he beauty and nature of Washington State attract millions of tourist each year. From mountain hikes that ascend thousands of miles above sea-level to a mineralized lake with healing powers, it is no wonder why the people flock to Washington.
Here are a few of our favorite places to see in Washington State that will leave a lasting memory.
Beautiful Places to See in Washington State
- Soap Lake
To start our list of places to see in Washington State is the city of Soap Lake. True to its namesake the city sits right on the shores of Soap Lake and boasts a unique history. Soap Lake is a body of water that has very high mineral content. Oftentimes, the waters are used as a natural treatment for skin conditions like eczema, and palmoplantar psoriasis because the waters are said to have healing and rejuvenating powers. Many tourists visit Soap Lake Resort, a small resort located on the edge of the Soap Lake, to experience the lake and soak in the naturally-mineralized waters.
Experience Soap Lake in luxury and book your stay with Soap Lake Resort at soaplakeresort.com or call 509-246-0462.
- Lake Chelan
Located 160 miles east of Seattle, Lake Chelan is a welcome change of pace for anyone. This wonderful getaway is home to resorts, wineries, and exquisite views. When you visit Lake Chelan, you will see that it doesn’t get better than wine tasting in the Pacific Northwest alongside the shores of Lake Chelan.
- San Juan Islands
The San Juan Islands are a series of 172 islands and reefs in San Juan Country. The popular islands- San Juan Island, Orcas Island, and Lopez Island- are the most populous and are accessible by ferry. Visiting them offers plenty of recreational fun such as kayaking and seeing orca whales in their natural habitat.
- Mt. St. Helens
Mt. St. Helens is the perfect place for the avid hiker and history buff. For history buffs, the active volcano has a rich history of activity. In fact, in 1980, Mt. St. Helens erupted causing nearly 150 square miles of the surrounding forest to be destroyed. For explorers, the mountain is an arduous challenge for adventurers.
- Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainer has truly earned its reputation as an icon in the Washington landscape. The mountain ascends to 14,410 feet above sea level and is the most glaciated peak in the United States. Needless to say, this hike is not for the faint of heart! Even more, Mount Rainer is an active volcano! Mount Rainier has long been one of the country’s top spots to visit, and that’s unlikely to change any time soon.
- Hurricane Hill
Hurricane Hill in the Olympic National Park is the perfect way to end a day of hiking and sightseeing. The trail to the peak is a moderate hike and is achievable for novice hikers. True to its name, located at an exposed section of Olympic Park, winds can be forceful at times. However, the hike is worth it as it reveals expansive views of the Bailey Ridge. With a view like that there’s no wonder why Hurrican Hill is on our list of naturally beautiful places to see in Washington State.
- Duncan Garden
The Duncan Garden in Spokane, Washington is beautiful beyond words! The Garden is a classical European Renaissance-style garden that is comprised of three acres. Visitors appreciate the lavish manicured lawns, bubbling fountains, and colorful flower arrangements on strolls through the gardens various pathways. Keep your camera ready because you are sure to capture a picturesque site.
- Kalaloch Tree Cave
The Kalacoh Tree Cave, also known as the tree of life, is an unusual phenomenon. The tree cave, located in Olympic National Park, is a large tree along the coastline. The terrain supporting the tree has long eroded leaving the prominent roots exposed. Travel to Olympic National Park to experience this unique tree – it truly is a once in a lifetime experience.
- Snoqualmie Falls
The Snoqualmie Falls are one of Washington State’s top attractions. The rushing falls attract more than 1.5 million visitors every year. Across the two-acre park, visitors are open to view the falls from the observation deck, hike the easy nature trail, or picnic in beautiful greenery.
- North Cascades
The North Cascades are home to more than 300 glaciers! In fact, the glaciers in the North Cascades are the majority of glaciers found in the United States. Less than three hours away from the Seattle, the Cascades host several opportunities for tourist, novice hikers, day campers and experienced backpackers.
- Perfection Lake
The beauty and splendor of this lake on the outskirts of Leavenworth are all you need to see to understand the name. Perfection Lake is nestled in The Enchantment Cascades. Hikers must trek miles through steep terrain to reach Perfection Lake. Those who reach the lake are awarded jaw-dropping views of the shallow yet perfectly clear lake.
- Columbia River Gorge
The boundary between Washington and Oregon is truly something to witness. Columbia River Gorge is a canyon that protects the area where the Columbia River intersects the Cascade mountains. Inside the canyon is the Multnomah Falls, and Latourell Falls; as well as, the Oneonta Gorge. This scenic attraction is the largest national scenic area in the United States and has the greatest concentration of waterfalls in North America.
- Skyline Divide Trail
Take a journey on a hike that you’ll never forget on the Skyline Divide Trail. The trail on Mount Baker extends for nine miles full of wildflowers – daisies, lupine, cow parsnip, and glacier lily. Hikers will gain more than 2,500 feet in elevation over the arduous hike.
- Horseshoe Lake
Of all the places to see in Washington State, Horseshoe Lake is one of the most peaceful. Horseshoe Lake is a stunning and silent lake near Lake Stuart. A short hike to this lake reveals granite, larches, and icy blue water. Start planning your day trip to Horseshoe Lake and enjoy its beautiful views.
- Dr. Jose Rizal Park
We couldn’t make a list of the top places to see in Washington State without mentioning Dr. Rizal Park in Seattle, Washington. Dr. Rizal Park, near the west side of Beacon Hill, is a stunning park with wondrous views of the Puget Sound and the Seattle Downtown skyline. This park is a picturesque location for photographers and tourist alike.