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Mount Rainier
Located 150km from Seattle is Mount Rainier set in it's own National Park. The mountain is glacier clad and winter snow capped. There are many hiking trails through the park and several entrances. The nearest entrance to Seattle is Nisqually which is at the parks southwest quarter. A highlight of the park is the over 160km Wonderland Trail and it will take you 10 to 14 days to complete. The trial encircles the base of the mountain and is a hikers dream. However, there are many other shorter walks and trails that can be attempted if you haven't more than a day.
Mount Saint Helens
This active volcano erupted in May 1980 leaving a path of destruction for miles around. Vegetation is starting to grow and cover the devastated landscape, but it is still a sight to be seen. Mount Saint Helens is a three hour drive from Seattle. The Northwest slope of the mountain has the most dramatic volcanic landscape. There are two visitor information centers with lookouts here, Coldwater Ridge visitors centre (306 274 2131) and Johnstone Ridge Observatory (360 274 2140)
Snoqualmie Falls
Just over 40km east of Seattle are these spectacular water falls, that are even higher than Niagara Falls. There is an observation platform from which to view the falls as well as a river trail to walk along. Pioneer Square
The oldest neighborhood in Seattle with red brick buildings. Pike Place Market
A long running farmers market.
The San Juan Islands
The highlight of the Puget Sound are these Islands located midway between the Washington Coast and Canada. There are great for getting away from the city, and bush walking, cycling and wildlife watching.
San Juan is the largest island here and has the popular port of Friday Harbor
Lopez is the most uncrowded of the three main islands and has a pastoral landscape making farming the main industry here. The resident population here is only two thousand and this island is very quiet and laid back. There is a Historical Museum here and a shark Reef Park as well as a state park.
Orcas Island has the most stunning scenery as it has rugged hills and coastlines.
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