Nestled in the Pioneer Square neighborhood of Seattle is this gem of a national park exploring the lives of the nearly 70,000 individuals who headed to the Yukon Territory in Canada in the early 20th century in search of gold. Guide yourself through two floors of exhibits detailing their lives and journeys, then take a stroll through the neighborhood in a guided walking tour. Pro tip: time your visit right to catch a gold panning demonstration led by rangers!

An iconic landscape of the Pacific Northwest, Olympic National Park covers nearly a million acres. About 90 miles outside of Seattle, this park offers the perfect escape from the bustle of the city. Go fishing, take a hike, explore tidepools, or even camp out for the night. During certain seasons you may see whales off the coast or spot a Roosevelt Elk in the park’s lower valleys and rainforests. And if you’re spending the night at Olympic, make sure to check out a ranger-led night sky program.

About 90 miles south of Seattle lies the most prominent peak in the Cascade Range –active volcano Mount Rainier. One of the oldest national parks, millions of visitors a year journey to Mount Rainier for its spectacular hiking, mountain climbing, backpacking, and more. Take a scenic drive, plan a camping trip, go fishing or boating, take a bike ride, or even explore one of the park’s many waterfalls! Whether you’re here for a day or a week, there’s so much to discover at this park.

Perched on a bluff overlooking the majestic Puget Sound, about 60 miles north of Seattle, lies Ebey’s Landing. A stunning island landscape that has long provided an abundance of natural resources, this park now encompasses three state parks, over thirty miles of trails, public beaches, and more. Hike the Bluff Trail, kayak through Penn Cove, or go birding at Crockett Lake. Just remember – Ebey’s Landing is still an active farming community, so make sure to follow posted signs when visiting.

Take a trek up north of Seattle to visit San Juan Island. Known for splendid vistas, saltwater shores, quiet woodlands, orca whales, and the last remaining native prairies in the Puget Sound / Northern Straits region, this park has plenty of history on offer as well as recreational opportunities. Hike mountainous or beachy trails, study artifacts at the American Camp visitor center, or try to spot some of the park’s iconic wildlife. Pro tip: plan a trip in August to pick Himalayan blackberries!

South of Seattle on the north bank of the Columbia River, this park tells the stories of four places, each with their own unique history. From a reconstructed British fur trading fort and one of the oldest continuously operating airfields to the site of one of the largest multicultural villages in the Pacific Northwest, there is a wealth of history to discover. Take your time to explore all four locations within the park, and make sure to catch one of the park’s Cultural Demonstrations!

A fair journey northeast of Seattle, Lake Chelan National Recreation Area is a good spot for a weekend away from the city. Nearly 62,000 acres worth of outdoor playground and natural habitat, this park rests in a glacially carved trough in the Cascades Range, offering boating and fishing seasonally. Be sure to plan ahead for this outdoor excursion – there can be limited cell phone reception and lodging reservations should be made in advance. Get ready to unplug and unwind!

Less than three hours from Seattle, the beauty of the North Cascades is characterized by jagged peaks, deep forested valleys, cascading waterfalls, and over 300 glaciers. Thousands of voices from the past crackle to life in this alpine landscape, and there is much to discover in the over 684,000 acres of the park today. Explore a range of outdoor activities, scenic vistas, and educational opportunities - from scenic drives and picnics to miles of trails ready for hiking or biking.