Welcome to Washington
How to Get Around
Due to ongoing wildfires in the National Park Areas, I recommend checking all of your driving routes on the Washington State DOT website. This information is updated live as events take place. If you are visiting in the winter, they also provide information if chains are needed on vehicles to access certain roads.
Mount Rainer National Park
Mount Rainier National Park
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We visited the southern part of Mt. Rainer National Park. The space in the park is massive and there are different entrance points to access various trails. Be sure to double check all of your trails are in the same general area to maximize your time in the park.
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Skyline Trail
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A moderate rated trail that loops around Mt. Rainer NP and gives hikers a good array of scenery, plants & wildlife, waterfalls and great views!
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Reflection Lake
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Easy access from the parking lot to view Reflection lake. There is a fairly flat trail that circles the lake and surrounding area that is a great hike to start with for beginners. The lake also creates an amazing reflection of Mt. Rainer. This is a great hike to tryout to enjoy the wildflowers and nature.
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A fun little bonus stop or even drive by experience is the Recycled Spirits of Iron Sculptures you will see on your way to Mt. Rainer NP. This is a free road side experience, but donations are accepted.
Recycled Spirits of Iron Sculpture Park
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All sculpture work can be seen 7 days a week outside - recommended during daylight hours. When the owner is home, there is a small gallery and gift shop as well.
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North Cascades National Park
Due to limited time, snow and fire closures we only visited North Cascades for 1 day and did it as a day trip from Everett, WA. There are awesome camp grounds available in the park if you're looking to extend your visit to multiple days. We were also set to stay in Wintrop, WA if you're looking for hotel/lodging locations other than camping.
North Cascades National Park
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Please pack and plan accordingly to be out in nature. There are vault toilets at many trailheads and this is an area where wildlife is very common (bears, mountain goats, cougars, etc). We hiked the Blue Lake Trail and it was stunning.
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Diablo Lake Vista Point
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Easily accessible to all with parking area on site. Great views of Diablo Lake. Yes it really is this color when the sun hits it.
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Day Trips - Alternative Trip Options
These side trip recommendations aren't national parks, but they make for great alternative adventures to check out not far off the road. Add these locations for great connections between parks or additional stops to your ultimate road trip. Due to wildfires, you may need to have a plan B for your trip. These make great alternatives if your original location is closed/limited access.
Snoqualmie Falls
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Snoqualmie Falls is a majestic waterfall located in the scenic Snoqualmie area of Washington State, just outside of Seattle. Known for its breathtaking beauty and powerful cascades, the falls attract visitors from around the world.
Plunging from a height of 268 feet (82 meters), Snoqualmie Falls is an awe-inspiring sight to behold. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a picturesque view that changes with the seasons.
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Bellingham
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Not far from the Canadian border, Bellingham provides a fun and scenic scene for those looking to escape Seattle and be close with nature.
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