Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail

Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail
Image credit: picture by mypubliclands licenced under Attribution License.

The Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail is a 1,200-mile long hiking trail that stretches from Glacier National Park in Montana to the Olympic Peninsula in Washington state. It passes through three national parks, seven national forests, and countless other wilderness areas, showcasing the stunning natural beauty and diverse ecosystems of the Pacific Northwest.

The trail was established in 2009 as one of eleven national scenic trails in the United States and was the result of over four decades of planning and collaboration between government agencies, outdoor enthusiasts, and volunteers. It follows a route that has been used for centuries by Native American tribes, fur trappers, explorers, and settlers, making it not only a scenic adventure but also a historical journey.

Hikers on the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail can experience a wide range of landscapes, including rugged mountains, lush forests, vast prairies, and picturesque coastline. The trail offers breathtaking vistas of towering peaks, sparkling lakes, cascading waterfalls, and ancient glaciers, providing ample opportunities for stunning photography and connecting with nature.

Along the trail, hikers can explore numerous attractions and activities. In Montana, they can visit Glacier National Park with its iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road and marvel at the park's 25 glaciers and seemingly endless wilderness. In North Idaho, the trail passes through the Selkirk Mountains, providing breathtaking views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

As the trail reaches Washington state, hikers will be rewarded with stunning sights such as the Pasayten Wilderness, North Cascades National Park, and the spectacular Mount Rainier. The Pasayten Wilderness is known for its high plateaus and open meadows, offering a unique and remote hiking experience. In North Cascades National Park, hikers can explore over 300 glaciers and pristine alpine lakes. Mount Rainier, Washington's iconic volcano, is also accessible from the trail, providing hikers with an opportunity to summit its majestic peak.

Throughout the journey, hikers will have the chance to encounter a variety of wildlife, including black bears, mountain goats, elk, and bald eagles. They can also learn about the rich history of the region by visiting historic sites, such as old mining towns, Native American archaeological sites, and remnants of early settler cabins.

With its stunning scenery, diverse ecosystems, and rich history, the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you're seeking an epic thru-hike or a shorter adventure, this trail offers a truly unforgettable experience in the heart of the Pacific Northwest.

Location

The Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail is located within the stunning and diverse landscapes of the Pacific Northwest region. Stretching approximately 1,200 miles from the eastern border of Washington to the glacial peaks of the North Cascades in northern Montana, this iconic trail showcases the natural beauty and geographical diversity of the area. It traverses a variety of geographical features, including dense rainforests, alpine meadows, cascading waterfalls, rugged mountain ranges, and pristine lakes. The trail takes hikers through the breathtaking landscapes of three national parks, seven national forests, and numerous wilderness areas, offering unparalleled opportunities to explore the unique geography of the Pacific Northwest.

Address & Contact

Sorry we don't have an address for this park on file yet.
Phone: NULL
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail would be during the months of June, July, and August. During this time, the average maximum temperatures range from 86°F to 93°F, and the average minimum temperatures range from 46°F to 55°F. The monthly precipitation is relatively low, ranging from 0.1 in to 0.2 in. These months offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities along the trail.

Amenities

Campsites within or near Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail

Bobcat Meadow

The campground is located 7.7 mi from Pine Valley, CA.
Fees (US$): NULL
Total Campsites: 20
Toilets: Vault Toilets
Showers: No
Potable Water: No

Boulder Oaks

The campground is located 6.9 mi from Pine Valley, CA.
Fees (US$): NULL
Total Campsites: 30
Toilets: Vault Toilets
Showers: No
Potable Water: Yes

Corral Canyon

The campground is located 8 mi from Pine Valley, CA.
Fees (US$): NULL
Total Campsites: 20
Toilets: Vault Toilets
Showers: No
Potable Water: No

Lake Morena

NULL
Fees (US$): NULL
Total Campsites: 86
Toilets: Flush Toilets
Showers: No
Potable Water: Yes

Potrero

The campground is located 1.3 mi from Potrero, CA.
Fees (US$): NULL
Total Campsites: 46
Toilets: Flush Toilets
Showers: No
Potable Water: Yes

Hotels within or near Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail

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Quality Suites San Diego Otay Mesa

A stay at Quality Suites San Diego Otay Mesa places you in the heart of San Diego, a 3-minute drive from Alivizatos and 9 minutes from Kaiser Permanente Otay Mesa Medical Offices. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and a 24-hour front desk. Planning an event in San Diego? This hotel has facilities measuring 1113 square feet (103 square meters), including conference space. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2351 Otay Center Dr, San Diego, California 92154
Web: Link

Ayres Lodge Alpine

Located in Alpine, Ayres Lodge Alpine is connected to a shopping center, within a 10-minute drive of Viejas Casino and Viejas Outlet Center. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-out. Planning an event in Alpine? This hotel has facilities measuring 800 square feet (74 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1251 Tavern Rd, Alpine, California 91901
Web: Link

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites San Diego Otay Mesa, an IHG H

With a stay at Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites San Diego Otay Mesa, an IHG Hotel in San Diego (Otay Mesa), you'll be a 2-minute drive from Alivizatos and 9 minutes from Kaiser Permanente Otay Mesa Medical Offices. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-in, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2296 Niels Bohr Ct, San Diego, California 92154
Web: Link

Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego Chula Vista

With a stay at Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego Chula Vista in Chula Vista (Otay Ranch), you'll be a 4-minute drive from Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center and 9 minutes from North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-in, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2005 Centerpark Road, Chula Vista, California 91915
Web: Link

Ayres Hotel San Diego South - Chula Vista

With a stay at Ayres Hotel San Diego South - Chula Vista in Chula Vista (Otay Ranch), you'll be a 4-minute drive from Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center and 8 minutes from Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1710 Millenia Ave, Chula Vista, California 91915
Web: Link

Homewood Suites by Hilton Chula Vista-Eastlake

Located in Chula Vista, Homewood Suites by Hilton Chula Vista-Eastlake is a 4-minute drive from Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center and 9 minutes from Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in Chula Vista? This aparthotel has facilities measuring 1400 square feet (130 square meters), including conference space. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2424 Fenton St, Chula Vista, California 91914
Web: Link

Hampton Inn Chula Vista Eastlake

Located in Chula Vista, Hampton Inn Chula Vista Eastlake is a 4-minute drive from Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center and 9 minutes from Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. Planning an event in Chula Vista? This hotel has facilities measuring 1400 square feet (130 square meters), including conference space. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2424 Fenton St, Chula Vista, California 91914
Web: Link

420 Themed Tiny House Getaway Mt. Laguna

When you stay at this cabin in Mount Laguna, you'll be in the mountains and 9 minutes by car from Anza Borrego Desert State Park. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 9849 Sunrise Hwy, Mount Laguna, California 91948
Web: Link