Things To Do In Washington – Your Essential Guide To Unforgettable
Thinking about exploring Washington State? It’s easy to see why. The sheer scale of its wild places—from glacier-carved volcanoes and ancient rainforests to a rugged, windswept coastline—is enough to inspire any adventurer.
But with so many epic options, figuring out where to even begin can feel overwhelming. You want to go beyond the typical tourist spots and have a real, skill-building outdoor experience, but the logistics can be tricky.
This guide is here to cut through the noise. We promise to give you a practical, no-nonsense roadmap to the best outdoor things to do in washington. We’ll focus on adventures that help you build confidence, travel smarter, and connect with nature safely and responsibly.
In this comprehensive things to do in washington guide, you’ll discover essential planning tips, must-do adventures for every skill level, and how to explore the Evergreen State like a seasoned pro. Let’s get you ready for the wild.
Before You Go: Essential Planning Tips for Your Washington Adventure
A successful trip starts long before you hit the trail. Washington’s weather is famously unpredictable, and its popular areas require some forethought. Getting these details right is one of the most important things to do in washington tips we can offer.
Master the Art of Layering
You can experience three seasons in a single day here. The key to comfort and safety is a solid layering system. Forget cotton—it holds moisture and will make you cold.
- Base Layer: A moisture-wicking shirt made of merino wool or a synthetic fabric. We love options from Smartwool or Patagonia Capilene.
- Mid Layer: An insulating layer like a fleece jacket (e.g., The North Face Denali) or a puffy down/synthetic jacket (e.g., Arc’teryx Atom LT).
- Outer Layer: A fully waterproof and windproof shell. This is non-negotiable. Look for a GORE-TEX jacket from brands like Outdoor Research or Marmot.
Get Your Passes in Order
Accessing Washington’s public lands often requires a pass. Figuring this out beforehand saves you a headache at the trailhead.
- Discover Pass: Required for Washington State Parks, DNR, and WDFW lands. You can buy an annual or one-day pass online or at a vendor.
- Northwest Forest Pass: Needed for many trailheads in the National Forests, such as Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie or Gifford Pinchot.
- America the Beautiful Pass: Your best value if you plan to visit multiple National Parks (Mount Rainier, Olympic, North Cascades) as it covers entrance fees for all of them.
Embrace a “Safety First” Mindset
Cell service is spotty to non-existent in many of Washington’s best outdoor areas. Never rely solely on your phone for navigation or emergencies. These are the things to do in washington best practices for staying safe.
Always carry the Ten Essentials, and tell someone your detailed itinerary before you go. For solo or backcountry travel, consider a satellite messenger like a Garmin inReach Mini 2. It allows for two-way texting and has an SOS button that could save your life.
Conquering the Peaks: Must-Do Hikes in Washington’s National Parks
Hiking is one of the most rewarding things to do in Washington. The state is home to three stunningly diverse National Parks, each offering trails for every ambition, from gentle forest walks to grueling alpine ascents.
Mount Rainier National Park: Walk Among Giants
The icon of the Washington landscape, Mount Rainier, is a massive active volcano draped in glaciers. The park’s wildflower meadows are world-famous, typically peaking in late July and August.
For a classic experience, hike a portion of the Skyline Trail from the Paradise visitor center. It’s a strenuous loop, but even going a mile or two up offers breathtaking views of the Nisqually Glacier and the surrounding Tatoosh Range. Be prepared for snow on the trail well into July.
Olympic National Park: Explore Three Parks in One
Olympic is unique. It protects three distinct ecosystems: a rugged Pacific coastline, temperate rainforests, and the glacier-capped Olympic Mountains. You can’t see it all in one trip, so pick an area to focus on.
- Rainforest: Walk the Hall of Mosses Trail in the Hoh Rain Forest. It’s an easy, magical loop under a canopy of giant, moss-draped maples and Sitka spruce.
- Coast: Explore the tide pools and sea stacks at Rialto Beach or Second Beach (near La Push). Check a tide chart before you go to explore safely during low tide.
- Mountains: Drive up to Hurricane Ridge for panoramic views and subalpine trails that feel a world away from the coast below.
North Cascades National Park: The American Alps
Less visited but arguably the most dramatic, the North Cascades are a sea of jagged, unforgiving peaks. The main road through the park, Highway 20, is only open seasonally (typically May-October).
A must-see is the Diablo Lake Overlook, famous for its impossibly turquoise water, colored by glacial flour. For a moderate hike, the Thunder Knob Trail offers incredible views of the lake and surrounding peaks without a huge amount of effort.
Exploring by Water: Kayaking, Paddling, and Coastal Adventures
With thousands of miles of coastline and countless alpine lakes, Washington is a paradise for paddlers. Getting out on the water offers a completely different perspective on the landscape.
Sea Kayaking in the San Juan Islands
The San Juan Islands are an archipelago known for calm, protected waters and abundant wildlife, including harbor seals, porpoises, and the iconic orca whales. This is one of the most incredible eco-friendly things to do in washington.
If you’re a beginner, book a guided tour out of Friday Harbor (San Juan Island) or Eastsound (Orcas Island). An experienced guide will handle navigation, teach you basic skills, and know the best places to spot wildlife safely and ethically.
Paddleboarding on an Alpine Lake
For a more serene experience, take an inflatable stand-up paddleboard (like one from BOTE or Isle) to an alpine lake. Lake Wenatchee State Park and Lake Cushman (on the edge of Olympic National Park) are fantastic options with stunning mountain backdrops.
Remember that even on a hot day, glacial-fed lake water is dangerously cold. Always wear your PFD (Personal Flotation Device) and stay close to shore if you’re not a strong swimmer.
Sustainable Things to Do in Washington: A Guide to Eco-Friendly Exploration
Part of enjoying Washington’s wild places is ensuring they stay wild for generations to come. This is more than a list of activities; it’s a mindset. Think of this as your things to do in washington care guide for the land itself.
Practice Leave No Trace Principles
The seven Leave No Trace principles are the gold standard for outdoor ethics. The core idea is simple: leave a place better than you found it.
- Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know the regulations, pack for the weather, and travel in small groups.
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stay on the trail. Camp in designated sites.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack it in, pack it out. This includes food scraps like apple cores and banana peels.
- Leave What You Find: Let others enjoy the beauty of rocks, plants, and other natural objects.
- Minimize Campfire Impacts: Use a camp stove for cooking. If you must have a fire, use an existing fire ring and make sure it’s dead out before you leave.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance. Never feed wild animals.
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Keep noise down and yield to others on the trail.
Support Local and Small
One of the best ways to travel sustainably is to invest in the communities you visit. Stop at a family-run gear shop in a small mountain town, eat at a local diner, or buy produce from a roadside farm stand. Your dollars make a real difference.
Common Problems with Things to Do in Washington (And How to Solve Them)
Even the best-laid plans can go awry. Knowing how to handle the common problems with things to do in washington will make your trip safer and more enjoyable.
Problem: The Weather Turns… Fast
You started your hike in the sun, and now it’s cold, windy, and raining. This is classic Pacific Northwest.
Solution: Never trust the forecast completely. Always have your rain gear and insulating layers in your pack, even on a sunny day. The moment you start feeling cold, stop and add a layer. Don’t wait until you’re shivering. Know when to turn back—the mountain will be there another day.
Problem: Crowds at Popular Trailheads
You drove two hours to a famous trailhead only to find the parking lot overflowing by 9 AM.
Solution: Have a Plan B and a Plan C. Research a few less-popular but equally beautiful hikes in the same area. Alternatively, start your day exceptionally early (be at the trailhead by 7 AM on a weekend) or opt for a sunset hike on a weekday to avoid the rush.
Problem: Wildfire Smoke
During late summer and early fall, wildfire smoke can blanket the state, leading to poor air quality and hazy views.
Solution: Be flexible with your itinerary. Check air quality reports on sites like AirNow.gov. If the mountains are socked in with smoke, consider switching to a coastal adventure where the air is often clearer. Avoid strenuous activity when the air quality is unhealthy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Washington
When is the best time to visit Washington for outdoor activities?
For high-elevation hiking and backpacking in the Cascades and at Mount Rainier, the best window is generally from mid-July through September. This is when the snow has melted from most trails and the weather is driest. The coast and rainforests can be explored year-round, but be prepared for rain, especially from October to June.
What essential gear should I not leave home without?
Aside from the Ten Essentials, the three most critical pieces of gear for Washington are a reliable waterproof rain jacket, sturdy waterproof hiking boots with good traction (we recommend brands like Salomon or Merrell), and a warm insulating layer like a fleece or puffy jacket.
Is Washington a good destination for a solo traveler?
Absolutely. Washington is very welcoming to solo explorers. Stick to popular, well-trafficked trails if you’re new to solo hiking, always tell someone your exact plans, and carry a satellite communication device for peace of mind. Campgrounds and RV parks are generally safe and friendly places for solo travelers.
How do I avoid encounters with wildlife like bears or cougars?
While seeing a bear or cougar is rare, it’s smart to be prepared. Make noise while you hike—talk, sing, or clap occasionally—to avoid surprising an animal. Never leave food unattended at your campsite, and store all scented items in a bear-resistant container or a designated food locker. Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
Exploring Washington’s incredible outdoors is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have. It’s a place that challenges you, inspires you, and reminds you of the power of the natural world. By planning ahead, respecting the land, and prioritizing safety, you’re setting yourself up for an adventure you’ll never forget.
Now get out there, explore with confidence, and enjoy the wild beauty of the Evergreen State. Stay safe and stay curious!
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