Washington State

Washington State offers the perfect blend of rugged wilderness, lush rainforests, and lively metropolitan cities. Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, it features some of the most stunning landscapes I’ve ever seen. Whether you’re exploring the misty shores of the Olympic Peninsula or hiking among the towering peaks of North Cascades National Park, Washington is a paradise for outdoor lovers.

With its close proximity to Vancouver, Canada, I’ve had the chance to visit this incredible state multiple times over the years. Below, I’ve put together some detailed articles to help you discover the hidden gems and must-see spots of Washington State. Ready to explore the Pacific Northwest? Let’s dive in!

Overview and Highlights of Washington State

• Where: Pacific Northwest, USA; bordering Canada, Oregon and Idaho
• Best time to visit: summer for hiking and exploring national parks, spring for tulip fields and wildflowers, fall for colorful foliage, winter for skiing and snowboarding
• How many days: if you’re doing a road trip, then at least a week (more is always better though)
• Largest city: Seattle, known mainly for the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, the Seattle Great Wheel as well as the Museum of Pop Culture
• National parks: Mount Rainier National Park, Olympic National Park and North Cascades National Park
• Unique towns: Leavenworth is a Bavarian-themed village and a must-see especially during the Christmas period
• Coastline: Washington’s coastline features some of the most beautiful beaches, such as Rialto Beach and Ruby Beach
• Best way to explore: rent a car or a van to explore off the beaten path destinations in Washington State

Travel Tip: if you want to visit Washington State’s three national parks, you’re going to need at least 14 days. Of these, North Cascades is the more isolated national park. So, if you only have a limited time it might be a good idea to focus on Mount Rainier, Olympic National Park and Seattle area.

Read all my posts on Washington State