Strait of Juan de Fuca Highway - SR 112
a day / 61 miles / 2 hours a minute
Travelers on the Strait of Juan de Fuca Highway are in the most northwest point of the mainland. Catch glimpses of eagles diving, gray whales spouting, or otters splashing. Walk, bike, boat, or kayak to explore the wild shoreline or forests, fish for salmon, or learn about Native American cultures.
Day 1
9:00 - 0.7 miles / a minute - 9:01
Elwha River Viewpoint and Old Bridge
This is a staggering view. Soon after turning onto SR 112, there is a pullout and viewpoint located along the canyon bluff above the rushing Elwha River. There are views into the canyon and of the Elwha River Bridge. Don't leave without crossing the bridge itself. Continuing west on SR 112, take Elwha River Road on the north side and cross the Elwha River on the old one-lane wooden bridge. There are spectacular views of the rushing river below.
Once the home to a famous run of Chinook Salmon (large enough that Native Americans used single skins as ceremonial robes), populations have been in decline since the development of hydroelectric dams at the turn of the century. Although the river's glacier-fed water and deep gorge remain remarkably scenic, salmon are not able to negotiate the dams to return to the upper reaches of the river.9:16 - 44.0 miles / an hour 27 minutes - 10:44
Clallam Bay Park is a beautiful 33-acre park on a saltwater
beach. Wander on a beautifully arched wooden foot bridge over the
Clallam River. Then have a picnic or wade. Hunt for rocks or
driftwood along the agate-strewn, sandy beach. Look to the east to
view the historic Slip Point Light House Caretaker's Residence.
Meander over to Slip Point and peer into tidepools to catch a
glimpse of starfish and marine life.
On a clear day at Clallam Bay Park, there are stunning views of
Vancouver Island and Sekiu Point. A panoramic view of the Strait of
Juan de Fuca streches out before your eyes at every turn.11:44 - 15.9 miles / 31 minutes - 12:16