Itinerary from Seattle with Olympic Peninsula & Victoria, BC

Victoria, Canada

Get a three-day, two-night sample of some of the region’s most spectacular sites and experiences. This unforgettable two-nation vacation takes you from Seattle to Victoria, British Columbia, to the snow-capped peaks of the Olympic Mountains.

Day 1: Downtown Seattle to Port Townsend

Drive time: 2 hours 45 minutes

  • Drive aboard the Bainbridge Island ferry and take in the Seattle waterfront and skyline from the stern. You can also opt for the Edmonds-Kingston ferry just north of Seattle.
  • Drive north on the Kitsap Peninsula and cross the floating Hood Canal Bridge.
  • Turn right on Highway 19 toward the charming seaport town of Port Townsend. Explore eclectic shops, galleries and restaurants along Water Street, or trek through Victorian-era neighborhoods.
  • Stay the night at one of the quaint seaside inns or opt for unique accommodations at historic Fort Worden, a former military base transformed into an iconic destination.

 

Day 2: Port Townsend to Port Angeles Coho Ferry Terminal

Drive time: 1 hour 15 minutes

  • Set the alarm. You’ll want to head out early to catch the MV Coho Ferry, your transport across the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Victoria, B.C

 

Pro Travel Tip: Make reservations in advance, especially during busy summer months.

  • From Port Townsend, head west on Highway 101 toward Port Angeles. Along the way, you’ll pass through the small town of Blyn, home of the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe and a collection of stunning hand-carved totem poles. Travel just 10 minutes further, and you’ll reach the town of Sequim, home to quaint boutiques, art galleries and restaurants serving locally sourced fare. Sequim is known for its abundant lavender, celebrated at the annual Sequim Lavender Festival the third week of July.
  • Continue on Highway 101 to the Port Angeles Coho Ferry Terminal located on the Port Angeles waterfront.

 

Port Angeles Coho Ferry Terminal to Victoria B.C. Ferry Terminal
Sailing time: 1 hour 30 minutes

  • Prepare for your crossing: The MV Coho is a pet-friendly walk-on and vehicle ferry. Arrive an hour early for your voyage, and be sure to bring your passport.
  • During your ride, grab a bite from the on-board café and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife from the floor-to-ceiling windows, outside deck or covered solarium.
  • Renowned for its charming ambience, Victoria, B.C. boasts heritage buildings, bountiful gardens, outdoor recreation and marine adventures for all ages and abilities. Its world-class attractions include the elegant Fairmont Empress Hotel (treat yourself to high tea), Royal British Columbia Museum and the stunning Butchart Gardens.

 

Pro Travel Tip: Extend your trip and take the ferry from Victoria to the San Juan Islands.

 

Port Angeles Coho Ferry Terminal to Victoria B.C. Ferry Terminal
Sailing time: 1 hour 30 minutes

  • After exploring Victoria for the day (or more, if you if you’d like to extend your stay), set sail for Port Angeles, the largest town on the Olympic Peninsula and gateway to Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park.
  • Consider making Port Angeles your basecamp for a night or two and take time to explore the many nearby destinations and attractions. You’ll find loads of lodging and camping options, all within a short distance from the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Olympic Mountains.

 

Day 3: Port Angeles to Hurricane Ridge

Drive time: 45 minutes

  • The snow-capped peaks of the Olympic Mountains beckon. On your drive to Hurricane Ridge, make your first stop the Olympic National Park Visitor Center, where you can pick up a park pass (required for entry to Hurricane Ridge), maps and backcountry wilderness permits.
  • From the visitor center, take Hurricane Ridge Road for 18 miles to reach your destination. At 5,242 feet, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world.

 

Pro Travel Tip: Hurricane Ridge gets snowfall autumn through spring, and the road isn’t always open. Vehicles are required to carry chains in the winter. Always check ahead. For travel conditions call 360-565-3131.

 

Hurricane Ridge to Seattle:
Driving time: Just over 3 hours

  • Continue west on Highway 101 around the Olympic Peninsula.

Travel times and distances are approximate. Traffic, ferry delays, inclement weather, road construction and bridge closures can affect travel times. For information on current road conditions visit wsdot.gov.