![]() To accommodate increasing traffic the roadway was moved closer to the river in 1967 and proclaimed a scenic byway. Originally built in 1924 the route required tunnels in places to cut through the basalt lava cliffs. The meandering path along the Yakima River is an easily overlooked road that motorcyclists won’t want to miss. Take a look at the others on a two-day tour of the Olympic Peninsula described in the article Ride the Olympic Peninsula Loop. The Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway is only one notable road on the Olympic Peninsula. And second, the Makah Tribe has closed the reservation to visitors until October 1 st in an effort to reduce the spread of Covid check the Makah Tribe web site for recent updates. Check the Washington Department of Transportation for current conditions. First be aware that the roadway was damaged by several slides in December 2020 and is only now returning to full operation. Head back toward the junction with WA-113 and then take US-101 to ride south on the west side of the peninsula. Keep an eye out for Shipwreck Point Beach, an expansive open beach ideal for whale sighting, bird watching, and exploring tide lands. This last stretch of the byway, perhaps the most exciting and picturesque, feels like a remote access road to the northernmost corner of the state. Stay on WA-112 at the junction with WA-113 to enter the Makah Indian Reservation, riding through Clallam Bay all the way to Neah Bay. The roadway at times allows taking in the sights and at other times will trigger an adrenaline rush. Look for the Elwha River Bridge stretched out over a wide canyon and river far below. Canada is a mere 14 miles across this busy shipping channel connecting ports in Seattle and Vancouver Canada with trading partners around the world. The best of the Pacific Northwest fills the senses as the road passes through lush green landscapes, showing off water views and taking in ocean breezes. A few miles out of town turn off toward Neah Bay to follow the Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway. Leave Port Angeles heading west on Highway 101. Riders can also hop the Black Ball Ferry across the strait to explore Victoria BC and Vancouver Island although right now the border with Canada remains closed due to Covid, look on-line for the latest. The 18 mile access road packs plenty of turns and a spectacular view at the top. While in Port Angeles, check out the Olympic National Park main visitor center and take a ride up to Hurricane Ridge. Overnight accommodations are plentiful, and food and drink options will satisfy the most discriminating palate. Start in the seaside town of Port Angeles, the largest community in the northern peninsula. ![]() Photo used under Creative Commons License. The rugged coastline along the Strait of Juan de Fuca opens to the Pacific Ocean. The Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway running from Port Angeles west to Neah Bay is a 70 mile Zen-like experience not to be missed. For those lucky few who make the ride, the northern edge of the peninsula holds a special surprise. A rural area covering over 1,442 square miles containing both the Olympic National Park and the Olympic National Forest with landscapes ranging from stunning coastline to soaring glacial peaks. The Pacific Northwest, known for green forests and a year-round outdoor lifestyle is also home to the Olympic Peninsula. ![]() ![]() Strait of Juan de Fuca Scenic Byway (WA-112) Together they highlight the diverse landscape found in Washington while still giving riders the tight corners and fast sweepers they crave. Each is a bit off the beaten path but accessible for a day ride or as part of a longer tour. Motorcyclists spend countless hours between rides sharing discoveries and critiquing previously unknown highways and byways in search of new adventure.Īmong the many beautiful roads in Washington, the following three stand out. Looking for a great ride in Washington State that’s a little out of the ordinary? But one that captures the unique variety and beauty of Washington landscapes? The appetite for new roads, like good music, is never satisfied. ![]()
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