7 of the Best Places to Visit in the Pacific Northwest in May

May in the Pacific Northwest is when the region starts to show off. Snow melts into rivers, wildflowers bloom, trails dry out, and the coast gets just enough sun to make a trip feel like a reward for surviving winter. If you’re looking for adventure, here are some of the best places to visit in the Pacific Northwest in May, from alpine lakes to island escapes.

1. Columbia River Gorge – Peak Waterfall Season

This is one of the Gorge’s most magical months. Trails like Wahclella Falls and Latourell Falls are bursting with green, and Rowena Crest is covered in wildflowers. The cooler weather makes long hikes more comfortable, and viewpoints are less crowded than in summer.

Nearby food stop: Thunder Island Brewing in Cascade Locks.

2. San Juan Islands – Early Orca Season

Spring ferry rides are peaceful, and the wildlife is active—May is a great month for spotting orcas. Lopez Island offers scenic bike loops, while Friday Harbor makes for a cozy base. Fewer tourists mean a quieter, slower pace to really enjoy the islands.

Nearby food stop: Cask & Schooner Public House in Friday Harbor.

3. Leavenworth – Spring Blooms and Mountain Views

This Bavarian-style village is framed by snow-capped peaks and blooming trees in May. The Wenatchee River starts filling out for rafting season, and the weather is ideal for hiking or patio beers with a mountain backdrop.

Nearby food stop: Yodelin Broth Company.

4. Cannon Beach – Oregon Coast Without the Crowds

If you're chasing iconic coastal views, Cannon Beach in May offers moody skies, vibrant greenery in Ecola State Park, and smaller crowds than summer. Great for slow beach walks, tide pool exploring, and stormy sunset photos.

Nearby food stop: Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge near Haystack Rock.

5. North Cascades – Underrated Spring Gem

By mid-May, lower elevation trails in North Cascades National Park start to open, and Diablo Lake turns that signature glacier-fed blue. Fewer people venture here in spring, which means quiet hikes and wide-open scenery.

Nearby food stop: Mondo Restaurant in Marblemount.

6. Bend – Dry Trails and Desert Sunshine

May is shoulder season in Bend, which means Smith Rock is ready for hiking without the summer heat, and local breweries aren’t as packed. Float the Deschutes, explore lava tubes, or just relax in the high desert sun.

Nearby food stop: Spoken Moto—a mix of coffee shop, motorcycle garage, and beer bar.

7. Olympic National Park – Everything’s Open

If you want it all—beaches, rainforests, mountains—Olympic delivers in May. Roads to Hurricane Ridge usually open by mid-month, and waterfalls like Sol Duc are roaring from spring runoff. A solid pick for one of the best places to visit in the Pacific Northwest in May if you're into variety.

Nearby food stop: Lake Crescent Lodge.

May Travel Tips in the PNW

• Layer up. The weather shifts fast from coast to mountains.

• Avoid Memorial Day weekend if you want peace and quiet.

• Spring = sweet spot. Before summer crowds and peak pricing hit.

Need help planning your spring adventure? I create custom itineraries based on your travel style and favorite activities—whether you're chasing waterfalls, coastal towns, or road trip loops through the mountains.

And if you're using travel as a way to recharge, you're not alone. But if you're ready to take more control over your mindset, goals, or stress levels beyond the trail, check out my coaching page—let’s talk about what you’re working through and where you want to go.