Sometimes it’s easy to get wrapped up in our day-to-day lives and forget that we live in the most beautiful state in the country. Our natural wonders are second to none, and they’re scattered across the state, from the coast to the Palouse. If you’re a nature lover, it’s safe to say Washington has something for everyone.
Of course, it’s not always possible to explore our top natural wonders for free. That’s why we’re highlighting these six stunners — checking them out won’t cost you a thing.
- Dry Falls
Mike / flickr Dry Falls is located about an hour north of Moses Lake, near Coulee City. Long before it dried up, massive glaciers melted over several centuries, which would have made this the world’s biggest waterfall. If you park at the Visitor Center you’ll need a Discover Pass, but the area is free to see.
- Columbia River Gorge
Joe Parks / Flickr We’re so incredibly lucky to have the Columbia River Gorge as part of our border with Oregon. There’s plenty to see on the Washington side, from waterfall hikes to charming small towns with great breweries and restaurants. Plus, the river itself is simply breathtaking.
- Mount Rainier
Tiffany Von Arnim / Flickr Of course, admission to Mount Rainier National Park isn’t free. Luckily, we can see the mountain from practically anywhere in Western Washington, hence the slogan “the mountain is out.”
- Snoqualmie Falls
Howard Ignatius / Flickr All you have to do to view Snoqualmie Falls is park in the dedicated lot and walk to the viewing area. No hike is required, nor is a payment.
- Diablo Lake
Aaron Dykstra / Flickr Diablo Lake is located in the North Cascades, and this scenic overlook is one of the most iconic parts of the highway. It’s easy to see why.
- The Palouse
Jim Choate / Flickr The Palouse is listed as one of the Seven Wonders of Washington, and rightfully so. Drive through the gentle rolling hills covered in wheat fields on a warm summer afternoon and you’ll instantly feel more relaxed.
How many of these beautiful places in Washington have you seen?
Mike / flickr
Dry Falls is located about an hour north of Moses Lake, near Coulee City. Long before it dried up, massive glaciers melted over several centuries, which would have made this the world’s biggest waterfall. If you park at the Visitor Center you’ll need a Discover Pass, but the area is free to see.
Joe Parks / Flickr
We’re so incredibly lucky to have the Columbia River Gorge as part of our border with Oregon. There’s plenty to see on the Washington side, from waterfall hikes to charming small towns with great breweries and restaurants. Plus, the river itself is simply breathtaking.
Tiffany Von Arnim / Flickr
Of course, admission to Mount Rainier National Park isn’t free. Luckily, we can see the mountain from practically anywhere in Western Washington, hence the slogan “the mountain is out.”
Howard Ignatius / Flickr
All you have to do to view Snoqualmie Falls is park in the dedicated lot and walk to the viewing area. No hike is required, nor is a payment.
Aaron Dykstra / Flickr
Diablo Lake is located in the North Cascades, and this scenic overlook is one of the most iconic parts of the highway. It’s easy to see why.
Jim Choate / Flickr
The Palouse is listed as one of the Seven Wonders of Washington, and rightfully so. Drive through the gentle rolling hills covered in wheat fields on a warm summer afternoon and you’ll instantly feel more relaxed.
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Address: Mount Rainier, Washington 98304, USAAddress: Valleyford, WA 99036, USAAddress: Dry Falls, Washington 99115, USAAddress: Snoqualmie Falls, Snoqualmie, WA 98024, USAAddress: Diablo Lake, Washington 98283, USA
