Washington State is a nature lover’s paradise, with spectacular state and national parks showcasing mountains, forests, lakes, and rugged coastline. If you’re planning an outdoor adventure in the Evergreen State, you absolutely have to visit some of Washington’s incredible parks. From hiking trails with breathtaking views to pristine wilderness and unique ecosystems, Washington’s state and national parks offer limitless ways to experience the region’s diverse natural beauty. These are some of the top National Parks in Washington you must add to your Washington trip itinerary.
List of Washington’s Best State & National Parks
1. Mount Rainier National Park
One of the top-rated Washington’s Best State & National Parks is this Mount rainier national park. Majestic Mount Rainier is the shining star of Washington’s national parks system. Crowned with massive glaciers and dramatic rock formations, Mount Rainier National Park is a must-visit. Challenge yourself to hike and summit this 14,410 ft volcano for once-in-a-lifetime vistas. Or take less strenuous walks through alpine meadows overflowing with wildflowers in spring and summer. Wildlife like mountain goats, elk, and marmots call this iconic park home. With over 260,000 acres of wilderness to explore, Mount Rainier is easily become one of the best National Parks in Washington.
2. North Cascades National Park
For awe-inspiring mountain scenery unlike anywhere else in the U.S., head to North Cascades National Park. Over 300 glaciers dot these steep mountains, and more than 700 lakes fill the valleys below. Hundreds of miles of hiking trails wind through evergreen forests, alongside thunderous waterfalls, and to panoramic mountaintop lookouts ideal for spotting eagles or bears. With its remote wilderness teeming with diverse plants and wildlife, North Cascades is truly one of Washington’s best State & National Parks.
3. Olympic National Park
Stretching across several distinct ecosystems – from the Pacific coastline to temperate rainforest to glacier-capped peaks – Olympic National Park showcases incredible biodiversity. Here you can explore over 70 miles of wild coast with tide pools and sea stacks. Witness enormous old-growth trees in misty ancient forests. Watch Roosevelt elk graze in river valleys. And enjoy panoramic views atop Hurricane Ridge. Olympic’s range of landscapes makes it one of the finest national parks in Washington.
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4. Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument
For a landscape shaped by incredible natural forces, visit Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. Created from Mount St. Helens’ cataclysmic 1980 eruption, this park protects the volcano and allows you to view the aftermath up close on foot or from scenic overlooks. Hike through lava tubes and see how the environment is recovering decades later. With its unique geological features, Mount St. Helens is certainly one of the most fascinating national parks in Washington.
5. Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area
Offering adventures on and along the Columbia River, Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area is a water-lovers playground. Boating, fishing, waterskiing, scuba diving, and kayaking are all popular pastimes. Or relax on sandy beaches and go for scenic swims. There are also Native American petroglyphs and historic homesteads to discover. With over 100 miles of freshwater shoreline, Lake Roosevelt is one of the treasured national parks in Washington.
6. Deception Pass State Park
Spanning Whidbey Island and Fidalgo Island, Deception Pass State Park lets you explore Washington’s spectacular Puget Sound region. Walk above swirling whirlpools along cliffside trails. Spot seals, sea lions, otters, and over 200 bird species. Picnic at secluded coves only accessible by boat. And immerse yourself in colorful sunsets, expansive views, and the salt air. Deception Pass is one of Washington’s best State & National Parks.
7. Palouse Falls State Park
At Palouse Falls, witness some of the most powerful falls in the Pacific Northwest plunging into an enormous canyon. Hiking trails take you to the top for panoramic views down into the canyon’s palm-fringed basin far below. Photograph the falls from unique vantage points throughout the state park’s rugged basalt formations. Located in southeastern Washington, Palouse Falls is a can’t-miss state park.
8. Moran State Park, Orcas Island
On Orcas Island, Moran State Park offers over 5000 acres of forests, hills, lakes, and bays to enjoy. Hike up Mt. Constitution for sublime panoramic views over the San Juan Islands. Boat or fish on mountain-rimmed Cascade Lake. And ride horses along evergreen-lined trails. With diverse landscapes and activities, Moran State Park is an island jewel among Washington’s best State & National Parks.
9. Lime Kiln Point State Park, San Juan Island
Get up close views of majestic orcas at Lime Kiln Point State Park on San Juan Island. Watch whales frolic and feed during the summer months from cliffside trails extending into the sea. The park also features a historic lighthouse and lush hiking trails through coastal environments. For an unforgettable whale-watching experience, Lime Kiln Point is one of the best national parks in Washington.
