Welcome to RV Out West

Oregon is home to some of the most breathtaking scenic drives in the country, where every mile tells a story and every turn offers a new perspective. In this episode, we highlight three of Oregon’s 29 designated scenic byways—from Hells Canyon, to the fossil-rich terrain of the Journey Through Time Scenic Byway. These drives aren’t just routes—they’re immersive experiences. You’ll navigate through volcanic landscapes and glacial lakes, and cruise into quiet high desert towns steeped in pioneer and Native American history.

We take a closer look at iconic drives like the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, and more, diving into their unique highlights and why they’re must-see routes for any road tripper or RVer. You'll also learn about Oregon’s history with the National Scenic Byways Program, which began in the early 1990s to boost tourism while preserving the state’s natural and cultural treasures.

From the first nationally designated byway in 1992 to the newest routes added in 2018—including the McKenzie River, Trees to Seas, and Mary’s Peak to Pacific Scenic Byways—Oregon continues to lead the way in scenic travel. If you're looking to escape the ordinary and take the scenic route, this episode is your roadmap to the unforgettable drives that define the Pacific Northwest.

We dive into the hidden world of Seattle Prohibition with local historian and author Brad Holden, who uncovers the city’s wild and rebellious past during the 1920s. From underground speakeasies and rum-running operations on the Salish Sea to corrupt officials and forgotten road houses, Brad shares jaw-dropping stories that reveal a bawdy side of Seattle history most people have never heard. Whether you're traveling through the Pacific Northwest by RV or just love untold tales from America's Prohibition era, this episode offers a fascinating look at how Seattle turned the lawless into legend. Tune in and learn why this rainy city was once one of the rowdiest hotspots for bootlegging in the country.

Tucked between the rugged North Cascades and the sparkling Salish Sea, Bellingham, Washington is a must-visit Pacific Northwest destination that offers a stunning mix of mountains, forests, and coastal beauty. Just 90 miles north of Seattle and 20 miles south of the Canadian border, Bellingham is ideally located in Whatcom County with easy access to the San Juan Islands, Mount Baker, and the scenic Chuckanut Mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts will find a paradise of glacial lakes, temperate rainforests, dramatic coastal bluffs, and endless hiking and biking trails. Overlooking Bellingham Bay with views of the San Juan Islands and Olympic Mountains, the city blends natural splendor with deep cultural roots. Originally home to the Coast Salish peoples, including the Lummi and Nooksack tribes, Bellingham’s history spans coal mining, timber, and maritime trade. The city was officially formed in 1903 when the towns of Whatcom, Sehome, Bellingham, and Fairhaven merged. Today, historic Fairhaven, with its red-brick architecture, lively waterfront, and artsy vibe, anchors a city that’s grown into a vibrant college town and cultural hub. In this podcast episode, we explore why Bellingham is the perfect RV road trip stop, packed with natural beauty, rich history, and unforgettable experiences.

We’re exploring the soul-filling magic of taking the scenic route—those winding roads that turn ordinary drives into unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re RVing through the Pacific Northwest or just heading out for a weekend escape, there’s something unforgettable about choosing the road less traveled. Scenic drives may not be the fastest, but they offer a kind of beauty and freedom that stick with you long after the trip ends. From winding forest highways to coastal byways, these roads invite you to slow down, breathe deep, and soak up the journey.

Life moves fast—jobs, kids, responsibilities—and it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle. But when you trade the freeway for a two-lane highway lined with towering evergreens or panoramic river views, everything shifts. In this episode, I share my three favorite scenic roads to drive in Washington State. 

So, if you’ve been feeling stretched thin or need a reminder of why you hit the road in the first place, this episode is for you. We talk about slowing down, being present, and how scenic byways in Washington, can reignite your love for the journey. 

🎧 Listen now and start planning your next great detour.