If you’re an avid traveler of the great outdoors, there are many activities in the Pacific Northwest you should consider doing if you find yourself there.
The Pacific Northwest, a region that encompasses Oregon, Washington state, and parts of British Columbia, is a paradise for adventure seekers. With its beautiful landscape of mountains, old-growth forests, stunning state parks, and sandy beaches, there’s no shortage of thrilling outdoor activities to keep your adrenaline pumping.
Join us in today’s blog post as we look at the top 10 adventurous things that you can do in the Pacific Northwest.
1. Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail
Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is one of the most popular things to do in the Pacific Northwest. The PCT spans over 2,600 miles from Mexico to Canada and offers stunning views of the Pacific Northwest’s scenic landscapes. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner looking for a challenge, the PCT is one of the best hikes you won’t want to miss.
2. Kayaking in the San Juan Islands
Located off the northwest coast of Washington, the San Juan Islands are one of the best places for kayakers. With crystal clear waters and abundant marine life, including seals, sea lions, and orcas, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing. Guided tours are available for all skill levels.
3. Mountain Biking in Bend, Oregon
Bend, Oregon is known as a mecca for mountain bikers. With hundreds of miles of singletrack trails, you can test your skills on varying terrain surrounded by breathtaking scenery. If you’re new to mountain biking, now is the best time to take a guided tour or enroll in a training course. By the way, while you’re here make sure to visit the Oregon Coast — where more outdoor adventures await, especially during the summer months!
Related: Mt. Baker Vacation Rentals
4. Rock Climbing at Smith Rock State Park
Ready for a strenuous hike? Smith Rock State Park in Oregon is one of the premier rock climbing destinations in the United States. With over a thousand climbing routes ranging from easy to extremely difficult, it’s the perfect place for climbers of all levels. Don’t forget to enjoy the stunning views of the Crooked River and the surrounding high desert.
5. Skiing or Snowboarding at Whistler Blackcomb
Located in British Columbia, Whistler Blackcomb is one of the largest ski resorts in North America. With over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain, it’s a wonderland for winter sports. The resort also offers heli-skiing for those looking for ultimate outdoor recreation.
6. White Water Rafting on the Rogue River
If you’re into white water rafting, Rogue River in Southern Oregon is a good place to test your skills. The river offers a mix of calm waters and challenging rapids, making it suitable for families and adrenaline junkies alike. And the best part about this adventure? You can also book guided rafting trips from various outfitters.
7. Exploring the Olympic National Park
Nestled inside the Olympic Peninsula, Olympic National Park is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. You can hike through lush rainforests, climb rugged mountains, explore tide pools along the coastline, or soak in natural hot springs. The park also offers some of the best wilderness camping in the Pacific Northwest. If you want to be surrounded by natural beauty, the Olympic National Park is a great place to start.
Related: Top 5 Romantic Getaways in the Pacific Northwest
8. Surfing in Tofino, British Columbia
Known as Canada’s surf capital, Tofino offers some of the best surfing conditions in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a beginner, you’ll find a beach that suits your skill level. Surf schools and rental shops are available for those who need equipment or lessons.
9. Zip-lining in Grouse Mountain
For a bird’s eye view of the Pacific Northwest’s stunning landscapes, zip-lining in Grouse Mountain should be on your PNW bucket list. Located just outside Vancouver, BC, the mountain offers a series of zip lines that ensure you’ll have a great time soaring at exhilarating speeds.
10. Wildlife Watching in Glacier Bay National Park
Located in Alaska, Glacier Bay National Park is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. One of the best things to do here is to spot a variety of animals, including brown bears, moose, wolves, and a plethora of bird species – maybe even some ultra-rare bald eagles. For marine life, take a boat tour to find sea otters and seals and do a little whale watching.
Related: Unveiling Hidden Gems: 5 Unique Places to Stay in the Pacific Northwest
Conclusion
The Pacific Northwest is a region that beckons the adventurous spirit. Whether you’re into hiking, water sports, winter activities, or wildlife viewing, there’s an adventure waiting for you.
If your adventures in the Pacific Northwest take you near Mt. Baker or Glacier, consider making your base at Baker Bliss, offered by PNW Concierge. This premium vacation rental is nestled in Glacier, providing proximity to the stunning Mt. Baker area.
Baker Bliss is more than just a place to rest your head. It’s a retreat where you can unwind and recharge after your outdoor exploits. With our commitment to maintaining vacation rental properties to the highest standards, you can expect top-notch amenities and ultimate comfort during your stay.
Beyond the property itself, we also offer a comprehensive vacation concierge service, designed to enhance your stay with unique experiences and personal touches. At PNW Concierge, we can help arrange your day trip itinerary, local tours, and activities, and even provide personalized recommendations to make your vacation as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.
Whether you’re an adventure junkie planning to conquer the trails of Mt. Baker or someone seeking a tranquil getaway amid nature, Baker Bliss could be the perfect accommodation choice for your Pacific Northwest adventure.
This is such an inspiring list of things to do in the Pacific Northwest! I love how you’ve covered a range of activities, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. The Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty is clearly a highlight, and your descriptions of places like Mount Rainier and the Oregon Coast really make me want to explore more of the region. I also appreciate how you’ve included suggestions for both thrill-seekers and those who prefer more relaxed, scenic spots.
I noticed you mentioned the San Juan Islands for whale watching. Is there a particular season or time of year you’d recommend for the best experience? I’d love to plan a trip around that!
Thanks so much for reading. For whale watching in the San Juans, late spring through early fall is the classic window, with June through September being the most active stretch. Bigg’s orcas (the mammal-hunting ones) show up year-round now and have become a fairly reliable sighting, and humpbacks tend to be strongest from late summer into October. If you can time it around July or August, you get long daylight, calm water, and the widest range of what’s out there. Come plan around it — it’s one of our favorite reasons to send guests out on the water.