What was once one of the largest geological sites in the world, Sun Lakes-Dry Falls is full of history. Over 15,000 years ago, a 3½-mile-long cliff hosted a waterfall that was four times the size of Niagara. At the end of the last Ice Age, massive floods, stemming from the proglacial Lake Missoula in Montana, devastated the Washington area. It left scars that can still be seen today.
Created in 2013, the San Juan Islands are one of the newest national monuments to be established in Washington. Over 400 biodiverse isles located in the northern Puget Sound host an array of wildlife including mink, river otters, and black-tailed deer.
Lewis and Clarke would have never made it to the west coast without their trusted guide. To honor the Lemhi Shoshone woman who made this expedition possible, the Sacajawea State Park was formed. Marking a two-day campsite that the explorers rested at in October of 1805, this recreational area is situated along the Northwest Discovery Water Trail. This 367-mile stretch of river begins in Idaho and ends in Washington.
Located 2.5 hours south of Seattle, Mount Saint Helens has a deadly history. On May 18, 1980, this active volcano became the most destructive eruption to ever hit the United States. Incarcerating 200 homes and a vast stretch of lands, this force of nature wielded an unstoppable power. The scars from this disaster are still visible today and can be viewed safely from two vantage points: Windy Ridge and Johnston Ridge.
Here we have another case of a deceptive name. Flaming Geyser got its dramatic title back in the early 1900s. While miners were digging out a test well, a mixture of gas and seawater erupted in a 26-foot-high inferno of fire. Methane fumes are still present, but it has since simmered down into the rock-rimmed basin leaving it only a few inches tall.
You may have heard the phrase that looks can be deceiving. Well, that theory can apply to names as well. In this case, you will find nothing but beauty and excitement at Cape Disappoint. Situated on the south-western tip of the Washington coastline, this state park offers 8 miles of hiking trails and plenty of wildlife to photograph.
As Seattle’s largest green area, Discovery Park is a favorite destination for many hikers, cyclists, and nature photographers. Located on the Puget Sound waterfront, this former Army post is home to over 270 species of birds. The terrain expands across 534-acres of lush habitat for cougars, coyotes, and even black bears. Walking along the shoreline, you may also encounter a few seals or sea lions.
Towering at 14,411 feet, Mount Rainer is a sight to behold. Located just 59 miles southeast of Seattle, this mighty summit offers a spectacular view of the cityscape for those brave enough to make the climb. You don’t have to go all the way to the top to see it either. The Wonderland Trail is a 93-mi hike that allows adventurers to see the majesty of the terrain. It takes two weeks to complete the entire journey, but shorter day walks are available for visitors who are pressed for time.
If you’re searching for a true wilderness experience this holiday season, look no further than the North Cascades National Park in Washington. With grizzly bears, grey wolves, and lynxes, this area is home to some of America’s most deadly (and beautiful) animals. Ross Lake offers fishing and boating activities, while kayakers and rafters can enjoy the thrill of white water rapids on the Skagit and Stehekin Rivers.
If you’re on vacation for the holidays, take some time to visit the Olympic National Park in the northwestern corner of Washington. From white-capped mountains to mossy rainforests to islands in the ocean, this area is certainly a sight to behold. Separated from the mainland by the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Puget Sound, this peninsula offers views of the Bogachiel River and Marymere Falls. You can even go for a relaxing soak in the Sol Duc Hot Springs while you’re there.
