In this Seattle to Mount Shasta road trip, you’ll travel from the shores of the Puget Sound in Seattle to the slopes of the mighty Mount Shasta in Northern California. Along the way, you’ll marvel at the natural wonders of the Pacific Northwest, with stops in Mount Ranier National Park, Cannon Beach, Bend, Oregon, and Mt. Hood. The PNW is a wonderland for adventure enthusiasts. Hundred-foot-tall pine forests, seacliff-lined beaches, and towering volcanic peaks will be your playground as you travel south through the heart of the Pacific Northwest.

Not looking to explore the mountains of the Pacific Northwest? No worries. If you are on the hunt for a more arid road trip, check out this Arizona National Parks Tour or explore our Arches National Park guide for trips out of our Salt Lake City location.

Seattle to Mount Shasta Road Trip 

The Northwest corner of the United States is home to a diverse landscape that includes hundreds of miles of coastline, the entire Cascade Mountain Range, and thousands of miles of pristine, old-growth forest. While you may associate the region with perpetual rain, summer brings three months of sunshine and days that stretch for nearly 15 hours. 

Travel Time on a Seattle to Mount Shasta Road Trip

It takes 13 hours and 17 minutes to travel from our Escape Camper Van location in Seattle to Mt. Shasta, hitting each of our recommended stops along the way. The round-trip drive takes 23 hours and 1 minute and covers 1,284 miles. We recommend 5-7 days for this Seattle to Mount Shasta road trip.  

Best Time of Year for a Mount Shasta Road Trip. 

Summer: Summer in the Pacific Northwest is hard to beat. With long days of seemingly eternal sunshine and comfortable temperatures ranging from the 50s in the mountains to the 80s, you can’t go wrong with visiting the Pacific Northwest during the summer.

Fall: Early fall is similar to the summer. The sun lingers high in the sky late into the day, and the temperatures are fairly warm. As fall continues, the days get abruptly shorter, and the rain, wind, and colder temperatures arrive. This usually happens from mid to late October. 

Winter: Winter in the PNW is still magical if you know where to look. Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and other winter sports are readily available in the mountains. While lower elevations see their fair share of rain and wind, the mountains receive hundreds of inches of snow each winter. Temperatures will range from below-freezing to the high 40s. 

Spring: Spring in the Pacific Northwest can be pleasant, but the rain is still a factor. Warm temperatures don’t typically arrive until the late spring or early summer. Expect temperatures to hover around the 40s and 50s, with colder weather in the mountains. 

Preparation for a Seattle to Mount Shasta Road Trip

Gear for a Mount Shasta Road Trip

 Rain Gear: When you travel in the PNW, you never know what the weather will do. Come prepared for the rain and sun. Bring a rain jacket, waterproof layers, and plenty of dry clothes. 

Sun Protection: The PNW has plenty of sunshine during the summer. So don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat for the long summer days.

Layers: The nights and cloudy days in the mountains can be chilly, so layer up. We recommend bringing a raincoat and synthetic layers to keep you warm and dry throughout your trip.

Water & Food: A camper van lets you take everything you need on the road. Add a kitchen kit to your camper van to plan your meals during your journey. 

Finding Campsites on a Mount Shasta Road Trip

Finding a campsite: camper vans fit in almost every standard-sized campsite and don’t require electrical or water hookups, making camping easy. 

Dispersed camping vs. campsites: A van makes dispersed camping easy. You can disperse camp for free on federal and BLM land. There are plenty of apps to help you find a dispersed camping site on your route. If you’re considering booking a campsite, either in a national/state park or a private campsite, make sure you book at least a few months before your trip.

Navigation

Phones & Chargers: Navigation is integral to your trip’s success. Make sure you bring a smartphone or GPS device and a charger. Download maps offline to have navigation access when you lose service.

Seattle to Mount Shasta Road Trip Stops

This itinerary will take you to all of the icon destinations throughout the Pacific Northwest. Beginning in Seattle, you will head south to experience Washington’s most famous mountain, Mount Rainier. Then you will continue down the Oregon coast, stopping at Cannon Beach, and Bend. You will then get to experience the magic of Mount Hood and, finally, California’s famed Mount Shasta.

Seattle to Mount Rainier National Park 

A quick 2-hour drive south from Seattle will transport you to Mt. Rainier National Park, where you’ll hike and camp under the mountain. Mount Ranier,  is a towering 14,411 feet, making it visible from hundreds of miles away. When you pick up your van in Seattle, Mount Rainier will be a beacon for the first part of your drive, guiding you south toward your adventure. Mount Rainier National Park has some of the best campsites in the state, offering unobstructed views of the majestic mountain. Starting this year, visitors must apply for permits to reserve their right to enter the park. Learn more about Mount Ranier Permits here.

Camping in Mount Rainier National Park 

Cougar Rock Campground: Cougar Rock is located within the national park and offers 173 individual sites and 5 group sites, along with picnic tables, fire platforms, flush toilets, and drinkable water. This campground puts you right next to the popular Cedar Falls trail. Reservations are strongly recommended. 

Ohanapecosh Campground: Located on the southeast side of the park, Ohanapecosh Campground is shaded by old-growth forest and bisected by a rushing river. The campground gives visitors easy access to the popular Silver Falls and Grove of the Patriarch trails. This campground has a whopping 188 individual sites for RV or tent camping. Campers have access to potable water, food storage, picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms.  

White River Campground: This first-come, first-serve campground sits at an elevation of 4,440 ft,m1200 ft higher than any other campground. White River is open June through September and has 88 available sites for $20 a night. Campers must physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Campers have access to fire rings, picnic tables, and flush toilets. 

Crystal Mountain Resort: Crystal Mountain, WA 98022- Crystal Mountain is Washington’s largest ski resort and is located right next to Mount Rainier National Park. Crystal Mountain offers RV sites with unparalleled views of Mt. Rainier. 

Mounthaven Resort: Located about halfway from the Nisqually Park entrance, Mounthaven Resort offers RV sites, cabins, and tent sites deep in the Washington wilderness. Mounthaven is a great pet-friendly camping option right by the park. 

Mineral Lake Lions Den Campground: The Lions Den Campground at Mineral Lake is one of the only waterfront campgrounds near Mount Rainier. Choose from 105 campsites with lake and mountain views. 

Activities in Mount Ranier National Park 

Hike the Skyline Loop Trail: This hike is a challenging 5.7-mile loop with unobstructed views of Mount Rainier. Despite its difficulty, the hike is incredibly popular, so arrive at the trailhead early to beat the crowds. 

Marvel at Myrtle Falls: Myrtle Falls is a 60-foot braided cascade located at the end of a half-mile paved trail and is one of the park’s top attractions. 

Take the Mount Fremont Lookout Trail: The Mount Freemont Lookout trail gives hikers up close and personal views of Mount Rainier on a moderate 5.7 mile out and back trail. If you’re looking for the best view of Mount Rainier, Mount Fremont Lookout may just be it. 

Take a photo from the iconic Reflection Lake: Snap a photo of Mt. Rainier reflected 180 degrees in an alpine lake. Reflection Lake is located on Stevens Canyon Road, just 10 minutes from Paradise. 

Hike the Bench and Snow Lakes Trail: This moderate 2.2-mile out-and-back trail brings you to a chilly alpine lake with Mount Rainier towering behind. Pack your swimsuit and take a refreshing dip in the lake. 

Drive the Cayuse Pass: The Cayuse Pass twists and turns upwards until it arrives at the serene Tipsoo Lake. The Cayuse Pass is located at the junction of SR 123 and SR 410. 

Hike the Naches Peak Loop: The Naches Peak Loop is an easy 3.5-mile loop that offers spectacular views of the mountain, alpine lakes, and abundant wildflowers. If you want stellar views without a burdensome trek, try this hike. 

Drive the Chinook Pass: The Chinook Scenic Byway is part of the 107-mile SR 410, also known as the Stephen Mather Memorial Parkway. This drive is often described as the most scenic road in Washington and begins in nearby Enumclaw and ends in Naches. 

Where to Eat in Mount Rainier National Park 

Paradise Inn: The Paradise Inn is a historic Inn in Mount Ranier National Park that first opened its doors in 1916. With a focus on sustainable agriculture and locally sourced ingredients, Paradise Inn offers fine dining in the heart of the park. Stop by for brunch before hitting the trail. 

Pizza Express: Located in nearby Elbe, Washington, Pizza Express serves tasty pizza to diners in a refurbished train car. Nothing beats a good slice of pizza after a long day on the mountain.

Summit House Restaurant: Dine above the clouds at the Summit House Restaurant at Crystal Mountain. Located just steps from the Mount Rainer Gondola, the Summit House offers an elevated dining experience with a divine view. Take the scenic Gonala 2500 feet to the top of the ski mountain to sample the finest flavors in the PNW. 

Packwood Brewing Co: Packwood Brewing serves craft beer with a decadent dining menu full of seasonal ingredients and local fare. Packwood is worth a stop for any beer lover. 

Mount Rainier National Park to Cannon Beach, Oregon

When most people picture the Oregon coast, they imagine rocky headlines that cling to the coast while being battered by the unrelenting Pacific Ocean. That’s exactly what’s in store for travelers at Cannon Beach. This celebrated coastal enclave in Northern Oregon is home to iconic sea stacks and some of the best waves in the state. Whether you’re planning to suit up and head into the surf or simply take in the raw power of the coast, Cannon Beach is sure to be a memorable stop.

Camping in Cannon Beach, Oregon 

Wrights for Camping: In 1959, Pop Wright started Wright’s as an affordable camping option for families to visit the beach. At the time, they had eight sites that went for $1.50 a night. Today, Wrights continues to offer camping at Cannon Beach with 22 total sites. Each site has access to picnic tables, fire rings, clean restrooms, and showers. Make your reservations here. 

Nehalem Bay State Park: Situated on a 4-mile stretch of sand between the Ocean and the Bay, Nehalem Bay State Park hosts campers under the shore pines just a dune away from the breaking waves. The campground is open year-round and are reservable up to six months in advance. There are 265 electrical sites with water, 18 yurts, flush toilets, and showers. Make your reservations here. 

Cannon Beach RV Resort: Tucked away among massive pines, Cannon Beach RV Resort offers a park-like experience with quiet, private campsites. With top-notch amenities and a communal clubhouse to meet fellow travelers, Cannon Beach RV Resort is a high-class camping experience. 

Sea Ranch RV Resort: Sea Ranch offers cabin rentals, RV sites, and tent sites two and a half blocks from the beach. All campsites have picnic tables and fire rings with grill tops. Guests will have access to clean restroom and shower facilities along with WIFI, a Danish Sauna, and laundry facilities. 

Activities in Cannon Beach, Oregon 

Explore the Beach and Marvel at Haystack Rock: In 2013, National Geographic named Cannon Beach one of the most beautiful places on the planet. The sandy beach stretches for nearly four miles, and the iconic Haystack sits right in the middle. 

Go surfing: Cannon Beach and the surrounding coastline has a wave for every level of surfer, from advanced to total beginner. Take a surf lesson, or find a break that suits your skill level and paddle out. 

Browse local art: Cannon Beach is home to over 15 art galleries, many of which are just a few blocks from each other downtown. Find the perfect statement piece and support local artists in the process. 

Go Puffin watching: Each spring, a colony of Tufted Puffins moves into the grassy north face of Haystack Rock. These unique birds typically stick around from April through July to lay eggs and raise their young. 

Go whale-watching: Each year, migrating gray whales come to the Oregon coast during the summer and feed close to shore. Additionally, you may spot humpbacks and orcas. The best spot to whale watch is the main parking area of Ecola State Park. 

Hike the Indian Beach Trail: The Indian Beach Trail starts in a thick pine forest and winds downhill to trace coastal cliffs and give trekkers stunning views of the deep blue sea below. This trail is a 3.8 mile out and back with an elevation change of 872 feet. 

Places to Eat in Cannon Beach, Oregon

Ecola Seafood Restaurant and Market: Nothing beats fresh seafood at the beach. Choose from fresh-caught daily fish or local shellfish. The seafood-and-chips basket is a crowd favorite, along with the clam chowder. 

Cannon Beach Smokehouse: With house-made smoked meats and beers from nearby Bill’s Tavern, Cannon Beach Smokehouse is the perfect place for a hearty meal. Try their famous smoked turkey Reuben or brisket. 

The Wayfarer Restaurant and Lounge: Looking for the perfect date spot in Cannon Beach? Head to the Wayfarer. The Wayfarer has been a staple of the Canon Beach community since 1977. They are the only establishment in town to serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offer an unbeatable view of Haystack Rock. 

Public Coast Brewing Co: Public Coast Brewing is the perfect place to grab a post-surf or hike beer and burger. This counter-service gastropub, located in the heart of Cannon Beach, sources all of its ingredients from a 400-mile radius of its location. Try the ‘67 Blonde. 

Sleepy Monk Coffee Roasters: Start your day at Sleepy Monk’s for a coffee in Haystack Square. This cafe looks more like an old west saloon than a boutique coffee roaster, but they have the best coffee in town and homemade baked goods to satisfy your early morning cravings. 

Cannon Beach to Bend

The high desert collides with the Cascades in Bend, and the land has an undeniable energy. The desert air swirls and combines with the fresh scent of towering pines, and adventure awaits around every corner. Bend makes a strong case for the best mountain town in the country. Whether you’re a hiker, biker, climber, skier, or something else entirely, it will satisfy even the deepest wanderlust. For campers, Bend offers a mix of private sites, national monument camping, and state parks.

Camping in Bend, Oregon 

Tumalo State Park: Just a few miles north of Bend, Tumalo State Park offers year-round camping with tent sites, RV sites, and yurts. The park is also a great destination for hiking, biking, fly fishing, and river floating on the Deschutes River. Book your campsites up to six months in advance. Campers will have access to picnic tables, flush toilets, and showers. Tumalo State Park is dog-friendly. 

LaPine State Park: 25 miles south of Bend, LaPine State Park offers year-round camping with tent sites, RV sites, and cabins. While many sites are reservation-only, there are a handful of first-come, first-serve sites.  There are even hot showers. The park is home to 14 miles of multi-use trails. Hike and bike in the summer and snow-shoe and cross-country ski in the winter.  Campers will have access to picnic tables, flush toilets, and showers. 

Craine Prairie Reservoir Campground: Situated on the shore of the reservoir in the Deschutes National Forest, this campground offers 83 campsites and boat launch access. With the Crane Praire Resort within walking distance, you’ll have everything you need. Campers have access to drinking water, vault toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables. 

The Camp: The Camp is a boutique camping and RV park located in town at the site of the original Bend RV Park. They offer glamping in vintage restored RVs along with  RV and van sites. Campers will have access to a restroom with showers, a pet area, and more modern amenities.

What to do in Bend, Oregon 

Float the Deschutes River: The Deschutes River flows 252 miles from the Cascades to the Colombia River and runs right through Bend. Just as farmers rely on the waters of the Deschutes, so do adventurers in Bend. There’s no better way to spend a warm summer day than floating down the Deschutes River, allowing the current to gently push you along. Rent tubes and make your reservations at  Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe.

Hike the Pilot Butte: The Pilot Butte is known as the North Star of Bend’s natural skyline. The cinder cone was formed roughly 190,000 years ago by volcanic activity and now stands as one of Bend’s most iconic formations. The hike is an easy 2-mile trek with 500 feet of elevation gain, with rewarding views from the top.

Hike to Tumalo Falls: In the Cascade range just west of Bend, the Tumalo Creek drops abruptly 97 feet down, creating the rushing Tumalo Falls. Two main trails take you to Tumalo Falls: one is a half-mile out and back, and the other is a 6.9-mile loop. 

Paddleboard Bend’s mountain lakes: Bend has several lakes with calm water that are perfect for paddling. Head to Tumalo Creek Canoe and Kayak to rent a paddle board and head out on Sparks Lake, Hosmer Lake, or Devils Lake for an epic day on the water. 

Mountain Bike Mount Bachelor: In the winter, Mount Bachelor is Oregon’s premier ski destination, with 4,323 skiable acres. In the summer, the mountain turns into a downhill mountain bike paradise with lift access to over 12 miles of scenic bike trails. 

Places to Eat in Bend, Oregon 

The Sparrow Bakery Northwest: Start your day with coffee and breakfast at the Sparrow Bakery Northwest. With decadent breakfast sandwiches, flaky croissants, and some of the best coffee in town, you can’t go wrong with breakfast at Sparrow Bakery. 

Pizza Mondo: Community and good pizza are at the heart of Pizza Mondo’s business model. This celebrated pizzeria has been serving locals and visitors in Bend since 1996. 

Ariana: Located on the bustling Galveston Avenue, Araina has represented the best of Bend fine dining for nearly 20 years. Operated by husband and wife duo Andrès and Ariana Fernadez, this Bend eatery serves a seasonal menu highlighting local flavors and ingredients with an extensive wine list. 

The Lemon Tree: This sunny cafe on the edge of downtown Bend serves breakfast and lunch. Chef and owners Jaclyn Perez and Betsy McDonald met while working on yachts and traveling the world. 

Bend to Mount Shasta, California

Shasta rises over 14,179 feet into the sky and towers over the surrounding landscape. In addition to being an adventure hub for hiking, mountaineering, biking, climbing, and paddling, the mountain is said to possess spiritual qualities that attract travelers from all walks of life. Considered to be an energy vortex by the indigenous population of the region, Shasta possesses a divine omnipresence that captivates all who visit. Mt. Shasta and the nearby Shasta-Trinity National Forest have dozens of campgrounds to choose from, both park-maintained and dispersed. Check out local dispersed camping options here. 

Camping in Mount Shasta 

Ackerman Campground: Ackerman Campground is a lakeside campsite that’s favored by fishermen. Located in the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area, this Shasta campground is open year-round but accepts reservations from May 21st through September 10th. 

Loge Mount Shasta: Loge Mt. Shasta is an adventure motel and campground that has everything you need to conquer the mountain. With hiking, biking, skiing, rafting, and fishing gear rentals,  it’s hard to beat a stay at Loge. Campers have access to Traeger Grills, modern restrooms, hot showers, and the hotel Cafe. 

Alpine View Campground: Alpine View Campground is located within the Trinity area of the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area. This is one of the most accessible and lowest elevation campsites, great for kids and those with accessibility needs. 

Antlers Campground: Antlers Campground is perched on a bluff above Shasta Lake. With sweeping views of the lake and easy access from I-5, Antlers Campground is one of the most popular camping locations in the area and fills up quickly. 

Castle Lake Campground: Castle Lake Campground is a primitive campsite tucked away into the forest near the beautiful Castle Lake that offers six sites with fire rings and vault toilets. No reservations are needed. This campsite opens in July. 

Things to Do in Mount Shasta 

Ski Mount Shasta: Mount Shasta is more than just a summer haven for adventure. It’s also one of California’s best-kept winter secrets. Mt. Shasta Ski Park is located 6 miles south of the massive stratovolcano and offers skiers and boarders three skiable summits of 6150, 6567, and 6880 feet. 

Visit Pluto’s Cave: Pluto’s Cave is a partially collapsed lava tube on the northern side of Mount Shasta in the Klamath National Forest. Access Pluto’s Cave using Pluto’s Cave Trail, an easy 1-mile trail that takes you to the cave’s entrance, where you can descend and travel for over a mile underground.  

Take on Black Butte Trail: Black Butte Trail is a challenging out-and-back hike in the Mount Shasta area that ascends 1,811 feet in 5 miles. This trail offers incredible views of Mt. Shasta Volcanic Peak and is best accessed from May to November. 

Hike, bike, or paddle Lake Siskiyou: This serene mountain lake located at the foot of Mount Shasta offers panoramic views of the mountain, a multi-use trail system, camping, boating, and more. The Lake Siskiyou Loop is a 6.5-mile trail that’s great for hiking, walking the dogs, or biking. Boat rentals are available through the Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort. 

Hike to Faery Falls: Faery Falls is a stunning waterfall that’s easily accessible with a short hike. Faery Falls Trail is a 1.4-mile out and back that takes you directly to the base of the falls. 

Hike from Castle to Heart Lake: The Heart Lake Trail is probably the best bang for your buck in terms of mountain scenery and epic views. The trail connects one enchanting mountain to another in an easy-to-moderate trek. The hike is a 2-mile out-and-back with an elevation gain of 682 feet. 

Hike to Horse Camp: You don’t need to be on a horse to visit Horse Camp on Mount Shasta. This popular trail is a common starting point for mountain climbers taking on the Shasta peak, but it also makes a great day hike. The hike is a 3.2-mile out-and-back with 975 feet of elevation gain. The views of Mount Shasta’s peak from Horse Camp make the trip well worth it. Start at Bunny Flat Trailhead and continue toward the mountain until you come to a fork in the trail. Continue right to Horsecamp. In addition to views of Mount Shasta, you’ll find a cabin with a dining table, news clippings on the wall, and books from past adventurers. 

Places to Eat in Mount Shasta 

Lily’s: This charming cafe, located on Mt. Shasta Blvd, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner to travelers with crowd favorites like Eggs Benedict and Salmon Omelet. With Patio dining in the front and back of the restaurant, you can have your meal and enjoy a sunny day in Shasta. 

Bistro 107: Located downtown on the corner of Chestnut St, Bistro 107 serves family-style meals and some of the best burgers in town. Their fare is classic American, and it’s executed just right. This is a great stop after a long day on the mountain. 

Burger Express:  Burger Express serves old-school drive-in-style burgers. They are known for their delicious garlic fries. This Mount Shasta restaurant is great for an easy, quick bite after a hike. 

Poncho and Lefkowitz: Poncho and Lefkowitz is a local favorite that serves a combination of Mexican and a variety of sausages and hot dogs. They recently started serving breakfast burritos that are the perfect pre-hike fuel.

Mount Shasta to Mount Hood

Like Mount Ranier and Mount Shasta, Mount Hood is one of the Pacific Northwest’s most prominent stratovolcanoes. Hood stands guard over Portland from a gargantuan height of 11,249 feet and is the tallest mountain in Oregon. Located just 90 minutes from Portland, Mount Hood offers camping, hiking, fishing, and skiing to visitors and Portland residents. Mount Hood is one of the few places in the country that allows summer skiing on its permanently glaciated and snow-covered features. 

Camping in Mount Hood 

Lake Harriet Campground: Located along the Oak Grove Fork of the Clackamas River, Lake Harriet Campground offers 11 reservable campsites accessible from Forest Rd 4630. Campers can access hiking, fishing, and boating with drinker water and vault toilets available on site.  

Trillium Lake Campground: Trillium Lake Campground has something for every type of outdoors enthusiast, like hiking, biking, skiing, fishing, and boating. Trillium Lake’s 64 campsites are reservable up to 6 months in advance. Sites include access to vault toilets and drinking water. 

Lost Lake Campground and Resort: With access to the lake and over 100 miles of nearby trails, campers at Lost Lake Campground Resort may never leave. There are 148 total campsites in addition to yurt and cabin rentals. The resort also has a general store and offers kayak and SUP rentals. Vault toilets and drinking water are available onsite. Campsites can be reserved online here.  

Milo McIver State Park: With 950 acres of dense forest on the Clackamas River and nearby Estacada Lake, campers in Milo McIver State Park have their pick of activities. There’s even a 27-hole disc golf course. There are 44 sites with electrical hookups and 9 tent sites. Campers have access to flush toilets and hot showers. 

Hood View Campground: Named for its breathtaking view of the mountain, Hood View Campground on Timothy Lake is one of the most cherished campsites in the area. Hood View is a great spot for fishing the lake and admiring the mountain. The campground boasts dozens of sites, with 200 total in the lake area. Campers have access to fire rings, vault toilets, and drinking water. 

Mt. Hood Village Campground and RV Resort: Mt. Hood Village and RV Resort has been serving Oregon campers since 1984. With 300 wooded RV sites and top-of-the-line amenities, like a swimming pool, a spa, laundry facilities, and so much more, a stay at Mt. Hood Village Campground and RV Resort is camping on a different level. 

Things to Do in Mount Hood, Oregon

Hit the slopes: Mount Hood is Portland’s ski mountain. There are six ski areas: Timberline Lodge, Mountain Hood Meadows, Mount Hood Ski Bowl, Cooper Spur, Snow Bunny, and Summit. Mt. Hood Meadows offers the most skiable terrain, with approximately 2,150 skiable acres. You can even ski in the summer on Mount Hood at the Timberline Lodge.

Hike to Ramona Falls: Romona Falls is a rushing cascade that stands 120 feet tall. The hike to the falls is a moderate 7-mile loop in the Mount Hood National Forest that climbs 1,046 feet before reaching the stunning cascade that flows over a series of giant moss-covered boulders. 

Paddle or swim at Trillium Lake: In addition to camping, the Trillium Lake area is popular for fishing, swimming, and paddling, all in the shadow of Mount Hood. Head to Mount Hood Outfitters for your kayak rental. 

Hike the Tamanawas Falls Trail: Take this easy 3.4-mile stroll to the stunning Tamanawas Falls. The trail has 550 feet of elevation gain and takes hikers to the bottom of Cold Spring Creek, where they can bask in the power of the mighty waterfall. 

Drive the Mount Hood Scenic Byway: See Mount Hood in all her glory without leaving your car. The Mount Hood Scenic Byway is perfect for those just passing through or photographers searching for the perfect vantage point to capture the mountain. Throughout the loop, you’ll pass through many of the charming towns that make the Mount Hood area so special, including Sandy, Barlow Pass, and the historic Timberline Lodge. 

Places to Eat in Mount Hood

Dragonfly Cafe & Bakery: Tucked away in the Mt. Hood Village Campground and RV Resort, Dragonfly Cafe & Bakery serves homemade baked goods and breakfast favorites. Stop by to fuel up on homemade goods before heading out for a day on the mountain. 

Koya Kitchen: Located in the Mt. Hood Village, Koya Kitches serves an enchanting mix of classic Japanese cuisine, from sushi to Japanese curry. Indulge in the rich flavors of a culture of a world away while surrounded by the Oregon wilderness. 

Skyway Bar & Grill: Skyway Bar & Grill is a mish-mash of light fixtures and collectibles that create a one-of-kind atmosphere where guests enjoy smokehouse classics like ribs, smoked chicken, and pork shoulder. 

Mt. Hood Brewing Co: Mt Hood has been making regionally celebrated craft beer in the PNW since 1991. Using the actual glacier water from the mountain, Mt. Hood Brewing Co. brews a variety of beers, including their classics: Ice Axe IPA, Hogsback Oatmeal Stout, Timberline Tucker, and Highland Meadow Blonde. The brewery serves a sold mix of pub far and local favorites from burgers and pulled port to Oregon rockfish and chips. 

Huckleberry Inn: A stop in Government Camp isn’t complete without a visit to Huckleberry Innf or their famous Huckleberry pancakes, milkshakes, and pie. This classic diner serves all your favorites, utilizing local huckleberries for a sweet addition to everyday diner fare. 

Mount Hood to Escape Camper Vans in Seattle

Wake up at your leisure in the shadow of Mt. Hood, before packing up and heading north to Seattle. The drive from Mount Hood to Seattle covers 241 miles and takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes. You’ll pass through Portland for lunch and then continue on I-5 until you reach the Emerald City. 

Why Rent a Camper Van for a Mount Shasta Road Trip?

The perfect blend of mobility and comfort: A camper van gives you an ideal mix of mobility and comfort and allows you to enjoy every aspect of the Pacific Northwest, from the coast to the mountains and everything in between. While an RV may have a similar level of comfort, you’re limited on where to park and stay. A camper van offers the best of both worlds–camping made comfortable and easy meals on the go. Navigate winding mountain roads quickly get to remote, dispersed campsites, and enjoy all the freedoms of camper van travel. 

Easy to drive: Unlike giant RVs, camper vans drive just like normal cars, fit into regular parking spots, and are easy to use both in nature and in the city. Camper vans are unrivaled when it comes to dispersed camping. Access remote campsites and trails high in the mountains and blend in seamlessly while exploring the streets of Seattle and Portland. 

Flexible Camping: Since camper vans don’t require electrical or sewer hookups, you can camp in tent-designated campsites and remote dispersed sites.  

Convenient and fun: With dozens of add-ons and several spacious models, our camper vans make spending the night in nature easy and enjoyable. You can pack everything you need for a multi-day and multi-activity adventure in your van and not waste time setting up a tent or looking for RV-designated camping or parking. 

Reserve with Escape Camper Vans for Your Seattle to Mount Shasta Road Trip

A camper van is the ultimate adventure vehicle for exploring the Pacific Northwest on a Mount Shasta road trip. From the high volcanic peaks to the craggy coastline, a camper van is the ultimate adventure vehicle in the PNW. The combination of mobility and comfort is unmatched by any other form of camping. Don’t waste time unpacking and pitching a tent when you have everything you need to camp inside your van. Unlike RVs, camper vans allow you to camp in tent sites, park like a standard vehicle, and drive safely and comfortably up and down mountain roads. Pick your camper van up at Escape Camper Vans in Seattle to start your adventure Mount Shasta road trip adventure.