Seattle
Dubbed 'The Emerald City' due to its abundance of lush, evergreen trees and its spectacular views of the snow-capped Cascade and Olympic mountains, Seattle is a laid-back, friendly city which is set apart by is its remarkably beautiful natural setting and its progressive, multicultural inhabitants.
The city is perhaps best known for its seafood, its incredibly wet weather and its famously obsessive coffee culture as well as the staggering diversity of its neighbourhoods: Grand stately manicured suburbs; hip and trendy urban areas; pockets of eclectic, artsy boutiques and cafes; and rows of glistening state-of-art skyscrapers - Seattle has it all.
With nature on its doorstep, it’s hardly surprising that an outdoor lifestyle prevails, with plenty of boating, skiing, and hiking facilities on offer as well as a vast array of fascinating museums, galleries and cultural sights.
No matter when you’re travelling to Seattle, there are more than enough attractions to hold your interest, come rain or shine!
Olympic National Park
Tucked away in the far northwest corner of Washington State, Olympic National Park is a vast wonderland of staggering diversity, where rugged coastline, lush temperate rainforest, and glacier-capped peaks all collide in one breathtaking place.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park enchants visitors with its dramatic contrasts: stroll along driftwood-strewn beaches pounded by Pacific waves, wander beneath moss-draped trees in the mystical Hoh Rain Forest, and hike into the high country for sweeping alpine vistas of the Olympic Mountains.
Wildlife abounds too — from Roosevelt elk and bald eagles to pods of whales that cruise offshore. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, tide-pooling along rocky shores, or camping under skies bursting with stars, Olympic National Park delivers a dose of wild beauty you won’t soon forget.
Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier is an iconic volcanic peak and the centerpiece of Mount Rainier National Park, towering over the Cascade Range at 14,411 feet. Renowned for its massive glaciers, alpine meadows, and cascading waterfalls, the mountain offers breathtaking scenery and year-round adventure.
Visitors can hike scenic trails ranging from gentle walks to challenging summit routes, explore wildflower-filled valleys in summer, or enjoy snowshoeing and skiing in winter. The surrounding park also provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, photography, and camping amid old-growth forests.
Snoqualmie
Snoqualmie is a charming town nestled in the Cascade foothills, famous for its stunning natural beauty and iconic Snoqualmie Falls. The 268-foot waterfall is a must-see, with scenic viewpoints, hiking trails, and a park that makes it easy to experience its full grandeur.
Beyond the falls, visitors can explore nearby trails, enjoy outdoor activities like fishing and mountain biking, or visit the historic Snoqualmie Depot and local shops.
North Cascades National Park
North Cascades National Park is a rugged and remote wilderness of jagged peaks, glacial rivers, and alpine lakes in northern Washington. Known as the “American Alps,” the park offers some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the Pacific Northwest, with over 300 glaciers, dense forests, and pristine valleys to explore.
Visitors can hike challenging trails, camp in serene alpine meadows, or photograph breathtaking vistas that stretch for miles. The park is also a haven for wildlife, including black bears, mountain goats, and bald eagles. With its combination of untamed beauty, outdoor adventure, and solitude, North Cascades National Park is a must-visit destination for hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts seeking a true wilderness experience.
