Hidden Gems in Washington State
Hidden Gems in Washington State for RVers: Off the Beaten Path
Explore Washington State!
Are you tired of the crowds and clichés of popular camping destinations?
Then pack your bags, hop in your RV, and head to the stunning wilderness of Washington State!
This beautiful corner of the Pacific Northwest is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems in the country.
So, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s explore 11 off-the-beaten-path destinations in Washington State that will leave you breathless.
1. Hoh Rain Forest
This enchanting rainforest is located on the Olympic Peninsula and is one of the few temperate rainforests in the world. The Hoh River Valley is a haven for hikers, nature lovers, and photographers alike. You’ll be amazed by the moss-draped trees, babbling creeks, and stunning waterfalls that surround you.
Fun facts:
The Hoh Rain Forest is located on the western side of Olympic National Park in Washington State.
It is one of the largest temperate rainforests in the United States, covering over 24,000 acres.
The average annual rainfall in the Hoh Rain Forest is between 140 and 170 inches.
The forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including Roosevelt elk, black bears, and Olympic marmots.
The Hoh River running through the forest is a popular spot for fishing and kayaking.
The Hoh Rain Forest attracts over 500,000 visitors each year.
2. North Cascades Scenic Byway
This beautiful drive is often overshadowed by its more famous cousin, the Pacific Coast Highway, but it’s just as spectacular. The route takes you through the heart of the North Cascades National Park and offers unparalleled views of snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests.
Fun facts:
The North Cascades Scenic Byway is a 140-mile route that winds through the Cascade Mountains in Washington State, starting in the town of Sedro-Woolley and ending in the town of Twisp.
The route offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, and dense forests.
The North Cascades Scenic Byway is a designated National Scenic Byway, recognized for its outstanding natural beauty and cultural significance.
The byway includes two mountain passes – Washington Pass and Rainy Pass – that offer spectacular vistas and opportunities for outdoor recreation.
Along the route, visitors can explore small towns, historical sites, and hiking trails, including the popular Cascade Pass Trail and Diablo Lake Trail.
The North Cascades Scenic Byway attracts over 1 million visitors each year and is one of the most popular road trip destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
3. Deception Pass
This iconic bridge is a must-see for anyone visiting the Pacific Northwest. The bridge spans the turbulent waters of Deception Pass, which is one of the most dramatic and picturesque stretches of coastline in the country. Make sure to stop at the state park and explore the rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and winding trails.
Fun facts:
Deception Pass is a narrow strait located between Whidbey Island and Fidalgo Island in the state of Washington.
The pass is approximately 1.7 miles long and 100 feet deep at its deepest point.
The name “Deception Pass” comes from a 1792 expedition led by Captain George Vancouver, who was deceived by the narrowness of the pass and believed Whidbey Island was a peninsula.
Deception Pass Bridge, which spans the strait, was completed in 1935 and is now a National Historic Landmark.
The surrounding Deception Pass State Park covers over 4,000 acres and offers hiking trails, beaches, and campsites.
The park attracts over 2 million visitors annually and is one of the most visited state parks in Washington.
4. Palouse Falls
Located in southeastern Washington, Palouse Falls is a stunning natural wonder that is often overlooked. The falls drop 198 feet into a deep canyon and are surrounded by colorful rock formations, rolling hills, and fields of wheat.
Fun facts:
Palouse Falls is a 198-foot waterfall located in the Palouse Falls State Park in southeastern Washington.
The falls are located on the Palouse River, which flows into the Snake River.
Palouse Falls was formed during the last ice age, approximately 15,000 years ago.
The falls are surrounded by a rugged landscape of canyons and coulees, which are part of the Channeled Scablands.
The Palouse Falls State Park covers over 100 acres and offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and campsites.
The falls attract over 200,000 visitors annually and are one of the most popular destinations in southeastern Washington.
Hidden Gems in Washington State
5. San Juan Islands
These idyllic islands are a hidden paradise for RVers. Located in the Salish Sea, the San Juan Islands offer a perfect blend of stunning scenery, outdoor adventures, and small-town charm. Hop on a ferry and explore the islands’ quaint villages, lighthouses, and wildlife.
Fun facts:
The San Juan Islands are a group of islands located in the northwestern corner of Washington State, between the mainland and Vancouver Island in Canada.
The islands are comprised of 172 named islands and reefs, with the four largest being San Juan Island, Orcas Island, Lopez Island, and Shaw Island.
The San Juan Islands are known for their stunning natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor recreational opportunities, including kayaking, hiking, whale watching, and biking.
The islands are home to several unique ecosystems, including old-growth forests, intertidal zones, and rocky shorelines.
The San Juan Islands are also known for their vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, museums, and performing arts venues.
The islands attract over 2 million visitors annually and are a popular destination for tourists from around the world.
6. Lake Chelan
This crystal-clear lake is one of the deepest in the country and is surrounded by the rugged beauty of the North Cascades. Rent a kayak, paddleboard, or boat and explore the lake’s hidden coves, waterfalls, and beaches.
Fun facts:
Lake Chelan is a narrow, 50.5-mile-long lake located in Chelan County, Washington.
It is the third deepest lake in the United States, with a maximum depth of 1,486 feet.
The lake is fed by the Stehekin River, which originates in the North Cascades National Park and drains into the lake at its northern end.
Lake Chelan is a popular destination for water sports, fishing, and other recreational activities, and has over 50 miles of shoreline and several public parks.
The lake is also home to several wineries, which produce a variety of high-quality wines due to the unique microclimate created by the surrounding mountains.
Lake Chelan attracts over 2 million visitors annually and is a popular destination for tourists from around the world.
7. Mount Baker
This majestic peak is one of the most iconic in the Pacific Northwest and is surrounded by some of the most spectacular wilderness in the country. Whether you’re a hiker, climber, or skier, Mount Baker offers endless opportunities for adventure.
Fun facts:
Mount Baker is an active volcano located in the North Cascades of Washington State, about 30 miles east of Bellingham.
It is the third-highest mountain in Washington State, with an elevation of 10,781 feet.
Mount Baker is part of the Cascade Volcanic Arc and is considered one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the United States due to its history of frequent eruptions and potential for lahars (mudflows) and landslides.
The mountain is home to several glaciers, including the Easton, Deming, and Coleman glaciers, and is a popular destination for backcountry skiing and mountaineering.
Mount Baker National Forest surrounds the mountain and offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, and fishing.
Mount Baker attracts over 140,000 visitors annually and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts from around the world.
8. Leavenworth
This charming Bavarian village is in the heart of the Cascade Mountains and is a favorite destination for RVers. Leavenworth is known for its stunning alpine scenery, delicious German cuisine, and year-round festivals.
Fun facts:
Leavenworth is a small town located in the North Central Cascades region of Washington State.
The town is modeled after a Bavarian village, with many buildings and storefronts designed in traditional Bavarian style.
Leavenworth is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with several hiking and biking trails nearby, as well as river rafting and skiing opportunities in the winter.
The town is also home to several festivals throughout the year, including the Christmas Lighting Festival, Oktoberfest, and the Autumn Leaf Festival.
The population of Leavenworth is around 2,000 people, but the town attracts over 2 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited tourist destinations in Washington State.
The town is known for its many shops and restaurants, which offer a variety of local and international goods and cuisine.
9. Snoqualmie Pass
This scenic mountain pass is a favorite among RVers and offers some of the best hiking and skiing in the state. The pass is surrounded by towering peaks, wildflowers, and waterfalls, and is home to the famous Snoqualmie Falls.
Fun facts:
Snoqualmie Pass is a mountain pass located in the Cascade Range of Washington State, about 50 miles east of Seattle.
It is one of the main routes for travelers crossing the Cascades and is part of Interstate 90.
The pass has an elevation of 3,022 feet and is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking.
The pass is home to several ski resorts, including Summit at Snoqualmie and Alpental, which offer a combined total of over 2,500 acres of skiable terrain.
Snoqualmie Pass is also home to the Snoqualmie Pass Visitor Center, which offers information about the pass and surrounding area, as well as exhibits on local wildlife and history.
The pass can experience heavy snowfall and frequent closures during the winter months due to snow and ice but is generally open year-round.
10. Steptoe Butte
This natural landmark offers panoramic views of the rolling hills, wheat fields, and small towns of southeastern Washington. The butte is a favorite among photographers, bird watchers, and nature lovers.
Fun facts:
Steptoe Butte is a quartzite butte located in the Palouse region of southeastern Washington State, near the city of Colfax.
The butte rises over 3,600 feet above sea level and provides panoramic views of the surrounding farmland and hills.
Steptoe Butte is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, including hikers, birdwatchers, and photographers.
The butte is also known for its geological significance, as it was formed by a combination of volcanic activity and glacial erosion over millions of years.
The area around Steptoe Butte is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, and hawks, as well as a wide variety of wildflowers and grasses.
The butte is part of Steptoe Butte State Park, which covers over 150 acres and offers several hiking trails and picnic areas.
11. Lake Crescent
This serene lake is in Olympic National Park and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The lake is surrounded by lush forests, rugged peaks, and stunning waterfalls, and is a favorite among anglers, boaters, and hikers.
Fun facts:
Lake Crescent is a deep, glacially carved lake located in Olympic National Park in Washington State.
The lake is approximately 12 miles long and 600 feet deep at its deepest point.
Lake Crescent is known for its clear blue waters, which are fed by a combination of rainfall and snowmelt from nearby mountains.
The lake is also home to a variety of fish, including trout and salmon, as well as several species of birds and other wildlife.
The area around Lake Crescent offers several hiking trails and other outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and swimming.
There are several historic structures near Lake Crescent, including the Lake Crescent Lodge, which was built in 1915 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Conclusion
So, there they are… 11 hidden gems in Washington State that are waiting to be explored by RVers. From enchanting rainforests and stunning mountain passes to serene lakes and charming villages, Washington has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and let the adventure begin. Who knows, you might just stumble upon your own hidden gem along the way.
Happy Exploring!!
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