Ten Travel Adventures In Washington State

Washington is one of America's wildest states and attracts outdoor lovers from across the country. It has seemingly endless forests and electrifying, untamed landscapes for adventurers to explore, camp and hike through. These make Washington perfect for tourists looking for outdoor adventure or a family camping vacation.

Here are a few of the best adventures you can have in Washington. They're sure to fuel your love for the untouched wilderness and serene forests the state enjoys in abundance.

The Olympic Peninsula

One of the most beautiful areas in the state is the Olympic Peninsula. Here, you'll find historic towns and a national park that has over a million acres to explore. Olympic National Park is so big that it has three distinct ecosystems, including snow-capped mountains and a rainforest. The Olympic Peninsula offers an action-packed vacation for the whole family. As an adventurer, you can visit every year and never experience the same thing twice.

Hike Eagle Creek and Tunnel Falls

Not far from Portland, you'll find the 12-mile hike to Tunnel Falls. The trail takes you through gorges and past cliffs and more than a dozen waterfalls. Even if you're not up to hiking the full 12 miles, youll experience streams, slopes and uncommonly beautiful countryside within the first two miles. Eagle Creek has many different hiking trails and camping spots that give you a taste of the epic outdoor fun Washington has to offer.

Chihuly Garden and Glass

Imagine walking through a beautiful green garden with glass sculptures scattered throughout, and you'll have a faint idea of what a visit to Chihuly Garden and Glass is like. Here, glass takes impressive, mind-blowing shapes. It is a must-see in Seattle.

San Juan Islands

Off the Washington coast lies some amazing islands with breathtaking scenery. Getting there is an adventure in itself but is easily manageable with a little advanced planning. Washington has so many islands that choosing one to visit can almost seem overwhelming but amongst the most popular are the beautiful San Juan Islands.

The islands offer much for couples and families, including visits to an alpaca ranch, vineyards and charming small towns.

Orca Island

If you're looking for an island where you can enjoy nature or a bike ride, then head to Orca Island. This island has several state parks that are perfect for swimming, biking and hiking.

The city of Olga on the island has a vibrant and fantastic art culture more than 50 island artists sell pottery, jewelry and sculpture.

Pike Place Market

Pike Place is Washington States most popular market. Established a century ago in Seattle, the market itself has become one of the states landmarks. You can find anything here from freshly baked bread and creamy cheeses, to homemade crafts.

Hundreds of farmers and local businesses participate in the market, and it draws millions of visitors each year. This is one experience in Seattle you don't want to miss.

Mount Rainier

Mount Rainier National Park is all wilderness, bubbling streams and vast green meadows. However, the parks highlight is the famous mountain itself, which is popular with mountaineers. If mountain climbing isn't your thing, then simply soak in the view of the snow-capped mountain from afar.

While this park will be a highlight of any vacation in Washington, be sure to check the weather before you go. Parts of the park have been described as some of the snowiest places on Earth, so knowing what type of weather you are in for is essential before any hiking or camping excursion.

The Museum of Flight

If you are looking for a little indoors fun, head to The Museum of Flight. It has over 150 aircraft on display, including a replica of the plane Amelia Earhart was flying before she disappeared and models of the Apollo 17 lunar landing module.

The planes and exhibits teach about the history of flight and give all visitors a newfound love and appreciation for it.

Whatcom Falls Park

This lovely park is full of short hiking trails and gorgeous scenic paths. There are waterfalls, fishing ponds and even a limestone bridge. This is the perfect place for an easy day of hiking and relaxing while enjoying the beautiful Washington countryside.

The Space Needle

No visit to Washington is complete without a trip to the top of the Space Needle in Seattle. Walking around the visitors lookout gallery of the 605-toot tall structure gives you the best view in Seattle. This adventure is perfect for families or couples.

Washington offers a wide range of sights and adventures for visitors of all ages. From wandering the lively markets to hiking past waterfalls, Washington provides tourists with fun and excitement that will keep them coming back for years. It's one of my favorite states and I know it'll be one of yours too.

Have you been to Washington? What else would you add to this list?

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