Washington Outdoor Guide

Welcome to our Washington outdoor guide. This is your simple starting point for exploring the mountains, rivers, forests, and coastline across the state. If you want a short trail, a camping spot, or a big weekend trip, you’ll find it here.

Below we break down the top outdoor areas in Washington along with the best trails, water adventures, and places to camp. You’ll also see seasonal weather notes and quick safety tips so you can plan with confidence before you head out.

Washington changes fast from coast to mountains to desert. The Cascades bring alpine views, the Olympic Peninsula offers deep forests, and Eastern Washington opens into wide, sunny spaces. Pick a region, check conditions, and enjoy the PNW your way.

Best Outdoor Areas in Washington

Washington gives you four main regions to explore, and each one has its own style. The Cascades bring big peaks and alpine lakes. The Olympic Peninsula mixes rainforest, mountains, and wild coast. The south and west sides offer easy access to beaches and family trails. Eastern Washington stays warm and sunny for most of the year.

Here’s a quick look at the top outdoor areas across the state.

Top Regions to Explore

• Cascades for alpine trails and mountain views
• Olympic Peninsula for rainforest, rivers, and coast
• Washington Coast for beaches and easy hikes
• Eastern Washington for dry, open landscapes and quiet trails

Top Washington Trails to Explore

Washington has hundreds of good trails, but a few spots make it easy for anyone to get outside. These hikes give you strong views, steady paths, and reliable conditions for most of the year. Always check trail updates on WTA before you go.

Top Trails to Try

• Rattlesnake Ledge
  Easy access near North Bend with a big summit view. Busy on weekends.
• Hurricane Hill
  A clear Olympic Peninsula trail with mountain and water views.
• Discovery Park Loop
  A simple Seattle walk with beaches, bluffs, and forest.
• Lake 22
  A classic Cascades trail with a lake below cliffs. Snow lingers in spring.
• Palouse Falls Trail
  A short Eastern Washington trail with views over the canyon and falls.

Quick Tip
Carry the Ten Essentials and check snow levels, especially in early spring and late fall.

Water Adventures in Washington

Washington has miles of rivers, lakes, and coastline, which makes it easy to get on the water in any season. You can paddle calm lakes, explore bays, or float slow rivers. Many spots work for beginners as long as you check conditions and wind before heading out.

Top Places to Explore

• Lake Crescent for clear blue water and calm paddling
• Lake Washington for easy access near Seattle
• Deception Pass for strong currents and big scenery
• Yakima River for summer floats and warm weather
• Hoh and Queets Rivers for quiet rainforest views

Safety Note
Water stays cold year-round in Washington. Wear a life jacket, stay close to shore, and check NOAA marine forecasts.

Camping and Overnight Tips

Washington has thousands of places to camp, from forest sites to coastal spots to quiet desert areas. Many campgrounds stay open most of the year, but some roads close in winter. Check conditions before you go, especially in the mountains.

Smart Camping Basics

• Reserve early for popular state and national parks
• Bring a warm sleeping bag, even in summer
• Store food to keep wildlife safe
• Know the fire rules for the area
• Pack a simple rain setup for spring and fall

Good Places to Start

• Olympic National Park campgrounds
• Deception Pass State Park
• Mount Rainier front-country sites
• Lake Wenatchee State Park

Weather and Seasonal Conditions

Washington’s weather changes fast from coast to mountains. Conditions can shift within hours, so always check the latest forecast before you head out. Mountain areas hold snow well into spring, while the coast stays mild and wet most of the year.

Here’s a quick look at what to expect in each season.

Season by Season

• Spring
  Cool temps, melting snow, muddy trails. Some high roads stay closed.
• Summer
  Warm, dry, and clear. Best time for mountain hikes and camping.
• Fall
  Cool mornings, colorful forests, and the start of early storms.
• Winter
  Snow in the Cascades and Olympics. Rain and wind along the coast.

Quick Tip
Check NOAA mountain forecasts and WSDOT pass reports before any high-elevation trip.

• Check weather and trail conditions
• Pack the Ten Essentials
• Bring layers for changing temps
• Know your route and turnaround time
• Carry water and simple snacks
• Tell someone your plan
• Have a backup spot in case of closures

Wildlife and Safety Basics

Washington’s wild areas are home to black bears, elk, deer, mountain goats, and smaller animals you’ll see on most trails. Encounters are rare, but it helps to know the basics. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep food stored, and give wildlife plenty of space.

Simple Safety Tips

• Keep at least 100 yards from bears and 25 yards from other wildlife
• Store food and trash so animals don’t get into it
• Stay on marked trails to protect plants and avoid unsafe terrain
• Make noise on forested trails so animals know you’re coming
• Check WDFW wildlife alerts before heading out

Reminder
If you spot wildlife, enjoy it from a distance and move on. Never feed animals or approach for photos.

Washington gives you coastlines, mountains, forests, and sunny open spaces all in one state. Start with a simple plan, check conditions, and pick a region that fits your day. With a few basics and a good weather check, you’re ready to explore the PNW your way.