“Dreading” probably isn’t the right word, but knowing that Washington is the wettest state, I couldn’t help but to think “cold and miserable”. Not that I ever thought I wouldn’t like Washington, and the national parks it hosts, I just imagine a constant mist with little opportunity to dry out; not the most ideal situation for someone traveling long-term out of a vehicle.
When I made it to my first stop, I was pleasantly surprised. Yeah, things were damp, and the temps weren’t ideal (I mean come on, this isn’t Florida), but the sun was trying its best and it was a beautiful, crisp fall day. I was stoked to get into the thick of the National Parks in Washington. This, was one epic road trip!
North Cascades National Park
As one of the most primitive lands in the contiguous 48 states, the North Cascades really push you to get out and explore beyond a simple drive through. Dust off those hiking boots if you plan to visit.
I am sure we are all well aware of my fascination with all things water, and the huge amount of incredible water features I have seen across countless landscapes. But, I can honestly say that I was awe-struck by what I saw with my own eyes here. The water aesthetics here, in North Cascades National Park, might take the cake in terms of beauty!
The most beautiful blue-green hue, while still maintaining its clarity. It’s almost like every turn I took I was looking at a different shade of turquoise H2O. That picture above is Diablo Lake, located within the Stehekin Valley; You can see it with a simple drive through the park, but why not take the extra time to venture further and feel the beauty?!
What a start to Washington. This preview of the state only made me want more. And I am so glad I followed suit.
To the Sea!
Through Seattle, and finally delighted by the smell of salty air once again, I can’t even begin to describe the feelings that rushed through me. Crossing over the Puget Sound, and heading into the northwestern-most part of the contiguous states, I had finally made it to the long awaited…
Olympic National Park
I would like to say “well worth the wait”, but holy crap do I wish I got to this place sooner in life, and this was just another of many re-visitations to Olympic National Park! Literally just driving into the park left me with a sh*t-eating-grin plastered across my face. So green, so lush, so dense.
You ever look at something and just hear it scream “LIFE”? Maybe I was lacking sleep, or entering an endorphin-induced hallucinatory state, but I heard it. Loud and clear.
Right away, my first hike knocked it out of the park. The hike itself was much easier than anticipated, but the views along the ridge were breathtaking (quite literally too, thanks altitude)!
This was one of those moments. The kind of moment where you look at something and it just hits you in the feels; In a funky kind of way. With the kind of funk that probably no one else gets in the same exact moment. But to me this was it, I finally found where the mountains meet the sea!
From rocky shores and coastal stacks that come right out of the sea, to the Hoh Rainforest (a true rainforest located here, in the US!) with mighty old growth and the colors within; My senses were completely overwhelmed for the whole extent of my visit. This entire park seems old as the Earth, but yet sustaining itself and thriving in a realm unlike any other.
But my journey through the Evergreen State didn’t end there..
Somewhere more centrally located in Washington, I spent days battling the damp air. Not only was it raining constantly (It is Washington State, after all), but there is also a fair amount of humidity in the air.
“So what, Adam”
Not trying to complain or get any sympathy, but imagine this… Being out in the rain, returning to your small vehicle (if car camping) for the day and normally just hanging the wet clothes off the back of your seat to dry out. But you can’t.
I have been in rainy situations before, they are actually kind of nice. But this time was not so nice. I did my normal routine as mentioned, but being somewhat colder (40°-ish) AND humid… NOTHING dries out easily.
End rant.
And so, wet and all, but still glowing with positivity and enjoyment, I crossed into the last of the National Parks in Washington.
Mount Rainier National Park
This park is definitely cool. Do I think it comes close to the others in Washington, not particularly. But this opinion could be due to the poor visibility I experienced during my visit.
Still an incredible place to see. Driving along the mountain side, and next to a roaring glacial river, you certainly get a pretty amazing sight-seeing experience (even with the snow).
I would be real interested in seeing what Mt. Rainier is like in the summer months, or even just during a warmer, higher visibility time of year. Despite the snow-rain mix I still enjoyed wandering about, and seeing some incredible waterfalls. Oh, and of course, getting lost in the greener-than-green forests.
Washington was absolutely incredible. I have so many stories to add to my life from my experiences here, and I can not wait until I come back through. The National Parks in Washington very well may be at the top of my list.
PS: Ask me about my whales.
Cheers!
