The Best Scenic Drives on the West Coast to Do in Spring or Early Summer
There’s something magical about hitting the road in spring—wildflowers are blooming, waterfalls are gushing, and the tourist traffic hasn’t hit full chaos mode yet. Whether you’re craving coastal cliffs, mountain passes, or sun-drenched desert roads, the West Coast delivers some truly unforgettable drives.
Here are the best scenic routes to take from April through June, when the views are stunning and the roads are (mostly) clear.
Table of Contents
- 1. Pacific Coast Highway – Big Sur, California
- 2. Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway – Oregon
- 3. Highway 101 – Olympic Peninsula, Washington
- 4. Redwood Highway – Northern California
- 5. Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway – Bend, Oregon
- 6. Silverado Trail – Napa Valley, California
- 7. Mount Rainier’s Paradise Road – Washington
- 8. Highway 1 – Mendocino to Bodega Bay, California
- 9. Rim Drive – Crater Lake, Oregon (Early Summer Only)
- 10. Route 395 – Eastern Sierra, California
- MORE ON THE WEST COAST:
1. Pacific Coast Highway – Big Sur, California
Let’s start with a classic. The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) through Big Sur is iconic for a reason: you’ve got steep cliffs, crashing waves, sea lions, redwoods, and that endless ribbon of ocean views. Spring is prime time here—everything’s green, the wildflowers are showing off, and it’s just before the peak summer madness.
Must-stops: Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, Pfeiffer Beach, and Nepenthe for the views (and maybe a fancy overpriced drink).
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2. Columbia River Gorge Scenic Byway – Oregon
If you love waterfalls (and who doesn’t?), this is your drive. The Historic Columbia River Highway east of Portland is packed with postcard stops—Multnomah Falls, Wahkeena, Latourell, and more. Spring brings peak waterfall flow, mossy forests, and wildflowers exploding on the hillsides.
Pro tip: Start early to beat the tour buses and bring hiking shoes for short trails along the way.
3. Highway 101 – Olympic Peninsula, Washington
This loop around the Olympic Peninsula is lowkey one of the most diverse drives in the U.S. You’ll pass through old-growth rainforests, mountain views, coastal beaches, and small-town diners that still make milkshakes the old-fashioned way.
Spring is when everything’s lush, and the wildflowers start popping in the alpine meadows around Hurricane Ridge. Keep an eye out for elk—and maybe pack a rain jacket.
4. Redwood Highway – Northern California
Take Highway 101 and 199 through the towering redwoods of Northern California and prepare to feel extremely tiny. Spring is cooler and mistier, which just makes the forest feel more enchanted.
Cruise through Avenue of the Giants, pull over for roadside trails, and don’t miss the drive-thru trees (yes, they’re cheesy—but also kind of awesome).
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5. Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway – Bend, Oregon
This one usually opens in late May or early June (depending on snow), and it’s 100% worth the wait. Starting in Bend, the road winds past alpine lakes, lava fields, and views of snow-covered peaks like Mount Bachelor and South Sister.
Stop at Sparks Lake, Devils Lake, and Elk Lake, or just keep the windows down and vibe. You can picnic, paddle, or camp along the way.
6. Silverado Trail – Napa Valley, California
If you want scenic and sippable, this wine country route is ideal. The Silverado Trail runs parallel to Highway 29 but is quieter, prettier, and way less chaotic. Spring means vineyards are green, flowers are blooming, and everything smells incredible.
Book a tasting or two (but maybe not three), and cruise past rolling hills, old wineries, and those bougie-but-beautiful Napa views.
7. Mount Rainier’s Paradise Road – Washington
As soon as the road to Paradise opens—usually late May—get yourself up there. This winding drive climbs through dense forest into open alpine views with meadows full of melting snow, wildflowers, and, yes, that absolutely massive volcano in the background.
It’s only about 19 miles from the park entrance to Paradise, but you’ll want to stop a lot. Bring layers—it might be sunny at the bottom and snowing at the top.
READ MORE: How to Hike the Skyline Loop Trail in Mount Rainier!
8. Highway 1 – Mendocino to Bodega Bay, California
This quieter stretch of Highway 1 is a total gem, especially in late spring when the cliffs are covered in green and wildflowers. The drive takes you past windswept beaches, coastal bluffs, and tiny towns that are somehow both artsy and old-school.
Hit up Mendocino, Point Arena Lighthouse, Salt Point State Park, and Bodega Bay for coastal walks, seafood shacks, and peaceful vibes.
9. Rim Drive – Crater Lake, Oregon (Early Summer Only)
If it’s open (usually mid-to-late June), Rim Drive around Crater Lake is one of the most jaw-dropping routes in the country. You’re literally driving along the edge of a collapsed volcano filled with the bluest water imaginable.
There are tons of pullouts, viewpoints, and short hikes. This summer is especially notable since it’s your last chance to access the lake via the Cleetwood Cove Trail before it closes for years.
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10. Route 395 – Eastern Sierra, California
This one’s for the long-haul road trippers. From Lone Pine up to Lake Tahoe, Route 395 is packed with high-desert magic, mountain views, and hidden gems. In spring, you can still see snow on the peaks while enjoying warm temps at lower elevations.
Don’t miss: Alabama Hills, Hot Creek Geological Site, Convict Lake, and Mono Lake. Add on Mammoth Lakes if you’re feeling extra.
MORE ON THE WEST COAST:
READ MORE: The Best of Oregon
READ MORE: The Best of Washington
READ MORE: The Best of California
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