Discover San Francisco to Seattle the Best Way – On A Road Trip

Before you leave San Francisco

When you’re ready to set off, take the time to get some photos of the Golden Gate Bridge before you drive over it. You get the most fantastic views from Kirby Cove, Rodeo Beach, and Battery Spence. 

Head north, and within 30 minutes, you’ll find yourself at Mount Tamalpais – a great place to take a few more selfies and take in the breathtaking views of the Bay. 

For one of the most scenic drives in the area, take Highway 1 and stay on the coastal road until you reach Mendocino. This picturesque town is perfect for a lunch stop before you continue to the Avenue of the Giants. If you’re a nature lover, you’ll be amazed at the greenery and enormous redwood trees that have been growing here for thousands of years. 

If you have the time, it’s well worth staying here for a couple of days to relax and unwind before continuing to Crater Lake National Park. This extinct volcano collapsed 8,000 years ago and is an incredible sight. Why not drive around the outskirts of the lake, and end the day watching a stunning sunset?

Discover Oregon

Another couple of hours will get you to Bend – a paradise for countryside lovers. Here you can hike, ski, or practice your watersports skills on the Deschutes River. Have you always wanted to try paddle boarding or canoeing? This is the place to do it! 

For a taste of mountain scenery and incredible rock formations, a short drive will take you to Smith Rock State Park. Not to be missed is the Misery Ridge Trail, where you’ll see the famous Monkey Face rock.

If you want to stop off for a few days and make the most of this region, we recommend you drive the Hood River Fruit Loop. Here you’ll find plenty of delicious, freshly grown fruit from the region, including apples, pears, and cherries. 

Next on the list is the Columbia River Gorge, with its waterfalls and hiking trails. Then for a touch of city life, spend a day in Portland and sample the delights of the local cider farms and breweries.

A visit to Mount Rainier National Park will leave you speechless. The snow-capped mountains in spring contrast with the greenery of the meadows below that are filled with the scent of wildflowers.

Your arrival in Seattle

When you finally reach the city of Seattle, you’ll find plenty to do. There are museums, gardens, and markets to explore, and plenty of coffee shops where you can spend a couple of hours people-watching.

Pioneer Square is Seattle’s oldest zone and a great place to hang out and experience the art, bookstores, and culture of the city.

Another attraction is the Space Needle, where if you’ve got a head for heights, you’ll see the best views over Seattle.

For hassle-free car rental for your road trip, visit our car rental station at San Francisco airport and drop off in Seattle. Your journey starts here!