If you hear of Seattle and think of rainy days spent with a cup of coffee, you might want to rethink your opinion. Seattle and the surrounding region is filled with natural beauty unlike anywhere else in the country. With sparkling waters and emerald forests, some find it hard to stay indoors. Here are a few of our favorite natural attractions in the Seattle area:

Mount Rainer in Washington State

Mount Rainer National Park is less than a two hour drive from Seattle

  1. Mount Rainer National Park: Mt. Rainer towers over the surrounding landscape, soaring more than 14,000 feet into the sky. The mountain is actually an active volcano! You can enjoy the U.S. National Park lands by hiking the trails that run from the alpine forests around the base of the mountain up into the wildflower meadows towards the top. Visit the NPS.gov site to start your adventure!

    Woman paddle boarding in Puget Sound

    Puget Sound is great for those that love water sports

  2. Puget Sound: Communities, ports, and land banks line this inlet of water as it weaves throughout the area, connecting channels to the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy the serene indigo waters by boating, kayaking, and hiking along the coast.

    Lake Washington during an air show

    Lake Washington is home to many events, such as air shows

  3. Lake Washington: This is the second largest lake in Washington and forms the eastern boarder of the city of Seattle. Around the lake, there are several spots for swimming and boat rentals. Exciting events like hydroplane races and dinner cruises are planned throughout the year. If you prefer to stay on land, you’ll enjoy walking along the pedestrian trails or biking on the paths, both of which provide sweeping views of the large lake.
  4. Lake Union: This freshwater lake has a maximum depth of 50 feet. It is close to the downtown center of Seattle, providing a welcome natural respite from the urban setting. Families adore this area, with its spray park, wading pool, historic ships wharf, wooden boats, and Museum of History and Industry. It is just enough nature to make an evening or weekend help you feel reset for the next day.

    West Point Lighthouse in Washington State

    West Point Lighthouse can be found at the tip of Discovery Park

  5. Discovery Park: Head to the Magnolia neighborhood for miles of mixed trails along the natural shoreline. You’ll catch breathtaking vistas of the ocean as you weave through lush forests. It is the largest public park in the city.
  6. Mount Si: Pack a picnic and your hiking boots for a day exploring Mount Si, another gem in the Cascade Range. Conquering the steep switchbacks will reward you with flatter expanses and remarkable natural foliage. These trails are favorites of both leisure and serious hikers alike. In fact, many people will train for a summit of Mount Rainer by getting in shape on the rugged trails of Mount Si.

Seattle may be far from your hometown, but it is a city close to our hearts. Our Station team of local experts can’t wait to help share the area with you. Get started today!