Anglers, water sport lovers, and nature photographers fancy heading out to Alta Lake State Park. Situated between hills, it’s approximately 2-miles long and is a great spot for fishing, boating, swimming, paddle boarding, and windsurfing. Golfers can enjoy the 18-hole course, and birdwatchers can tick a few species off their lists.
Just south of the Canadian border rests Birch Bay State Park. Stretching over 194-acres, this shoreline is well-known for being a premier location to harvest hard-shell clams. Visitors are welcome to have a beachside picnic with stunning views of the Cascade Mountains and the Gulf Islands.
Situated between the northern tip of the Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands, Deception Pass is Washington’s most popular start park. With over 2 million visitors each year, this waterway features an array of recreational activities including fishing, hiking, camping, tidepools, and beaches. If you decide to explore the scenic trails, you may get a glimpse of a pod of orcas during their migration.
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.
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.
