Best Places to See When Driving From Bellingham, Washington to Gilbert, Arizona
Are you planning a road trip from Bellingham, Washington to Gilbert, Arizona? If so, you’re in for a treat! The drive down will take you through some of the most scenic areas of the West Coast and Southwest, offering plenty of sights to take in along the way.
In this blog post, we’ve highlighted some of the top places you won’t want to miss, from natural wonders to historic landmarks and everything in between. So buckle up, put on your favorite road trip playlist, and get ready to explore some of the best spots this route has to offer!
Natural Wonders
Multnomah Falls, Oregon
The first stop on your road trip should be a very special place in Oregon, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. One of the many attractions in the area is Multnomah Falls, a stunning waterfall that drops 620 feet in two stages. This is the tallest waterfall in Oregon and the second tallest in the country.
A bridge provides an amazing view of the waterfall and the Benson Bridge is a perfect spot to get some stunning photos. If you have more time, there are additional shorter trails that offer even more views of the waterfall and the surrounding scenery.
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
As you make your way south, don’t miss Crater Lake, located in the high desert of southern Oregon. The lake was created over 7,000 years ago by a collapsed volcano, and it is now the deepest lake in the United States.
Your first glimpse of the lake will take your breath away, with the deep blue water surrounded by forest and mountain scenery. You can drive around the lake, stopping at numerous viewpoints along the way, or take a hike on the many trails that offer stunning vistas.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
No road trip through the West is complete without a stop at the Grand Canyon. One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon is a majestic masterpiece of nature that stretches 277 miles and is 18 miles wide.
The South Rim of the canyon offers numerous overlooks providing incomparable panoramic views. There are also a ton of hiking trails and outdoor activities such as river rafting, biking, and helicopter tours available.
Watson Lake, Arizona
Watson Lake, located in the northern part of Arizona, is a hidden gem that is often overlooked. The lake is surrounded by a stunning landscape of giant, unique boulders that have been eroded into interesting shapes over the years.
There are several trails that wrap around the lake that are perfect for hiking, biking, and taking in the natural beauty of the area. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards and explore the lake from the water.
Places Rich in History
The Dalles, Oregon
Located in northeastern Oregon on the Columbia River, The Dalles is a city rich in history dating back to the time of Lewis and Clark. The city was an important trading post, military post, and transportation hub in the 1800s.
Nowadays, The Dalles has several museums, historic homes, and buildings that tell the story of the city’s past. Make sure to visit the Fort Dalles Museum, which features exhibits on the Native American life, military history, and pioneer life in the area.
Jerome, Arizona
Jerome is an old mining town located in Northern Arizona that’s built into the side of a mountain. The town has a long history dating back to the 1800s when it was a booming mining community.
Today, the town still retains much of its historic charm with colorful buildings, old relics, and historic sites on display. There are many art galleries, wineries, and museums to explore. Take a walk through the town and imagine what life was like during the early mining days.
Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
The Petrified Forest National Park is a fascinating place where you can see petrified wood up close and personal. The park is also home to hundreds of archeological sites that date back thousands of years.
The park contains ancient petroglyphs, pueblos, and other archaeological sites that give insight into the lives of the people who lived in the area so long ago. Take a hike through the park to see the colorful and fascinating Painted Desert or check out the amazing views from the Agate Bridge.
Delicious Eats
Thai Bamboo, Bellingham
Before you start on your journey south, stop for a meal at Thai Bamboo in Bellingham. This restaurant offers a wide variety of delicious Thai dishes that include fresh local ingredients and traditional flavors.
Their dishes are made from scratch, and you can taste the freshness and quality of the ingredients in every bite. Make sure to try their famous mango sticky rice for dessert!
Cafe 1909, Flagstaff
Cafe 1909 in Flagstaff is a great place to stop for breakfast or lunch on your way south. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and serves up creative dishes that will delight your taste buds.
Specialties include their brioche French toast with blueberry compote and their fried chicken sandwich. They also have a great selection of coffee and tea drinks to enjoy alongside your meal.
Conclusion
This road trip from Bellingham, Washington, to Gilbert, Arizona promises to be one of the most scenic and exciting trips you can take in the western United States. From natural wonders to historic sites and delicious eats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
So pack your bags, hop in the car, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!