Top Places to See When Driving From Andover, Minnesota to Beaverton, Oregon

Planning a road trip from Andover, Minnesota to Beaverton, Oregon? This is a long journey that can take anywhere between 22 and 30 hours. The traditional route follows Interstate 94 West through North Dakota, Montana, Idaho, and Washington State. But the route can be adjusted based on your interests and time constraints. No matter the route you choose, there are many beautiful places to visit along the way. Here are the top five places to see when driving from Andover to Beaverton:

1. Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Located in the western region of North Dakota, Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a great place to visit for outdoor enthusiasts. This park is famous for the rugged badlands, scenic drives, and wildlife such as bison, elk, and pronghorns. Visitors can hike, bike, horseback ride, or join a ranger-led tour to explore the park. A must-see attraction in Theodore Roosevelt is the Painted Canyon Loop, which provides an outstanding view of the park's scenery.

2. Glacier National Park

As your road trip progresses, you'll hit Whitefish, Montana, which is only about an hour's drive from Glacier National Park, one of the most beautiful places in the United States. Glacier is known for its towering mountains, glacial lakes, and dense forests. Visitors can drive or hike the Going-to-the-Sun Road, fish in the many lakes and rivers, and learn about the park's flora and fauna. Don't forget to check out the famous Logan Pass, where you can witness the breathtaking view of the Continental Divide.

3. Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

As you continue westward, make a stop in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. This quaint resort town is located on the shores of Lake Coeur d'Alene, known for its crystal-clear water and sandy beaches. Coeur d'Alene is an excellent place to relax and unwind. You can take a lake cruise, explore the downtown area, or try your luck at the Coeur d'Alene Casino. Another must-see attraction in the area is the Silverwood Theme Park, which features over 70 rides and attractions for the whole family.

4. Columbia River Gorge

As you cross into Oregon, make a point to drive through the Columbia River Gorge. The gorge is located in the Cascade Mountains, and it's a 90-mile stretch featuring towering waterfalls, picturesque viewpoints, and fascinating rock formations. You can hike the well-maintained trails, visit vineyards and breweries along the way, or take a river cruise to experience the beauty of the gorge. One of the most popular attractions is the Multnomah Falls, which is the second-highest waterfall in the country.

5. Cannon Beach

Last but not least, a trip to Beaverton, Oregon, wouldn't be complete without visiting Cannon Beach. Located on the Pacific Coast, Cannon Beach is famous for its towering rock formations, sandy beaches, and picturesque coastal town. One of the most recognizable landmarks in the area is Haystack Rock, a 235-foot sea stack jutting out of the ocean. Visitors can explore the tide pools, enjoy a picnic on the beach, or take a surfing lesson. Make sure to stay until evening to catch the stunning sunset over the ocean horizon.

Conclusion

Driving from Andover, Minnesota, to Beaverton, Oregon is an exciting adventure. There's no shortage of beautiful places to see and explore along the way. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a relaxing and fun time, there's something for everyone. With this list of top places to visit, you'll be sure to make the most out of your road trip. Happy travels!