Port Townsend to Sequim: A Scenic Olympic Peninsula Drive

This 35-mile route between Port Townsend and Sequim follows US-101 and WA-20, skirting the Olympic Peninsula's northeastern edge. The drive typically takes 45 minutes without stops, but the journey unfolds through a landscape shaped by the last Ice Age, where the Olympic Mountains meet the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Notably, the road passes through the Discovery Bay area, a deep fjord carved by glaciers, and crosses the historic Port Townsend Canal, a man-made waterway completed in 1915 that shortened the shipping route around the peninsula. For a deeper dive into finding unique stops along this corridor, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Key Route Data at a Glance

Natural Landscapes & Attractions: The drive opens with views of Port Townsend Bay, then climbs onto a forested ridge before descending to the Strait. Key natural sights include:

• Anderson Lake State Park (2 miles east of Chimacum): A 476-acre park with hiking trails and a serene lake; entry fee $10.
• Discovery Bay Scenic Viewpoint (milepost 12 on US-101): Panoramic overlook of the deep blue bay and snow-capped Olympics on clear days.
• John Wayne Marina (Sequim): A public marina with walkways over the water, perfect for spotting sea otters and seals.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: While not directly on the route, the Olympic National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is accessible from Sequim via US-101 west. The park's temperate rainforests and alpine peaks are a 30-minute drive from downtown Sequim. Consider a side trip to the Hoh Rain Forest, though it requires a full day.

Culinary Infrastructure: The route offers a range of dining from food trucks to sit-down restaurants. In Port Townsend, the Salish Café (634 Water St) serves Pacific Northwest seafood chowder. At the halfway point, the Log Cabin Bar & Grill in Discovery Bay offers burgers with a view. In Sequim, the Oak Table Café is famous for fluffy pancakes and fresh-baked goods.

• Local speciality: Dungeness crab (in season Oct-Feb) and lavender-infused products from Sequim's many farms.
• Farm stands: Look for Nash's Organic Produce on WA-20 near Dungeness, offering seasonal veggies and eggs.

Local Commerce & Culture: The route weaves through small communities like Chimacum and Discovery Bay, known for their artist studios and antique shops. Port Townsend's historic downtown is a Victorian seaport with over 30 art galleries. Sequim's Lavender Farms (e.g., Jardin du Soleil) are a summer draw, and the town hosts the annual Sequim Irrigation Festival in May, celebrating its agricultural heritage.

• Art galleries: Northwind Art Center (Port Townsend) and Blue Whole Gallery (Sequim).
• Antiques: Pippin's Antiques on WA-20 near Discovery Bay.

Infrastructure Safety & Road Quality: US-101 is a divided highway for most of this stretch, but sections near Discovery Bay are two-lane with no shoulder. Road quality is good, with average pavement condition. Speed limits vary: 55 mph on open stretches, 35 mph in town. Deer and elk crossings are common at dawn and dusk—use high beams when no traffic is coming.

• Emergency services: For non-emergency roadside assistance, call 511. The nearest hospital is in Sequim (Olympic Medical Center) or Port Townsend (Jefferson Healthcare).
• Cell coverage: Strong on US-101 except in a short dead zone near Anderson Lake.

Family and Child Suitability: This route is highly family-friendly, with numerous parks and easy hikes. Recommended stops:

• Chimacum Park (Chimacum): A playground with picnic tables and a small creek.
• Railroad Trestle (Port Townsend): A short boardwalk trail suitable for strollers, with views of the Port Townsend Canal.
• Dungeness Recreation Area (Sequim): Features a 5-mile sandy spit, with gentle walking trails and birdwatching.

Pet-Friendly Framework: Dogs are allowed on leash at most outdoor attractions. Anderson Lake State Park and Dungeness Recreation Area both permit pets. The route has no pet-specific rest areas, but many pullouts offer short walks. Carry water and waste bags; no dog-friendly restaurants are on the route, but outdoor patios at the Oak Table Café accept well-behaved pets.

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones: The drive is short, but for those coming from further, designated rest areas exist at:

• Port Townsend Rest Area (just north of the ferry terminal): Restrooms and vending machines.
• Discovery Bay Overlook (milepost 12): A scenic pullout with benches and a short walking path.

Hidden Off-Route Spots: For a unique detour, turn onto Anderson Lake Road (just east of Chimacum) and follow it 3 miles to the lake's quiet western shore, where you'll find a less-crowded kayak launch. Another gem is the Blind Thistle Farm (open weekends), a working lavender farm off Woodcock Road in Sequim, offering self-guided tours and lavender ice cream.

Climatic Conditions & Route Aesthetics: The climate is temperate maritime with mild, wet winters and dry summers. The best time for views is May-September when the Olympic Mountains are visible. In summer, temperatures range from 55-75°F; winter from 35-50°F with persistent drizzle. Morning fog occasionally settles in the valleys, clearing by noon. Drive with headlights on in overcast conditions.

Overall Verdict: Is it worth driving Port Townsend, WA to Sequim, WA? Absolutely—this short but diverse route packs coastal panoramas, forested stretches, and charming towns, making it a perfect half-day trip from Seattle or an extension of an Olympic Peninsula journey.

Fuel and Route Economics: Gas stations are concentrated in Port Townsend and Sequim, with only one midway option at the intersection of US-101 and WA-20 in Discovery Bay. Fill up before leaving, as fuel prices can be 10-15 cents higher in Port Townsend due to its tourist economy. The route is entirely paved and well-maintained, but be aware of seasonal road work on US-101 near the Sequim Bay area.

• Fuel stops: Port Townsend (3 stations), Discovery Bay (1 station), Sequim (5+ stations)
• Tolls: None
• Road conditions: Paved, two-lane highway; watch for deer at dawn/dusk
• Parking: Ample at all major stops; free at state parks

Driving Time Variations: Traffic peaks in summer (July-August) and during the Sequim Lavender Festival in July. Allow 60-75 minutes on weekends. In winter, rain reduces visibility but traffic is light. The route is not suitable for trucks over 40 feet due to narrow sections near the Port Townsend Canal.