Hoodsport, WA

100 miles / 2 hrs from Seattle

Lake Cushman is a gem of the Olympic Peninsula, you can get there fairly quickly by taking the main highway but I prefer to take the longer route. Head north on the iconic Tacoma Narrows Bridge, and follow 106 West to enjoy the small towns of Belfair and Union. I love soaking up the views along the drive. Once you arrive enjoy a trek around the calm gigantic lake surrounded by woods and waterfalls.

Neah Bay, WA

160 miles / 4.5 hrs from Seattle

Cape Flattery is the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States. It is a long drive from Seattle but the views are worth it. You hike a bit from the parking lot and come out of the woods to this beautiful ocean sight. Such a unique gem.

Forks, WA

185 miles / 3 hrs from Seattle

Ruby Beach is one of the prettiest places on the entire West Coast. With giant rock formations and gorgeous sunsets it is hard to be disappointed by the long drive out here. It is quite the distance from Seattle but that does deter the crowds, making it possible to get stretches of beach completely to yourself.

Granite Falls, WA

60 miles / 1.5 hrs from Seattle

Heather Lake is down the Mountain Loop Highway, tucked away in the woods. It is a 2 mile trek up a gradual inclining trail which is full of tree roots and ferns and a few little creeks too. So peaceful.

Northwest Forest Pass / National Parks Pass Required

North Bend, WA

50 miles / 1 hr from Seattle

Olallie State Park is the closest true getaway I can think of from Seattle. You can head out on I-90 toward the mountains, pull off mile marker 38 and you will see this little slice of paradise right off the side of the road. Most days you will get the whole place to yourself, but even if you have to share there is a ton of space to spread your wings and explore. 

Snoqualmie Pass, WA

55 miles / 1 hr from Seattle

This is one of the most beautiful parks I have seen in Washington. Such a hidden gem! It has a nice paved winding path all along the lake for some epic views and cool woods to walk through as well. Feels like you are in a nature reserve. It costs $5 to park there, even if you have a WA Parks pass, but well worth it. This is my favorite little getaway.

Cle Elum, WA

90 miles / 2 hrs from Seattle

This view is hard to beat. If you have 4WD I recommend continuing all the way alongside the lake, and hitching a left at the bridge and exploring the other side of this beautiful lake. I parked and climbed up the hill and just kept going and going and got the most gorgeous view overlooking it all!

Enumclaw, WA

60 miles / 1.5 hrs from Seattle

Head toward Mount Rainier National Park and you will drive right past this wonderful little shaded park without even noticing it. It has lots of rocky beach to explore and thick woods to enjoy. I love walking in the forest with the sound of water running along the rocks nearby. If you are looking to get away from humans for a bit, I highly recommend checking this place out. 

North Bend, WA

45 miles / 45 min from Seattle

Rattlesnake Lake is one of the most popular places for Seattle outdoorsy people to escape to on the weekend, it is always busy for good reason, it is beautiful. The hike to the upper ledge is gorgeous and a great workout. You can also just walk around the lake too, at your own leisurely pace.

Gold Bar, WA

Wallace Falls State Park is full of wooded trails and waterfalls, a true escape into nature. Even when the parking lot is packed you will feel like you are getting away, I highly recommend taking the longer hike to the upper falls. It is worth the view!

Sunrise, WA

65 miles / 2 hrs from Seattle

Mount Rainier National Park is a beautiful place. While driving along the windy roads, the size of the mountain makes you feel small. If you can go on a weekday you can avoid the crowds. I went in early June and we only passed a handful of cars, it was so peaceful.

Snoqualmie Pass, WA

70 miles / 1.5 hrs from Seattle

In the winter, the trail is a short hike towards a gorgeous Lake, about a mile each way. It is good for snowshoes and snowmobiles or to watch your dog have the time of her life. In the summer it looks like it would be a great place for camping too. These blue skies are hard to beat.

Gold Bar, WA

60 miles / 1 hr 30m from Seattle

Heybrook Lookout is a short steep hike through a moss covered forest. Once you reach the summit you are rewarded with great views of the nearby mountains. You can then make the climb up to the top of the lookout tower, do it! The view is stunning.

Snoqualmie Pass, WA

Mirror Lake is so clear you can see the fishies swimming around and enjoying the good life. The hike to the lake takes you through lush forest and keeps you nice and shaded, perfect for summer. The last bit of the drive has some pretty big pot holes, beware. Find a parking spot, and head up a bunch of gravel to start the trail, make sure to hitch a left at the small rock pile at the top of the hill. Then soak up the beauty.