Summertime is the perfect time to visit the Pacific Northwest. The weather is perfect and it is a great time for hiking and exploring. While many people may flock to places such as Seattle, Portland, and Boise, there are many other fabulous lesser-known places to explore in the PNW. The following are some of the most underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
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The PNW is also a great time to visit any season. Check out these posts for recommendations for other seasons!
Table of Contents
Underrated Summer Break Destinations in Washington
Flaming Geyser State Park, Washington
By Lynli of Wander Big
Flaming Geyser State Park is a small, lesser-known State Park located less than an hour from downtown Seattle. It is one of the best underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest. Best known for the methane geyser (which, yes, is indeed flaming most of the time!), Flaming Geyser also features well-maintained hiking trails, campgrounds, play fields, restrooms, and access to the Green River for water sports like kayaking and floating. Even though Flaming Geyser is a literal geyser of flames, most locals haven’t even heard of this hidden gem.
If you just want to visit the park and simply see the namesake methane geyser, Flaming Geyser State Park can be an easy half-day day trip from Seattle. For Pacific Northwest explorers who want to go a bit farther up the trail or down the river, Flaming Geyser State Park can be the home base for a several day camping trip.
Getting to Flaming Geyser State Park is easy – it’s a quick trip up I-5 from Seattle. For experienced cyclists, Flaming Geyser State Park can be accessed from the Interurban Trail. Currently, however, there is no way to get to the park using public transportation, although Seattle’s trailhead direct bus service (connecting urban bus stops to popular hiking trails) continues to expand each summer.
Note: in recent years, the methane gas escaping from this geyser has waned, and reports indicate that the flame does sometimes go out. Even without this remarkable feature, the feature geyser, as well as the smaller underwater geysers up the trail, are well worth visiting.
Port Townsend, Washington
By Tara of Backpack Road Ramblers
Ready to fall in love with the cutest Victorian town on the planet? Located at the northeastern tip of the Olympic Peninsula on the Puget Sound in Washington, Port Townsend is a charming and laid-back village of fewer than 15,000 people, with constant breezes blowing off the sea, and the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. It is one of the best underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Port Townsend experiences a temperate climate year-round and is best known for its Victorian architecture and natural coastal beauty. A long weekend is perfect for exploring Port Townsend in the summer.
You do not need a car to get around, especially if you’re staying at a downtown Port Townsend hotel (we loved the historic Palace Hotel). The area is very walkable, with all the major sites and attractions within the downtown area.
From Seattle, take the ferry to Bainbridge Island, and from there you can catch the Kitsap Transit bus to Poulsbo, and then transfer to the Jefferson Transit bus to the Port Townsend park-and-ride.
The Victorian homes of Port Townsend were built uptown starting in the 1880s when the town was a contender for hosting the main railroad terminus for the Pacific Northwest.
Checking out these beauties is one of the best things to do in Port Townsend. When meandering around Uptown Port Townsend, be on the lookout for the friendly deer that wander the streets and eat the gardens of the locals.
You can also go whale watching on the Puget Sound, visit the Point Wilson Lighthouse, and tour the turn-of-the-century bunkers in Fort Worden State Park. When you’re ready for a break, be sure to stop into Better Living Through Coffee’s waterfront location for a pick-me-up!
Port Townsend is a perfect combination of Victorian-era cottages, sprawling gardens, and a bustling waterfront shopping district. It’s also a strong contender for one of the most beautiful towns in America.
Union, Washington
By Karen of The Travel Mad Mum
Union is a scenic coastal town based on the banks of a fjord just twenty minutes away from Olympic National Park. In order to fully appreciate the3 fjord, and to witness some amazing sunsets in the area, we suggest spending at least two days in Union.
Many locals can be seen sitting on their private dock around sunset. Sometimes whales can be spotted swimming along the fjord which is a real surprise since it is not that wide, it basically looks like a river.
During the summer (July to September), the high-temperature increases by 14°C every day, from 22°C to 26°C, and rarely falls below 18°C or exceeds 32°C. In most cases, driving is the preferred mode of transport.
Pebble Beach is an adorable home away from home in Union. The location of the property is ideal for those who love to be surrounded by nature, with a nearby lake, trails, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
The cottage is well-equipped with modern amenities, such as a washing machine, dryer, fridge-freezer, and coffee maker, making it a great place for family trips. With a hot tub overlooking the fjord, it has some incredible views of the area.
It has its own private dock with deck chairs to watch the sunset. Not to mention an area in a cedar forest out the back of the property to relax and unwind.
Locals are renowned for making fantastic homemade products which can be found in Union Market. It is an easy place to escape for the weekend from Seattle and one of the most underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
North Cascades National Park, Washington
By Chantelle of Flannels or FlipFlops
One of the most underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest is North Cascades National Park. It’s best to plan on spending at least two days here, but three or four would be even better since the park is spread out and you’ll want time to explore it all.
Early in the summer, there may still be quite a bit of snow, but don’t let that discourage you – some areas will still be accessible and as the season progresses, more and more areas open up.
You definitely need a car since there are no shuttles or public transportation options available to get around within the park boundaries. Renting a car is your best bet if you’re flying into SeaTac Airport.
The best places to stay are either Sedro-Wooley, Winthrop, or Burlington – all within an hour’s drive from the park entrance. You’ll want to book your lodging early especially if you want to stay in Winthrop. This western-themed town is quite small and will fill up quickly.
Once you arrive at North Cascades National Park, you can spend your days driving along Highway 20 which runs through it and offers stunning views of Ross Lake and countless other creeks and valleys, hiking some of Washington State’s best trails, or kayaking on Diablo Lake.
One major reason this park remains relatively unknown is its remote location – it takes effort to get there! But once you do make it out here, you can enjoy free entry into one of America’s most beautiful national parks without having to worry about crowds.
The park has not been built up or commercialized, and what you see is wildlife and pristine and rugged nature at every turn! The park is free, but you will need to factor in lodging costs, food (you need to bring it to the park), and gas.
Cle Elum, Washington
By Kassidy of The Hiking Helper
Surrounded by towering mountain peaks, the area of Cle Elum is far more underrated than it should be. It sits just on the edge of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area and has several hikes that are worth checking out. Because of its distance from other places, it’s not as visited by tourists or locals.
Since it is a bit further away from other cities, it’s best to take your own car to Cle Elum. This way, you’ll also be able to drive from trailhead to trailhead.
The best activity in the area is hiking. From Lake Ingalls to Earl Peak and Bean Peak to the Esmeralda Basin, there are mountain views and trails in every direction. Whether you’re looking for something a bit easier or are ready to take on an all-day hike, there is something for everyone.
The best part about the trails around Cle Elum is that they’re vastly underrated, meaning you won’t find as many crowds as other popular trailheads!
It’s recommended to hang out in this area for around 2-3 days to be able to fully enjoy all of the trails and views. Another great part is that there is a lot of land nearby for free or cheap camping. So if you’re on a budget, this is the place to be!
Since the hiking in the area is in the mountains, it’s best to plan a visit here in the late spring or summer months. It’s also beautiful in the fall time when the foliage is changing, thus making it one of the most underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
San Juan Islands, Washington
By Patricia of Ze Wandering Frogs
While you could go to the San Juan Islands as a day trip from Seattle, Washington State, most people spend two or three days on the islands. It is one of the most underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
During summer, the temperatures can vary from 67°F to 71°F, making these months a great time to travel to the San Juan Islands.
Sea-Tac International Airport is the main airport in Seattle. From there, drive about 1.5 hours to Anacortes, where you will board one of the ferries to the islands. The main islands are San Juan Island, Orcas Island, Shaw Island, and Lopez Island, though most attractions and places to stay are on the first two.
On San Juan Island, see the Whale Museum and the 19th-century British and American Camps in the San Juan Island National Historical Park. Kayaking is a favorite activity that can be done from Friday Harbor, the island’s largest community. The Orcas Island Historical Museum, located on Orcas Island, the biggest of the San Juan Islands, is a great place to learn about the island’s past.
Hike to Mount Constitution in Moran State Park for panoramic views of the islands. Or drive around the Orcas Island Loop Road. Bike riders love Lopez Island, and Shawn Island has the longest-running Little Red Schoolhouse dating back to the 19th century.
The Pacific Northwest region’s beautiful beauty, which includes thick woods and expansive beaches, can also be found on the San Juan Islands. So if you are looking at what to do on your Washington State itinerary, consider the San Juan Islands.
You can travel on a budget on the San Juan Islands: one-way car ferry crossing will cost around US$20; a night at a campground is about US$50 a night, where you can bring a stove to cook your own food. Though make sure to wander the markets and try local food to taste the islands’ seafood cuisine!
Kitsap Peninsula, Washington
By Stephanie of History Fan Girl
Often overlooked in favor of the Olympic Peninsula, its more famous next-door neighbor, the Kitsap Peninsula is an underrated destination just a few hours from Seattle. While there’s enough to see here to spend an entire week, you can see many of the peninsula’s main sites in 2-3 days.
The weather is similar to that of Seattle and the Olympic Peninsula, with moderate temperatures and ten or more days of rain expected for more than half the year. If you are traveling from Seattle, you can arrive via a foot ferry. However, you may prefer to have your own car so that you can easily travel between towns.
You can base yourself in several different towns, though Bainbridge Island offers lively nightlife for you to enjoy after you sightsee elsewhere during the day.
Each of the major towns on Kitsap offers something unique. You can visit Poulsbo, nicknamed “Little Norway” for its charming Norwegian architecture and heritage. Port Gamble is famously haunted and is a must-see for amateur ghost hunters. And Bainbridge Island is home to the Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial, the site of the first Japanese American evacuations during World War II.
Kitsap is not as well-known outside of the area compared to the uber-popular travel destinations of Seattle and the Olympic Peninsula. However, those looking for unique cultural experiences and gaining a deeper understanding of American history should look to Kitsap for the perfect PNW getaway.
Your budget for the trip will depend on your travel style. From driftwood beach campsites to resort hotels, there’s something here for every kind of traveler, thus making it one of the most underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Underrated Summer Break Destinations in Oregon
Hood River, Oregon
Hood River, Oregon is one of the best underrated summer break destinations in the Pacific Northwest. You will want to spend at least a day if not two in the area.
The weather in the summertime is perfect! It will be a little warm, but good for hiking and being outdoors. To get here, you will need a car and you will also want that car to drive around to the sites in the area.
Visiting Hood River makes for a fun day trip from Portland so you can opt to stay in Downtown Portland. However, if you want more time in the area, there are lots of fun boutique hotels to stay at.
One of the most popular things to do in Hood River in the summertime is to drive the Fruit Loop. This road forms a loop between a variety of farms, fruit stands, and wineries throughout the Hood River Valley. You can do things like pick your own berries and lavender. Make sure to stop at wineries like Hood Crest Winery or Mt. Hood Winery.
If you opt to visit Hood River as a day trip, many of the hikes are free. If you opt to go wine tasting, the tasting starts at $10 per person. Depending on the fruit stands and lavender farms you visit, the costs are relatively cheap or you can donate a few dollars if you just want to take photos.
Hood River is an underrated summer break destination in the PNW due to these lesser-known activities. Many people head to this area in wintertime for winter sports but do not realize the fun amount of activities there are to do during the summertime.
Pacific City, Oregon
By Clarice of the Clever West Wind
Pacific City is a small coastal town in Oregon known for its long beaches and its iconic Haystack Rock. It has a very temperate climate, so it is a great place to escape the heat and one of the best underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest
This underrated summer break destination may not have as many restaurants or shops as some coastal towns in the PNW, but there’s still plenty of adventure to be had here. Rise early for a quiet, sunrise walk on the beach at Bob Straub State Park. Later, explore the tide pools or try your hand at surfing. Then end your day with a climb up a giant sand dune for breathtaking sunset views at Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area.
You’ll likely need a car for a 1 hr 45-minute drive from Portland. Once you’re in Pacific City, many points of interest are close enough that you can walk if parking is crowded. However, much of the town does not have sidewalks. During the summer months, there’s also a free trolley service available on the weekends.
You can easily do Pacific City as a day trip. But if you’re looking for a little more R&R, try staying for a long weekend, or even a week. Renting a beachfront property from Kiwanda Coastal Properties will allow you to tailor the trip according to your budget. Properties range in price from $90/night to $500+/night. Save a little money by splitting a vacation rental with some friends.
There is a small grocery store in town if you want to do your own cooking. However, if you’re wanting to eat out, try Pelican Brewing and Ben and Jeff’s. Pelican Brewing offers craft beer, burgers, and clam chowder with a relaxed atmosphere and a great view of Haystack Rock. At Ben and Jeff’s, order their seafood tacos or burritos to go!
Coos Bay, Oregon
By Candice of CS Ginger
Coos Bay is the biggest city on the Oregon coast. It is situated at the mouth of the Coos River, about halfway between Portland and San Francisco. 222 miles to the southwest of Portland (via I-5 S and OR-38W), the drive is just shy of 4 hours long. Coos Bay is known for its outdoor activities like hiking, beaches, and camping. Plan on spending two to four days in Coos Bay to see the highlights of what the area offers.
Coos Bay, as well as the surrounding area, has pretty typical weather for the Oregon Coast. Most days, even in the summer, have mild temperatures. You can expect highs in the 60s with rain about 15-20% of the days.
The Best Western Holiday Hotel and The Red Lion Hotel are great places to stay during your summer stay in Coos Bay.
Coos Bay offers travelers a great opportunity to explore the outdoors and connect with nature. Some of the best things to do in Coos Bay are Shore Acres State Park, Cape Arago State Park, and Sunset Bay State Park.
Coos Bay is one of the underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest, especially when traveling on a budget. With a variety of different attractions (some even free) and staggering views of the Oregon coast, this city is bound to please travelers of every age.
Joseph, Oregon
By Kathy of Solo Women RV
In the heart of the Wallowa Mountains in Eastern Oregon, Joseph is off the beaten path, but well worth the visit. It is one of the best underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest. A 5+ hour drive from Portland, this Eastern Oregon town is named after a beloved Nez Perce chief, and the history and culture of the tribe still thrive in the area.
To get a sense of what Native life was like, take a scenic walk around Iwetemlaykin State Heritage Site and pay your respects at the Old Chief Joseph Gravesite just south of town.
Joseph, Oregon was recently named of the most scenic small towns in the US by Travel + Leisure, and it’s no surprise. The town is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, including the stunningly blue Wallowa Lake and the towering Wallowa Mountains. You’ll quickly understand why they’re called the Swiss Alps of Oregon.
Summer is the perfect time to visit. At 4,100 feet, temperatures will range from mid 60s-high 80s. Plan to spend at least two days if you’re just visiting Joseph and Wallowa Lake, but add more if you want to hike or backpack in any of the area’s miles and miles of wilderness trails.
Get a birds-eye view of the lake and surrounding areas by taking the Wallowa Lake Tramway 3700 feet to the top of Mt. Howard. Hike around or grab a snack at the Summit Grill up top. Another great way to see the area is by pedal power on the Joseph Branch Railriders. You can take a two or six-hour scenic valley tour along an abandoned railroad track.
There are many old-school summer activities for the whole family near Wallowa Lake including putt-putt golf, horse rides, and go-karts.
Summer is a great time to snag a campground at popular Wallowa Lake State park or just visit for the day and enjoy swimming, fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding. Rentals are available at the marina. Or stay at historic Wallowa Lake Lodge right on the lake, celebrating its centennial year in 2023. The dining room is rustic, but the salmon dinner is not to be missed.
The cute town of Joseph has a main street like no other, with a thriving art scene, immediately evident by the many bronze statues that line the street. Stop into any of the local galleries or visit one of the exhibits at the Josephy Center for Arts & Culture.
One of Joseph’s premier attractions is the Chief Joseph Days Rodeo—plan in advance if you want to attend, (July 25-30 2023) and see all the PRCA action, parades, and live music. There are many great locally-owned restaurants in Joseph, whether you want burgers, pizza, tacos, or my personal favorite, Arrowhead chocolate shop.
Alvord Desert, Oregon
By Agnes of The Van Escape
When you think of the Pacific Northwest, you see the coast, lush greenery, and waterfalls before your eyes. But did you know that southeastern Oregon also has deserts? Off the beaten path, near the Nevada border, lies the Alvord Desert, Oregon. It is one of the best underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
The desert is about 235 miles southeast of Bend. It takes at least 4 hours to drive there via US-20 E and OR -78 E. You’ll need a car because there is no public transportation in the area. It’s best to take a vehicle with high suspension and four-wheel drive because the road is rough and gravelly in places.
A visit to the Alvord Desert is the perfect idea for a weekend getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The best thing to do when exploring the Alvord Desert is to drive through the dry lakebed. Camping and strategizing are also great activities there.
One of the best experiences is soaking in Alvord Hot Springs and Crystal Crane Hot Springs. Since the area borders Steens Mountain, you can hike in the wilderness during your stay. One of the best hikes is the 5.6-mile out-and-back Pike Creek Trail near Alvord Hot Springs.
The best time to travel is July through November when the playa is usually dry enough to drive through and camp in the desert. Because the temperature differences are significant, you’ll want to pack warm clothes for the night.
Since you can camp for free in the desert and BLM Oregon areas, visiting the Alvord Desert is affordable. It’s a budget-friendly place. Packing water and camping food allow you to enjoy the outdoors without spending a penny. However, taking a dip at Alvord Hot Springs, which is privately owned, is worth it, and you’ll have to pay for admission. If you decide to soak at the nearby Crystal Crane Hot Springs in Burns, you’ll also have to pay admission (it costs $10.00 per adult to use the outdoor pond). The place is fantastic and well worth a visit.
If you don’t want to camp, you can also stay at the Alvord Hot Springs campground, which offers some rustic bunkhouses. Another good place to stay in Crystal Crane Hot Springs Resort in Burns, about 115 miles north of the Alvord Desert.
Brookings, Oregon
By Denise of Chef Denise
Never heard of Brookings, Oregon? This is one of the most underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest and is a great place to relax for a few days on a summer vacation. It is a little off the beaten path and that’s what makes it so special. Well, that, and the weather. Compared to the more popular, Cannon Beach, it has a much lower chance of rain, 1-3 days compared to 4-8 days.
The drive from Medford International airport is a little over 2.5 hours. As you wind through the redwood forest and hug the Smith River, keep an eye out for elk, deer, and even bears.
Once you arrive in the sleepy town of Brookings try and find a room with a view. Corner rooms with the Winchuck River out one window and the Pacific Ocean out the other at Lowden’s Beachfront B&B are currently under $200/night.
Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Southern Oregon Coast and its beaches and parks. Harris beach State Park and Crissey Field State Park are two of the most popular. From seals and sea otters to herons and bald eagles, exploring the beaches and parks wildlife abounds.
Brookings is also one of the best Oregon destinations for foodies! Seafood lovers should not leave without trying the whole Dungeness crab from the Catalyst Restaurant at the harbor. At under $35 a plate it’s the best deal in town!
Manzanita, Oregon
By Jessica of Uprooted Traveler
Manzanita is one of the most charming Oregon coast towns, tucked between, and often overlooked for, popular destinations along the northern coastline, like Cannon Beach or Pacific City. It is one of the most underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Manzanita may be small, with a population of just 600 people, but nonetheless packs a lot of punch. It’s home to one of the longest beaches in the state (clocking in at seven miles!) and has a small main drag that’s packed with charming bars, coffee shops, and eclectic boutiques.
While you could see the town of Manzanita itself in a couple of hours, it would make an excellent home base for a long weekend to explore the northern coastline. Grab a cozy room at one of the small inns in town, like Coast Cabins, that is within walking distance of the small downtown area and the beach. One of the major benefits of staying in Manzanita is that you’ll get a lot more bang for your buck here, in terms of lodging costs, as compared to some of the more popular destinations along the coastline.
Another perk of Manzanita? Almost all of the main activities here revolve around exploring outside, which can be done at a very low cost or completely free! Still be sure to bring a rental car, though, so that you can explore the beautiful landscape in and around Manzanita.
For example, the town is less than a five-minute drive to Oswald West State Park, which offers incredible hiking trails, like the Cape Falcon Trail, and Short Sands Beach, arguably one of the best beaches for surfing in Oregon.
In the evening, head a little bit south to Rockaway Beach, for an expansive beach with beautiful rock formations of the coastline. Be sure to bring along some firewood- no trip to the coast is complete without a beach bonfire! Just be sure to bring along some warm layers—the Oregon Coast quite famously does not quite offer beach weather, with daily highs in the mid-60s, come summer.
Underrated Summer Break Destinations in Idaho
Idaho Hot Springs
By Emily of The Mandagies
One of the most underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest has got to be exploring Idaho hot springs! Because of the Idaho batholith (a huge mass of igneous rock deep underground), there are several pockets of natural geothermal pools scattered across the state.
There are more than 200 backcountry pools to search for if you’d like one for yourself. However, you don’t have to travel far to find some really convenient pools too!
To plan a hot springs road trip, we recommend a long weekend, about 3-4 days. You can connect several together along the Banks-Lowman Highway and on your way through Stanley, Idaho. Some of the most popular pools to visit are Kirkham Hot Springs, Pine Flats, and Sunbeam Hot Springs. The weather during the summer in this area is dry and sunny, but there are plenty of pockets of shade in the national forest to cool down.
A car is necessary for this trip. There is no reliable public transportation between pools, and you can expect to drive about 30 minutes to 1 hour between each pool. It is easiest to start in Boise, drive through the mountains for a few days, and finish your trip in Boise.
Accommodations can vary but a mix of campgrounds should be expected, or cabins in the Idaho forest. Along with hot springs, there are hiking opportunities, fishing, and rafting, in the area too! This can be a very budget-friendly trip. The biggest expenses would be gas, campground reservations, and camping food.
This is an underrated adventure because it’s for a very specific audience! If you love being outside, meeting new friends, and seeking out new epic landscapes, this is the trip for you!
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
By Chantelle of Romantic Rambles
Vacationing in the Pacific Northwest has been a popular activity for years, and for good reason. From stunning coastal views to lush mountain backdrops, the PNW offers some of the best scenery in the country.
However, one destination that often gets overlooked is Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Here you’ll find beautiful weather and plenty of activities for the whole family – from boating to biking to beaches – making it an ideal summer vacation spot. Let’s dive into why Coeur d’Alene is one of the most underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest!
The first step in planning your trip is getting there. You will need a car to get here, so it’s best if you plan on renting one or bringing your own. Once you’ve arrived, there are a variety of lodging options available to choose from – ranging from Airbnb to hotels. The Casino Resort is one of the most popular places to stay.
A long weekend getaway is the perfect amount of time to explore all that Coeur d’Alene has to offer. The weather in Coeur d’Alene is gorgeous during the summer months with temperatures averaging between 59°F (15°C) and 77°F (25°C).
With so many activities available, there is something for everyone here—even if you’re not a fan of outdoor sports! Skiing, sailing, golfing, hiking, swimming, paddle boarding, and camping are just some of the activities that can be enjoyed during your visit. Plus, there are plenty of local restaurants with fresh seafood dishes as well as unique boutiques for those who prefer shopping over sightseeing!
One potential downside to visiting Coeur d’Alene is that it can be pricey when compared with other destinations in the PNW. However, with careful planning and budgeting, it’s possible to make your trip more affordable by staying further from lakefront properties or by sharing a rental with another family so expenses can be split between multiple people.
McCall, Idaho
By Faith of 3 Tickets Please
Just two hours from Boise is the hidden gem of McCall, Idaho. Nestled in the Payette forest, the town is a four season destination. While winter in McCall brings skiing, snowshoeing, and even polar plunging, Summer is the best time to experience McCall and one of the most underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Summer in McCall means slowing down to the pace of a small mountain town on a large mountain lake. Paddleboarding, swimming, building sandcastles or just admiring the sunset on the lake are all acceptable ways to spend a summer day in McCall.
After a day at the beach, locals and tourists alike head to Ice Cream Alley to grab an enormous scope of their favorite flavor. Most people overlook McCall for the more popular Sun Valley. But the small-town feels and summer festivals of McCall can not be beaten.
The 4th of July is an especially wonderful time to come to Mccall. The fireworks launched over the lake alone make the trip worth it. Once you discover McCall, you will make it part of your summer tradition.
Most visitors to McCall arrive first in Boise by plane and drive the two hours. However, for those who prefer public transit, there is daily bus transport from Boise. When packing, you’ll want a swimsuit and a sweatshirt. The average temperature in July is 81, but the mountain nights can get down to low 40s.
There are numerous places to stay in McCall. If you are looking for a splurge, Shore Lodge’s waterfront location and luxury rooms and amenities are the best choice. For those on a budget, the Nordic Inn is a good centrally located option. For families or large groups, the town has numerous short-term rentals to accommodate the entire crew.
Wallace, Idaho
By Marissa of Postcards to Seattle
Wallace, Idaho is a place many people may drive past on their way east to Montana, but it’s a destination in itself. In fact, you’ve likely seen it before – the town’s claim to fame is filming the famous Dante’s Peak movie in 1997, where they used many different parts of the city in the film.
If you’re a history buff, you’ll love Wallace even more, thus making it one of the underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest. The city has an intriguing history from the early 1900s, where the town’s unofficial slogan was “work hard, play hard,” as evidenced by the gambling, drinking, and decriminalized prostitution occurring. While all of that is long gone, you can now go on tours to learn more about the history at places such as the Wallace District Mining Museum or the Oasis Bordello Museum.
You’ll want to stay there for at least a few days to explore the town and use it as your base to go early spring skiing at Silver Mountain. The weather during spring can be anywhere from 30-50F, so you’ll want to have layers.
Having a car will also be useful, as it’s off I-90 and not near any major cities. This is one reason the town is a perfect weekend getaway from Vancouver, as it’s the opposite of a big city.
Wallace Inn is a good option for your hotel, as it’s just on the outskirts of the downtown area so it’s quieter, yet you’re only a few minutes walk from restaurants and shops. Meals as well as attractions are relatively inexpensive, so you can easily get away with a budget weekend here.
Craters of the Moon National Monument, Idaho
By Anwar of Beyond my Door
Located in the volcanic fields of Idaho, Craters of the Moon National Monument is one of the most impressive national monuments in the country and has a large vast landscape of places to explore. Visitors to the site can see several different volcanic types within the park from cinder cones that one can climb, to splatter cones to explore as well as wild caves.
In the wild caves, several lava tubes form caves that visitors can wander through. These are considered wild and some do have stairs and known ways through and others are less developed. Due to the risks of white-nose syndrome which has killed millions of bats around the country, visitors must only enter with clothing never taken underground anywhere else.
Most folks have not even heard of Craters of the Moon, but it was used to train astronauts, has large swaths of wilderness areas, and is among the highest potential to become a national park of existing parks.
The weather in Craters of the Moon consists of hot summers and cold snowy winters. Summers are hot with temperatures hitting the 90s in July and August in particular. Hikes should be cautioned about the weather and heat and be sure to bring lots of water as there is no water within the park outside of the visitor center area.
Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and be sure to bring sunscreen and good hiking boots (as the ground is very uneven and rocky).
The park is not located near any major town or city, so cars are required to visit. There is also a lack of public transportation to the park as well. Visitors do benefit from spending the night if they want to really see a lot of the park, and there are several options for stays.
For those who want to stay closest, there is a campsite located near the entrance to the park. Backcountry camping is possible but requires permits and planning. Camping in the park is a great way to experience great star viewing due to the lack of ambient light.
For those looking for more comfort, there are motels located in nearby Arco Idaho. Lost River Motel or DK are good options for those wanting to stay local. Arco also has the interesting distinction as being the first town lit by nuclear energy.
The park costs $20 for those without a national park pass. Food options are located in Arco for those planning to stay longer. There are restaurant and supermarket options in town. Craters of the Moon National Monument is one of the best underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Bonners Ferry, Idaho
By Mary of Be Right Back By Mary
Bonners Ferry, Idaho is a charming town located in North Idaho only about 30 minutes from the Canadian border. Visiting Bonners Ferry takes about two days for visitors who like a mix of activities including hiking, visiting a brewery, attending a show, and checking out the town itself. For visitors who are outdoors enthusiasts, a week in Bonners Ferry would allow them to explore more trails and backcountry sceneries.
Bonners Ferry is subject to the four seasons so it’s really hot in the summer and very cold in the winter. If you’re looking for a winter wonderland, the best time to visit Bonners Ferry is around December and January. Snowshoes are recommended to be able to hike the trails at that time of the year. Spring is absolutely beautiful as well with mild temperatures, wildflowers, and the meadows becoming more lively with the awakening of wildlife.
The easiest way to get to Bonners Ferry is by car. International travelers will want to fly into Spokane Airport in Washington State and drive about two hours to the town. The drive is easy, however, you’ll have to keep an eye out for moose, especially in the winter and spring seasons. Moose hang out on the side of the road and sometimes decide to cross out of nowhere causing accidents that are sometimes deadly. To get around Bonners Ferry, it’s easy to walk but you’ll need a car to explore more of the countryside of it.
The best place to stay in Bonners Ferry is the Kootenai River Inn by the river. The overall cost of a stay in Bonners Ferry’s Kootenai River Inn, depending on the season, is around $100 per night. Going up that way, you’ll find Three Miles where there are a couple of cute breakfast and brunch places as well.
As far as activities, it is recommended to spend some time at the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge where you’ll spot varied wildlife including bears and deer. It is also recommended to attend a show at the Pearl Theatre and explore downtown and its charming boutiques and gazebo.
Bonners Ferry is often overlooked by visitors who prefer heading to Schweitzer Resort directly or who prefer to focus on Idaho’s capital Boise. These visitors are definitely missing out on one of the best underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
Stanley, Idaho
By Val of Voyages with Val
Stanley, Idaho is a beautiful mountain town that is one of the best underrated summer destinations in the Pacific Northwest! Stanley is 132 miles and a little under 3 hours from Boise. This makes it great for a weekend trip from Boise, or you can opt to spend longer for a relaxing week-long vacation. Since it sits at an elevation of over 6,000 feet, Stanley has a fairly mild summer, with temperatures rarely reaching above 80 degrees. This makes it great to cool off in the summer.
Stanley is a very outdoorsy town, and there is so much to do in the nearby Sawtooth Mountains. One of the best things to do is go hiking to one of the many alpine lakes. Alice Toxaway Lake Loop Trail is one great trail option. The whole trail is 21 miles, and perfect for a backpacking trip. Or you can shorten the trip and day hike to Alice Lake.
You can also explore the mountains by horseback riding or whitewater rafting! Stanley is also known for its proximity to hot springs. One hot spring is at the Mountain Village Resort, one of the best places to stay in Stanley. There are also many other, more secluded, springs in the Sawtooths!
While Stanley is popular with hikers, it is still relatively unknown as a destination spot. This also means it’s more affordable, with hotels in the low to mid-hundreds. For an even cheaper stay, you can instead camp nearby.
Other Summer Break Destinations in the Pacific Northwest
- Astoria, Oregon
- Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
- Salem, Oregon
- Willamette Valley, Oregon
- Wine Tasting in Boise
- Oregon Road Trips
- Washington and Idaho Road Trips
