Part of the fun of living in Washington is exploring the great outdoors. And sometimes you need to spend your days enjoying nature and your nights sleeping in cozy comfort. These getaways are the ultimate combination of both.
The tiny town of Metaline Falls sits nestled up in Pend Oreille County near the Canadian border. And with a population of 245, it’s safe to say most Washingtonians have never been. But if you do happen to make it to that corner of the state, exploring Gardner Cave is a must.
While Washington is home to numerous caverns, including Ape Caves and Big Four Ice Caves, there are none quite like the Guler Ice Caves. Located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, these unique lava tubes are filled with incredible ice formations that would make Elsa and Anna envious. The ice is present year-round, making the Guler Ice Caves a fun destination any time of the year. These ice caves in Washington are a stunning natural wonder, one you need to add to your bucket list immediately!
If you’re looking for a winter getaway that’s sure to please, then head off the beaten path to the little, old Western town of Winthrop, Washington. Nestled in picturesque Okanogan County, you’ll find the Sun Mountain Lodge, a premier resort surrounded by snowshoe and cross-country skiing trails.
Okanogan County is located in north central Washington, starting at the Canadian border. It’s remote, rural, and uniquely beautiful. It also happens to be home to half a dozen ghost towns and plenty of old mines, many of which you can still visit today.
Niagara Falls is one of the country’s most iconic waterfalls, and it’s definitely the most popular one in New York. But here in Washington, we actually have a few waterfalls that are taller in height, like Snoqualmie Falls — and as of 2014, we have an “official” state waterfall, the majestic Palouse Falls. The official state waterfall of Washington is absolutely breathtaking.
Blake Island is a small island in the Puget Sound, located near Bainbridge Island and Vashon Island. Largely preserved as Blake Island State Park, it’s a popular destination for local kayakers and tourists. However, it used to be known as Smuggler’s Island, and for good reason.
Diablo Lake, located in Northern Washington State, is an excellent place for any outdoor enthusiast to visit. Offering some of the most pristine landscapes in the state, it features cascading waterfalls and incredible views of Ross Lake and Jack Mountain. If you need a break from the fast-paced city life you’ve grown accustomed to, it’s time to explore Ross Lake National Recreation Area in Whatcom County, Washington. You won’t be disappointed even if you’re just driving by and stopping at the Overlook.
There are over 100 state parks in Washington, and every last one of them has a unique appeal. But while many Washingtonians flock to our more popular parks in the summertime, some of them manage to stay under the radar. These are a few underrated gems you can explore on your next park day.
On May 18, 1980, the course of Washington’s history was changed forever when Mount St. Helens erupted. The incident was not without warning, but no one was fully prepared for what ended up being the most disastrous volcanic eruption in United States history. And while time has brought some changes and regrowth, the mountain will never look the same.
