A Traveler's Experience

Strait of Juan de Fuca Highway - SR 112 (WA)

Here's a great day trip out of Port Angeles. Head west on 112 to Neah Bay. You will be driving along winding, isolated roads that hug the coast so expect great views of Vancouver Island, rocky beaches and tiny towns of friendly folks who can tell you the best mileposts for sighting whales. There are many pulloffs where you can stop and enjoy the views and beaches.

In Neah Bay, time for lunch - try some of the smoked salmon (tribemembers of Makah Reservation have their own smoking shacks) or the picnic lunch you packed - cause there's not much else. You will need some fortification for your drive/then hike out to Cape Flattery which is a slippy, rocky trail (rainforest with giant ferns and cedars) to an awesome lookout. This trail is not for the faint of heart but well worth it! Look for starfish and whales!

Head back out to 113 then 101 east thru manificent Olympia National Forest. Save time for Lake Crescent; at the park lodge, you can hike trails, relax on the veranda, walk on the pier, or rent a canoe. Eat dinner at the lodge dining room or try one of the great seafood restaurants in Port Angeles.

Congratulations - you have traveled to the most northwestern part of the continental US. Who know where you will go tomorrow... :)