8 Beautiful Places to Visit in Washington: Exploring the Beauty of the Evergreen State

Liputan6.com, Jakarta Washington State is one of the best and most beautiful states in the US. Located in the northwest region of the country, it's often confused with the capital city of the US, Washington, D.C., especially for non-Americans. But if you love nature, you should never skip this charming state. There are so many beautiful places in Washington that will satisfy your passion for natural beauty.

If you are planning your trip to the Evergreen State, here are some of the most beautiful places to visit in Washington State that should be on your list:

Mount Rainier National Park is home to Mount Rainier, a massive active volcano covered with glaciers. The park is filled with wildflower meadows, forests, and rivers. You can take trails leading to waterfalls like Narada Falls and enjoy wildlife spotting. Paradise and Sunrise are two famous areas that give you excellent views of the mountain and surrounding landscapes, making it a great place to experience Washington’s natural beauty.

North Cascades National Park is known for its rugged mountains and more than 300 glaciers. There are endless hiking opportunities that pass alpine lakes, rushing rivers, and green forests. The scenic North Cascades Highway is a highlight, offering incredible viewpoints along the way. Diablo Lake, with its turquoise waters, is especially popular for photography and kayaking, giving you a memorable experience in this untouched wilderness.

Olympic National Park is unique because it has mountains, rainforests, and coastlines in one place. You can walk among moss-covered trees in the Hoh Rain Forest, enjoy breathtaking views from Hurricane Ridge, and spend time on Pacific beaches like Rialto and Ruby Beach. The park’s variety makes it perfect for those who want to see different landscapes in a single trip.

Picture Lake is one of the most photographed lakes in Washington, thanks to its stunning reflection of Mount Shuksan. Its calm waters and easy access make it perfect for short walks and quick photo stops. In autumn, colorful trees surround the lake, adding even more beauty to the scenery. This spot is simple to reach, but it offers one of the most iconic views in the state.

Taking a break for a moment from the nature, you should make a stop on the charming village of Leavenworth. This Bavarian-style town is surrounded by mountains and offers a unique cultural experience. You can explore its themed shops, enjoy German food, and join seasonal festivals like Oktoberfest. In winter, the town becomes a snowy wonderland, making it a popular spot for skiing, sleigh rides, and holiday lights.

Lake Chelan is a long, narrow lake known for its crystal-clear waters and surrounding vineyards. It is a great place for boating, swimming, and fishing during summer. Wine lovers can explore the many wineries located along its shores. At the far end of the lake, you can visit Stehekin, a small town only accessible by boat or plane, which adds a sense of adventure to your visit.

This volcano is famous for its big eruption in 1980, which changed the surrounding landscape. Today, Mount St Helens National Volcanic Monument allows you to learn about the eruption’s impact and recovery of nature. Hiking trails give you close views of blast zones, lava domes, and wildflowers that have grown back. The Johnston Ridge Observatory is a highlight, offering educational displays and an impressive view of the crater.

The San Juan Islands are a group of islands located between Washington and Canada, known for their peaceful atmosphere. You can take a ferry to explore different islands, each with its own charm. Activities include whale watching, kayaking, and cycling along quiet roads. Friday Harbor on San Juan Island is the main town, where you can enjoy small shops, cafes, and beautiful harbor views.