hop in your car and spring into these fun #PNW destinations!
 
Are you ready to shake off the winter blues and embrace spring in all its glory? We certainly are. As a Pacific Northwest company for seventy-five years, we love where we live and want to help our customers experience all this area has to offer, too.  

Whether you’ve lived here for decades or you’re a recent transplant, we think there’s something new for everyone to explore. 
 
We‘ve compiled a list of four of the best places to visit in Washington and Oregon during spring. And the best part is, they're all within driving distance from wherever you live in the PNW. So, whether you’re up for a day trip or weekend getaway, grab your keys and your camera and get ready to discover these awesome #northwestsecrets. 

Skagit Valley, Washington 

If you love flowers, you'll love Skagit Valley, Washington. This fertile region is home to the annual Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, which runs from April 1 to 30 (but make sure to check the bloom status before you go). You can see millions of tulips in bloom, in a rainbow of colors and varieties. In addition to the fields, the festival offers a variety of activities and events, such as a parade, street fair, and guided tours. Visitors can also enjoy local food and drink, including wine tastings and fresh seafood. The festival provides a unique and memorable experience for anyone who loves nature, photography, or simply enjoying the beauty of spring and fresh air. 

While you’re in the area, consider visiting the charming towns of Mount Vernon, La Conner, and Anacortes, where you can enjoy local cuisine, art, and history. Skagit Valley is a feast for the eyes and the senses, and a perfect place to celebrate spring. 

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon 

For a stunning and awe-inspiring sight, you can't miss Crater Lake National Park, Oregon. This park is famous for its deep blue lake, which is the deepest in the United States and the ninth deepest in the world. The lake was formed by the collapse of a volcano and is surrounded by cliffs, forests, and snow-capped peaks (seriously, we think you need to see it to believe it).  

You can drive around the rim, hike the trails, or take a boat tour to see the island in the middle. During March and April (and maybe even May!) most winter-weather activities may still be available (depending on Mother Nature). Check weather conditions—and make sure to dress appropriately. Snow drifts have closed roads in Crater Lake National Park as late as July! 

 Crater Lake National Park is a natural wonder and a must-see destination all year round. 

Walla Walla, Washington 

For a taste of Washington wine country, head to Walla Walla. This charming town is known for its award-winning wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms. You can sample some of the best wines in the region and learn about the history and culture of winemaking.  

If winetasting isn’t your thing, fear not! Check out the downtown area, which has a rich heritage and a vibrant arts scene. There are many museums, galleries, and shops to check out, or you can consider catching a show at the historic theater. Walla Walla is a place where you can sip, savor, and enjoy the finer things in life.  

By spring, you’ll often find that the sun is starting to peek out in this part of the state—the best experience after a long and gray winter. Typical April temperatures in Walla Walla are in the mid-sixties. 

Ashland, Oregon 

If you're looking for a (very) unique and artsy trip, check out Ashland, Oregon. This town hosts the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, which is one of the largest and most famous theater events in the country. You can catch amazing performances of Shakespeare and other plays, from old school to new school, in gorgeous indoor and outdoor theaters (surrounded by captivating #PNW beauty!). You can also explore the natural beauty of Ashland, which is tucked in the Rogue Valley and has mountains, forests, and rivers all around.  

No matter where you go in the Pacific Northwest, there's always something new to discover. So hit the road and get ready to experience the beauty of spring in this region we are so lucky to call home. All of us at PEMCO are cheering you on as you tackle your next adventure with your loved ones (or solo). 

What “Northwest Secret” will you uncover? 
 

As always, feel free to share with us your favorite Northwest Secrets. We’d love to feature them on our blog!