Road Trip with RVshare Seattle to Missoula

If you want to have a thrilling adventure, you need to follow this Seattle to Missoula road trip itinerary. From majestic mountains to colorful buttes, there is plenty to see from Washington to Montana. In Seattle, make sure to take time to visit the Space Needle or the MoPop museum. Tacoma is a great place to marvel at the intricate glassworks of Dale Chihuly. When you reach Missoula, you should visit the historic carousel or enjoy several breathtaking natural wonders that can be seen throughout the area.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

On this road trip from Seattle to Missoula, you will travel through many cities. You can find plenty of accommodations for your RV. There are several campgrounds anddump stations located along this route. 

Yakima, Washington

Yakima is located in an area known for producing wine and apples. If you love either of those items, you may want to stop in this city. For history buffs, you should visit the Yakima Valley Museum. The downtown area is filled with historic trolleys that will take you through the city. You can stay close to all the action when you book a spot at the local campgrounds or you can visit one of the dump stations while passing through.

Spokane, Washington

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, then you should visit Spokane. With all the lakes and rivers, this is a perfect place for an adventure. For those who want to enjoy the local culture, Spokane is also home to the Bing Crosby Theater and Davenport Art District. This city is a nice spot to spend the night, and you can find a great campground near the city. There are also several dump stations available to empty those wastewater tanks. 

Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Coeur d'Alene is located in northwest Idaho, and it is known for water sports and hiking trails. If you travel into the downtown area, you'll find City Park & Beach, which includes a playground and picnic area. You can learn about the local history at the Museum of North Idaho. When you want to find a relaxing campground, Coeur d'Alene is home to several excellent options, as well as dump stations.

National Parks

These national parks are a wonderful way to get off the beaten track and to reconnect with the great outdoors. 

Mount Rainier National Park

When you are in Seattle, you will see the iconic Mount Rainier looming over the city. If you want a closer look at this natural marvel, you should head over to Mount Rainer National Park. This national park is home to the most glaciated peak in the continental United States. Mount Rainier National Park is also a great place to see the old-growth forests and meadow wildflowers. The highest point of the park is located in the Cascade Mountains. With over 236,000 acres to explore, you can also enjoy some outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking and camping.

North Cascades National Park

Washington's North Cascades National Park is located in the northwestern part of the state, and it might be the most remote national park in the country. It is filled with crystal blue lakes, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and wildflowers. This park is home to one-third of the glaciers in the continental United States. If you want to get a closer look at the glaciers, you will need to apply for a backcountry permit at the park office. Camping, kayaking, fishing, and hiking are some of the most popular activities at this location. Animal lovers will have plenty of chances to see bears, gray wolves, and mountain goats roam through the park. There are also some endangered animals in this national park, including marbled murrelets and spotted owls. 

Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park is about a day's drive to the south of Seattle. This park has the most pristine lake in the United States. When Mount Mazama collapsed over 7,000 years ago, Crater Lake was created. This national park is a great place to explore. There are over 90 miles of hiking, skiing, and biking trails. If you don't want to hike or walk, Crater Lake does offer a narrated trolley tour. For those heading to this location in the winter, it's important to note that some parts of the roads will be closed. 

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is known as the "Crown of the Continent." This national park encompasses over 1 million acres of land, and it contains thousands of plant and animal species. You might be able to see grizzly bears, black bears, mountain lions, and bighorn sheep roaming in the park. There are also 734 miles of hiking trails and 130 named lakes. Glacier National Park exhibits a large variety of microclimates and ecosystems. This national park offers several in-park activities, including boat tours, guided hikes, and star parties. In addition, there are plenty of recreational activities. You can enjoy fly-fishing, backcountry camping, and hiking at this park.

Nearby State Parks

You might want to take a break for some fun in a state park. These locations are the perfect spots to relax and to stretch out those legs.

Moran State Park

If you have always wanted to see orca whales in their natural environments, make sure to venture north of Seattle to Moran State Park. This Washington park covers over 5,000 acres, and it is home to a variety of ecosystems and biospheres. The highest point of the park is located at Mount Constitution. You can get a great view of Moran State Park by visiting the stone observation tower on San Juan Island. There is also plenty of recreational fun to be had at this location, such as biking, fishing, and hiking.

Dash Point State Park

You don't need a large park to have some fun. Dash Point State Park is only 400 acres, but it provides plenty of stunning views. This park can be found along Puget Sound. It is a great place for visitors to enjoy water-based recreation, like fishing or relaxing on the sandy beaches. 

Bannack State Park

Bannack State Park is located only a few hours south of Missoula. This Montana state park contains a ghost town with an interesting history. Bannack was incorporated in 1862, and it was a prosperous mining town for many years. At one time, it was the capital city of the Montana territory. Today, only a handful of the original buildings remain. If you want to see a historic site on your Seattle to Missoula road trip, this is a great place to visit. 

Along the Way

On your Seattle to Missoula RV road trip adventure, there are several points of interest. These spots are great places to experience the local culture and attractions.

The Space Needle

Like Mount Rainier, the Space Needle is another icon of Seattle. This landmark is located in the Lower Queen Anne neighborhood. At 520 feet, the observation deck has some impressive views of the Seattle skyline, Elliott Bay, and Mount Rainier. The elevator takes visitors to the top at 10 miles per hour, and you will reach the observation level in about 41 seconds. 

Pike Place Market 

If you want to visit the city's oldest public market, plan a Pike Place Market stop. This market is also the oldest continuously operating farmers market in the United States. Throughout the years, local merchants, craftspeople, and farmers have offered their wares for sale. This market is the most popular destination in Seattle. 

Museum of Glass

When you are in Tacoma, you should stop by the Museum of Glass. This location features the most extensive collection of Dale Chihuly glass pieces. In addition to the displays, the museum offers live glass-blowing demonstrations and experiences.

A Carousel for Missoula

You can see an impressive volunteer-built, hand-carved carousel in Missoula. This carousel is located in downtown Caras Park. The purpose of the carousel is to entertain both children and adults. While you are there, you can ride on one of the wooden ponies. 

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Seattle to Missoula, you will enjoy historic locations and beautiful scenery along the way. If you want to travel in comfort and style, consider an RV rental from RVshare. From large motorhomes to compact campervans, there is a rig that will meet your travel and budget needs. Once you hit the road, you are protected by our renter guarantee and 24/7 roadside assistance. Find the perfect vehicle for your travel needs in Seattle or Missoula.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Seattle to Missoula?

To plan an RV road trip from Seattle to Missoula, 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 Seattle to Missoula 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 Seattle to Missoula. 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!