travel look.in

Cascade Loop Road Trip: our ultimate itinerary (with map)

Located in Washington State, the stunning Cascade Loop is a once-in-a-lifetime road trip through the beautiful natural world and small towns of Washington. Discover everything from alpine wonderlands to serene lakes, gorgeous forests to expansive valleys, and adorable small towns to popular ski villages along this popular road trip route.

The Cascade Loop extends for 440 miles in Washington state and takes the traveler about four to five days to drive including overnight stops. You will visit the best sights of Washington, including national and state parks, mountain ranges and more.

Recently designated a National Scenic Byway in 2021, the Cascade Loop is fully open during the months of June-October but can be experienced in segments any time of the year. Keep scrolling to discover a truly stunning road trip experience!

Where is the Cascade Loop?

The Cascade Loop is located in Washington State, in the Northwestern corner of the United States; it forms a larger loop through much of the state, with stops in towns and cities like Everett, Snohomish, Leavenworth, Wenatchee, Chelan, Winthrop, Anacortes and Coupeville.

The loop itself is located about twenty-five minutes from Seattle, the largest city in Washington, and includes stops through several parks, namely the North Cascades National Park, the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, and the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.

Follow the Cascade Loop to go from the Salish Sea and the Don Juan Islands all the way to deep within the mountainous region on the eastern side of Washington State.

Where does the Cascade Loop begin and end?

The Cascade Loop is (not surprisingly!) a circular route, which means that you can start from anywhere along the route and still get to experience the bounty that it has to offer in its entirety.

That being said, there are a couple of typical starting points, namely Mukilteo and Everett, both about a thirty minutes' drive from the city of Seattle. If starting here, the endpoint will typically be either Langley or Clinton, before the Ferry to Mukilteo.

How long is the Cascade Loop, and how long will it take to drive its entire length?

The Cascade Loop is about 440 miles in length and will take upwards hours to drive. The driving time required will vary, especially as part of the loop is closed during the off-season. Realistically, we recommend planning for about four to five days to get the full Cascade Loop experience.

If you're coming from Seattle, the total mileage will be something closer to 470 miles, as Seattle is thirty miles from the start of the loop. Make sure to add another thirty minutes to your itinerary if you plan on coming back to Seattle after completing the Cascade Loop.

Best way to drive on the Cascade Loop

Due to the nature of this route, there's really only one way to drive the Cascade Loop, though we should add that you can always just drive part of the loop and save the rest for another trip.

We've added an itinerary that includes the drive from Seattle to the start of the loop, as many road-trippers will typically stop in the city for a car rental before continuing onto the Cascade Loop.

Driving the entire length of the Cascade Loop

The Cascade Loop is known as the best road trip in Washington, featuring dozens of cities and towns along its route and offering travelers a rare opportunity to discover the state's stunning nature in-depth.

The whole route encompasses several national parks and forests, including a visit to North Cascade National Park, and takes traveler from the waters of Puget Sound to the mountains. The Loop is broken up into 9 regions, further detailed on the map above.

While you could certainly explore a segment of the route without driving the entire thing, part of the appeal of this road trip is the diversity offered across the Cascade Loop, from wineries and small-town restaurants to gorgeous valleys nearby which you'll find serene lakes or massive mountains.

The route for this loop is relatively straightforward: starting at Everett, you'll travel along US-2, following road signs for the Cascade Loop. You'll eventually merge onto US-97, and then WA-153 and WA-20, before finally getting to WA-525 which takes you back to the starting point!

Driving on the Cascade Loop from Seattle

To get to the Cascade Loop from the beautiful city of Seattle, you'll have to exit the city via Interstate 5. This highway will take you all the way past Lake Washington and straight to the Everett, where you can get onto Highway 2.

Once you've gotten onto the Cascade Loop, you follow the same route that we've highlighted and expounded upon above!

Best places to stay along the Cascade Loop

While you could certainly do the Cascade Loop in one long drive, our recommendation is to take your time with this gorgeous road trip. After all, you don't want to be rushing from town to town or natural wonder to natural wonder without having the opportunity to enjoy each attraction.

That's why we suggest stopping for at least one overnight stay in one of the many adorable towns along the Cascade Loop. Keep scrolling to discover our favourite stopover spots!

A nature escape in Winthrop

Located about halfway along the Cascade Loop, Winthrop is a popular stopping point for travelers taking this route, offering tons of attractions in its small area, including some gorgeous nature spots.

One of the reasons Winthrop is such a popular stopping point for Cascade Loop travelers is its proximity to the North Cascades National Park, probably the biggest attraction in the loop—after all, that's where it gets its name—and conveniently located just west of Winthrop.

This small town really has the ultimate cozy vibe, oozing with charm throughout its adorable downtown center. If you're thinking about stopping in this town, we definitely suggest stopping in Downtown Winthrop, which is filled to the brim with adorable restaurants and unique shops.

Winthrop is known for its proximity to the Methow Valley, which houses the continent's largest network of cross-country ski trails. The town also boasts the Sa Theekh Wa Bridge and Trail!

As usual, we've got you covered for accommodations with our recommendation of the Sun Mountain Lodge , one of the most luxurious lodges along the Cascade Loop.

The hotel boasts two restaurants with gorgeous views and a full-service spa, as well as a fabulous outdoor pool, two tennis courts and an activities center offering seasonal activities like mountain biking, fly fishing and horse riding.

This hotel is ideally located about 20 minutes from Winthrop, providing guests with tons of access to nature and a good amount of privacy. It's also right by Highway 20 which takes you back onto the Cascade Loop.

Bavarian luxury in Leavenworth

For something a little different when it comes to an overnight stop, we recommend Leavenworth, an adorable, Bavarian-inspired town that is a highlight of the Cascade Loop.

Leavenworth is an adorable Alpine-style village that offers a “taste of Bavaria”, including wonderful dining experiences, several spas and unique shops. It's especially gorgeous in the winter, decked out in Christmas lights.

The town has tons on offer when it comes to attractions, including the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm, the Leavenworth Town Center and the Enchantments, a pristine alpine wonderland that's only accessible via a pretty challenging hike.

You'll have lots of accommodation options in Leavenworth, though our recommendation is the stunning Bavarian Lodge . Boasting a year-round outdoor pool, complimentary hot breakfast, and Bavarian-inspired décor with village and mountain views, the Bavarian Lodge is one of the most highly rated lodges in Leavenworth.

The hotel is also in fabulous location, close to the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum, Front Street Park and the picturesque town center. Best of all, it's close to the highway which takes you back onto the Cascade Loop in the morning.

Things to see on a road trip on the Cascade Loop

There are dozens and dozens of attractions along the Cascade Loop—here's a selection of some of our must-visits for your trip.

The entire length of Cascade Loop

• Everett - A popular starting point for the Cascade Loop, Everett has tons to offer including an Arboretum, a unique children's museum, and the Shack Art Centre.
• Lake Washington - Just outside of Everett, you'll find gorgeous Lake Washington, perfect for exploring via canoe or simply to enjoy from its stunning shores.
• Snohomish - If you're into antiquing, Snohomish is for you, boasting a renowned collection of antique shops and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• Alpine Lakes Wilderness - The Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area, just outside of Leavenworth, offers several lakes as well as countless trails and walking paths perfect for an exploratory adventure.
• Leavenworth - Historic and cozy, Leavenworth is Washington State's premiere Alpine ski village, inspired by the Bavarian Villages of Europe and offering tons when it comes to spas, restaurants, and other attractions.
• Wenatchee - Referred to as the “Apple Capital of the World” due to its many orchards, the Wenatchee Valley is charming and perfect for a pit-stop or day's visit.
• Chelan - Lake Chelan and the nearby town of Chelan are both highlights along the Cascade Loop, boasting many apple orchards and a small but peaceful lake.
• Winthrop - The nearest town to the Methow Valley, Winthrop is known for its western flair and small-town vibe; it also boasts the continent's largest network of cross-country ski trails.
• Methow Valley - Methow Valley is a four-season recreational wonderland, offering tons of mountains, rivers and lakes that will keep you eager to explore this wonderful area.
• North Cascades National Park - Boasting a beautiful alpine landscape, North Cascades National Park is a highlight of the Cascade Loop, known for its stunning scenery and many hiking trails.
• Anacortes - Access the San Juan Islands via Anacortes, a popular and sunny destination for boaters and water-sport fanatics.
• Coupeville - There are tons to see in the small but mighty town of Coupeville, though you'll want to start by sampling its famous Penn Cove Mussels, which are exported to fine dining restaurants around the world.

Things to see driving from Seattle

• Boeing Future of Fligh t - Discover this wonderful museum, which is located just outside of Seattle and offers a look into the history and future of aviation.
• Marina Beach Park - Take in the beauty of Puget Sound from the vantage point at Marina Beach Park, which offers a serene beach as well as grounds for picnicking.

Best time to drive on the Cascade Loop

The Cascade Loop is only accessible in its entirety between the months of June and October, so while you can certainly explore and enjoy many of the attractions on this loop year-round, the only way to get the full experience is to travel during these months.

To see what kind of weather might await you on your trip, make sure to visit the dedicated website for more information.

Summer is the most popular season for exploring the Cascade Loop due to the wonderful weather this area gets during the hotter months. You'll find that tourism typically peaks during this time, but don't let that deter you; the loop is large and spread-out enough that you shouldn't feel an overwhelming tourist presence.

Summer temperatures in Washington will range between the upper 80s and mid 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

Winter in Washington State can be quite snowy and wet and will typically last into the late months of spring. As parts of the loop are closed during this season, we recommend against travelling during this time and instead choosing a time during the summer or early fall to take this trip.

That being said, some of the attractions (like Leavenworth, the Bavarian village) would be absolutely stunning during this time. Winter temperatures can easily dip into the 20s and 30 degrees in Washington state.

Closures affect access to the loop throughout all of spring, though by the end of the season you'll find most of the route re-opened and ripe for exploration. Fall, on the other hand, is a truly perfect time to take the Cascade Loop, as tourism is typically lower than in the summer and the fall foliage is stunning. Many of the apple orchards along the trail will also be ready for harvest, so you can enjoy harvest activities.

There are several events happening in the small towns and cities along this route—highlights include the Lake Chelan Winterfest in January, the Village of Lights: Winter Karneval in January, the Manson Apple Blossom Festival in May, and the Methow Valley Chamber Music Festival in June.

Join our email list!

By joining our email list, you give LazyTrips permission to use your email for sending you newsletters, emails and updates including for marketing purposes. Your email will not be provided to third parties.

Related posts

You'll never travel without our trip planner again

Travel planning at its best. build, organize, and map your custom itineraries in a free travel app designed for vacations & road trips, powered by our trip planner.

Your itinerary and your map in one view

No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

What travelers are raving about

Features to replace all your other tools, add places from guides with 1 click, collaborate with friends in real time, import flight and hotel reservations, expense tracking and splitting, checklists for anything, get personalized suggestions, plan like a pro.

Unlock premium features like offline access, unlimited attachments, flight deals, export to Google maps, and much more

Offline access

Unlimited attachments, optimize your route.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

Discover your next favorite destination

Get inspired from guides around the world — with expert tips and recommendations from the Wanderlog community. See all Wanderlog travel guides.

Have tips of your own? Write a guide to share with other travelers like you!

Ready to plan your trip in half the time?

For every kind of trip and every destination, the best road trip planner, the best vacation planner, the best group itinerary planner.

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

This page was published more than five years ago. Information on the page may be out of date.

• For U.S. Citizens/Lawful Permanent Residents

Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative

What is the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI)?

WHTI is the joint Department of State (DOS) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) plan to implement a key 9/11 Commission recommendation and the statutory mandates of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 (IRTPA). IRTPA, in part, required the DHS and DOS to develop and implement a plan to require all travelers, U.S. citizens and foreign nationals alike, to present a passport or other acceptable document that denotes identity and citizenship when entering the United States.

What is the goal of requiring secure documents?

The goal is to strengthen border security while facilitating entry into the United States for U.S. citizens and legitimate international travelers, making the process more efficient and convenient.

What types of documents are accepted for entry into the United States via air?

• U.S. citizens can present a valid: U.S. Passport; Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST); U.S. Military identification card when traveling on official orders; U.S. Merchant Mariner document when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business. Note that children are also required to present their own passport when traveling by air. (note: The Indian/tribal card can NOT be used for air travel).
• Requirements for lawful permanent residents of the United States are not changed by the implementation of WHTI. Lawful permanent residents must continue to present a valid Permanent Resident Card. A passport is not required.

What types of documents are accepted for entry into the United States via land and sea?

• U.S. citizens can present a valid: U.S. Passport; Passport Card; Enhanced Driver’s License; Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST); U.S. Military identification card when traveling on official orders; U.S. Merchant Mariner document when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business; or Form I-872 American Indian Card, or (when available) Enhanced Tribal Card.
• U.S. and Canadian citizen children under the age of 16 (or under 19, if traveling with a school, religious group, or other youth group) need only present a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship. The birth certificate can be original, photocopy, or certified copy.
• WHTI does not affect U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents, who are still required to present their permanent resident card (Form I-551) or other valid evidence of permanent residence status.
• Canadian citizens can present a valid passport, Enhanced Driver’s License, or Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST).
• Bermudian citizens are required to present a valid passport.
• Mexican citizens, including children, are required to present a passport with visa, or a Border Crossing Card.
• U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises (cruises that begin and end at the same U.S. port) are able to enter the United States with a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID. Please be aware that you may still be required to present a passport to enter the countries your cruise ship is visiting. Check with your cruise line to ensure you have the appropriate documents.

What is an enhanced driver’s license?

State-issued enhanced drivers licenses (EDLs) provide proof of identity and U.S. citizenship, are issued in a secure process, and include technology that makes travel easier. They provide travelers with a low-cost, convenient alternative for entering the United States from Canada, Mexico or the Caribbean through a land or sea port of entry, in addition to serving as a permit to drive.

The Department has been working with states to enhance their driver’s licenses and identification documents to comply with travel rules under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), effective June 1, 2009.

How do I get a passport?

United States citizens can visit the State Department’s travel website or call the U.S. National Passport Information Center at (877) 4USA-PPT; TDD/TTY: (888) 874-7793.

What if I don’t have the required documents when I travel to or return to the United States?

Travelers without WHTI-compliant documents are likely to be delayed at the border as CBP officers work to verify identity and citizenship.

How Elon Musk's 700 mph hyperloop could be the fastest way to travel

Following is a transcript of the video.

Narrator: This is the future of high-speed transportation. It's 3 1/2 times faster than Japan's Shinkansen bullet trains and even faster than a Boeing 747. It's a hyperloop – magnetic pods levitating inside a tube at more than 1,000 kilometers per hour. In theory, you could go from LA to San Francisco in just 45 minutes with tickets less than $100 one way. This technology could make working and living in two different cities a norm, while also creating a world with less congestion and pollution.

Sara Luchian: Woo!

Josh Giegel: Yes!

Narrator: And with a successful human test ride in November 2020, we could be less than 10 years away from it becoming reality. The concept of the hyperloop became widely popular in 2013 thanks to Elon Musk's 58-page "Hyperloop Alpha" paper that outlined the design, cost, and safety of the concept. But the technology to bring it all together commercially was only recently fine-tuned, namely magnetic levitation, or maglev.

Maglev is basically what allows a hyperloop to go incredibly fast, thanks to the lack of friction between the passenger-carrying pods and the tube-shaped track. The general concept is simple. Magnets lining the bottom of the pod repel the tube material, levitating the pod as it runs.

Giegel: As an engineer, I always get very excited about talking about magnetic levitation, electromagnetic propulsion.

Narrator: That's Josh, a mechanical engineer who previously worked at SpaceX. He's now the cofounder and CTO of Virgin Hyperloop. And this is Chuck. He's the lead engineer at a different hyperloop company, Hyperloop Transportation Technologies. They're both currently developing the best combination of magnets to create the smoothest ride possible, using passive or active maglev.

Passive maglev uses permanent magnets in a specific configuration to create a constant magnetic current that levitates the pod, similar to the magnets you might've played with as a kid. Active maglev uses a combination of permanent magnets and electromagnets, the latter which can manipulate the electric current and the strength of that current.

Giegel: Basically, if I get too close, I drive it one way. If I get too far, I add some strength. And so you can kind of think of it as balancing out. And so if there's bumps in the track, if there's all this, I have a system which basically uses an active control system to make that ride smooth.

Narrator: And while you might think this sounds similar to existing maglev trains, the hyperloop concept removes a key element that holds a lot of trains and planes back: air resistance.

Giegel: So, if you ever stick your hand out a window when you're driving in a car, imagine if there's really no air there. You really wouldn't feel that force pushing back your hand. And the same thing can be said for hyperloop.

Narrator: This is where vacuum pumps come in handy. Both companies are installing pumps along the tube. For HyperloopTT...

Chuck Michael: The vacuum pumps in our case are developed by Leybold, which invented the vacuum pumps about 150 years ago. So they have a lot of experience.

Narrator: These pumps, located every 10 kilometers, theoretically would suck out 99.9% of the air between the capsule and the tube. Removing air drag could be the difference of some 800 kilometers per hour.

Michael: Theoretically, you could go even faster than the speed of sound, but that's toying with some fun things that we'll do later on.

Narrator: It's going to take a little bit more time before we go supersonic, though. First, the companies have to prove the tech is safe, which is why this scene is so important.

Luchian: Wow!

Giegel: Yes!

Luchian: I flew!

Giegel: Yes! [both laughing]

Luchian: That was so good!

Giegel: That was awesome!

Narrator: In November 2020, Josh and Sara from Virgin Hyperloop became the first people to ever ride a hyperloop. The two-seat prototype hyperloop traveled 500 meters, reaching 172 kilometers per hour within 6.25 seconds.

Giegel: You felt a bit forced back in your seat. You really couldn't even notice the levitation. Like, you didn't notice it pick up. But what you did notice is there wasn't that kind of jerkiness. The camera didn't do it quite justice, because the camera was bouncing around a bit more than we were. And it was a little bit more of, like, a cushion or, like, a pillowy type of feeling. You could process everything that was going on around you. You're basically coasting, and you're floating on an idea that was nothing more than something on a piece of paper not all that long ago.

Narrator: While the ride proved its safety, the company wants to work more on the experience. And the actual hyperloop will be much bigger too, holding 28 or more passengers with the ability to move 30,000 passengers an hour. But to get to this point, there will be more testing involved for both companies.

Michael: Lots of things have to happen between now and then. The hyperloop construction, the route is one thing. The integration with the stations is another, and that takes a partnership with the communities.

Narrator: And HyperloopTT is currently in the works to build and test a full-sized project in Abu Dhabi. Its first potential US project will run from Chicago to Cleveland. Virgin Hyperloop will be building its new certification testing facility in West Virginia in 2022, including a 9,600-meter track to be used for testing and establishing regulatory and safety guidelines.

Giegel: Around 2025, we're intending to certify a fleet of vehicles, of the 28-passenger vehicles.

Narrator: Virgin Hyperloop has plans in Dubai, India, and more, with stateside plans for the Midwest, North Carolina, and Texas. But both of these US projects won't be complete until around 2030. Which might sound like a long time, but airplanes took about 16 years to really get up and running, and the first high-speed rail in Japan took at least a decade of development. So some 15 years for a hyperloop doesn't seem that far off. After all...

Giegel: How can we be a 22nd-century country when we're built upon the technology of the 19th century, upon the 20th century? A single lane of hyperloop can do in excess of 30,000 passengers an hour. What are you going to invest in? What's the thing that you should invest in that allows you to get the future demand, the future needs that you have? A shift is possible if we choose to embrace it.

EDITOR'S NOTE: This video was originally published in December 2020.

More from Transportation

• Main content

THAILAND TRAVEL GUIDE

Where to Go in Thailand?

Thailand is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world - Twenty years ago it was considered 'daring' to travel to Thailand. Times have certainly changed. From the majestic five-star hotels in Bangkok to simple beach huts in Koh Samui or Koh Samet, accommodation choices are many. From the stunning plains and hills of the Golden Triangle to the wave-lapped white sand beaches of Phuket, Samui and Krabi, the kingdom radiates beauty.

In the North you will find breathtaking mountain ranges with waterfalls and fast flowing rivers for trekking and rafting, ethnic tribal groups with unique customs and clothing and people famous for their courtesy and hospitality.

The North-East, or Isan, is one of the country’s most intriguing destinations with many Stone Age and Bronze Age dwellings and artifacts, and several significant temples and national parks. The central plains and the east coast are dotted with national parks, seaside resorts and islands.

Thailand has so much to offer that one visit is never enough – you'll want to come back anddiscover more time after time.

Northern Thailnd

Central Thaland

Kanchanaburi

Southern Thailand

Province and town summaries:

Thailand is a unitary state that is subdivided into 76 provinces and one special administrative area representing the capital Bangkok. The provinces are part of the provincial government, while Bangkok is part of the local government. Some of the most popular destinations are of course the many islands, every one of them featuring clear blue seas and soft white sand.

Thailand has a population of almost 70 million, with the capital alone being home to about 6.5 million Thais. Accommodation:

Accommodation in Thailand, in all the major towns and tourist centres, offers a huge range from basic hostels to 5-star luxury resorts. The very long coastline and hundreds of islands means there are many beautiful resorts right on the beach, perfect for special occasions such as weddings and honeymoons. Food and drink:

Thai food is legendary, especially if you like spicy food.

Thai cuisine is one of the most popular cuisines in the world. In 2011, seven of Thailand's popular dishes appeared on the list of the "World's 50 Most Delicious Foods”, a worldwide online poll of 35,000 people by CNN Travel. Thailand had more dishes on the list than any other country. The most popular were Tom Yam Goong, Pad Thai, Som Tam, Massaman Curry, Green Curry, Thai Fried Rice and Moo Nam Tok. Outlets vary from some amazing street food, to fine dining in some of the best hotels in the world. If 5-star wine lists are not your scene then Happy Hours are everywhere in the tourist bar areas where you can sample both Thai and international beers and drinks.

Thai cuisine blends five fundamental tastes: sweet, spicy, sour, bitter, and salty. Common ingredients used in Thai cuisine include garlic, chilies, limejuice, lemon grass, coriander, galangal, palm sugar, and fish sauce (nam pla). The staple food in Thailand is rice, particularly jasmine variety rice, which forms a part of almost every meal. Thai food is a highlight of any visit. Health: Healthcare is one of the issues that concerns most foreign travelers to Asia, however Thailand is the go-to place for some of the best healthcare in Asia, so if you have good insurance you can receive some of the best treatment in the world at reasonable costs, especially in Bangkok. Travel Loop Adventure strongly recommends a good travel insurance policy.

There are some things you can do that are just common sense.

• Cover up from the sun either like the locals with clothing, or high factor sunscreen, and wear a hat. • Rehydrate as much as possible during the day. • Mosquito repellents are also recommended if you are prone to being bitten. • Small cuts and abrasions (especially on feet and legs) are very easily infected in Vietnam and so careful first aid is a must. Keep everything scrupulously clean and bring antiseptic cream. 

Where Can I Travel Without a Passport?

A mericans looking to renew or obtain a new U.S. passport have been met with myriad challenges in recent years, not the least of which has been long delays. And while passport processing times are finally coming back down a bit (now an estimated eight to 11 weeks , as opposed to 10 to 13 weeks earlier this year), it's still not ideal for those hoping to go on an international beach vacay, like yesterday.

Luckily for travelers caught in administrative limbo (or for people who don't care to get a passport), there are numerous destinations American travelers can visit with just a government-issued I.D. and proof of citizenship. Of course that includes the wealth of beautiful, nature-filled outdoor landscapes (including dozens of national parks ), and culture-packed city hubs Americans can travel to right here in the United States .

Beyond the 50 United States, these are all the places American citizens can visit without a passport.

U.S. territories

American samoa.

Blending Polynesian and American influences, these five islands in the South Pacific (located roughly 2,600 miles southwest of Hawaii) are rimmed by white sand beaches and reefs teeming with marine life. And while American Samoa sees less than 23,000 visitors each year, any American citizen could legally travel there. Because American Samoa has been a U.S. territory since 1900, American travelers don't need a passport to visit -they just need a Real I.D. You'll also need an onward or return ticket to be let into the country, per the U.S. Department of State.

Micronesia's most populous island has all the usual trappings of paradise: golden sand beaches, swaying palms, cascading waterfalls, and a laid-back culture. And even though it's more than 6,000 miles southwest of Los Angeles, in Guam, U.S. citizens are considered domestic travelers, so no passport is required, if you connect through Honolulu (the other options are flying through Tokyo and Seoul, which would require a passport). You will need a government-issued I.D. and proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate, however.

Northern Mariana Islands

The Northern Mariana Islands , a remote archipelago in the western Pacific Ocean just northeast of Guam, are another spot for American sun-seekers to experience tropical landscapes and crystal-clear water sans passport. However, like Guam, you'll need to choose a flight path that doesn't have layovers in countries where passports are required, like Japan-your best option is to fly through Honolulu and Guam. Travelers only need a photo I.D. and a birth certificate to visit.

Puerto Rico

With wildly diverse terrain, colorful historic towns, and a thriving nightlife scene, Puerto Rico makes a compelling case for leaving the mainland for a while. Because Puerto Ricans were given U.S. citizenship under the Jones-Shafroth Act of 1917, the island is considered part of the U.S. for immigration and travel purposes, even if it isn't a state. U.S. citizens are not required to have a passport to visit Puerto Rico-they just need a valid government-issued I.D., such as a driver's license or state I.D. card.

U.S. Virgin Islands

If you're keen on a holiday that involves gazing out at shimmering turquoise water and listening to the rhythmic shush of waves breaking on the beach, you might consider the U.S. Virgin Islands . Another Caribbean gem, the U.S. Virgin Islands, consists of three main islands (St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix) and has been a U.S. territory since 1917. All you need (beyond a plane ticket or cruise booking) is a valid government-issued I.D. and a birth certificate to be sipping cocktails on pristine beaches, snorkeling with riotously colorful fish, and dancing to the music of steel drums.

International cruises that don't require a passport

Another loophole for passport-less travelers who would like to experience an international locale are "closed-loop" cruises . A closed-loop cruise is a sailing that starts and ends at the same U.S. port and only visits select countries in the Western Hemisphere. On these cruises passengers aren't required to have a passport. Those countries include:

• British Virgin Islands
• Cayman Islands
• Dominican Republic
• Turks and Caicos

Travelers are still required to have proof of citizenship, however. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection , that can include an Enhanced Driver's License (currently available only to residents of Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington); a government-issued birth certificate; or an official Certificate of Naturalization . Passengers who are 16 years and older also need to supply their photo I.D. (such as a driver's license).

It's worth noting, however, that if the cruise stops in even a single country or territory where passports are required (such as Barbados, Guadeloupe, Martinique, St. Bart's, and Trinidad and Tobago), you'll need a passport for the entire journey. And it's recommended that passengers bring a passport on these cruises, even if it's not technically required, in the event that they need to leave the cruise early and fly to or from an international destination.

Metro Phoenix drivers can expect weekend freeway closures on Loop 101, SR 143 and I-17

Metro Phoenix drivers can expect several freeway closures and detours this weekend on Interstate 10, Loop 101 and State Route 143, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation's weekend freeway travel advisory.

The northbound Loop 101 will be closed between Shea Boulevard and Pima Road/Princess Drive, and SR 143 will be closed between Loop 202 and I-10, and I-10 and University Drive. Several freeway stretches will also be narrowed.

ADOT recommended drivers plan for extra travel time and detour routes while the restrictions are in place.

Northbound Loop 101 closed between Shea Boulevard and Pima Road/Princess Drive

Northbound Loop 101 will be closed between Shea Boulevard and Pima Road/Princess Drive beginning at 10 p.m. Friday until 5 a.m. Monday for a lighting installation.

The advisory recommended taking westbound Loop 202 to northbound State Route 51 to reach Loop 101. Drivers exiting northbound Loop 101 to westbound Shea Boulevard can use northbound Scottsdale Road to Loop 101 beyond the closure.

On-ramps at Via de Ventura and 90th Street/Pima Road will also be closed.

The advisory noted that the northbound Loop 101 on-ramp at Shea Boulevard, which had been closed for reconstruction, is also expected to reopen by 5 a.m. Monday.

State Route 143 closed between Loop 202 and I-10, I-10 and University Drive

Southbound SR 143 will closed between Loop 202 and I-10 from 10 p.m. Friday until 4 a.m. Monday. Northbound SR 143 will be closed between I-10 and University Drive at the same time.

Both Loop 202 ramps to southbound SR 143 will be closed.

Drivers can use westbound I-10 or eastbound Loop 202 to reach destinations including 44th Street and Sky Harbor Airport.

I-17 on-ramps at Loop 303 closed

The southbound I-17 on-ramp at Loop 303 will be closed from 9 p.m. to 8 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. The northbound I-17 on-ramp at Loop 303/Sonoran Desert Drive will be closed overnight from 9 p.m. Sunday to 5 a.m. Monday.

Drivers on Loop 303 or Sonoran Desert Drive can use either northbound 43rd Avenue or the northbound I-17 frontage road to Dove Valley Road to reach I-17.

Southbound Loop 101 narrowed between Loop 202 and Southern Avenue

Southbound Loop 101 will be narrowed to three left lanes between Loop 202 and Southern Avenue from 9 p.m. Friday until 5 a.m. Monday for pavement improvement work.

The on-ramps at University Drive and Broadway Road will be closed. The eastbound Loop 202 ramp to southbound Loop 101 will be narrowed to one lane.

East and westbound I-10 narrowed

Eastbound I-10 will be narrowed to two lanes between 48th Street and Broadway Road starting at 8 p.m. Friday until 4 a.m. Monday for construction.

Westbound I-10 will be narrowed to three lanes between Broadway Road and 40th Street from 10 p.m. Friday to 4 a.m. Monday. Westbound US 60 will also be narrowed to two lanes between Priest Drive I-10 during this time.

The westbound I-10 off-ramp at 40th Street will also be closed.

US 60 narrowed at Greenfield Road

US 60 will be narrowed to two lanes in both directions at Greenfield Road from 10 p.m. Friday to 5 p.m. Saturday for bridge work.

ADOT said drivers should allow extra travel time and be prepared to slow down and merge safely when approaching and traveling through all work zones.

Why South Dakota's Wind Cave National Park is a marvelous two-for-one special

Wind Cave National Park may not be the only national park with a cool cave , but that doesn’t make it any less special.

“I think the caves are a little bit like people,” said Tom Farrell, chief of Interpretation at the park. “They're all a little different. They have their own story to tell.”

Wind Cave, for instance, is the sixth longest cave in the world and among the most complex.

“Larger caves (are) spread out over a larger area. We’ve got 167 miles of cave crammed under 1.2 square miles on the surface,” he said. 

And that's not all there is to see at the Wind Cave. Here’s what else travelers should know about the latest national park in USA TODAY’s yearlong series .

What is so special about Wind Cave?

“We have the best example of boxwork found anywhere in the world,” Farrell said. “I like to brag we had the best boxwork in the solar system because the Mars Rover sent back some pictures that kind of look like crude boxwork, but ours are better.”

He compared the honeycomb-like calcite formations hanging from the cave’s ceilings and walls to fragile peanut brittle.

“Unlike a stalactite and a stalagmite that could continue to grow if they had more water dripping on them, these things, once you break them, they're broken, so they’re very rare and very delicate,” he said.

How much does it cost to get into Wind Cave National Park?

It’s free to enter Wind Cave National Park, but there are fees for ranger-guided cave tours . Most tours cost less than $10.

Can you go into Wind Cave without a tour?

No. “It’s too dangerous,” Farrell said. “Either people would crawl off trail and get lost,or people could vandalize the cave, so to protect the cave and protect the visitor, you’ve got to go with a ranger.”

Guided tours range from the 30-minute Accessibility Tour to the Wild Cave Tour, “where we give you a hardhat, elbow pads and knee pads and take your crawling in the cave for three to four hours,” he said. 

How big is Wind Cave National Park?

Wind Cave National Park spans roughly 34,000 acres above ground. Below the surface, its namesake cave extends at least 167 miles. Farrell said there are around 3,000 leads still waiting to be explored.

“We're gradually expanding and learning a little bit more about the cave,” he said. “It's an exciting place to be.”

Just don’t follow your GPS to get there.

“You will get lost,” the park’s website warns in bold letters. “Many GPS units locate the park visitor center north on South Dakota Highway 87. The coordinates for the Visitor Center are N43 33' 22" W103 28' 38".

The park is about 11 miles north of Hot Springs, South Dakota. The nearest commercial airport, Rapid City Regional Airport, is more than 60 miles away in Rapid City.

How long do you need at Wind Cave National Park?

“If it's just going to explore the cave, you could do it in half a day,” Farrell said. “If you're going to go hiking or whatnot, you definitely need at least a day.” There are more than 30 miles of trails in the park.

Travelers should note that the cave itself is closed this summer to allow for elevator updates. Instead of guiding visitors into the cave, rangers will lead interactive virtual tours in the park auditorium, allowing visitors with mobility impairment or claustrophobia to view parts of the cave they may never experience otherwise.

There’s plenty else to see above ground, including black-footed ferrets, prairie dogs, elk, and “a very unique bison herd.” 

“This time of year, it's great because they have new calves that are cinnamon-colored,” Farrell said. 

Additionally, new exhibits are expected to open at the park’s visitor center later this summer, sharing more of the Native history of the land. 

“If you can't find something that you're passionate about here, you're just not trying,” Farrell said.

Who are the Native people of Wind Cave National Park?

More than 20 Native American tribes are historically tied to the land, according to the park:

• Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes of the Fort Peck Indian Reservation
• Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe
• Cheyenne-Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma
• Crow Creek Sioux Tribe
• Eastern Shoshone Tribe
• Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe
• Fort Belknap Indian Community
• Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma
• Lower Brule Sioux Tribe
• Lower Sioux Indian Community
• Northern Arapaho Tribe
• Northern Cheyenne Tribe
• Oglala Sioux Tribe
• Ponca Tribe of Indians of Oklahoma
• Ponca Tribe of Nebraska
• Rosebud Sioux Tribe
• Santee Sioux Nation
• Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate
• Spirit Lake Tribe of Fort Totten
• Standing Rock Sioux Tribe
• Three Affiliated Tribes (Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation) Fort Bethold
• Upper Sioux Community
• Yankton Sioux Tribe

What are some fun facts about Wind Cave?

Farrell shared these five facts about the park:

• For the Lakota people, this is their origin site where they emerged from underground and where bison were born into Lakota oral history. 
• Wind Cave National Park played an important role in helping save bison from extinction with the reintroduction of 14 bison from the Bronx Zoo in 1913. 
• Esther Brazell was hired as a park ranger at the cave in July of 1916, making her the first female park ranger in the National Park Service.  
• Wind Cave National Park is the sixth-oldest national park in the system and one of the oldest caves in the world, making it a place where one can be fully immersed in ancient earth.
• This national park is still being explored. Cave explorers are continuing to find more rooms and passages.

One Day in Yellowstone: Lower Loop Itinerary & Map (All Must-Sees in 1 Day!)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 8, 2023

Thinking of visiting Yellowstone National Park in the U.S., but have limited time and wondering what you can see and do in Yellowstone in one day ? Whether you are visiting Yellowstone in one day from West Entrance or are driving to Yellowstone from Jackson Hole via the South Entrance, this itinerary will bring you to the best places that you can easily see in Yellowstone in 1 day. Find out!

While one day in Yellowstone is just enough to scratch the surface, it is still possible to see some of the main landmarks of America’s oldest National Park. Even if you just have a day, you can see the Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, as well as some wildlife.

If you have more time in the park, please check our Yellowstone itinerary suggestions – it contains tips for longer trips as well.

In this article, we share our best suggestions for how to best spend one day in Yellowstone National Park . This is a Lower Loop itinerary that covers all the main sights that you can see in a day. To make your travel planning easier, we also included a map and some practical tips for your visit. Find out!

READ ALSO: Yellowstone South Loop – all the best places to see

PRO TIP:   If you want to see the highlights of Yellowstone but don’t want to worry about planning a trip or figuring out where to go, you can also join guided tours . Experienced local guides will make sure that you get the absolute most out of your day in Yellowstone.

Here’s the best 1-day tour  with departure from Jackson, WY or Teton Village. And here is the best-rated tour from West Yellowstone.

For more day trip suggestions from other locations nearby, please check our guide to the best Yellowstone tours .

One Day in Yellowstone National Park – Overview

Here is an overview of the main places you can see in Yellowstone in one day. Please note that this itinerary covers the lower loop of Yellowstone , as that is where most of the must-see places are located (see the map below).

Driving Yellowstone’s lower loop allows you to get the most out of your short visit. So if you have 1 day in Yellowstone and you want to see the ‘musts’, this is the area you should focus on.

Good to know: Because this is a circular itinerary, you can easily adapt it no matter where you are coming from: Yellowstone West, Jackson Hole, or Cody. See also our guide to the best hotels to stay near Yellowstone – it has recommendations for all of these towns.

Suggested Yellowstone one day itinerary:

Old Faithful Area

• Grand Prismatic Spring Area
• Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail (optional)

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Hayden valley.

• Yellowstone Lake
• West Thumb Geyser Basin

Further below, you can find more details for each place and a map of the suggested lower loop itinerary covering all of the above. Read on!

Good to know: This is a summer itinerary that can be done from mid-May to mid-October when all the roads in Yellowstone are open. For more information about different seasons, please check our guide to the best time to visit Yellowstone .

Yellowstone Lower Loop Itinerary Map

To make it easier to plan your time, I created this map indicating all the places that you should be able to see in Yellowstone in one day.

You can do this trip arriving via the South Entrance (coming from Jackson/Grand Teton NP), via the East Entrance (coming from Cody), or via the West Entrance (coming from Bozeman/ West Yellowstone).

Depending on where you enter and leave the park, you’ll have to adjust this itinerary a bit. But it gives you a good idea of what can be done in Yellowstone in a day. Note that you can do the loop in either direction and it doesn’t matter much where exactly you start or finish.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

What to See in Yellowstone in One Day

Here’s what you should try to see in Yellowstone in 1 day:

The Old Faithful area is the most popular place to be in Yellowstone. So even if you have just limited time in the park, make sure to include it in your itinerary.

It’s home to the historic Old Faithful Inn lodge and the biggest best-predictable geyser in the park, the Old Faithful Geyser . This geyser erupts at pretty regular intervals of about 90 minutes and no visit to Yellowstone would be complete without seeing it in action.

READ MORE: Old Faithful Geyser

Depending on when the next predicted Old Faithful eruption is, you might need up to 2 hours in this area. So if you have some extra time, I strongly suggest that you explore a bit more of the Upper Geyser Basin , beyond the Old Faithful.

Upper Geyser Basin has the largest concentration of geysers and geothermal features in the world and is well worth visiting. You can see so many other geysers here and also mud pools, fumaroles, and colorful geothermal springs, such as the Morning Glory Pool.

With just one day in Yellowstone, you shouldn’t spend more than 2-3 hours in the Old Faithful area (or you won’t have enough time left for the rest). But try to make at least a short walk in the Upper Geyser Basin and see a few other geysers and geothermal features while, for example, waiting for the Old Faithful to erupt.

READ MORE: Upper Geyser Basin

Grand Prismatic Spring

Grand Prismatic is the largest hot spring in the United States, best known for its incredible colors. It’s a highlight of any trip to Yellowstone and a place that should be in every itinerary, even if you only have a day. In my opinion, this is one of the few places that you absolutely have to see.

You need about half an hour to visit the Midway Geyser Basin. A boardwalk passes all the main features, including the Grand Prismatic Spring , Excelsior Geyser Crater , Opal Pool , and Turquoise Pool . However, if it’s really busy and the car parking is full, it might take you an hour or even longer.

TIP: If you have at least half an hour to spare, consider hiking the Grand Prismatic Overlook trail . This short easy hike brings you to a higher elevation point from which you can see the Grand Prismatic Spring from above.

READ MORE: Grand Prismatic Spring

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River is another place you should try to see when visiting Yellowstone for a day. This impressive canyon can best be admired from several viewpoints along both rims. There are lots of hiking trails in this area, but with limited time, I suggest you just drive from one viewpoint to another.

The most impressive views over the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is from the Artist Point . So if you have time for just one stop here, make it this one. It’s located at the end of South Rim Drive.

If you have a bit more time, make sure to also drive the North Rim Drive and stop at several viewpoints along that side of the canyon. Our personal favorite stops here were the Brink of the Upper Falls and Lookout Point . Inspiration Point and Grand View are also well worth a quick stop if you have time.

Good to know: It’s hard to say how much you’ll be able to do here and how long it will take to visit. So much depends on the traffic and how busy it is in the car parking areas. If you are visiting in the shoulder season, you might be able to drive to all the viewpoints in 1,5 hours, whereas on a busy day, you might need almost an hour just for the Artist Point…

READ MORE: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Hayden Valley is one of the best places to see wildlife in Yellowstone. Since the lower Yellowstone loop road passes right through the valley, it’s really easy to add it to your one-day itinerary.

The best time to see wildlife is early in the morning or around sunset. But even if you come here during the day, you’re likely to see lots of bison in Hayden Valley.

Good to know: Bison traffic jams are very common in Hayden Valley. That gives you a great opportunity to watch these incredible animals from the safety of your car. But it also means that you need to foresee some extra time to drive through the valley.

Yellowstone Lake – West Thumb Geyser Basin

Yellowstone Lake is huge, but with just a day in the park, you won’t have much time to explore it by boat or hiking along its shores. One of the best things to do if you are short on time is to visit the West Thumb Geyser Basin , just along the shores of the lake.

Located on the west side of Yellowstone Lake, West Thumb Geyser Basin is one of the smallest geothermal areas of Yellowstone. But it’s also very colorful and easy to visit. Some of its thermal features are located in the lake, the others just along the shore.

You can explore this entire area in less than half an hour, via a flat wheelchair-accessible boardwalk. If you are passing by here, it’s an interesting place to visit and can easily fit in any Yellowstone itinerary. It’s not an absolute must, but a really nice stop along the way.

Tips for Better Experience

With just 1 day in Yellowstone, it’s important to make the most of it! Here are some tips that will help you out!

• Start your day as early as possible! Driving distances in Yellowstone National Park are big and speed limits are low. Furthermore, wildlife traffic jams are common and car parking areas at the main landmarks can get really busy during the day.
• Pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water so that you don’t have to waste time looking for a place to eat during the day.
• Be flexible and adjust your itinerary during the day. If you notice that you have plenty of time and are running ahead of schedule, explore a bit deeper (places marked as ‘optional’ in our overview above). Whereas if it’s really busy everywhere and you are running out of time, concentrate on the main landmarks only.
• Don’t try to plan every minute of your day . You simply can’t prepare for everything – it’s nature after all. Foresee some extra time for unexpected wildlife encounters, erupting geysers, and beautiful viewpoints along the way.
• Stay close to the park or inside the park if possible. The closer you are to the lower Yellowstone loop, the more you’ll be able to see during your short visit. Here you can find our tips and detailed guide on where to stay in and near Yellowstone . One of the best places to stay for this 1-day itinerary is West Yellowstone , just near the West entrance of the park. Alternatively, you can also visit Yellowstone in one day from Jackson Hole .

TIP: Using the map below, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in West Yellowstone. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay. Check it out!

FAQ – Yellowstone in 1 Day

Yellowstone National Park is huge, so one day is not enough to see everything that Yellowstone has to offer. However, if you plan well, you can still see a lot in a day. With a good itinerary, it is possible to visit the main landmarks of Yellowstone in 1 day.

Here are the best places that we suggest visiting if you are visiting Yellowstone for one day: Old Faithful Geyser and Upper Geyser Basin, Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone Canyon, Hayden Valley, Yellowstone Lake, and West Thumb Geyser Basin.

It would take at least 4-5 hours to drive the Grand Loop of Yellowstone in summer, not counting road works, wildlife traffic jams, or any stops for sightseeing. We don’t recommend driving the entire loop if you only have one day in Yellowstone. Instead, visit the main landmarks along the Lower Loop.

In summer, when all the roads are open, you can drive through Yellowstone. However, don’t just drive thru – try to see at least some of the best places! If you are crossing Yellowstone from south to north, as a minimum, try to stop at the Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and Mammoth Hot Springs.

Just as in all National Parks, you have to pay an entrance fee when entering Yellowstone. There are no day passes in Yellowstone. The cheapest entrance ticket is 35 USD per private vehicle and it remains valid for 7 days. If you are visiting by motorcycle, you pay 30 USD, on foot or by bike – 20 USD. Once inside the park, you can visit all the landmarks free of charge.

Are you interested in a FREE printable .pdf with Yellowstone Travel Tips?

Sign up for Full Suitcase newsletter and we will send it to you right away. You’ll get a .pdf file containing our top tips for visiting Yellowstone.

Agree with  Full Suitcase Privacy Policy

IMPORTANT! Please check your mailbox to confirm subscription. If you don’t see the email right away, please check Promotions and Spam folders.

More information for your trip to Yellowstone:

• When to go:   Best Time to Visit Yellowstone
• What to see: Best Things to Do in Yellowstone
• Summer trip:   Tips for Visiting Yellowstone in Summer
• For families:   Yellowstone with Kids
• Swimming in Yellowstone:   Boiling River
• Packing:  What to Pack for Yellowstone in Summer

Is Yellowstone part of a bigger road trip? Take a look at these guides as well:

• Jackson Hole, WY: Best Things to Do in and near Jackson Hole
• Two parks trip: Yellowstone and Grand Teton Trip Itinerary
• Grand Teton NP: How to Spend One Day in Grand Teton National Park
• Glacier NP: Glacier National Park Itinerary Suggestions for 1 to 5 Days
• Mount Rushmore: Complete Guide to Visiting Mount Rushmore

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Michael Cicchi

Tuesday 28th of June 2022

A most beautiful article. But I am somewhat biased because it is my favorite national park. I cannot go there this year but I will definitely return there before it blows up (that is erupts again) and I will have your article here in my trips bookmarks folder when I do go.

Wednesday 29th of June 2022

Ha ha, let's hope that eruption doesn't happen in our lifetime... And I hope you get to visit Yellowstone again one day, Michael!

Friday 13th of May 2022

How can I get a printable version of your Yellowstone in 1 day leaving from the southern entrance?

Monday 16th of May 2022

Hi Missy, you can just print the info you want straight from the browser (Ctrl+P). We do not offer printable itineraries since we can hardly keep up with all the updates on the website itself, let alone create/ update printables. Have a great time in Yellowstone!

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Luggage + Bags
• Backpacks, Totes + Small Bags

The 11 Best Carry-on Travel Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These spacious and comfortable carry-on backpacks can easily replace a suitcase.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure/Joy Kim

Skip the stress of checking a bag or lugging a traditional carry-on suitcase around an airport by adding a carry-on backpack to your travel gear. Practical, functional, and hassle-free, a carry-on backpack can fit up to a week’s worth of clothes, depending on your wardrobe and packing prowess. Whether you’re backpacking through Europe or embarking on a weekend getaway, this style helps make your trip as efficient and enjoyable as possible.

We evaluated 89 carry-on backpacks in more than seven separate tests in our New York City lab and even utilized our airplane set — complete with a row of real plane seats and overhead storage bins — during the process. We then took each bag out into the world for at least six months to test its worth on a variety of trips.

Why I'm the Expert

After taking part in every single backpack test we've done since 2022, personally testing more than 50 bags, and even owning two packs from this list, including our best overall winner, I'm confident there is a carry-on backpack for every type of traveler here.

Best Overall

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

I've used this pack for over four years and I'm confident I can fit more in it than a carry-on.

There isn’t a designated water bottle holder.

The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack earned our top pick as the best carry-on backpack with its perfect performance in all categories of our testing. We loved its high capacity and thought the unstructured style was ideal for wedging clothes into every corner, maximizing packing space in the clamshell-style compartments. The shell is made of a TPU-coated 1000D polyester with a rubbery feel, and although it feels resistant to liquids, the backpack comes with a rain cover to ensure that your belongings stay dry while traveling. Handles on all four sides of the backpack make it easy to carry and lift into an overhead bin from any angle. The only downside to the bag is that it doesn't have a water bottle holder on the sides, so you'll have to carry one or try to fit it in the top pocket in the front.

During testing, we weren't surprised to see that the durable-feeling materials weren't damaged at all after we repeatedly tossed the bag onto the ground. Aside from testing this bag in our lab, I personally own it and have used it for countless trips in the last four years. The quality hasn't wavered in the slightest and I typically reach for the bag since I can fit more than I could in a carry-on. Plus, with the rising costs of bringing luggage on an airplane, this bag has been a real money-saver since I can usually fit my personal items inside, too.

The Details: 35 liters | 20 x 12 x 8 inches | 3.8 pounds | TPU-coated 1000D polyester, nylon | Padded laptop sleeve

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best for Long Trips

Away the outdoor convertible backpack 45l.

• Design 4.5 /5

We love how comfortable it is on your shoulders and back thanks to the soft materials and cushioned shoulder straps.

At nearly 22 inches tall, this pack may be too long for those with shorter torsos.

You'll be surprised by just how spacious this backpack is. The main compartment opens up like a clam shell for easy access to items that allowed us to fit an entire four-day packing list with ease — plus a few extra items. There are multiple large compartments, compression straps, and a few pockets in this backpack that are ideal for organizing clothes, gear, and accessories. While the 45-liter backpack can grow heavy when completely filled, the padded shoulder straps are supportive and keep you comfortable when walking for long periods of time. Plus, the convenient duffel handles allow you to switch up your carrying style if you do grow fatigued.

This backpack also sports a well-padded laptop sleeve that protected our testing laptop when we threw the fully packed bag off a counter three times. There was also no sign of rips, scuffs, or tears in the bag's fabric after our tests. This water- and abrasion-resistant backpack would be perfect for avid travels who are looking for a sleek backpack to take them from city explorations to camping adventures.

The Details: 45 liters | 21.7 x 13.6 x 9.5 inches | 3.32 pounds | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Joy Kim

Best Budget

Asenlin 40l travel backpack.

It’s spacious and comes with three packing cubes to stay organized while traveling. 

After six months of use, the bag is scuffed up with noticeable scratches.

Perfect for travelers on a budget, the Asenlin 40L Travel Backpack impressed us with its packing features and comfortable fit. We thought the bag provided excellent organization thanks to the interior and exterior compression that provided extra room for packing. The backpack comes with three different packing cubes in small, medium, and large. We also like that this backpack includes both a suitcase strap and a handle to hold it horizontally. The backpack itself also features straps inside and a laptop sleeve to easily hold down items and pack electronics.

The design didn’t blow us away like those from some of the more costly brands, but it does have a laptop sleeve and a water bottle holder. We also liked the flexibility of being able to wear the Asenlin as a backpack, hold it like a briefcase, or use the trolley sleeve to slide it onto a roller suitcase’s handle. However, a bigger adjustment range for the chest strap would have been ideal. During our durability tests, the backpack didn’t scuff or show signs of damage. We think this budget pick is well worth the low price for those looking to get a durable, comfortable, and spacious carry-on backpack. 

The Details: 40 liters | 18.5 x 12.5 x 9.5 inches | 2.7 pounds | Polyester | 17-inch laptop pocket

Best for Photographers

Peak design travel backpack 45l.

• Value 4.5 /5

You can access the main compartment on the bag from four different exterior zippers.

This is one of the most expensive backpack on our list.

This 45-liter backpack has a main compartment that is spacious enough to fit clothes for at least four days, and its expansive design is helpful for packing bulky items like jackets and shoes. Placing the clothes and shoes into the bag during testing was efficient and simple thanks to a removable divider sleeve and compression straps to hold everything down securely. Designed with photographers in mind, this backpack functions similarly to a camera bag . It can fit camera cubes, and it has four points of entry to the main compartment, allowing travelers to quickly grab clothes or accessories without unzipping the backpack. There is a padded laptop sleeve and stretchy side pockets for water bottles or a camera tripod. 

Peak Design didn’t let any space go to waste on its backpack, so even the hip belt has a small pocket on it for storage and can be packed away when you’re not looking for extra support. It’s also easy to adjust all of the straps to prevent weight imbalances and pinching. Made of weatherproof and water-resistant recycled nylon, the bag held up perfectly after we tossed it on the ground, showing no signs of scuffs or damage — exactly what you want in a durable backpack . Although the price of this bag is steep, it comes with plenty of helpful features for travelers, and the stellar performance leads us to believe that it would last a long time. 

  The Details: 45 liters | 13 x 22 x 9.5 inches | 4.8 pounds | Nylon, polyester | Laptop sleeve | Expandable

Travel + Leisure / Conor Ralph

Best Compression

Tropicfeel shell backpack.

• Design 4 /5
• Comfort 4 /5

It can be converted from 40 liters for traveling to 22 liters to use as a daypack. 

The handle on the top of the bag wasn’t as comfortable to hold onto as we hoped. 

We love this backpack’s thoughtful features geared toward all types of travelers. The Tropicfeel Shell Backpack has the ability to store up to 42 liters worth of clothing for a weekend or week-long trip, but you can also use it as a 20-liter backpack for day trips, sightseeing, and everyday use. After regularly using the bag for six months, we found it to be incredibly sturdy and durable. We had no issues fitting our full packing list and found that there was plenty more room thanks to the variety of buckled straps that allow you to adjust the size of the bag. You can loosen the front buckle to allow the roll-up opening flap to expand to fit more items, and there is a kangaroo pouch at the bottom of the backpack that provides an additional six liters of space for shoes or other items you want to keep separate. There’s also a padded compartment in the back of the backpack that can fit laptops up to 17 inches long. We thought the backpack was comfortable to wear after adjusting the shoulder and waist straps, but we found that it might take some effort to get the buckles into your desired setting. 

The Shell Backpack didn’t show any signs of damage throughout testing, and the material is weather-proof. For travelers looking to add upgrades to their backpacks, the brand has an organization system and accessory pouches that you can add on for additional fees. If you need an all-in-one backpack, we think this backpack’s versatility makes it well worth the higher cost. Bonus, if you want a sustainable backpack , this one is made from made 100 percent recycled nylon and 64 percent recycled polyester. 

The Details: 20 to 42 liters | 12 x 20 x 7.5 inches | 3.3 pounds | Recycled polyester

Best Organization

Topo designs global travel bag 30l.

Topo Designs

• Capacity 4 /5

There are tons of pockets and a laptop compartment to help you organize your belongings.

After six months of use, we noticed the bag can feel quite heavy if packed full.

Packing for a trip can often feel tedious, but the Topo Designs Global Travel Bag 30L helps make it easy and efficient. We loved how convenient it is to store a laptop up to 15 inches in the padded compartment in the back of the bag, and there are two front pockets for easy access to a tablet or phone charger. There are a ton of compartments and pockets that offer plenty of options for staying organized with small or loose items in the absence of packing cubes, with places to stash cords, travel documents, electronics, water bottles, and more.

The adjustable shoulder straps and straps that go across the chest and waist help evenly distribute the backpack's weight, making it more comfortable to carry around, although we noticed during our long-term testing that the bag can still feel heavy if you pack it completely full. The 100 percent recycled nylon material felt durable and would likely stay in good condition over time. 

The Details: 30 liters | 12.5 x 20 x 7 inches

Best Expandable

Nomatic travel pack.

• Capacity 4.8 /5
• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5
• Value 4.8 /5

The expandable zippers add an extra 3.5 inches of space which increases the capacity to 30 liters.

Some of the pockets feel unnecessary.

The Nomatic Travel Pack is the ultimate versatile carry-on backpack thanks to its expandable zippers that add an extra 10 liters of space. Ideal for an overnight trip or a long weekend getaway, the bag has a variety of pockets and compartments to efficiently organize shoes, clothes, accessories, and technology. While the number of pockets on the interior was a bit overwhelming at first, travelers who like to be extra organized will appreciate the designated padded laptop sleeve, sunglasses case, discrete passport pocket, and plethora of slip and zippered pockets in the main compartment. The handles and padded shoulder straps are comfortable for carrying the bag, and the small-to-medium size of the backpack makes it super comfortable to carry since it doesn’t feel bulky or heavy. We used this bag on a variety of international trips throughout four months of testing, and it still looks new, despite rough handling and being shoved under airplane seats.

The Details: 20 liters (expands to 30 liters) | 18.5 x 12 x 6-9.5 inches | 4.16 pounds | 16-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

• Travel + Leisure/Jessica Juliao

Matein Travel Backpack

• Comfort 4.8 /5
• Durability 4.3 /5

It has several compartments for keeping clothing, shoes, tech, and accessories organized.

The materials feel a little lower in quality than other backpacks we tried.

If you’re not ready to invest in a pricier carry-on backpack, you can always dip your toes with this functional and spacious one for under $60. This 40-liter backpack has one large main compartment that can fit several tops, bottoms, and a toiletry case without any issues. We particularly love the separate footwear compartment to prevent the bottom of your shoes from coming into contact with clean clothes and that storage can even fit pairs up to size 12. In addition, there is a laptop pocket and a large front pocket with spots to put items like phone chargers, headphones, and other small accessories that could get lost easily. Compared to the pricier bags we tried, this one feels a bit lower in quality, but none of the nylon fabric tore and scuffed during our durability tests, so we still think this bag has a good lifespan ahead of it. 

The Details: 40 liters | 20 x 13 x 8 inches | 2 pounds | Water-repellent nylon

Best Waterproof

Tortuga travel backpack.

This bag is basically a suitcase without wheels thanks to its large capacity and clamshell-style opening.

The bag can feel a bit heavy to carry when it’s fully packed.

If you’re traveling somewhere with a rainy climate, you’ll want a carry-on backpack like this one from Tortuga that can ward off the elements. It’s made with the brand’s 100 percent recycled and waterproof Shell200 or “sailcloth” material to protect your belongings and prevent bad weather from putting a serious damper on your trip. During a rainy overnight camping trip, the Tortuga Travel Backpack essentially sat in a puddle for hours, yet none of our gear or clothing inside got wet at all, and the bag was easy to clean with just a wet cloth.

This is a seriously spacious bag at 40 liters, so we found that you can seamlessly fit a week’s worth of clothing (or more) between the two clamshell compartments. Because of the split style of the bag, packing it up is hassle-free since it’s easy to see exactly how much space is left on each side. And if you run out of space in the main compartments, there are top, front, and side exterior pockets to store a laptop, accessories, water bottles, and more items that you’ll want to have handy while traveling.

The Details: 40 liters | 21.7 x 13.8 x 7.9 inches | 4.5 pounds | Waterproof sailcloth | 16-inch laptop pocket

Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Best for Foot Travel

Osprey fairview 40.

The compartments and various straps made packing effortless. 

It’s a large bag, but it wasn’t so heavy that it was uncomfortable to wear.

For travelers journeying on foot, the Osprey Fairview wowed us with its spacious interior and comfortable fit. The straps for walking longer distances are really the best part — making your bag feel like you're carrying less since the weight is so well distributed. The bags have the same storage capacity and general style, but Osprey’s women’s backpacks are designed to fit a smaller torso with waist and chest harnesses that sit upward and outward for a more comfortable carry. In testing, the main compartment and mesh zippered pouch on the front flap proved to be spacious. There are two internal compression straps and one external strap that kept belongings secure through our rough handling, so we think the bag would provide sufficient protection if you do need to check it in for a flight. 

We appreciated the padded shoulder straps and back that made wearing the backpack comfortable, despite the weight of its contents. The Osprey Fairview bags have an internal suspension the brand calls “LightWire” that distributes the weight from the harness to the hip belt, and our shoulders didn’t hurt after carrying the backpack since most of the weight shifted to the lower body.

The Details: 40 liters | 22 x 14 x 9 inches

Travel + Leisure /Jhett Thompson

Best Convertible

Calpak terra 26l laptop duffel backpack.

With a modular design, we loved being able to carry this spacious pack as a duffel or backpack.

We found it was most comfortable to carry as a backpack when packed full.

The two-in-one design of this carry-on backpack from Calpak makes it the perfect piece of luggage to add to your collection. If you need to carry the backpack long distances, the padded straps offer plenty of comfort to protect the shoulders from feeling the weight of the pack, and they can be tucked away when they're not needed. For rushing off an airplane or grabbing the pack quickly, the duffel bag strap makes it easy to sling the pack over the shoulder within seconds. In testing, senior commerce editor Lydia Price preferred using the backpack straps after noting that the generous padding in the back and on the straps made the bag noticeably more comfortable to carry. I also own this bag and prefer to use the backpack straps, but I love having the option to carry it multiple ways as my needs change on the go.

Although the bag is medium-sized with a 26-liter capacity, it still has plenty of room to fit enough clothing for four or five days' worth of traveling thanks to the numerous pockets. The clamshell-style opening also makes it easy to organize items between the two compartments. The ripstop polyester fabric didn't scuff or scratch during our durability tests and we especially love that the outer material is water-resistant, which is helpful for all types of adventuring from urban to outdoor settings.

The Details: 26 liters | 18 x 12 x 7.5 inches | 2.9 pounds | Recycled ripstop polyester | 17-inch padded laptop pocket

Other Carry-on Backpacks We Liked

While we tested plenty of high-scoring carry-on backpacks, there were some that almost made our list but didn’t quite make the cut due to several weaknesses revealed during testing. 

Bellroy Transit Backpack Plus : We loved the adjustable sternum and waist straps that you can tuck into the bag when not in use, but we think there are better bags out there for a fraction of the price. 

AmazonBasics Carry-on Travel Backpack : It had plenty of compartments for staying organized and the material felt durable, but there weren’t any standout features that made it a must-have backpack. 

Vancropak Carry-on Backpack, Extra Large 40L : This backpack fits all of the packing items, and it even fits under an airplane seat, but our budget pick performed slightly better and it costs less. 

On more than seven separate occasions, we tested carry-on backpacks in our New York City lab to make sure we were creating this list with the best options from trusted luggage brands. For our latest tests, we built a specially designed airplane set that includes a row of real airplane seats and an overhead storage bin. To date, we've put over 89 carry-on backpacks through a series of trials that compared capacity, design, comfort, durability, and overall value. After completing our in-house testing, we sent the backpacks out with our Travel + Leisure editors to give us insight into how they fared during real-world travel. We have been updating this article with long-term testing insights as soon as they become available. 

To test for capacity, we began by packing the bags with three shirts, two pairs of pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag. We noted if any space was left over as well as how functional the compartments were for organizing the contents packed. We evaluated the overall design of the bags by paying attention to how they fold out, how well the zippers and buckles work, and the functionality of each pocket or compartment. 

Next, we put on the backpacks and walked around for 10 minutes to rate comfortability. The highest scoring backpacks were exceptionally enjoyable to wear with the weight evenly distributed on the shoulders or hips.

Then, we threw the backpacks a few feet or off a countertop to test for durability. The highest-rated bags had no scuffs or tears after rough handling, and the packed items inside remained unharmed as well. 

Our testers had no previous knowledge of the cost of each backpack until after testing was completed. This allowed us to give an unbiased rating of overall values, where the top bags were determined to be fairly priced based on a high-quality performance, especially for the pricier bags. After our lab tests, the backpacks were sent out for real-world testing for up to six months.

Tips for Buying a Carry-on Backpack

Consider under-the-seat versus carry-on bags.

Not all carry-on backpacks will fit under the seat of an airplane, but if that’s your intended use, we recommend checking an airline’s underseat dimensions before heading to the airport. Similarly, with a carry-on backpack for the overhead bin, you’ll want to double-check the airline’s carry-on size restrictions to avoid paying unwanted fees if the bag is stuffed full of clothes. 

Keep in mind what the bag will be used for

For those traveling by foot, a smaller, lightweight backpack would be better for portability and comfort. For those traveling by air, a compression bag or backpack that has plentiful organization could be a better choice so you get the most out of the limited airline baggage space. When traveling by air, you might also want to consider an option with wheels for added convenience, like a rolling backpack, weekender, or duffel bag .

Frequently Asked Questions

During our test, we packed three shirts, two pants, one jacket, one pair of shoes, and a toiletry bag into each bag and often had extra space for more clothes. Many backpacks come with a laptop compartment , but you’ll want to make sure that feature is included before purchasing yours.

Carry-on size restrictions vary by airline, and it’s possible for a carry-on backpack to not fit within some limits. Most bags will have a product details section highlighting the dimensions of the backpack. If you’re looking to fit the bag solely under the seat , you should check to make sure the bag fits the dimensions while it’s packed.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

After moving to New York City in the spring of 2022 to test travel gear for T+L, Anna Popp has spent countless hours personally testing more than 50 backpacks including bags on this list from Cotopaxi, Calpak, Peak Design, and Nomatic. She has been traveling with our top pick for more than four years — and even had to get everyone in her family the same bag so they would stop stealing hers.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents, before you go.

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Crisis and Disaster Abroad: Be Ready

What the Department of State Can and Can't Do in a Crisis

Information for U.S. Citizens about a U.S. Government-Assisted Evacuation

Traveler's Checklist

Safety and Security Messaging

Best Practices for Traveler Safety

Staying Connected

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

Traveler Information

LGBTQI+ Travelers

Adventure Travel

High-Risk Area Travelers

Travelers with Dual Nationality

Journalist Travelers

Faith-Based Travelers

Pilgrimage Travelers (Hajj and Umrah)

U.S. Students Abroad

Cruise Ship Passengers

Women Travelers

Travelers with Disabilities

Older Travelers

U.S. Volunteers Abroad

Travelers with Pets

Travelers With Firearms

Travel Agents

Travel Safety - Race and Ethnicity

U.S. Travelers in Europe's Schengen Area

Your Health Abroad

Insurance Coverage Overseas

Driving and Road Safety Abroad

Customs and Import Restrictions

Information for U.S. Citizens in Russia – Travel Options Out of Russia

Lodging Safety

Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics

In Europe's Schengen area , your passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of your entry. At present, the Schengen area includes most European Union (EU) countries, except for Cyprus and Ireland.

If you are transiting through Canada or the United Kingdom (UK) enroute to the Schengen area : your passport must be valid for at least six months, even though Canada and the UK do not themselves have the six-month rule. If your passport will expire within six months, airlines may not let you board your onward flight to Europe.

Traveling in Europe

If you plan to travel in Europe, you need to know about the Schengen Borders Agreement, which allows you to move freely within a number of countries without border checks. Tourists, exchange students, and people visiting for business from certain countries, like the United States, can travel in the Schengen area for up to 90 days. The Schengen area includes most EU countries, except for Cyprus and Ireland. It also includes four non-EU countries: Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

Before you travel to the Schengen area, we recommend you do the following:

• Check the expiration date on your passport book carefully before traveling to Europe. Ensure your passport book is valid for at least six months when you enter the Schengen area. This is especially important for minors under age 16 as their passports are only valid for five years. In contrast, U.S. citizen adults aged 16 and older receive passports that are valid for 10 years.
• Always carry your passport book with you when traveling to another country in the Schengen area. Even if there is no border check at that time, officials may reinstate border controls without notice.
• Be prepared to explain your purpose of travel.
• Be prepared to provide proof of sufficient financial resources for the visit.
• Comply with other entry requirements for each country you will visit or transit.

On our Country Information pages , you can find passport validity requirements and other important information for your destination country. If your passport does not meet the Schengen requirements, you may be:

• Refused boarding by the airline at your point of origin or while transferring planes.
• Denied entry when you arrive in the Schengen area, regardless of how long you will stay.

An immigration official will determine if you qualify for visa-free entry to the Schengen area when you first cross any external Schengen border. You will have to present your passport at that time. The officer may deny your entry if you do not qualify.

You should also check passport validity requirements if traveling onward from the Schengen area to a country outside the Schengen area. You can find this information in our Country Information pages.

HOW LONG CAN I REMAIN?

• With a valid U.S. passport book, you can stay up to 90 days in the Schengen area for tourism or business during any 180-day period. You must wait an additional 90 days before applying to re-enter the Schengen area.
• If you plan to stay in the Schengen area longer than three months, contact the embassy of the country where you plan to spend the majority of your time and apply for a visa.

Countries in the Schengen area may reinstate temporary internal or external border control without notice. U.S. citizens should carry their U.S. passport book at all times when entering or leaving the Schengen area. They should also bring it when traveling between Schengen countries.

How can the U.S. government help me if border officials do not let me enter?

• We can give you the contact information of foreign embassies of the countries you wish to visit.
• We can provide information about hiring an English-speaking foreign attorney overseas if you choose to do so.
• Note: We cannot influence a foreign government’s decision about allowing you to enter. We cannot intervene in another country’s criminal or administrative procedures.

What countries are members of the Schengen Borders Agreement?

Click on the country name for more information.

Bulgaria (entering in March 2024)

Czech Republic

Liechtenstein

Netherlands

Romania (entering in March 2024)

Switzerland

Enroll in STEP

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Learn about your destination

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

The perfect itinerary for an epic USA roadtrip (48 states at once)

• Post author: Andrew D'Amours
• Post published: December 28, 2022
• Post category: Travel inspiration / Trip itineraries & destination discoveries
• Post comments: 23 Comments

Do you like roadtrips? They happen to be a very American tradition and we found the perfect itinerary to visit every state in the continental USA during 1 epic roadtrip. A great trip idea for those who have a lot of time but want to stay closer to home .

Personally, I love roadtrips and I hit the road as much as I can, despite also being an aviation geek: you can like both, right? What matters is traveling and seeing new places , no matter how.

So here are the maps and details of the 2 itineraries that allow you to see all the lower 48 states at once, depending on your travel preference.

Basics of the 2 epic USA roadtrip itineraries

The USA is a huge country, almost as big as Europe (it’s even larger than Canada when considering land area alone).

So the USA has a lot of variety in terms of landscapes, but even in terms of culture too (even if many who aren’t from the country don’t realize that).

If you aim to eventually visit every state, any 1 of these 2 itineraries is a great way to almost all of them at once. The only 2 states you’ll have left to visit after this roadtrip will be Hawaii and Alaska.

There’s a version for national parks and points of interest and a version for cities.

I’m on the quest to visit all 50 states myself (in addition to also visiting every country obviously), and I’m not doing too bad with 47 already.

But let’s just say it would’ve been much quicker to get to 48 at once with this roadtrip instead of having to do it over dozens of trips.

Here are the details.

48-state roadtrip – national parks/points of interest version

Here’s a map of the 1 st itinerary.

It was conceived by American Ph.D. student Randy Olson, on  his blog , and it was done scientifically to optimize the routing: each stop represents a national park or a point of interest.

So you’re not just seeing every state, you’re seeing cool parts of every state (which sadly wasn’t our case in North Dakota during our very random 1200-miles-nonstop-in-2-days Flytrippers roadtrip across the Midwest just for fun).

Good times. Roadtrips always make for great stories.

Anyway, the itinerary has also been optimized to be as efficient a route as possible to see all 48 states, so you can rest assured you won’t be wasting any time.

If you only stop to sleep, you can complete this roadtrip in only 9 days, but we recommend taking at least a couple of weeks to explore all these places obviously.

And gas is significantly cheaper in the US in case you were wondering. You can start anywhere, it’s a continuous loop, and it passes through many spots near the Canadian border.

You can even take a shortcut from Michigan to Vermont through Canada, as the stop in Cleveland is only to keep Americans without a passport from crossing into the Great White North.

Here is the complete list of all 50 landmarks (48 states + Washington, DC + a bonus stop in California):

1. Grand Canyon, AZ 2. Bryce Canyon National Park, UT 3. Craters of the Moon, ID 4. Yellowstone National Park, WY 5. Pikes Peak, CO 6. Carlsbad Caverns National Park, NM 7. The Alamo, TX 8. The Platt Historic District, OK 9. Toltec Mounds, AR 10. Elvis Presley’s Graceland, TN 11. Vicksburg National Military Park, MS 12. French Quarter, LA 13. USS Alabama, AL 14. Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, FL 15. Okefenokee Swamp Park, GA 16. Fort Sumter National Monument, SC 17. Lost World Caverns, WV 18. Wright Brothers National Memorial Visitor Center, NC 19. Mount Vernon, VA 20. White House, Washington, D.C. 21. Colonial Annapolis Historic District, MD 22. New Castle Historic District, DE 23. Cape May Historic District, NJ 24. Liberty Bell, PA 25. Statue of Liberty, NY 26. The Mark Twain House & Museum, CT 27. The Breakers, RI 28. USS Constitution, MA 29. Acadia National Park, ME 30. Mount Washington Hotel, NH 31. Shelburne Farms, VT 32. Fox Theater, MI 33. Spring Grove Cemetery, OH 34. Mammoth Cave National Park, KY 35. West Baden Springs Hotel, IN 36. Abraham Lincoln’s Home, IL 37. Gateway Arch, MO 38. C. W. Parker Carousel Museum, KS 39. Terrace Hill Governor’s Mansion, IA 40. Taliesin, WI 41. Fort Snelling, MN 42. Ashfall Fossil Bed, NE 43. Mount Rushmore, SD 44. Fort Union Trading Post, ND 45. Glacier National Park, MT 46. Hanford Site, WA 47. Columbia River Highway, OR 48. San Francisco Cable Cars, CA 49. San Andreas Fault, CA 50. Hoover Dam, NV

These are all very enticing attractions, for the most part. It seems I’ve only seen 14 of those, so maybe I should hit the road again after all.

How about you? Tempted?

48-state roadtrip – city version

Here’s a map of the 2 nd itinerary.

If you’re more of a city slicker, the map’s author has created a 2 nd version that routes you through amazing cities instead.

It is slightly shorter but quite as impressive: it makes you go through the “Best City to Visit” in each state, according to TripAdvisor .

But you won’t have all the lower 48 states, unlike the other itinerary. That’s because no city in Vermont, West Virginia, or North Dakota made the top 400 cities to visit ranking, unfortunately. So plan on making a few extra detours if you want to hit all states at once with this version of the itinerary.

Here is the complete list of all cities:

• Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• Wichita, Kansas
• Denver, Colorado
• Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Phoenix, Arizona
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• San Francisco, California
• Portland, Oregon
• Seattle, Washington
• Boise, Idaho
• Park City, Utah
• Jackson, Wyoming
• Billings, Montana
• Sioux Falls, South Dakota
• Omaha, Nebraska
• Des Moines, Iowa
• Minneapolis, Minnesota
• Milwaukee, Wisconsin
• Chicago, Illinois
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Louisville, Kentucky
• Columbus, Ohio
• Detroit, Michigan
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Manchester, New Hampshire
• Portland, Maine
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Providence, Rhode Island
• New Haven, Connecticut
• New York City, New York
• Ocean City, New Jersey
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Wilmington, Delaware
• Baltimore, Maryland
• Washington, D.C.
• Virginia Beach, Virginia
• Charlotte, North Carolina
• Charleston, South Carolina
• Orlando, Florida
• Atlanta, Georgia
• Nashville, Tennessee
• Birmingham, Alabama
• Jackson, Mississippi
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• Houston, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Branson, Missouri

I do a little better on this list, with 31 already visited. You can see I love cities. How about you?

Want to get more content to discover awesome destinations?

Sign up for our free newsletter.

If you were looking for an excuse to go on a roadtrip, this is it. And since we always enjoy giving you more for your money, we think 48 states instead of only 1 or 2 is something you’ll enjoy!

What’s the coolest roadtrip you’ve ever been on? Tell us in the comments below.

See the deals we spot: Cheap flights

Explore awesome destinations : Travel inspiration

Learn pro tricks : Travel tips

Discover free travel: Travel rewards

Featured image: The itinerary (image credit: Randy Olson)

Original publication date: May 29, 2018

Share this post to help us help more people travel more for less:

Andrew D'Amours

You might also like.

Every Country’s Most Popular Attraction On One Cool Map

Travel between Canada and the USA for kids without a passport (land/air)

A Map Of The Most Common Religion In Each Country

This post has 23 comments.

Hello Andrew, the PHD student suggests in the 1st Itinnerary that the one stop to make in Washington State is the Hanford Nuclear Reservation?! Flat out, that is a terrible idea. It is in the middle of nowhere, I am just shocked it’s mentioned. Out of all the beautiful and amazing places to see in such a diverse state as Washington, a Nuclear Site was chosen? Surely this student could have done so much better. Thank you for allowing comments.

Having been all around the Olympic Peninsula, I agree that’s there are better stops. But my understanding is that he really optimized for the quickest way to do all 48 and had to choose a point of interest that wasn’t too far off that optimal path, hence that choice (I think).

thanks for sharing this information with us.

I have taken a road trip from California to the the most northeastern part of theUS. west Quaby light house. it was my 1st trip across the us. .I seen so many amazing places.

Quite the drive for sure! Must have been epic.

Why do Americans always think the Statue of Liberty is in NY? it is in NJ. I’ve done road trips now that have taken in 39 states. Here’s a quiz to see how well you know the USA: Which state has only one syllable? Only one city has been name-checked on the moon. In which state is it? Which is the most Northerly of the contiguous states? In which state were Tennessee Williams and Elvis Presley born? Which was the last of the contiguous states to be admitted into the USA? Which four states all share a border with each other? Which state has the lowest population? Twelve cities are name-checked in “Get Your Kicks on Route 66” but only three states. Which? Which state has the longest name? Which two states have the most borders with other states? In which state is the geographical centre of the USA – and which one if you exclude Hawaii and Alaska? Which of the states of the USA has respectively the most Northerly, Southerly, Easterly and Westerly points?

The official Statue of Liberty address is Liberty Island, New York, NY, 10004.

Wow, these comments are very rude for no reason. Thanks for the article, maybe when I graduate from college I’ll consider hitting part of one of these itineraries.

“it’s a huge country (even larger than Canada when considering land area alone).”

Canada – 3.855 million mi² USA – 3.532 million mi² Where does this math fail you?

Where did reading fail you :P? It explicitly says “ when considering LAND area alone ” The quote you copied literally has a link provided under “even larger than Canada” and if you read that, it explains how Canada is only larger than the US due to water area being counted 🙂

There is no stop in North Dakota on the city version. You should stop in Fargo after Billings and before Sioux Falls

I’m 46 years old .. I have been to all 50 states and I’m 17 away from all 50 twice .. I have driven to 47 .. flown to Alaska, Hawaii and Washington..

Wow! That’s impressive :O

This is awesome

This is inspiring! Thank you for sharing!

“this roadtrip in only 9 days“ is extremely false statement. It is only 9 days if you are driving non stop, no breaks to even get out of your car, get gas, or actually see these places. From start to finish drive time it is 225 hours, 16 minutes = 9 days. Wow. Take some time to enjoy the view.

Yes, that’s what we said too 😛

Thanks for the tip 😊

Do you know the total distance of this itinerary? At what moment of the year doing this trip would be the best? Thanks!

Hi! It is 13,699 miles (22,046 km) for the landmarks itinerary and 12,290 miles (19,780 km) for the city version. You can even have the Google Maps links on the creator’s original post (I’ve reposted the link below). As for the timing, I guess it depends on your preferences, but I’d want to avoid that top half of the country (so half the itinerary) in the winter for sure! http://www.randalolson.com/2015/03/08/computing-the-optimal-road-trip-across-the-u-s/

Crappy itinerary! Does not even include Zion National Park… and so many stops in the North Eastern states?? Nobody cares about those places except maybe a couple of places.

As explained, the PhD student who built the itinerary wanted to have one stop per state, and there are many states in the North-East so that’s why there are many stops there. I agree that Zion is an iconic spot, but his goal was also to optimize a routing that was as short as possible so that’s why it’s billed as an itinerary to see all lower 48 states at once and not an itinerary to see *the best spots*. But those interested in doing this can definitely adapt it and add many interesting stops for sure 🙂

Curtis, you are crappy. Obviously this is meant as a guide that can be adapted to add spots. I think it’s awesome.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Elektrostal, visit elektrostal, check elektrostal hotel availability, popular places to visit.

• Electrostal History and Art Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Electrostal History and Art Museum in Elektrostal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

• Cities near Elektrostal

• Places of interest
• Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
• Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino
• Peter the Great Military Academy
• Ramenskii History and Art Museum
• Bykovo Manor
• Pekhorka Park
• Balashikha Arena
• Malenky Puppet Theater
• Balashikha Museum of History and Local Lore
• Saturn Stadium
• Orekhovo Zuevsky City Exhibition Hall
• Noginsk Museum and Exhibition Center

Advertisement

171,000 Traveled for Abortions Last Year. See Where They Went.

By Molly Cook Escobar ,  Amy Schoenfeld Walker ,  Allison McCann ,  Scott Reinhard and Helmuth Rosales

Source: The Guttmacher Institute

Orange states had a total or six-week ban in 2023.

More than 14,000 Texas patients crossed the border into New Mexico for an abortion last year. An additional 16,000 left Southern states bound for Illinois. And nearly 12,000 more traveled north from South Carolina and Georgia to North Carolina.

These were among the more than 171,000 patients who traveled for an abortion in 2023, new estimates show , demonstrating both the upheaval in access since the overturn of Roe v. Wade and the limits of state bans to stop the procedure. The data also highlights the unsettled nature of an issue that will test politicians up and down the ballot in November.

Out-of-state travel for abortions — either to have a procedure or obtain abortion pills — more than doubled in 2023 compared with 2019, and made up nearly a fifth of recorded abortions. On Thursday, the Supreme Court rejected a case that would have sharply curtailed access to medication abortion, allowing the pills to remain available to patients traveling from states with bans.

Where patients traveled for abortions

Number of patients

171,300 patients traveled

Total or six-week abortion ban in 2023

73,100 patients traveled

Source: Guttmacher Institute

Note: Map reflects abortion laws as of Dec. 31, except in Wisconsin, where a ban was in place for a majority of the year. Routes with fewer than 100 patients are not shown.

Most traveling patients went to the next closest state that allowed abortions. But those in the South, where 13 states banned or restricted the procedure, had to go farther.

One traveler was a 24-year-old woman from Columbus, Ga., who asked to be identified by only her first initial, A. She flew to New York City last summer after discovering she was past six weeks of pregnancy, when Georgia no longer allows abortion.

She decided to travel over a weekend instead of self-managing with pills at home. “I had to go back to work on Monday,” she said. “I just didn’t have that kind of time.”

Texas, the largest state to ban abortion, had the most residents travel across state lines for the procedure, the data shows.

An exodus from Texas

35,500 Texas patients traveled

2,400 Texas patients traveled

Note: Routes with fewer than 100 patients are not shown.

On the receiving end, nowhere saw more out-of-state patients — and from more states — than Illinois.

An island of access in the Midwest

37,300 patients traveled to Illinois

8,500 patients traveled to Illinois

People in states where the procedure remained legal also traveled for abortions, sometimes because the closest clinic was across state lines or the influx of out-of-state patients made appointments scarce. The data shows that abortions rose in nearly every state where they remained legal.

Many traveling patients faced multiday trips, lost income and child care costs. Some patients were unable to travel. Earlier research found that in the first half of 2023, almost a quarter of women living in states with near-total bans — who may have otherwise sought an abortion — did not get one.

“Abortion is one of the most common procedures in medicine,” said Amy Hagstrom Miller, the founder of Whole Woman’s Health, which runs clinics in Maryland, Minnesota, New Mexico and Virginia.

“We’re having people travel hundreds or thousands of miles for a procedure that typically takes less than 10 minutes and can be done in a doctor’s office setting,” she said. “Nobody does that for any other medical procedure.”

The new estimates of resident and out-of-state abortions come from the Guttmacher Institute, a research organization that supports abortion rights, and they offer the first detailed picture of the interstate travelers who helped push the number of abortions nationwide to a high in 2023. The researchers surveyed a sample of clinics in each state where abortion remained legal to estimate the number of abortions.

For some anti-abortion groups, the feeling of victory after the overturn of Roe has been dimmed by the number of people circumventing abortion bans — and the lack of political will to address the issue in an election year.

“We’re agitating some of the Republicans who would be very comfortable spiking the football, patting themselves on the back, running for re-election, and then focusing on other issues that they’re more interested in,” said John Seago, the president of Texas Right to Life.

“We’ve never had a sense of finality. We’ve only seen the other side escalate their efforts to promote abortion,” he added.

Change in abortions by state

Note: No data was collected from 13 states that had near-total abortion bans for all of 2023. A ban was in place in Wisconsin for a majority of the year.

The availability of abortion pills has significantly blunted the impact of many state bans. But some patients still must travel to see a provider because of a medical condition or how far along they are in pregnancy. Others simply prefer it.

“I didn’t want the pills to get delivered to my school,” said Mia, 20, a college student in Houston who asked to be identified by only her first name. Instead, last August, she drove 12 hours to an Albuquerque clinic. “In case anything went wrong, I didn’t know if I could go to a hospital,” she said. “I figured it would be best to go in person and that way I’d know that it was taken care of.”

The clinic covered the procedure’s cost, but Mia paid around $500 for gas, two nights at an Airbnb and Uber rides to get to and from her appointment.

The explosion of out-of-state travel has been met with support from abortion clinics and abortion funds, which expanded access to services and financial support for patients.

“Now we have places where people who’ve been driving all night can nap in our clinics,” said Ms. Hagstrom Miller. “We have couches. We have waiting rooms specifically for children, with toys. We bring in sandwiches and food.”

States with liberal abortion laws have also played a significant role.

“It looks like the protective policies that the states are enacting do matter,” said Kelly Baden, the vice president for public policy at the Guttmacher Institute. “But we should not be normalizing the reliance on networks of volunteers and donations.”

Illinois has invested upwards of $23 million into expanding abortion access and reproductive health care since 2022. Providers in the state have extended clinic hours and increased staffing and the availability of hospital-based abortion care .

“Things are running along very smoothly,” said Dr. Allison Cowett, the medical director at Family Planning Associates, a Chicago clinic whose patient volume has doubled since 2018. “We’ve caught up to the speed of things. This is our new normal.”

The Chicago Abortion Fund provides, on average, about $880 to each patient seeking an abortion in Illinois, up from around $545 in 2022, thanks to donations and city and state grants .

“It still feels precarious — you don’t know when the priority of a single institution or a single foundation will change,” said Megan Jeyifo, the fund’s executive director.

Despite restrictions, patients traveled across the Southeast

12-week ban

Six-week bans

15-week ban in 2023

Note: Routes shown are for patients traveling into and out of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina. Routes with fewer than 100 patients are not shown.

In Florida, the fight over abortion restrictions is far from over, with consequences for women across the South. The state had an 18 percent rise in abortions last year, including nearly 10,000 out-of-state patients.

A six-week ban that took effect in May has already upended those patterns, and advocates are asking voters to preserve abortion rights in the state’s Constitution in November.

For now, the closest state offering abortions later than six weeks in pregnancy is North Carolina, which requires counseling and a 72-hour waiting period.

“It’s a logistical nightmare,” said Kelly Flynn, the chief executive of A Woman’s Choice, which has clinics in Florida, North Carolina and Virginia. To save patients two trips out of Florida, physicians at her Florida clinic are licensed in North Carolina so that they can perform the mandatory counseling before the patient travels north.

• Share full article

Table of contents

8 Iconic Pacific Northwest Backpacking Trips

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links

The Pacific Northwest is an adventure junkie’s paradise. It’s a breathtakingly diverse playground of craggy granite peaks, high alpine lakes, meadows socked with wildflowers, a rugged windswept coastline, and more shades of green than your eyeballs can handle.

With so many stunning trails to choose from, it can sometimes be tough to settle on the next one. That’s why we put together this list of our personal favorite Pacific Northwest backpacking trips. These are some of the most iconic and spectacular trails the PNW has to offer, so dust off your pack and add one of these gems to your summer adventure list.

Wonderland Trail

• Length : 93 miles
• Days needed : 8-13 days (most people take around 10 days)
• Location : Mount Rainier National Park, WA
• Best time to hike : Late July to mid-September
• Difficulty : Strenuous

The Wonderland trail circumnavigates massive and spectacular Mount Rainier over the course of 93 miles. It’s a very challenging hike, with over 23,000 feet of elevation change, but the rewards are plentiful. With breathtaking glacier views, wildflower meadows, pristine lakes, and miles of lush rainforests, the ever-changing landscape of the Wonderland Trail will not disappoint.

Permits for this very popular hike can be secured in advance through a yearly lottery system, though the park does save some permits for walk-in travelers.

Wonderland Maps & Guides

• CleverHiker Wonderland Trail Backpacking Guide – Our quick guide to assist you in planning your trip around Rainier.
• FarOut Wonderland Trail Guide – This popular app has user-generated comments on water sources, campsites, and important landmarks.
• Wilderness Trip Planning Map – This basic map from the National Park Service will give you a general idea of campsite locations and the distances between them.
• Green Trails Map 269S – Mount Rainier Wonderland – This is a fantastic map for hiking the Wonderland Trail. It’s a detailed topographical map that’s ideal for use along the trail.
• Hiking the Wonderland Book – A complete guide to the Wonderland by a Washington native that’s hiked the trail seven times. An excellent source of information.
• Plan & Go Wonderland Book – A comprehensive guide that contains everything you need to know for hiking the 93-mile Wonderland Trail.
• Backpacking Washington Book – This hike is covered in the Backpacking Washington book as well, just not in quite as much detail.

TIMBERLINE TRAIl

• Length : ~40 miles
• Days needed : 3-5 days (most people complete the loop in 4 days)
• Location : Mount Hood Area, OR
• Best time to hike : End of July to late September

The Timberline Trail around Mt. Hood is one of Oregon’s most iconic and scenic trails. This 40-mile loop is a fantastic way to experience the immense size and beauty of Mt. Hood. On the Timberline you’ll encounter lush old-growth forests, pristine alpine waterfalls, wildflower-filled meadows, towering craggy glaciers, rough volcanic landscapes, and some of the finest cascade views around. The hiking certainly won’t be easy, with plenty of ups and downs along the way, but in the end, the rewards are well worth it.

Timberline Maps & Guides

• CleverHiker Timberline Trail Backpacking Guide – Our complete guide to hiking the Timberline Trail.
• FarOut Timberline Trail Guide – A smartphone app with all the user-generated info you need for navigating the Timberline Trail.
• Green Trails Map 462SX – Mt Hood Climbing Map – This is an excellent, detailed map for the Timberline Trail.

Backpacking Oregon – This hike is covered in depth in the Backpacking Oregon book.

ENCHANTMENT LAKES

• Length : 19 miles from Stuart Lakes Trailhead to Snow Lakes Trailhead
• Days needed : 3-4 days to explore the entire area
• Location : Leavenworth, WA
• Best time to hike : Permit timeframe is May 15th – October 31st

Washington’s Enchantment Lakes are a truly magical sight to see. They reside in an area where immense granite peaks, majestic mountain goats, and crystal clear alpine lakes are hidden around every corner. Be ready for big climbs and jagged peaks along well-maintained trails. For the ambitious hiker, there are some incredible side trips, such as the can’t-miss climb to the top of Little Annapurna for jaw-dropping panoramic views. This area won’t be too crowded because of the strict permitting process, but securing overnight permits during peak season will require good luck. This hike should be on every backpackers bucket list.

Enchantments Maps & Guides

• CleverHiker Enchantment Lakes Backpacking Guide – Our complete guide to backpacking the Enchantment Lakes.
• Green Trails Enchantments Map 209s – This is an excellent, detailed map for the Enchantment Lakes area.
• Backpacking Washington – This hike is covered in depth in the Backpacking Washington book.

WALLOWA RIVER LOOP

• Length : 36 miles
• Days needed : 4-5 days
• Location : Wallawa-Whitman National Forest – Eagle Cap Wilderness, OR
• Best time to hike : Late July to September
• Difficulty : Moderate to difficult

The Wallowa Mountain Range is one of the finest areas to backpack in Oregon. This loop will take you through the stunning (and popular) Lakes Basin Area and over some breathtaking mountain passes. Over the course of this loop you’ll encounter crystal clear lakes and streams, wildflower-socked meadows, and granite peaks that will make you wonder if you’re still in Oregon. There are also worthy side trips to the summit of Eagle Cap and Matterhorn that will further solidify your appreciation for the Wallowas. Although this trail sees its fair share of hikers, it’s still well worth the trip.

Wallowa Maps & Guides

• CleverHiker Wallowa River Loop Backpacking Guide – Our complete guide to backpacking the Wallowa River Loop. There are two main topo maps for this area – the Imus Geographics and U.S. Forest Service maps .
• Hiking Oregon’s Eagle Cap Wilderness – A practical and thorough book about Eagle Cap trails that’s complete with maps, descriptions, elevation profiles, and photos.

HIGH DIVIDE – SEVEN LAKES BASIN LOOP

• Length : 19 mile loop
• Days needed : 2-4 days
• Location : Olympic National Park, WA
• Best time to hike : Mid-July to September
• Difficulty : Moderate
• Note : Bear canisters  are required for this hike.

Olympic National Park has some of the most stunningly diverse backpacking trails in the Pacific Northwest and the High Divide Trail is one of it’s most scenic. Though this trek is incredibly beautiful, it’s definitely not a secret. This trail winds its way through old growth forests as you climb into dramatic high alpine scenery. Once you reach the lakes basin, you will be spoiled with pristine pools, gorgeous meadows, and stunning views of Mt. Olympus.

Permits are limited for overnight camping between May 1st and September 30th, but there are also some permits given on a first-come, first-served basis. And if you really want to go all out, you can end your trek with a visit to the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort to rest those weary bones.

High Divide Maps & Guides

• Best Hike High Divide Loop Guide – A great blog post with detailed information on everything you need to know before hitting the trail.
• Green Trails Map 133S – This is an excellent, detailed map for the the Seven Lakes Basin.

National Geographic Map – This is a detailed map of the entire Olympic National Park.If you want an all-encompassing map and don’t mind carrying the extra bulk, this is a good resource.

Hiking Olympic National Park – This is a great resource that covers 66 of the best trails the ONP has to offer, ranging from day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips.

Three Sisters Loop

• Length : ~50 miles, depending on trailhead
• Days needed : 3-6 days
• Location : Three Sisters Wilderness, OR
• Best time to hike : Late July to October

This 50-mile loop circles the North, Middle, and South Sister volcanoes, providing a fantastic array of diverse terrain. Take this amazing journey and wander through rugged volcanic landscapes complete with expansive pumice fields, pristine melt lakes, quiet old-growth forests, newly recovering burn areas, peaceful wildflower meadows, and glossy obsidian streams. This is truly an Oregon adventure not to be missed.

Three Sisters Maps & Guides

CleverHiker Three Sisters Loop Backpacking Guide – Our complete guide to hiking the Three Sisters Loop.

Green Trails Maps 622 SX – This is an excellent, detailed maps for the Three Sisters Loop.

GOAT ROCKS – GOAT LAKE LOOP

• Length : 13.5 miles (additional miles along the PCT will add time but is well worth it.)
• Days needed : 2-3 days
• Location : Goat Rocks Wilderness, OR
• Best time to hike : July to October

With panoramic views of St. Helens, Rainier and Adams, the Goat Lake Loop is an ideal backpacking trip for those with limited time. Traverse through wildflower meadows and rocky ridges as you ascend to beautiful and frigid Goat Lake. There are a few epic campsites on the ridge near Goat Lake, but you may have to get there early to snag one. If you have more time, set up a basecamp near Snowgrass Flats and hike north along the Pacific Crest Trail. That’s where you’ll find some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in the area: mountain vistas in all directions with a knife ridge hike and, if you’re lucky, mountain goats.

Goat Rocks Maps & Guides

• Oregon Hikers – Goat Lake Loop – This is a great play-by-play description of the Goat Lake Loop with information on mileage, a map, and trip reports.
• Green Trails Map 303S – A detailed backpacking map of the Goat Rocks Area.

Olympic Coast Trail

• Length : Varies (73 miles of possible trails)
• Days needed : Varies
• Location : Olympic National Park Coastal Area, WA
• Best time to hike : Year round, weather permitting. Winter storms can elevate tides and make beach walking hazardous, so closely monitor weather reports before your hike.
• Note : Bear canisters are required for this hike. Also, carry a tide chart and know how to read it when camping along the coast.

Many people visiting the Olympic National Park choose to hike into the Hoh Rain Forest or climb into the glaciated peaks surrounding Mt. Olympus. While both of those trips are awe-inspiring in their own right, don’t discount the unique experience of backpacking along the Olympic Coast. You will see wild desolate beaches, endless sea stacks, and daunting headlands with the chance to spot starfish and sea anemones in tide pools along the way. These 73 miles of rugged, undeveloped coastline are uniquely challenging, but very rewarding. Hike from one deserted beach to the next through a series of overland trails, many of which employ ropes and ladders to help you climb the eroded embankments.

Camping is permitted along the coast, except between the Quillayute River and Ellen Creek. The area between Shi Shi Beach and Ozette is the most stunning, however if you venture farther away you’ll find more solitude. Along the coast there are some forested campsites and you can also camp on the beach, just make absolutely certain you’re well above the high tide line.

National Park Service: Olympic Coast Routes – Our favorite source of information on various coastal routes and trails.

Backpacking Washington – Hikes along the Olympic National Park coastal regions are covered in depth in the Backpacking Washington book as well.

Green Trails Maps 98S , 130S , and 163S – Once you decide which portion of the coastal route you are going to tackle, pick the corresponding map and you should be good to go.

PNW Backpacking Considerations

Leave no trace.

No matter where your next adventure takes you, please follow wilderness regulations and help keep our wild spaces pristine for years to come. Leave no trace y’all.

DIFFICULTY RATING

Difficulty depends on your experience, physical fitness, pack weight, trail conditions, and weather. It’s nearly impossible for us to make individual difficulty recommendations without knowing you, so please think about those considerations when planning your hike.

PACKING LIGHT

We love lightweight backpacking because it makes hiking more enjoyable. And in the PNW, keeping your pack light makes a huge difference on climbs and descents. Our gear guides are dedicated to recommending exceptional lightweight equipment to help minimize pack weight and maximize comfort.

Many of the trails on this list are iconic and therefore popular. Hiking during the week or outside of peak season will reduce the number of travelers you see on the trail. Having said that, the wilderness is far from Portland or Seattle, so you’ll have plenty of time to yourself as well.

The trails listed in this guide are generally well-maintained and well-marked. That said, you should always carry a topographical map and compass in the wilderness and know how to use them. If you need a navigation refresher, check out our video tutorials, Navigation #1 – Staying Found, and Navigation #2 – Map, Compass, & GPS.

July and August are generally great for wildflowers in the Pacific Northwest, but that’s also the time when mosquitoes will be the worst. Use a combination of permethrin on your clothing and a small amount of 30% DEET for full protection.

Black bears are common in the Pacific Northwest, so proper food storage is very important. You’re less likely to see bears on popular trails, but there will still be small critters trying to get into your food supply, and they’ll happily chew through your expensive gear to get after it. Make sure to carry a food storage container or know how to hang a bear bag properly. Bear canisters and Ursacks are the most effective and easiest storage methods. Remember: proper food storage is for the safety of you and the bears.

It’s no secret that it rains a lot in the PNW. That’s the main reason it’s so green and lush, but continuous rain can also be a major bummer on backcountry trips. Hypothermia is a very real danger when hiking in the rain, so learning how to stay safe, dry, and happy in the rain is a key PNW skill. Pay close attention to the weather forecast before your trip and always be prepared for wet weather. And if you need some fresh gear, check out our guides on rain jackets and rain pants .

BACKPACKING BOOKS

The Backpacking Oregon and Backpacking Washington books are two of our favorite resources for Pacific Northwest trip planning. They feature detailed information on the iconic trails in this article as well as some lesser known yet equally worthy hikes. If you find yourself in the PNW backcountry often, find a space on your bookshelf for both.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this list of our favorite Pacific Northwest backpacking trips. We absolutely love exploring the PNW and we hope these treks help you do the same. Please remember to hike responsibly and help preserve our beautiful wild spaces for generations to come.

Why trust us?

We understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously.

• Our recommendations are completely independent and based on hands-on experience.
• We test outdoor gear for a living – we’ve logged over 20,000 trail miles and 1,000 nights in the wilderness.
• Our team has thru-hiked some of the most iconic long trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, Long Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Arizona Trail, Pinhoti Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, as well as extensive peak bagging, and international treks.
• We field test every product we recommend, which is sadly not the norm.
• We travel to industry trade shows to stay up-to-date on product innovations.
• We continuously update our guides throughout the year and when new products launch.
• We treat recommendations to our readers as if they were for our family and friends.
• We’re lifelong learners and we’re always open to feedback. If you think we’ve missed a worthy product or got something wrong, we’d love to know about it.

Related Content

CleverHiker Gear Guide

Top Gear Picks of 2024

Essential Trail Skills? – CH Season 2

MSR FreeLite 2 Tent Review

The Ultimate Guide to Hiking the Arizona Trail

A Complete Guide to Hiking the Grand Sawtooth Loop

10 Best Hiking Shoes for Kids of 2024

Big Agnes Tiger Wall vs. NEMO Hornet OSMO vs. MSR FreeLite

Hiking Boot & Shoe Soles for Grip, Traction & Different Terrains

How to Lace Hiking Boots & Shoes

How to Clean Hiking Shoes & Boots

Get the best content from cleverhiker & around the backpacking world.

Social media is great, but our bi-weekly newsletter is a much better way to stay in the know.

Sign up to get our curated emails with the best content from CleverHiker and around the backpacking world. You’ll be turned on to new videos, trip reports, gear reviews, inspiring outdoor stories and much more. So get in the mix!

‘Dutch roll’ incident on Boeing Max prompts federal investigation

The FAA and NTSB are looking into the incident on a Southwest Airlines flight from Phoenix to Oakland, Calif.

Federal authorities are investigating an “inflight oscillation event” that happened on a Boeing 737 Max 8 plane during a Southwest Airlines flight in late May.

The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board said they are looking into the “Dutch roll” during a flight from Phoenix to Oakland, Calif. No one was injured on the flight, which carried 175 passengers and six crew members, according to a preliminary FAA report.

Boeing has been under extra scrutiny following the blowout of a door plug during an Alaska Airlines flight in January. This week, the manufacturer disclosed a quality problem with 787 Dreamliner jets. The FAA is also investigating how titanium with falsified documentation was used in some Boeing and Airbus planes.

On May 25, the Southwest plane was flying at 34,000 feet around 8 a.m. when the Dutch roll incident occurred, the NTSB said in a statement.

A Dutch roll happens when a plane rolls, or tilts side to side, and the tail moves left to right, an action called yawing. The name refers to an ice skating technique common in the Netherlands. Eric Wydra, director of the University of Oklahoma’s School of Aviation, said in an email that the motion is not dangerous in most cases but “can be very uncomfortable for passengers.”

“The nose may go left to right as the airplane simultaneously banks side to side,” Boeing says in a post on its website about Dutch rolls. The action is prompted by wind or pilot input, Boeing says, “causing a series of oscillations that will continue until the movement fixes itself or the pilot corrects it.”

Pilots are trained to recognize and fix a Dutch roll, Wydra said, but planes are also equipped with systems called yaw dampers to automatically address the motion.

In the case of the Southwest flight, the FAA’s initial report said the flight crew “regained control.” While performing maintenance after the incident, the airline discovered damage to some structural components, according to the NTSB. The FAA’s initial report said there was damage to the “standby PCU” or power control unit.

John Cox, a retired airline pilot and instructor at the University of Southern California, said in an interview that the information available so far about the incident leaves him with “more questions than answers.”

He said a Dutch roll is a “natural aerodynamic condition” that should dampen out naturally on a 737. On some other aircraft in previous years, such a motion could cause a pilot to lose control of the plane, he said. But he is not aware of a Dutch roll ever resulting in damage on a 737.

“Having a Dutch roll event is unusual,” said Cox, CEO of the consulting firm Safety Operating Systems . “Having one that caused damage is unheard of.”

Investigators are looking into whether the damaged power control unit contributed to the unexpected motion, or the motion caused the damage, the FAA said.

Southwest informed the NTSB about the event and the damage June 7. The safety board said it had received data from the plane’s flight data recorder, which will help investigators determine “the length and severity of the event.” The cockpit voice recorder, which is limited to two hours of audio, has been overwritten.

Flight-tracking data shows the plane did not leave Oakland until June 6, when it traveled to Everett, Wash. It has been there ever since. The FAA published information about the incident Wednesday.

A preliminary report from NTSB is expected soon — within 30 days of the May 25 event.

Southwest said it was “participating in and supporting the investigation,” referring questions to the FAA and NTSB. Boeing declined to answer questions and deferred to Southwest.

The event was not widely publicized until the Aviation Herald, a site that covers industry incidents and news, published an article Wednesday.

More on air travel

Leave flying to the pros: Think you could land a plane in an emergency? Experts say you’re wrong . Here’s what you should actually do if something goes awry during a flight .

Pet peeves: Why do “gate lice” line up early for a flight ? Psychologists explained for us. Another move that annoys airline workers: abusing the flight attendant call button . For more on how to behave on a flight, check out our 52 definitive rules of flying .

Plane mess: Stories about extremely disgusting airplanes have been grossing out travelers. The question of plane cleanups became the subject of a recent debate after a flight attendant allegedly told a pregnant passenger to pick up the popcorn spilled by her toddler.

Frequent flying: Airline status isn’t what it used to be, but at least there are some good movies and TV shows to watch in the air. And somewhere out there, experts are trying to make airline food taste good.

Text: A A A Print Society

High-speed rail travel enhanced.

Yangtze River Delta regional high-speed railway loop (CHINA DAILY)

China will unveil a revamped national railway schedule on Saturday, introducing a host of enhancements aimed at bolstering the country's strategic interests and propelling regional socioeconomic progress.

A notable addition to the new schedule is the inauguration of a high-speed railway loop linking Shanghai with the provinces of Zhejiang, Jiangsu and Anhui. Spanning more than 1,200 kilometers, it will start from Shanghai Railway Station in the heart of the city and then connect with key urban centers including Suzhou, Nanjing, Hangzhou and Huangshan Mountain before returning to Shanghai Hongqiao Railway Station.

The loop line, served by bullet train G8388, will depart from Shanghai around 10:30 am and arrive at Shanghai Hongqiao by approximately 6:30 pm. It encompasses 21 stations and traverses several popular tourist cities in the Yangtze River Delta Region.

China Railway Shanghai Group, the operator of the line, said the loop links up with seven high-speed railways in the region. It will also connect remote towns with major cities.

The adjusted schedule aims to facilitate seamless travel and tourism experiences in the Yangtze River Delta Region and enhance travel options to Hong Kong from Beijing and Shanghai.

Another standout feature of the new schedule is the introduction of swifter high-speed trains connecting Beijing with South China's Guangdong province and neighboring Hong Kong.

Bullet trains will race along the Beijing-Guangzhou High-Speed Railway at a speed of 350 kilometers per hour, reducing the travel time between the two cities to 7 hours and 16 minutes, 22 minutes faster than before.

In 2022, bullet trains resumed operating at 350 km/h between Beijing and Wuhan, Hubei province, along the Beijing-Guangzhou High-Speed Railway. But they maintained a speed of 300 km/h between Wuhan and Guangzhou.

Faster sleeper trains to Hong Kong are also poised to commence operations from Beijing and Shanghai, promising a refined travel experience for cross-border passengers and streamlining the journey between Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland.

The introduction of the faster sleeper trains will see travel times between Beijing and Hong Kong halved to 12 and a half hours, while the journey between Shanghai and Hong Kong will be trimmed to approximately 11 hours from over 19 and a half hours. Both sleeper trains will depart in the evening and reach the destinations by morning.

China's railway sector usually adjusts the train schedule every quarter to meet passengers' needs.

John Lin, a 40-year-old resident of Hong Kong, said high-speed trains are a preferred mode of travel for families with infants, who may find air travel less accommodating.

Lin welcomed the faster Beijing-Hong Kong daytime service's convenient departure and arrival times, noting that the journey's duration will allow for a relaxing break onboard.

"The departure and arrival time for the high-speed train is very friendly. Departing at 10 am is not too early, and arriving at 6 pm is not too late," he said. "It is OK to take a break at noon on board. As long as the train is clean, eight hours travel by train is acceptable."

He said his home is close to Hong Kong's West Kowloon Railway Station, which makes long-distance train travel more convenient.

Despite the slightly higher cost of train tickets compared with discounted flights during off-peak periods, Lin said eight hours on a clean train made for a comfortable journey.

Zhang Rulin, a Beijing native studying in Hong Kong who has spent 10 hours traveling on a train between the two cities, said that taking along her own entertainment helped pass the time.

"It was 10 hours, and it is better to prepare some films or books to kill time onboard," she said.

With West Kowloon Railway Station conveniently allowing her to transfer to the subway for her university, Zhang said she planned to opt for train travel again.

"As long as I can keep myself busy onboard, it is a good choice to take the train," she said.

Related news

China's high-speed rail extends up to 45,000 km

High-speed rail links HK with new destinations

Construction of new high-speed rail gains traction

Exhibition of Iranian cultural relics opens in Shanghai

Tibetan opera performance shines in Lhasa

38th International Travel Expo to open in Hong Kong

Giant panda Xiang Xiang celebrates her 7th birthday in Tokyo

In Numbers: Bustling travel, spending during Dragon Boat Holiday

Hubei Three Gorges Immigration Museum opens to public

American Shaolin disciples experience Chinese cultural at China's sports university

U.S. middle school students visit Palace Museum, Great Wall

Winding road zigzags into deep mountains in Anhui Province

Giant Panda Fu Bao to meet public at new home in Sichuan

People from Taiwan Straits celebrate Dragon Boat Festival together on river

First national 'Class Super League' friendly match kicks off in Guizhou

HK Dragon Boat team prepares for international race

Grand Chinese musical and dance gala premieres in Sydney

Cradle of Civilization: How Zongzi became must-eat food during Dragon Boat Festival

Culture Fact: Dragon boat sailing through tradition

Construction of 2nd launch pad at Hainan commercial spacecraft launch site completed

Qiantang River displays stunning 'tidal trees'

France issues stamp to mark 80th anniversary of D-Day

China's ARJ21 completes first green flight

World's second largest floating library visits Cambodia

Animals enjoy special Zongzi ahead of Dragon Boat Festival in Yunnan

Beijing celebrates Dragon Boat Festival with race on Shichahai Lake

Chinese National flag displayed on Chang'e-6 at lunar far side for first time

Huizhou sachets reflect festive tradition in E China

Emerald Lake resembling jade on Earth

Images of far side of the Moon captured by China's Chang'e-6 probe

Two freight ports under construction in Hainan

Traditional Hanfu fashion week attracts cross-Strait youth

China's Chang'e-6 lands on moon's far side to collect samples

China's C919 jetliner completes first overseas commercial charter flight

Dragon boat race sets world record in C China

Desert wetland showcases environmental protection in Ningxia

China sends five satellites into space

China launches communication satellite for Pakistan

Xi urges greater efforts to build China-Arab community with shared future

Most popular in 24h, more top news.

• Putin signs into law joint building of lunar base with China
• U.S.' latest Xizang-related bill blatant interference in China's internal affairs
• European Commission's tariff decision met with wide criticism
• EU urged to rectify protectionist practices
• China, New Zealand agree to start trade talks

Giant panda Fu Bao meets the public in SW China's Sichuan

History and origin of Duanwu Festival

Members can access discounts and special features

Elektrostal, visit elektrostal, check elektrostal hotel availability, popular places to visit.

• Electrostal History and Art Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Electrostal History and Art Museum in Elektrostal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

• Cities near Elektrostal

• Places of interest
• Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
• Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino
• Peter the Great Military Academy
• History of Russian Scarfs and Shawls Museum
• Ramenskii History and Art Museum
• Bykovo Manor
• Pekhorka Park
• Balashikha Arena
• Malenky Puppet Theater
• Military Technical Museum
• Church of Our Lady of Kazan
• Drama Theatre BOOM
• Balashikha Museum of History and Local Lore
• Pavlovsky Posad Museum of Art and History
• Saturn Stadium
• Borisoglebsky Sports Palace
• Church of Vladimir
• Fryazino Centre for Culture and Leisure
• Likino Dulevo Museum of Local Lore
• Orekhovo Zuevsky City Exhibition Hall
• Shirokov House
• Noginsk Museum and Exhibition Center
• Zheleznodorozhny Museum of Local Lore
• Stella Municipal Drama Theater
• Fairy Tale Children's Model Puppet Theater
• Fifth House Gallery
• Malakhovka Museum of History and Culture
• Art Gallery of The City District