We’re not here you tell anyone how they SHOULD experience Washington… but it’s safe to say that if you’ve lived here for awhile and you haven’t seen any of your amazing natural wonders, well, you may be doing Washington wrong. But fear not, summer is here, and it’s a beautiful time to go exploring.
And while we believe every Washingtonian should see as many of our natural attractions as they can, we’ve narrowed it down to a Top 10 list for those short on time or travel funds. Enjoy!
- Mount Rainier
Jason Beaumont / Flickr Technically it would be easy to cross Mount Rainier off the list, because it’s visible from Tacoma, Gig Harbor, Seattle and many other parts of Western Washington. But if you go to Mount Rainier National Park (which you really should, it’s beautiful) hiking the easy and fun Grove of the Patriarchs Trail is a great way to experience it.
- Palouse Falls
Michael Matti / Flickr There’s no doubt about it, Palouse Falls State Park is the gem of Eastern Washington. Located in LaCrosse about an hour north of Walla Walla, the highlight of the beautiful park is the cascading waterfall.
- The Ape Caves
A. F. Litt / Flickr Don’t be afraid to step inside these caves! The Ape Caves were formed over 2,000 years ago, when Mount St. Helens erupted and lava poured down the southern flank of the volcano. This article has all the information you need for exploring them.
- The Hoh Rainforest
Nagarajan Kanna / Flickr Did you know Western Washington is home to one of the oldest ecosystems on the planet? At least once in your lifetime, do yourself the favor of walking through The Hoh.
- The Columbia River Gorge
Joe Parks / Flickr This beautiful area borders Oregon, and it’s one of the most underrated parts of the state. There are plenty of places to view the Columbia River Gorge, most notably the Skamania area. Or, save up for a special occasion and take a river cruise on the American Empress.
- Mount Saint Helens
Jim Culp / Flickr This volcano plays a big role in our state history. It’s the only volcano in the contiguous 48 states to erupt in modern times, and it’s definitely worth seeing in person.
- Dry Falls
Susanne T / TripAdvisor Located in Central Washington, Dry Falls was almost the most massive waterfall in the entire world. Read about its fascinating history here.
- North Cascades National Park
andy porter / Flickr The North Cascades is one of the most beautiful parts on the PNW. Explore as much of it as possible.
- The Enchantments
Sean Munson / Flickr Reaching these beautiful alpine lakes involves a moderate hike that may not be feasible for everyone. But if you manage to make it, the scenery is incredible.
- Deception Pass
Darek Farmer / Flickr Located on Whidbey Island, this state park is home to quiet coves, rugged cliffs, amazing sunsets and one iconic jaw-dropping bridge.
Nothing makes you appreciate Washington’s beauty like exploring its natural wonders. In our opinion, these are the 7 Wonders of Washington.
Jason Beaumont / Flickr
Technically it would be easy to cross Mount Rainier off the list, because it’s visible from Tacoma, Gig Harbor, Seattle and many other parts of Western Washington. But if you go to Mount Rainier National Park (which you really should, it’s beautiful) hiking the easy and fun Grove of the Patriarchs Trail is a great way to experience it.
Michael Matti / Flickr
There’s no doubt about it, Palouse Falls State Park is the gem of Eastern Washington. Located in LaCrosse about an hour north of Walla Walla, the highlight of the beautiful park is the cascading waterfall.
A. F. Litt / Flickr
Don’t be afraid to step inside these caves! The Ape Caves were formed over 2,000 years ago, when Mount St. Helens erupted and lava poured down the southern flank of the volcano. This article has all the information you need for exploring them.
Nagarajan Kanna / Flickr
Did you know Western Washington is home to one of the oldest ecosystems on the planet? At least once in your lifetime, do yourself the favor of walking through The Hoh.
Joe Parks / Flickr
This beautiful area borders Oregon, and it’s one of the most underrated parts of the state. There are plenty of places to view the Columbia River Gorge, most notably the Skamania area. Or, save up for a special occasion and take a river cruise on the American Empress.
Jim Culp / Flickr
This volcano plays a big role in our state history. It’s the only volcano in the contiguous 48 states to erupt in modern times, and it’s definitely worth seeing in person.
Susanne T / TripAdvisor
Located in Central Washington, Dry Falls was almost the most massive waterfall in the entire world. Read about its fascinating history here.
andy porter / Flickr
The North Cascades is one of the most beautiful parts on the PNW. Explore as much of it as possible.
Sean Munson / Flickr
Reaching these beautiful alpine lakes involves a moderate hike that may not be feasible for everyone. But if you manage to make it, the scenery is incredible.
Darek Farmer / Flickr
Located on Whidbey Island, this state park is home to quiet coves, rugged cliffs, amazing sunsets and one iconic jaw-dropping bridge.
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