Adventure Collective Logo
8-Day Pacific Northwest Circle: San Francisco to Seattle via Redwoods, Crater Lake & Coast Starlight - San Francisco

8-Day Pacific Northwest Circle: San Francisco to Seattle via Redwoods, Crater Lake & Coast Starlight

San Franciscomoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

8 days

Fitness Level

Suitable for travelers in average physical condition; involves several short walks and standing during guided stops.

Overview

Board a coach in San Francisco and spend eight days moving through wine country, ancient redwood groves, Crater Lake’s blue depth and the Coast Starlight’s cinematic corridor. This curated loop mixes short hikes, scenic train time, and national park access with practical rhythms for travelers.

8-Day Pacific Northwest Circle: San Francisco to Seattle via Redwoods, Crater Lake & Coast Starlight

Bus Tour
City Tour
Other

The morning you step onto the coach in San Francisco, the city’s fog still clinging to the bay, the trip snaps into motion like an old film reel—vineyards, sea cliffs and a forest that seems to inhale. By afternoon the trees close ranks: redwood trunks tower, cool air running its fingers down your neck, and the hum of the highway fades into a vertical world where sunlight drips through fern fronds. This tour is a measured loop through the West’s geological headlines—ancient volcanic collapse basins, glacial vaults, dam-built reservoirs—and a primer on how human ambition and conservation collide across the Pacific Northwest.

Adventure Photos

8-Day Pacific Northwest Circle: San Francisco to Seattle via Redwoods, Crater Lake & Coast Starlight photo 1

Adventure Tips

Pack layered clothing

Coastal fog, mountain sun and valley heat can all occur in one day—bring a light insulating layer and a waterproof shell.

Bring good walking shoes

Many stops involve boardwalks or short forest trails that can be muddy or slick; shoes with tread improve comfort and safety.

Reserve train seats early

Coast Starlight seating and optional upgrades sell out; book in advance to secure window views and dining options.

Allow buffer for flights

End-of-tour transfers recommend flights after 20:00 from SFO—build in extra time for possible delays and traffic.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Roosevelt elk
  • Bald eagle

History

Crater Lake formed after Mount Mazama’s cataclysmic eruption ~7,700 years ago; north-coast timber economies shifted dramatically in the 20th century from logging to park protection.

Conservation

Park fees and ranger programs fund restoration and invasive-species control; be mindful of fire restrictions and stay on designated trails to reduce impact.

Adventure Hotspots in San Francisco

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof jacket

Essential

Keeps you dry on coastal foggy mornings and near waterfalls.

Sturdy walking shoes

Essential

Provides traction on forest trails and damp boardwalks.

Daypack with hydration

Essential

Carries water, layers, snacks and camera for short hikes and viewpoints.

Telephoto lens or binoculars

Useful for wildlife viewing and picking out distant peaks on the Coast Starlight train.