Mount Rainier National Park
Dominating the skyline southeast of Seattle, Mount Rainier National Park is home to the state’s most iconic peak, a massive, glacier-capped volcano rising 14,410 feet above sea level. The park offers an extraordinary mix of alpine meadows, ancient forests, and icy glaciers. Visitors can explore more than 260 miles of hiking trails, from gentle walks through wildflower meadows in Paradise to challenging climbs up to the Muir Snowfield. Waterfalls tumble down rugged cliffs, and wildlife such as black bears, marmots, and elk are frequently seen. In winter, the park transforms into a wonderland for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, making it a year-round destination.
Olympic National Park
Spanning nearly a million acres on the Olympic Peninsula, Olympic National Park is one of the most ecologically diverse in the U.S. It encompasses everything from wild Pacific coastline and temperate rainforests to snow-capped mountain ranges. The lush Hoh Rain Forest, draped in moss and ferns, feels otherworldly, while the rugged beaches of Rialto and Ruby Beach offer dramatic sea stacks and tidal pools teeming with marine life. In the interior, the Olympic Mountains rise sharply, offering alpine lakes and breathtaking views from Hurricane Ridge. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also a haven for wildlife, including Roosevelt elk, sea otters, and bald eagles, making it a true natural treasure.
North Cascades National Park
Often called the “American Alps,” North Cascades National Park is a rugged wilderness of jagged peaks, turquoise lakes, and dense evergreen forests. It’s one of the least-visited national parks in the U.S., which adds to its unspoiled charm. The park boasts more than 300 glaciers and countless trails that cater to serious hikers and climbers seeking solitude. Diablo Lake, with its surreal blue-green waters, is a standout sight, and the North Cascades Highway offers panoramic views ideal for scenic drives. Remote and wild, this park embodies the adventurous spirit of Washington’s backcountry, where nature reigns supreme.