Although Washington is known as the Evergreen State, its high-desert plains, geysers, and volcanic peaks may best capture the essence of the state. A glimpse into a landscape that has been shaped by significant events dating back to the Ice Age can be found in Washington’s epic mix of nature.
Olympic and Rainier national parks in Washington may be the most well-known and frequently in the news (and rightfully so). But visitors will be delighted by the veritable nature buffet that many of Washington’s state parks have in store for them.
You’ll only need to make a short drive from Seattle to the stunning Puget Sound, where whales can be seen. The site of the deadliest volcanic eruption in US history is located in the opposite direction. Whichever route you take, you’ll discover much more than you anticipated—in a good way.
1- Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier is so enormous that you can see her from many locations throughout Washington. A goal for many mountaineers, the majestic and permanently snow-capped peak rises more than 14,400 feet above sea level.
If, however, overcoming the technical challenge is not on your agenda, the vicinity of Mount Rainier National Park more than meets your needs. It’s a place that has something wonderful to offer at all times of the year and is arguably the most beautiful public land in the state.
The park has more than 250 miles of hiking trails that take you past mesmerizing meadows and alongside alpine lakes. There is never a bad time to explore since many of these trails convert to cross-country ski trails in the winter.
2- Lake Wenatchee State Park
Campers who can enjoy a stunning wilderness without difficult access adore this year-round state park. The state park, which is located two hours east of Seattle, is built around a stunning lake that is bordered by mountains and glaciers, none better than Dirtyface Peak.
Locals and visitors can swim whenever they want while basking in the sun on the banks of the cool lake during the summer. The trails for riding horses, biking, and renting boats and kayaks keep the active people busy. When it snows in the winter, the best way to explore the area’s transformed winter wonderland is on one of the groomed cross-country trails.
3- San Juan Island National Historical Park
The San Juan Islands are well-known for their amazing wildlife, lovely bays, vast sea views, and relaxed culture.
These tranquil islands, however, were once the subject of intense tension as both the US and the UK sought to annex them in the 19th century.
The islands were finally recognized as US territory in 1872. Currently covering 2,131 acres (862 hectares), the San Juan Islands National Historic Park is home to the American Camp, the English Camp, and miles of immaculate hiking trails and shoreline.
4- North Cascades National Park
Despite being one of the least frequented national parks in the country, North Cascades National Park offers visitors a tranquil, breathtaking experience. Despite being only a short drive from Seattle, Washington, North Cascades only attracts a small portion of the tourists who visit the Olympic and Mount Rainier National Parks further away.
The North Cascades are also referred to as “The American Alps” because they are covered in sharp, snow-covered mountain peaks that reach into the distance. There are times when it appears as though you are in Switzerland.
You can get a glimpse of this place’s beauty from the scenic drives and overlooks, but you must hike the North Cascades’ trails to fully appreciate their grandeur.
The Chelan Lake National Recreational Area (which includes Stehekin), Ross Lake National Recreational Area, and North Cascades National Park comprise the North Cascades National Park Complex.
The Ross Lake National Recreational Area is located along Highway 20, also known as the North Cascades Highway, where most visitors spend their time. However, 400 miles of trails, including a section of the Pacific Crest Trail, crisscross the North Cascades for hikers and backpackers.
One of the least frequented parks in the national park system is North Cascades. It was the fourth least visited national park in the United States in 2021 with only 18,000 visitors.
There isn’t an entrance fee. However, a Northwest Forest Pass is required if you intend to hike in one of the nearby national forests (such as Rainy Lake or the Maple Pass Loop). The cost of this is $5 at the trailhead.
Top Activities: Take a leisurely drive along the North Cascades Highway, go hiking at Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm, take in the views from Washington Pass Overlook and Diablo Lake Vista Point, hike the Maple Pass Loop, and travel to Stehekin.
Hike a section of the Pacific Crest Trail for the ultimate adventure. The PCT passes through the park for 18 miles. If you intend to camp along the trail for the night, you must obtain a backcountry permit.
5- Lake Wenatchee State Park
Campers who can enjoy a stunning wilderness without difficult access adore this year-round state park. The state park, which is located two hours east of Seattle, is built around a stunning lake that is bordered by mountains and glaciers, none better than Dirtyface Peak.
Locals and visitors can swim whenever they want while basking in the sun on the banks of the cool lake during the summer. The trails for riding horses, biking, and renting boats and kayaks keep the active people busy. When it snows in the winter, the best way to explore the area’s transformed winter wonderland is on one of the groomed cross-country trails.
Over 150 campsites in the park make it simple to stay there and take in the scenery.
