Embarking on a Brew-tiful Adventure
As a self-proclaimed craft beer enthusiast, the Pacific Northwest has always been on my radar. So, when my friends Bryce and Paul announced they had purchased a campervan and were setting off to explore the region, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to join them on this epic adventure.
After some serious trip planning and a quick flight from the East Coast, I found myself in Portland, eagerly awaiting the start of our craft beer odyssey. As Bryce and Paul whisked me and my buddy Evan from the airport to our first stop, Wayfinder Brewery, I could feel the excitement bubbling up inside me. This was going to be one heck of a journey.
Cruising the Coastal Highway
The next morning, we made a beeline for the ROAMERICA headquarters to pick up our home on wheels. After a quick tutorial on campervan operations, we packed up our gear, the pups, and hit the road towards the Oregon coast. Our first stop was the iconic Ecola State Park, where we were treated to a breathtaking view of Cannon Beach – a scene straight out of the movie The Goonies.
As we continued south along the Coastal Highway 101, we couldn’t help but make pit stops at every jaw-dropping vista. From Cape Kiwanda and its towering sand dunes to the otherworldly Devil’s Punchbowl, each destination seemed to outdo the last. And of course, we had to indulge in some local cheese and crackers while overlooking the crashing waves.
Our ROAMERICA crew had provided us with the perfect road trip itinerary, and we were soaking it all in – from the surreal Damnation Creek Trail in the redwood forests to the mirror-like reflection of Crater Lake. As the sun set over the dramatic coastline, we settled into our campsites, cracked open a few craft brews, and shared stories by the fire.
Exploring the Craft Beer Mecca
After a few days of immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, it was time to dive into the region’s other claim to fame: its vibrant craft beer scene. And what better place to start than the beer-lover’s paradise of Bend, Oregon?
As we made our way to this mountain town, we couldn’t resist a quick detour to the Newberry National Volcanic Monument. Ascending Paulina Peak, we were treated to sweeping views of the High Desert and the Cascade Volcanic Arc – a true feast for the senses. But our real destination was Crux Brewery in Bend’s Old Mill District, where we indulged in a flight of their finest creations.
From there, we ventured into the heart of the city, exploring the thriving Ballard neighborhood of Seattle. Known for its abundance of breweries, we found ourselves hopping from one tasting room to the next, sampling the region’s most innovative and flavorful offerings. Whether it was the bold, hop-forward IPAs or the smooth, malty stouts, each sip transported us deeper into the Pacific Northwest’s craft beer culture.
Discovering Hidden Gems
As much as we loved the bustling city life, our true passion was uncovering the hidden gems that dotted the rugged landscape of this remarkable region. One such gem was the Panther Creek Falls in southern Washington, where we had the breathtaking waterfall all to ourselves. The pristine, two-tier plunge was the perfect antidote to our urban explorations, reminding us of the incredible natural wonders that surrounded us.
Another off-the-beaten-path discovery was the Newberry Caldera in central Oregon’s Deschutes National Forest. Perched atop Paulina Peak, we were treated to panoramic views of the volcanic landscape, including the dramatic cinder cones and basalt flows that bore witness to the region’s fiery geologic history. It was a humbling reminder of the raw power that lies beneath the surface of this truly awe-inspiring part of the country.
As our journey drew to a close, we found ourselves back in the Pacific Northwest’s craft beer epicenter – the charming town of Hood River, Oregon. Here, we had the chance to catch up with our friends from ROAMERICA and swap tales of our adventures. Over a few pints of the region’s finest brews, we reflected on the incredible diversity we had experienced – from the rugged coastlines and towering redwoods to the vibrant cities and hidden natural wonders.
Raising a Glass to the Pacific Northwest
As I sit here, nursing a delicious craft IPA from The Up & Under Pub, I can’t help but feel a profound sense of appreciation for the Pacific Northwest. This region is a true treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural richness, and, of course, exceptional craft beer.
Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, a food and drink connoisseur, or simply someone who appreciates the simple pleasures in life, the Pacific Northwest has something to captivate every traveler. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your hiking boots, your thirst for adventure, and let’s dive headfirst into this brew-tiful wonderland together.
Cheers to the hidden gems and the not-so-hidden gems of the Pacific Northwest – may your glass always be full and your spirits high!
