Longview, WA, is an ideal starting point for exploring some of the Pacific Northwest's most memorable destinations, from volcanic landscapes and scenic waterfalls to rugged coastlines and charming river towns. Whether you're planning a quick day trip or a weekend getaway, these five road trip ideas offer a variety of adventures, along with Chevrolet SUV recommendations to help you travel comfortably and confidently.
No matter where the road takes you, Northwest Chevy Dealers is a trusted network of 17 Chevrolet dealerships serving drivers throughout the Pacific Northwest. We offer an extensive selection of new Chevrolet models, quality used vehicles, expert service, genuine Chevrolet parts, and knowledgeable support to help keep you on the road with confidence. Contact us or visit your nearest Northwest Chevy Dealers location today to find the right Chevrolet and get ready for your next road trip.
1. Mount St. Helens: A Scenic Drive Through Volcanic Landscapes
Located about 52 miles from Longview, Mount St. Helens is an easy road trip that typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. Following WA-504, also known as the Spirit Lake Memorial Highway, you'll wind through forests, river valleys, and striking volcanic scenery before reaching one of the Pacific Northwest's most fascinating natural landmarks.
Highlights Along the Way
- Mount St. Helens Science and Learning Center: Learn about the 1980 eruption, the area's ongoing recovery, and the science behind one of the nation's most famous volcanoes through engaging exhibits and educational displays.
- Hummocks Trail: Stretch your legs on this relatively easy hike, where panoramic views of Mount St. Helens and the surrounding landscape make it a rewarding stop for visitors of all ages.
- Scenic viewpoints: Pause at the overlooks along the Spirit Lake Memorial Highway to take in sweeping views of the blast zone, dramatic mountain scenery, and excellent photo opportunities.
This scenic route is well-suited for families, hikers, photographers, and anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The Chevrolet Traverse is a great companion for the drive, offering spacious three-row seating, a comfortable ride, and versatile cargo space for hiking gear, picnic supplies, or camera equipment.
Before heading into higher elevations, consider stopping by Bud Clary Chevrolet for a brake and tire inspection. A little preparation can help you enjoy the drive with added confidence, leaving you free to focus on the unforgettable scenery ahead.
2. Cape Disappointment & the Long Beach Peninsula: A Coastal Escape Along the Pacific
If you're craving ocean views, fresh sea air, and a relaxing change of pace, Cape Disappointment and the Long Beach Peninsula make an excellent road trip from Longview. The journey covers roughly 75 miles and takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes, following WA-4 alongside the Columbia River before connecting with US-101 as you make your way toward the Pacific Coast.
Must-See Stops
- Cape Disappointment State Park: Explore scenic hiking trails, dramatic cliffs, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the mouth of the Columbia River.
- North Head Lighthouse: Visit this historic lighthouse for spectacular coastal scenery and excellent photo opportunities, especially on clear days.
- Long Beach: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shoreline, browse local shops, or take in the views from one of the world's longest drivable beaches.
This coastal route is ideal for couples, families, and anyone looking to spend a day by the water. The Chevrolet Equinox makes the drive even more enjoyable with its comfortable interior, impressive fuel efficiency, and available all-wheel drive for added confidence in coastal weather.
If you're considering a vehicle that's ready for both daily commutes and weekend escapes, Bud Clary Chevrolet offers a wide selection of new Chevrolet models and quality used vehicles. Stop by to find an SUV that's ready for your next Pacific Northwest adventure.
3. Columbia River Gorge & Hood River: Waterfalls, Scenic Views, and Outdoor Adventure
Few drives showcase the beauty of the Pacific Northwest quite like the Columbia River Gorge. About 85 miles from Longview, the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, leading you south before following I-84 through towering cliffs, lush forests, and some of the region's most iconic waterfalls.
Can't-Miss Stops
- Multnomah Falls: Stand before Oregon's tallest waterfall, then walk to Benson Bridge for a memorable view of the cascading water.
- Horsetail Falls: Just a short drive farther east, this roadside waterfall offers a scenic stop that's easy to enjoy without a long hike.
- Hood River: Spend time browsing local shops, watching windsurfers on the Columbia River, or sampling fresh produce along the popular Fruit Loop.
- The Dalles: Travelers continuing east through the Columbia River Gorge can add The Dalles to their itinerary for more scenic overlooks, local attractions, and opportunities to explore the river.
This road trip is a great choice for travelers bringing hiking gear, bikes, kayaks, or even a boat for a weekend of outdoor recreation. The Chevrolet Tahoe offers a spacious interior and impressive towing capability, helping you bring everything along with confidence.
Planning to bring extra gear? Bud Clary Chevrolet can help outfit your vehicle with available accessories like roof racks or a trailer hitch, making it even easier to enjoy everything the Columbia River Gorge has to offer.
4. Astoria & Cannon Beach: A Historic Coastal Loop
History, coastal scenery, and unforgettable ocean views come together on this rewarding road trip from Longview. Covering roughly 100 miles with about 2 hours of driving, the route follows WA-4 west before crossing the impressive Astoria-Megler Bridge into Oregon, then continues south along US-101 to Cannon Beach.
Places Worth Exploring
- Astoria Column: Climb to the top for panoramic views of the Columbia River, Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding hills.
- Maritime attractions: Learn about Astoria's rich seafaring heritage by visiting local museums and historic waterfront areas that celebrate the region's connection to the Columbia River.
- Haystack Rock: One of Oregon's most recognizable landmarks, Haystack Rock is a favorite spot for beach walks, wildlife viewing, and memorable photos.
- Scenic coastal viewpoints: Continue along the coastline to enjoy dramatic overlooks where you can pause and take in the beauty of the Pacific.
With a mix of history, sightseeing, and beach time, this route easily fills an entire day without feeling rushed. The Chevrolet Suburban is an excellent choice for larger families or groups, offering generous passenger space, ample cargo room for beach gear and luggage, and a comfortable ride throughout the journey.
If you're searching for an SUV that's ready for your next getaway, Bud Clary Chevrolet offers a wide selection of new Chevrolet models and dependable used vehicles. Stop by the dealership to find the right vehicle before planning your next coastal adventure.
5. Cathlamet & Puget Island: A Relaxing Small-Town Getaway
You don't have to venture far from Longview to enjoy a memorable road trip. Just 25 miles away, Cathlamet is an easy 35-minute drive, making it an excellent choice for a spontaneous day trip or a laid-back weekend outing along the Columbia River.
Enjoy the Local Charm
- Historic downtown: Take a stroll through locally owned shops, historic buildings, and welcoming streets that reflect the town's rich heritage.
- Columbia River scenery: Slow down and enjoy peaceful river views, scenic overlooks, and quiet places to relax by the water.
- Organic farms: Depending on the season, you can stop by nearby farms for fresh produce and locally made goods.
- Puget Island: Cross the bridge to this tranquil island, where rural landscapes and riverside roads create a relaxing change of pace.
- Westport Ferry: Extend your drive with a ride on the Westport Ferry, a unique way to cross the Columbia River and continue your adventure into Oregon.
This easygoing route is ideal for travelers who prefer scenic drives over packed itineraries. Both the Chevrolet Equinox and Chevrolet Traverse offer a comfortable ride, easy maneuverability through small-town streets, and flexible cargo space for everything from picnic supplies to local market finds.
A relaxing drive like this is also a great opportunity to experience your next vehicle firsthand. Stop by Bud Clary Chevrolet, then take the scenic route and see how a Chevrolet SUV fits your lifestyle both around town and on weekend getaways.
How Can You Prepare Your Chevrolet Before Your Next Road Trip?
A well-maintained vehicle helps set the stage for a smoother road trip. Whether you're planning a mountain drive, a coastal escape, or a weekend exploring the Columbia River Gorge, taking care of routine maintenance can help your Chevrolet perform at its best while giving you added peace of mind throughout the journey.
Road Trip Maintenance Checklist
Before your next adventure, consider scheduling a few key services:
- Tire inspection: Check tread depth, tire pressure, and overall condition for better traction and handling.
- Brake inspection: Make sure your braking system is ready for changing elevations, winding roads, and stop-and-go traffic.
- Oil change: Fresh oil helps keep your engine running efficiently during longer drives.
- Battery check: Confirm your battery is in good condition to help avoid unexpected delays.
- Fluid top-offs: Verify that coolant, windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, and other essential fluids are at the proper levels.
The service team at Bud Clary Chevrolet is here to help you prepare for every adventure with professional maintenance and genuine Chevrolet parts. Schedule your service before your next road trip, or browse the dealership's selection of new and used Chevrolet vehicles, including the Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Traverse, and Chevrolet Equinox, to find the right SUV for your travels. No matter where the road leads, the right vehicle and routine maintenance can help make every journey more enjoyable.
What are the best road trips from Longview, WA?
Some of the best road trips from Longview, WA include Mount St. Helens, Cape Disappointment and the Long Beach Peninsula, the Columbia River Gorge and Hood River; Astoria and Cannon Beach; and Cathlamet with Puget Island. Each destination offers its own mix of scenic views, outdoor recreation, and local attractions.
What are the most scenic drives near Longview, WA?
Scenic drives near Longview, WA, include the Spirit Lake Memorial Highway to Mount St. Helens, WA-4 alongside the Columbia River, I-84 through the Columbia River Gorge, and US-101 along the Oregon Coast. These routes feature memorable views of mountains, waterfalls, rivers, and the Pacific Ocean.
What are the best weekend getaways from Longview, WA?
Hood River, Cannon Beach, and the Long Beach Peninsula are excellent weekend getaways from Longview. They offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy local restaurants, outdoor recreation, scenic viewpoints, and nearby attractions.
What are some fun day trips from Longview, WA?
Mount St. Helens, Cathlamet, and Puget Island are excellent choices for a day trip from Longview. You can enjoy hiking, sightseeing, small-town charm, and beautiful Columbia River scenery before returning home.
What is the best Chevrolet road trip vehicle?
The best Chevrolet road trip vehicle depends on your travel plans. The Chevrolet Equinox is ideal for efficient weekend getaways, the Chevrolet Traverse offers spacious seating for families, the Chevrolet Tahoe is well-suited for towing and outdoor adventures, and the Chevrolet Suburban provides exceptional passenger and cargo space.
Is the Chevy Traverse good for road trips?
Yes. The Chevrolet Traverse is a great road trip SUV thanks to its comfortable three-row seating, flexible cargo space, and roomy interior. It is an excellent choice for families and groups traveling together.
Is the Chevy Tahoe a good road trip SUV?
Yes. The Chevrolet Tahoe offers a spacious interior, impressive towing capability, and room for passengers, luggage, and outdoor gear. These features make it an excellent SUV for longer road trips.
Ready for Your Next Pacific Northwest Road Trip?
Every memorable road trip starts with a dependable vehicle that's ready for the journey ahead. If you're planning your next adventure, contact Northwest Chevy Dealers or visit your nearest location to learn more about the right Chevrolet for your lifestyle, whether you're taking a quick day trip or setting out on a longer Pacific Northwest getaway.
Drivers from The Dalles, OR, Longview, and communities across the Pacific Northwest can explore Northwest Chevy Dealers' wide selection of vehicles, including the Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Traverse, and Chevrolet Equinox. Our network of dealerships also offers quality used vehicles, professional Chevrolet service, and genuine Chevrolet parts to help keep you on the road with confidence.
Looking for more ways to enjoy driving in the Pacific Northwest? Continue exploring our site to learn why the Chevy Express Van is a great fit for life in the region, explore the advantages of a used car before your next purchase, or see what makes the Chevrolet Corvette an exciting choice for scenic roads across the Pacific Northwest.
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