Public Lands

The Best State Parks in Washington

From half-acre pocket parks to surf beaches and cross-state trails, the state park system is a whole different kind of wild.

08/26/2025 By Allison Williams

Planner

What to Do in Washington State in March

Embrace the end of winter with shellfish and winter hiking.

02/27/2025 By Taylor McKenzie Gerlach

Puget Sound Ground

Blake Island Hides in Plain Sight near Seattle

With the long-running Tillicum Village show closed, what will become of Seattle's backyard island?

09/06/2023 By Allison Williams

Adios, John Wayne

Introducing the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail

The cross-state route has been reborn under a new name. Horse-drawn wagons still welcome.

07/17/2018 By Allison Williams

Game Plan

Which Washington State Park Should You Visit?

State park overload is real, but we can narrow it down for you.

07/17/2018 By Allison Williams Illustrations by Ryan Inzana

Adventure Ride

Ride at Lake Wenatchee

The lake offers a whole slew of activities, but its spectacular vista is best seen on horseback.

07/17/2018 By Allison Williams

Adventure Falls

Photograph at Palouse Falls

Whether a thunderous roar or cliffside icicle, the falls are an eastern Washington marvel.

07/17/2018 By Allison Williams

Adventure Dive

Dive at Saltwater

Rockfish, wolf eels, and a shipwreck await those willing to brave cold waters.

07/17/2018 By Allison Williams

Adventure Climb

Climb at Peshastin Pinnacles

Scale the crag—or hike a more solid footpath—for lush views of fruit orchards.

07/17/2018 By Allison Williams

Adventure Cave

Spelunk at Crawford

Tours at Gardner Cave show off stalagmites and underground pools—and offer Goonies vibes.

07/17/2018 By Allison Williams

Cover Story

29 Epic Washington State Park Adventures

Washington’s got more than 100 of them, and from half-acre grounds to cross-state trails, our state parks are a whole different kind of wild.

07/17/2018 By Allison Williams