Off-grid adventures: explore the national parks of the Pacific Northwest  

The states of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho — all part of the USA's Pacific Northwest region — offer a unique natural beauty that begs to be explored. From towering sea stacks and sandy beaches to ancient rainforests and enormous volcanic mountains, it's a region that's as diverse as it is impressive. Preserving its wildest corners, the national parks of the Pacific Northwest are often the choice destinations for travellers seeking the most awe-inspiring experiences. And, while the entire region rings with beauty, these five parks stand out, providing opportunities not just for exploration, but for connection, rejuvenation and discovery.

Olympic National Park, Washington

Best for: nature and wildlife
Home to one of the largest temperate rainforests in the US, as well as a jagged, snow-capped mountain range and a sea stack-strewn coastline, Olympic National Park can almost be seen as three parks in one. Its diverse ecosystem has led it to be named not only as a national park, but also an International Biosphere Reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the Pacific Coast to the summit of Mount Olympus, every season here serves up natural beauty in abundance.

Drive across to the Olympic Peninsula’s western coast, where spots like Rialto Beach or Shi Shi Beach offer opportunity to watch bald eagles and pelicans feed along the rocky shore. Then, drive inland to the Hoh Rainforest, where you can wander through giant trees and lush greenery on the Hall of Mosses trail. This short 0.8-mile loop takes you into an otherworldly landscape of moss-covered woodland and incredible biodiversity, ideal for family adventures. Keep an eye out for Roosevelt elk, blacktail deer and plenty of bird species.

Lewis & Clark National Historical Park, Oregon

Best for: family fun and outdoor education
In the winter of 1805, notable US explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark reached the Pacific Ocean, their arduous journey to explore the Missouri River and its routes to the Pacific complete. Here, the two set about building a winter camp, later named Fort Clatsop, near the mouth of the majestic Columbia River. 

Today, families can discover this dramatic story in detail at Lewis & Clark National Historical Park, where history and outdoor adventure meet to inspire and educate. Follow in the explorers’ footsteps on trails stretching from forest to sea, learn about the Native American tribes who better knew this land, and practice skills like hide-tanning and candle-making at the modern replica of the original Fort Clatsop. Meanwhile, kayak tours offer an immersive and entertaining way to experience the area's history from a different perspective as you navigate the area's expansive waterways on a ranger-led tour.

Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve, Idaho

Best for: otherworldly adventures
Exploring the lava fields of the Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve is as close as you’ll get to being on another planet. In the high desert of south central Idaho, fields of volcanic rock span as far as the eye can see, with cinder cones and lava tubes speckling the lunar landscapes. It’s rather remote — 18 miles from the nearest city, Arco — but once you reach your destination, it's likely you'll have ‘the moon’ largely to yourself. 

Easily accessible hiking routes and more challenging, remote trails lead to volcanic craters and caves, and come nightfall, this International Dark Sky Park glitters with the lights of the cosmos. The most intrepid adventurers shouldn't write off a winter visit either. You can hike, snowshoe or cross-country ski into the park, but be aware that during the winter months, the visitor centre is closed and there is no plumbing or electricity. For the ultimate off-grid experience, bring your own tent and snow camp on a lava flow. 

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Best for: an off-grid escape
Mount Rainier is Washington’s highest peak — an active volcano that rises a whopping 14,400ft. It sits within a 369 square mile reserve that's home to rushing rivers, primeval forests and wildflower-rich meadows. Here, amid some of the most wild and wonderful terrain in the country, guests will find historic lodges that allow for a truly remote break. In the summer months, head to the Paradise Inn, where an over-100-year history sings through the majestic stone fireplace, and there are 1920s-era drinks and live piano music by night. 

Not far from Paradise — an area so named for its gentle meadows blooming under craggy, snow-capped peaks — rests the National Park Inn. Take afternoon tea beside a roaring fire or sip wine in front of a majestic view of Mount Rainier after a day on the trails. These establishments aim to take travellers away from the distractions of the modern world, with no televisions, telephones or internet access. Instead, you’re prompted to appreciate and reconnect with the natural beauty right outside your door.

Crater Lake National Park, Oregon

Best for: special occasions
Nearly 8,000 years ago, Oregon’s Mount Mazama erupted in near-perfect symmetry, forming an earthen bowl that would fill with water and form the nation’s deepest lake. Sitting in the heart of the volcano, Crater Lake today is spectacularly serene. With no rivers in or out, the electric-blue lake is fed only by rain and snow, making it one of the most pure and pristine on Earth (with the naked eye, you can see down almost 100ft or more).

It’s an ideal destination for those looking to ramp up the romance, as you spend days hiking incredibly picturesque trails, picnicking on the caldera’s rim and swimming in the lake’s glassy waters (particularly popular in the summer months). By night, head to the historic Crater Lake Lodge for fireside drinks, exquisite meals and stargazing — on clear nights, galaxy-gazing — from the lakeside patio.