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$9.99 (as of November 20, 2024 15:23 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Embark on a breathtaking journey through Washington State, where nature’s grandeur awaits at every turn. “10 Stunning Washington State Destinations for a Nature Retreat” is your ultimate guide to reconnecting with the outdoors. From the quaint charm of Friday Harbor and Lopez Island to the majestic beauty of Snoqualmie Falls and Mount Rainier, this article highlights the best spots for hiking, kayaking, whale watching, and more. Dive into the lush landscapes of Olympic National Park or find serenity by the glacier-fed waters of Lake Chelan. These destinations promise unforgettable experiences and tranquil escapes. Are you looking for the perfect nature-filled getaway? Look no further than Washington State. With its lush forests, majestic mountains, and stunning coastlines, this state offers an abundance of destinations for those who want to reconnect with nature.
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Friday Harbor, San Juan Island
Staying in the charming seaside town of Friday Harbor on San Juan Island feels like stepping into a picturesque small town straight out of a Hallmark movie. This island boasts sweeping views of the water and offers a plethora of activities for those keen on exploring the natural surroundings.
From whale watching and kayaking to biking and hiking, there are plenty of activities to keep you engaged. Friday Harbor is one of the top whale-watching destinations in the United States, so this should be at the top of your “to-do” list.
Where to Stay: Friday Harbor House offers rooms with stunning views of the harbor as well as on-site dining.
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Lopez Island
Spending a weekend on Lopez Island is the perfect way to enjoy a slightly adventurous and nature-filled escape. Known for its picturesque landscape, Lopez Island is a fantastic biking destination with various trails leading to breathtaking vistas and stunning views of the water and distant mountains, including Mount Baker.
Lopez Village is an excellent spot for a day of exploration, offering quaint cafes and restaurants, captivating galleries, a historical museum, a library, and unique shops.
Where to Stay: Edenwild Boutique Inn is a top-rated inn on Lopez Island, lauded for its excellent location and warm, friendly atmosphere.
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Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge is a beautiful part of the Northwest United States, where amazing forests, stunning waterfalls, and awe-inspiring views await you. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, this destination offers numerous hiking and biking trails.
One must-visit spot in the Columbia River Gorge is the Pool of the Winds in Beacon Rock State Park.
Where to Stay: Skamania Lodge in Stevenson, Washington, boasts views of both the river and the gorge.
Lake Chelan
Lake Chelan makes for an excellent Washington State weekend getaway. This 50-mile-long glacier-fed lake is located in the Cascade Mountains in central Washington and provides a perfect setting for relaxation and adventure.
Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, or swimming, Lake Chelan has something for everyone. Plus, the town offers a variety of restaurants and shops.
Where to Stay: Lakeside Lodge and Suites is located right on the lake and just a few steps from Lakeside Park.
Snoqualmie Falls
For one of the best weekend getaways in Washington State, visit the stunning 268-foot Snoqualmie Falls on the Snoqualmie River. With around 1.5 million visitors annually, this destination offers awe-inspiring views from its two-acre park, gift shop, and upper and lower observation decks.
Where to Stay: Salish Lodge & Spa, perched upon the banks of Snoqualmie Falls, offers rooms with captivating views.
North Cascades National Park
If you are a hiking enthusiast, a trip to North Cascades National Park should be at the top of your list. The park is best enjoyed from mid-June to September when it experiences its driest weather. Home to miles of trails and stunning scenery, the North Cascades draw seasoned backpackers and mountaineers, but also have good day hikes that can be completed within two hours or less.
Where to Stay: Consider the Ross Lake Resort, where you’ll need to enter an accommodation lottery to secure a reservation, or the North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin, noting that there are no roads into Stehekin.
Olympic National Park
On Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula lies a breathtaking national park presenting an array of incredible sights from lush rainforests to towering mountains and sparkling beaches.
Top Attractions:
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Hoh Rain Forest | An emerald green paradise and one of the largest temperate rainforests in the United States. |
| Marymere Falls | Enjoy an easy/moderate hike just under 2 miles roundtrip through old-growth forest to a 90-foot waterfall. |
Where to Stay: Lake Quinault Lodge offers fireplace and lakeside rooms and on-site dining.
Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park safeguards the towering 14,000+ foot Mount Rainier. Spawning five major rivers, this peak is the most glaciated in the contiguous U.S. Although much of the park is designated wilderness, the five developed areas offer visitor centers, a museum, and more.
Where to Stay: Choose between Paradise Inn or National Park Inn, both located within the park.
Mount Baker
Mount Baker, one of the most famous peaks in the Cascade Mountains, is the highest peak in the North Cascades. It’s a popular destination for skiers, snowboarders, and mountain climbers.
Although there are no lodgings within the Mount Baker ski area, there are various places to stay in the foothills. Popular options include Mt. Baker Lodging, Glacier Guest Suites, and Winter Creek B&B.
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Long Beach
Long Beach, Washington, is the perfect Pacific Northwest beach getaway, featuring a stunning stretch of coastline with endless opportunities to relax. From walks along the 28 miles of beach to exploring iconic lighthouses, there’s something for everyone.
Where to Stay:
| Accommodation | Description |
|---|---|
| WorldMark Long Beach | Minutes from the beach and offers apartment accommodations. |
| The Breakers | Offers a private beach area as well as an indoor pool. |
The Bottom Line
Washington State is full of breathtaking destinations, from the Olympic Peninsula to the Columbia River Gorge and beyond. No matter where you go, whether it’s a luxury hotel or a rustic cabin, you’re sure to find stunning scenery and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
More Articles to Help You Plan Your Getaway
- How to plan a weekend getaway
- Ultimate weekend trip packing list (for any kind of getaway)
- 4 days in Seattle: itinerary from a Seattle native
- The best places to visit in Washington State
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