Best route to Port Angeles

[Marv_Hoag]

I am in Hoqulam WA, heading to Port Angeles. I have a choice of two routes, inland or the coast. The GPS says they are both about 150 miles. I have chosen the inland route, is that the best choice?

[NEOK]

If you get a chance be sure to try Togo's Soup House in Port Angeles. Great place for outstanding would and sandwiches.

[Lwiddis]

“Best” as in most scenic? Or fastest?

[Tom_Barb]

Marv Hoag wrote:
From Port Angeles we are going to Anacortes. Then over the cascades ending up in Coeur d Alene, ID.

That's a great trip,, wave when you go by the house. 🙂

[paulj]

GMaps gives you good route choices both ways. Notice the the west route is slightly longer, but about the same time, implying slightly faster average speeds.

The west route is mostly woods, minimal towns, and a nice stretch of open ocean views (between the trees). And a pretty stretch along Lake Crescent. BUT, there's road work along that lake, with potential delays. In May we had a half hour delay, but 4 hrs is possible

https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/lake-crescent-highway-101-rehabilitation-2017-19.htm

The east route has divided highway (to the 108 turnoff), and some of 101 (around Shelton and Sequim), and windy waterfront driving along the Hood Canal (with parks and resorts). Overall you'll see more water this way.

If you are driving straight through I think it's a toss up. But if you intend to stop, camp, or take a side trip or two, the differences are more significant.

For heading east, check the WSDOT ferry site for info on reservations for the PT-Coupville ferry. There's also bridge painting at Deception Pass, which will limit your viewing options. It shouldn't hurt traffic.

[enblethen]

Sounds good! Taking the Port Townsend to Whidbey Ferry!
You will see a portion of the inland route by following the coast route north, then slightly south on inland portion heading to Port Townsend after leaving Port Angeles.

[Marv_Hoag]

From Port Angeles we are going to Anacortes. Then over the cascades ending up in Coeur d Alene, ID.

[enblethen]

Might even circle the pennisula! How do you plan on leaving Port Angeles?

[Tom_Barb]

enblethen wrote:
If you have never been around the coastal route, you should.

Yep, me 2

[enblethen]

If you have never been around the coastal route, you should.