I'm quite smitten with my home state of Oregon, while my aunt Janice has lived happily in Washington for several decades. So, for as long as I can remember, we've enjoyed a good-natured "my-state-is-obviously-better" rivalry. But I had to admit, when I called her from a kayak in the middle of a sparkling lake surrounded by forested mountains, that her state was giving mine a serious run for its money in the natural-beauty department.
But even aside from its famously gorgeous scenery, I was so impressed by the area's minimal crowds and traffic, incredibly nice people everywhere I went, great restaurants, and - last but definitely not least! - tons of interesting historical places.
More detailed posts will follow, but for now, here are my favorite moments from my weeklong road trip around the Olympic Peninsula. They are simply in chronological order, because there's no way I could pick a #1 favorite.
1. The Fauntleroy-Southworth ferry across Puget Sound
I love ferries, and this one is no exception. I think at least one ferry ride is essential for the full Washington State experience.
2. Historic Port Gamble
Port Gamble is such a beautifully-restored, quiet, and quaint little seaside town. I felt so relaxed and happy there. It's also interesting for its New England feel - the town's founders modeled Port Gamble after their hometown in Maine.
3. Car camping at Fort Worden State Park
Who needs a tent? It was a little cramped, sure. But simple, cozy, and so fun. And I got to enjoy all the natural beauty with none of the work.
4. Walking along the beach to Point Wilson Lighthouse
5. The friendly folks at the Commanding Officer's Quarters Museum at Fort Worden
These guys are great! And so is the museum.
6. Seeing a movie at the historic Rose Theatre in Port Townsend
This is such a cute and friendly theatre, beautifully restored, with the best popcorn, AND a real live human introduced the movie before it started! I saw "The Fault in Our Stars." I had read the book and really enjoyed the movie, too.
7. Staying at the historic Palace Hotel in Port Townsend
With monumental stairways, high ceilings, and an amazing stained-glass skylight, it lives up to its name. But it also has great Old West character and colorful history (read: was a brothel).
I was really happy here. Full review forthcoming.
8. Checking out an old anchor at the Maritime Museum in Port Townsend
This was a unique opportunity, as the anchor just arrived and is only here for a few weeks. (Thanks to Gary of the Palace Hotel for the recommendation!)
9. An evening drive on Ediz Hook in Port Angeles
10. The historical tour of Port Angeles
Great guides and really interesting history. It was an extra-special time to the join the tour because they were celebrating the 100th anniversary of "sluicing the Hogback." More on that interesting phrase later!
11. Riding in a Model T Ford in Port Angeles
Almost as fun as the ride was talking with its friendly, overall-clad owner about how he bought the car on eBay from a guy in "that cheese town" in Oregon. (I correctly guessed Tillamook.)
12. Eating in Port Angeles
I managed to try all four restaurants recommended to me by locals (it's a tough job...), and they were all delicious. And all historic, natch.
13. Spending two glorious days at the historic Lake Crescent Lodge in Olympic National Park
FDR was here! But even with presidential treatment, it's hard to imagine he had a better time. The views, the wood-burning fire, the amazing staff, the rustic historic room... it really couldn't be better. I can't wait to go back.
14. Waking up to this view at Lake Crescent Lodge:
Yep, that would be a buck with a gorgeous rack of antlers enjoying a breakfast of flowers. And the desk staff was apologetic my room only had this view instead of the lake. Poor me.
15. Eating in the Lake Crescent Lodge restaurant
Every meal was fantastic, and the waiters were the best.
16. Paddling around Lake Crescent in a kayak
This was pretty much paradise. The weather was warm but not hot, the water was clean and clear, the only sound was the gentle lapping of waves on my boat, and there was incredible beauty in every direction. Sigh.
17. Hiking to Sol Duc Falls
And this is just one of many spectacular waterfalls on the Olympic Peninsula Waterfall Trail.
18. Driving on Highway 101 in Washington
Minimum traffic, maximum beauty, well-maintained, and just the right amount of curvy. Pretty much everything I ask for in a road.
19. Ruby Beach
This gorgeous beach is an easy stop just off Highway 101. Thanks to my awesome waiter at the Lake Crescent Lodge for the recommendation!
20. Crossing the beautiful Astoria-Megler Bridge back into Oregon
There's no place like home, but I'm already dreaming about my next trip back to the Olympic Peninsula.