Your Trip At a Glance
- Trip Length: 12 hours, 10 minutes
- Mileage: 840 miles
-
Fun fact: The section of I-84 you'll take through Idaho and Oregon follows the historical route of the Oregon Trail, where pioneers traveled by wagon for months. You'll be able to cover the same distance in just a few hours.
You'll be embarking on a great adventure as you leave Salt Lake City and travel to Seattle on an RV road trip. As one of the most dramatically scenic stretches of American highway, you can expect to see breathtaking mountain peaks, lush river valleys and thick forests along the way, culminating with the stunning, snow-covered heights of Mount Rainier in Washington.
As you and your fellow travelers leave the high desert of Salt Lake City, you'll wind your way down to the lower elevations of Idaho, where sparkling sapphire rivers twist across jade green meadows. Traveling into Oregon, you'll see those windswept meadows give way to sagebrush and low, rolling hills before encountering the ancient forests and unforgettable peaks of Washington. This route will also take you past waterfalls, sand dunes and mountain parks with convenient, RV-friendly campgrounds all along the way.
Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route
Beginning in Salt Lake City allows you to view the jagged peaks of the Wasatch Range before beginning the descent into the fertile valleys of Idaho, Oregon and Washington. This well-maintained route is perfect for RV travel, combining modern roadways, scenic campgrounds and world-class natural wonders located right off the interstate.
Twin Falls, Idaho
As you cross the border into Idaho, the first major city you'll encounter is Twin Falls, located in an area defined by the awe-inspiring cliffs of Snake River Canyon. You'll want to stop at Shoshone Falls, which plunges 212 feet and is taller than Niagara Falls. If you'd like to do more than admire them, there's also kayaking below the falls, a zip line across the canyon or lunch with a view over the spectacular gorge.
RV Info & Tips:
Campgrounds: Twin Falls campgrounds are readily available near the city and cater to all sizes of RVs.
How Long to Stay: Plan for one or two nights to really take in the canyon, water activities and downtown brewery scene.
Gear & Prep: A pair of binoculars will help you spot some of the canyon's wildlife.
Boise, Idaho
Boise will be the largest city you pass through before arriving in Seattle. So if you're looking for an area to stay in that lets you explore both outdoor recreation and urban culture, it's the perfect place to make your base camp. You can even take a break from cooking in your RV to explore Boise's restaurant scene.
RV Info & Tips:
Campgrounds: Campgrounds are plentiful, and most have dump stations.
Roads: Most of the roads in and around Boise are RV-accessible, but you'll want to be mindful of rush hour traffic in the busier areas.
How Long to Stay: If you're planning on hiking, a two-day stay is perfect. You can hit the highlights of urban exploration in one day.
Bruneau Dunes State Park, Idaho
A 24-mile detour near Glenns Ferry brings you to Bruneau Dunes State Park, a unique landscape that makes the perfect stop on your RV road trip. You can rent a sandboard and skim along the surface of the dunes. There are also fishing, hiking, picnicking and stargazing. Full hookups are available right in the park.
RV Info & Tips:
Campgrounds: Water, electricity and sewer hookups are available in some of the campsites. All sizes of RVs are welcome.
Seasonality: The park is open year-round, but summer temperatures can be extreme, so plan activities for morning or evening.
Gear & Prep: Along with other outdoor gear, flying kites makes a fun activity.
Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
Approaching Seattle, the imposing form of Mount Rainier takes center stage. A two- or three-day stay at Mount Rainier National Park is ideal for taking in all the sights and activities. There are restaurants in the park if you want to take a break from galley duty.
RV Info & Tips:
Campgrounds: Three of the four camping areas accommodate RVs up to 35 feet. Sites can fill quickly, so check availability.
Roads: Roads are scenic but winding in the park, requiring cautious driving.
Gear & Prep: Bird-watching is a prime activity, so don't forget your binoculars and birding guide.
Top RV Rentals Near Salt Lake City, Utah
One-Way Rentals
Explore More with One-Way RV Rentals Across the U.S.
Discover our one‑way RV rentals across the country. Pick‑up in one city, drop‑off in another. Explore freely, no return drive. Check availability now
Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip
The key to having a stress-free road trip is planning and flexibility. Plan your route, but have alternatives in mind if roads are unexpectedly closed. Create an itinerary of the places you want to go, and make sure you have plenty of supplies and planned stops for gas.
Timing & Logistics
Terrain and weather can vary drastically along this 840-mile trip. Time your trip to avoid the closure of mountain passes in the winter and blazing summer temperatures. You'll also want to avoid entering Seattle during rush hour, so plan for an afternoon arrival.
Fuel & Supplies Along the Way
Some parts of Oregon and Washington have sparse services for refueling and other necessities. A stop in Yakima, WA will keep you stocked until you reach Seattle.
Alternate Route Options
If you want to take a deeper dive into the Pacific Northwest, consider a detour to Lake Easton State Park. Water activities and 45 campsites accommodating RVs up to 60 feet make a beautiful immersion in nature before hitting the big city.
RV Route Logistics:
Ideal Duration: Seven to 10 days provides ample time for exploration at a relaxed pace.
Steep Passes: The grades are generally manageable along this route, but you'll encounter climbs as you approach the Cascades. Some parks and winding roads have long descents.
Clearances: The main interstate highways and tunnels easily accommodate standard RV heights, but you'll want to check bridge clearances on smaller roads.
Seasonal Driving Conditions: Mountain passes, like Snoqualmie Pass, can close in heavy snow, so check for closures before proceeding.
RV-Friendly Campgrounds: All major cities along the route have RV-friendly campgrounds with hookups, and many have dump stations.
When you follow this Salt Lake City to Seattle RV road trip itinerary, you'll enjoy a blend of historic locations and breathtaking scenery. If you want to travel in comfort and style, consider finding an RV rental for your journey. From large motorhomes to compact campervans, there's the perfect rig for your travel and budget needs. Find the perfect vehicle for your trip in Salt Lake City or Seattle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I plan an RV road trip from Salt Lake City to Seattle?
To plan an RV road trip from Salt Lake City to Seattle, start by mapping your route using Google Maps or a trip planner that supports RV navigation. Consider road types, fuel stops, campgrounds, and attractions along the way. Our RV rental specialists can help you choose the best vehicle and route based on your travel dates and preferences.
What type of RV should I rent for my trip?
The ideal RV depends on your travel style, group size, and destination. For couples, a camper van or Class B RV offers flexibility and easy driving. Families often prefer Class C motorhomes for more space and amenities. If you’re staying longer or need extra comfort, a Class A RV might be your best choice. Learn more about the different RV classes.
How much does it cost to rent an RV for a road trip?
RV rental prices vary based on vehicle size, rental duration, season, and mileage. On average, RV rentals range from $100–$300 per night, with discounts for weekly or monthly bookings. We also offer one-way rentals if you’re traveling from Salt Lake City to Seattle without returning to the starting point.
Can I pick up my RV in one city and drop it off in another?
Yes! Many travelers love our one-way RV rental option. If the inventory is available for your route, you can pick up your RV in one location and drop it off in another, which is perfect for cross-country adventures or long-distance road trips.
What should I pack for an RV trip?
Pack essentials like bedding, toiletries, cooking supplies, and outdoor gear. Most of our RVs come equipped with kitchenware and basic amenities. Don’t forget to bring a first-aid kit, maps, and camping chairs for your outdoor setup. Keep this packing list handy to ensure you don’t leave anything behind!
Do I need a special license to drive an RV?
A standard driver’s license is all you need to rent and drive an RV. Keep in mind that you must be 25 to rent an RV.
Where can I park or stay overnight during my road trip?
You can stay at RV parks, national park campgrounds, or designated boondocking areas. Our team can recommend safe and scenic stops along your route from Salt Lake City to Seattle. Be sure to reserve campgrounds in advance during peak travel seasons.
How do I handle fuel and hookups during my trip?
Most RVshare RVs are equipped for electric, water, and sewer hookups at most campgrounds. Keep track of your fuel stops and learn how to connect utilities before you hit the road. We provide a full orientation before departure to make setup easy.
Is insurance included in my RV rental?
Yes, basic insurance coverage is included with every rental. You can also purchase additional protection plans for peace of mind during your journey. We’ll explain all coverage options when you book your RV.
Can I travel with pets in my RV rental?
Absolutely! Many of our RVs are pet-friendly, so your furry friends can enjoy the adventure too. Use the filters to search for RVs that welcome pets on board.
What are the best road trip routes for RV travelers?
Popular RV routes include scenic coastal drives, national park loops, and cross-country highways. For beginners, you may want to try a long weekend trip where you don’t have to drive quite as far. Just remember to follow the 3-3-3 rule of RVing!