10 Things You Must Cover On Your Europe Trip: Best Itinerary of European Landmarks For You!!

BY  Abdul Aziz Feb 23, 2024

Welcome to the country of red rock canyons, expansive views framed by arches and sandstone spires. Spreading national forests, vast wilderness areas, quaint state parks, and five national parks in Utah make up more than seventy-five percent of its land area that is open to the public. The southern portion of Utah is home to all the state's national parks. The "Mighty Five" are worth the hype, from the breathtakingly steep yet sublime Zion Canyon to the mind-blowing hoodoos of Bryce and the famous Delicate Arch. Additionally, these parks offer at least a dozen hidden gems, peaceful trails, and less-traveled roads for every must-see highlight. How, then, can one outwit the masses? The easiest solution is to leave when other people aren't. This may mean a trip in the winter, when the temperatures are much more bearable than in the sweltering summer, and the snow adds an extra magical quality to the hoodoos. Since all national parks in Utah are accessible year-round, you can schedule a stargazing expedition or a sunrise tour. However, bear in mind that the hours of local eateries and visitor centers change if you visit during the off-season, which runs roughly from November to February. Despite this, you can find cheaper lodging during this time. Here, being proactive pays off very well. Popular hikes have permits that sell out months in advance. The most sought-after lodges and campgrounds (particularly those inside the park) frequently have a year-long waiting list. You can make a lot of these reservations at www.recreation.gov. The top attractions of the national parks in Utah, listed from east to west, include must-see locations, undiscovered treasures, and insider advice for maximizing each trip. National Parks in Utah How many national parks in Utah, you ask? The answer is easy because they call it the “Mighty 5” for a reason. Here, we are listing all the state parks in Utah that you could plan a visit to. We are also going to help you with all the stuff you must pack when planning a trip. Zion National Park With its soaring canyon walls and hanging gardens, Zion National Park, the first of the national parks in Utah and the 13th in the United States, is a popular destination on many people's bucket lists. The park's main road now closes to private vehicles during peak season (March to October) due to its increasing popularity, requiring visitors to take a shuttle. One advantage is that you can bike this almost flat, picturesque drive. You can rent bikes and e-bikes in nearby Springdale (check out Zion Cycles). Two to six months in advance of your trip, you must apply for a permit if you plan to hike the popular Angels Landing trail. If possible, stay at Zion Lodge or in neighboring Springdale. Make reservations up to 13 months in advance for any lodging in or around Zion. Explore the park's Kolob Canyons area or the more sedate paths off Kolob Terrace Road when you're ready to forgo the tourist traps. Bryce Canyon National Park At Bryce, the main draw is the bizarre spires that have been formed over millions of years. Ultimately, this location has the highest concentration of these hoodoos worldwide. The best (and quickest) way to satisfy your thirst for hoodoo views is to take the main park drive and take the Navajo Loop from Sunset Point or the Queen's Garden Loop from Sunrise Point. Try a portion of the 23-mile Under-the-Rim Trail or one of those trails down to Fairyland Loop for a more immersive hike. Take the back entrance into Bryce Amphitheater via Tropic Trail from the small town of Tropic to have some hoodoos all to yourself. While there, you can also have lunch at i.d.k. Barbecue a state favorite. Bike the dirt Thunder Mountain Trail or the paved Red Canyon Path to discover a more sedate hoodoo landscape. The historic Lodge at Bryce Canyon is the perfect base camp for exploring the park; however, if reservations are unavailable, consider lodging at one of the nearby hotels in Bryce Canyon City. We also think Under Canvas Bryce's campsites are great. Capitol Reef National Park The quietest of the national parks in Utah boasts a magnificent environment that is attributed to the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile geologic wrinkle in the earth. Petroglyphs and the historic Fruita Orchards, which the park still cares for, are two of the area's unique attractions. Try the fresh pies at Gifford Homestead, which is close to the park entrance and made with local fruit, such as apples or peaches.  Take a leisurely stroll along the former main highway through Capitol Gorge. Or brave the steep trail to Cassidy Arch, where there are rumors, that Butch Cassidy escaped the law. If you have a decent 4WD car, you, too, can escape (from other travelers). Notom-Bullfrog Road intersects with Burr Trail Road, another backcountry route, and leads to Lake Powell. Burr Trail leads to Boulder, the starting point for Grand-Staircase Escalante National Monument and the location of Hell's Backbone Grill, possibly the best restaurant in Utah. It stays open in spring through fall. You should make reservations in advance. If you stay in one of the lodges in this small town that is only five minutes from the park, Boulder is close, but Torrey is closer. Canyonlands is divided into five distinct districts, each providing a unique experience. Island in the Sky is a place of expansive vistas. Don't miss Mesa Arch or Shafer Trail Viewpoint. The Needles District is a great place to go hiking. It's only about 20 miles south of the Island in the Sky as the crow flies (two hours drive). One of the best hiking routes is the action-packed Cave Spring Trail. It features a replica of an 1880s cowboy camp and mushroom-like rock formations. Canyonlands National Park Get lost in the Maze. Other worthwhile stops in this backcountry district are Chocolate Drops and the Land of Standing Rocks. See amazing petroglyphs, including floating "holy ghosts," by traveling to the non-contiguous Horseshoe Canyon unit. For a rafting adventure, head to the River District, which is at the base of the canyons formed by the Colorado and Green Rivers. The best place to stay for most of the park's district is Moab, which provides quick access to the park's rivers, the Needles, and Island in the Sky. Arches National Park Arches, the inspiration behind Ed Abbey's famous Desert Solitaire, has evolved significantly since 1968. Because of its increased activity, the park service is currently testing a timed entry system that will require reservations in advance from April to October 2023. However, it is possible to avoid a Disneyland experience. If you arrive before sunrise or remain past sunset, you will be rewarded with quieter trails and golden light that casts a glow over the arches. Be an early bird or a night owl. This is feasible because Moab's closest lodging options are situated sufficiently near the park's entrance. If you would prefer not to get up early, reserve a campsite at Devils Garden up to six months in advance or take a ranger-led tour to see the Fiery Furnace area, which is accessible only with a permit. Travel Checklist When Visiting the National Parks in Utah Planning a trip to the national parks in Utah is as fun as it is a massive plan to come up with. You must be well prepared for the weather you will be subject to both in the day as well as night. The few days that you will spend here will be nothing short of an adventure. Here is a list of things that you must have with you if your destination includes the national parks in Utah. Hardy Water Shoes The red desert dirt in Utah can be extremely sticky. You should invest in good water shoes if you intend to go river rafting, canoeing, or kayaking. When participating in water activities, flip-flops are not advised. They will become stuck in the mud and either break or get sucked down the river.  Your feet will be safe if you hike the rocky Virgin River through the Narrows in Zion National Park wearing rubber-toed shoes covered with firm soles. (Near Zion's Springdale entrance, you can rent an entire dry gear outfit, including shoes.) Blacklight Flashlight Scorpios are nocturnal creatures that hide during the day. Use your black light to identify them; the light from it causes these odd creatures to glow. Don't worry too much about scorpions because there is only one species in the Southwest that is thought to be deadly. Sun Protection The strength of the Utah sun only needs to be experienced once, especially in the desert, where there isn't much shade to be found. There will be certain hikes you take or picnic tables you sit at where there isn't a single spot to hide from the sun and heat of the desert. If possible, bring a wide-brimmed hat to cover your entire face. That would be better than a baseball cap. Next, cover all exposed skin, including the back of your neck, with sunscreen. Don't forget to wear sunglasses for eye protection. Polarized lenses will improve your vision and shield your eyes from burns. Recall that at 8,000 feet, you are closer to the sun than you are at sea level. If you're going to be on the water, get some sunglasses straps. It's annoying to watch your new shades drift away with you. Rain Jacket You might wonder, who takes rain jackets into the desert? Yes, we do. Each time we come to town. Even the desert experiences occasional, albeit brief, bursts of rainfall. You want a jacket that will keep you dry and warm when it pours, and the temperature drops. Hiking Boots Bring a pair of supportive, water-resistant, and breathable hiking boots to maximize your experience. These will make it easy for you to travel both dry and wet trails, allowing you to go farther than you otherwise could have. They also shield your feet from trail stones, cactus needles, and maybe even snakebites. Here's a staff member who can't stop gushing about his Sportiva Synthesis Mid GTX to get you started on your research. Vasque Skywalks GTS was highly appreciated by our friends at Backpacker.   Water Bottle Carry a sizable water bottle that you can fill with your garden hose prior to packing if you intend to go camping. With the jug, you can travel with water wherever you go. This means you can cook, stay hydrated, and make coffee in the morning even if you find yourself at a campsite without water. A water pump is typically available at campsites so you can replenish as needed. Hydration The air in the desert is so dry that perspiration quickly evaporates. Often, sweating is invisible to you. By staying hydrated, you can prevent dehydration, which can cause headaches as well as more severe ailments like heat stroke and cramps. Make a drinking plan of 5 to 1 liter for each hiking hour. Make sure to continue drinking even when you are not recreating. You are hydrated if your urine is clear. We adore carrying our CamelBak with us so we can continue to sip while we’re out and about. If you find yourself severely dehydrated or in need of quick hydration recovery, mobile IV therapy in Houston or at any needed location can be a lifesaver. These services offer on-site hydration solutions that can help replenish your body's fluids and electrolytes efficiently while you're still enjoying your outdoor activities Warm/Cool Clothes Temperatures in the national parks in Utah desert can vary by up to 30 degrees in a single day. So, pack light clothing for the day and warm clothing for the evenings. Include a winter hat for when the sun sets, and the cooler air moves in. As for national parks in Utah, this is particularly crucial in the fall, winter, and spring. Temperatures here can drop sharply after precipitation and sunset. Maps There are an amazing variety of trails and overlooks in each of Utah's five national parks. Having a map is beneficial. You can either get your maps in advance and get them now, or you can wait until a park ranger hands you one at the entrance station. Get the NatGeo Utah National Parks Map Pack, which includes detailed topographic maps, at REI.com or download free PDF maps. Star Chart/App The national parks in Utah have some of the darkest skies. You can recognize some of the formations you might not have noticed otherwise with the help of a star chart. Particularly so if you are traveling from an urban area. Alternatively, you can make use of technology and download the SkyView app for Android or iPhone. This app allows you to point your phone at objects to identify stars and other objects. In contrast to the 500 stars in an urban sky, you might be able to see up to 15,000 stars in a desert. It's a long way off! Tablecloth The little things add up to a significant impact. Pull out your tablecloth when you stop for lunch at the weathered picnic table by the side of the road, and you'll go from rustic to elegant in an instant. Additionally, by avoiding leaning against the table, you'll prevent difficult-to-remove splinters. Bug Spray Rather than swatting insects, spend more time taking in the beauty. These days, there are many bug sprays made from natural ingredients that are safer for kids to use if you don't want to use harsh chemicals. Our choice is the Sawyer 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent, which is great for families. According to Consumer Reports, this formula offers the best defense against mosquitoes. In addition to being highly effective against ticks and biting flies, Sawyer's insect repellent won't harm tools or equipment. Wrapping Up The national parks in Utah serve as a living example of the amazing natural beauty and geological marvels that abound in the American Southwest. These protected landscapes preserve the natural heritage of the area. They also provide an opportunity for visitors to engage with the profound forces that have shaped the Earth over millions of years. The terrain ranges from the majestic red rock formations of Arches and Canyonlands to the captivating canyons of Zion and Bryce Canyon. The national parks in Utah invite us to discover, value, and safeguard the delicate wonders that make our planet truly remarkable. They serve as entry points to adventure, education, and environmental stewardship. In addition to creating lifelong memories, experiencing Utah's breathtaking scenery also helps to continue the legacy of conservation, guaranteeing that these natural treasures will be appreciated for many years to come. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about national parks in Utah, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: From Festivals To Spas: The Top Things To Do In Park City Utah From Museums To Parks: The Top Attractions In St George Utah A Guide To Adventure And Nature: The Best Things To Do In Moab Utah For Outdoor Enthusiasts

BY  Ankita Mar 22, 2024

Savannah, Georgia, is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, a nature enthusiast, or a foodie, you will find plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy in this charming Southern destination. But if you are looking for a unique way to experience Savannah, why not visit some of its amazing museums? Museums in Savannah are not just boring buildings filled with dusty artifacts. They are vibrant and interactive spaces that showcase the rich and diverse culture, history, and creativity of the city and its people. From colonial times to the present day, from fine art to folk art, from military history to maritime history, you will find museums in Savannah that cater to your interests and curiosity. Top Museums in Savannah That You Must Visit in 2024! There is something magical about museums. It is a testament to the fact that humanity has lived and thrived. Most importantly, it is a celebration of all the struggles that have made us who we are. It is a place where time stops for a little. Or we are sent back in time. I love going to museums, and that is why I feel glad to be able to list some of the best museums that I went to during my stay in Savannah. In this article, I will introduce you to the 15 best museums in Savannah that you should not miss on your next trip. I am also going to give you some tips on planning your itinerary and making the most of your time in this beautiful city. So, get ready to travel back in time and explore Savannah's top museums! Here are the best museums in Savannah that you MUST visit while you are in the city: 1. Savannah History Museum If you want to learn about the history of Savannah from its founding in 1733 to the present day, the Savannah History Museum is the place to go. Located in the historic Central of Georgia Railway passenger station, the museum features exhibits that cover various aspects of Savannah's past, such as the American Revolution, the Civil War, the cotton industry, the railroad, and the movie industry. You can also see artifacts and memorabilia from famous Savannahians, such as singer Johnny Mercer, writer Flannery O'Connor, and Girl Scouts founder Juliette Gordon Low. Don't forget to check out the bench from the movie Forrest Gump, which was filmed in Savannah. 2. Jepson Center for the Arts The Jepson Center for the Arts is a stunning modern building that houses the contemporary art collection of the Telfair Museums, the oldest public art museum in the South. The Jepson Center showcases works by local, regional, national, and international artists, ranging from paintings and sculptures to photography and video. You can also enjoy rotating exhibitions, lectures, workshops, and educational programs at the center. If you have kids, they will love the ArtZeum, an interactive gallery that encourages creativity and exploration. 3. Savannah Museum of Art The Savannah Museum of Art is another branch of the Telfair Museums, located in the historic Telfair Academy, a former mansion built in 1819. The museum displays a collection of American and European art from the 19th and 20th centuries, including works by impressionists, realists, and abstract artists. You can also admire the elegant architecture and furnishings of the building, which was designed by William Jay, one of the first professionally trained architects in America.  4. Georgia State Railroad Museum If you are a fan of trains, you will love the Georgia State Railroad Museum, which is located in the former Central of Georgia Railway Savannah Shops and Terminal Facilities. The museum is a National Historic Landmark and features the largest collection of historic railroad structures in the country. You can see and climb aboard various locomotives, cars, and rolling stock, some of which date back to the 1850s. You can also take a guided tour of the site, watch demonstrations of steam and diesel engines, and even ride a train on a short loop track. 5. Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum The Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is dedicated to the maritime history of Savannah and the Atlantic coast. The museum is housed in the William Scarbrough House, a neoclassical mansion built in 1819 for one of the principal owners of the Savannah, the first steamship to cross the Atlantic Ocean. The museum displays models, paintings, and artifacts of various ships, from sailing vessels to steamships, that played a role in Savannah's trade, commerce, and defense. You can also enjoy the beautiful garden behind the house, which features native plants and fountains. 6. Pin Point Heritage Museum The Pin Point Heritage Museum is a hidden gem that celebrates the history and culture of the Gullah/Geechee people, who are descendants of enslaved Africans that settled along the coastal regions of Georgia and South Carolina. The museum is located in the former A.S. Varn & Son Oyster and Crab Factory, which was the main employer of the Pin Point community for over 60 years. The museum tells the story of the people, the place, and the industry that shaped their lives, through exhibits, oral histories, and demonstrations. You can also sample some of the delicious seafood that the community is known for. 7. SCAD Museum of Art The SCAD Museum of Art is a contemporary art museum that showcases the work of students, faculty, and alumni of the Savannah College of Art and Design, as well as renowned artists from around the world. The museum is located in a former railroad depot that was renovated and expanded with a striking glass facade. The museum features permanent and temporary exhibitions of various media, such as painting, sculpture, photography, fashion, and film. You can also attend lectures, screenings, and performances at the museum. 8. Savannah Children's Museum The Savannah Children's Museum is a fun and educational place for kids of all ages. The museum is located in the old Central of Georgia Railway Carpentry Shop, which was transformed into an outdoor playground with over a dozen exhibits and activities. Kids can explore, create, and learn through interactive stations, such as the sensory garden, the maze, the climbing wall, the water pump, and the giant Lego blocks. The museum also offers programs and events for families, such as storytime, crafts, and festivals. 9. Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum The Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum is a museum that honors the legacy of the civil rights movement in Savannah and beyond. The museum is named after Dr. Ralph Mark Gilbert, who was the leader of the NAACP in Savannah and a key figure in the desegregation of the city. The museum features exhibits that chronicle the history of the struggle for racial equality and social justice, from slavery to the present day. You can see photographs, documents, artifacts, and videos that depict the events and people that shaped the movement, such as the sit-ins, the marches, the boycotts, and the leaders. 10. Webb Military Museum The Webb Military Museum is a museum that displays a private collection of military memorabilia from the American Civil War to the present day. The museum is owned and operated by Gary Webb, a retired military officer and avid collector. The museum features uniforms, medals, weapons, flags, helmets, and other items that belonged to soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines from various wars and conflicts. You can also see personal stories and letters from the men and women who served their country. 11. American Prohibition Museum The American Prohibition Museum is a museum that takes you back to the era of the 18th Amendment, which banned the production, sale, and consumption of alcohol in the United States from 1920 to 1933. The museum features interactive exhibits, wax figures, and artifacts that tell the story of the prohibition, from the temperance movement to the speakeasies, from the bootleggers to the gangsters, from the flappers to the lawmen. You can also visit the speakeasy bar, where you can enjoy a drink and listen to live music. 12. Savannah African Art Museum The Savannah African Art Museum is a museum that showcases a collection of over 1,000 pieces of African art, representing 22 countries and over 130 cultures. The museum is located in a former Catholic convent and school, which was renovated and decorated with African motifs. The museum displays sculptures, masks, textiles, jewelry, and other objects that reflect the diversity and beauty of African art and culture. You can also learn about the history, meaning, and symbolism of each piece from the knowledgeable docents. 13. Massie Heritage Center The Massie Heritage Center is a museum and educational center that preserves and interprets the history and architecture of Savannah. The center is located in the former Massie School, which was built in 1856 and is the oldest public-school building in Georgia. The center features exhibits and programs that explore various aspects of Savannah's heritage, such as the colonial era, the Victorian era, the civil rights era, and the urban renewal era. You can also see models and maps of the city, as well as a restored classroom from the 19th century. 14. Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum The Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum is a museum that honors the men and women of the Eighth Air Force, which was one of the largest and most powerful air forces in history. The museum is located near the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, where the Eighth Air Force was activated in 1942. The museum features exhibits, artifacts, and aircraft that tell the story of the brave and heroic missions of the Eighth Air Force during World War II, the Cold War, and beyond. You can also see the B-17 Flying Fortress, the B-24 Liberator, the P-51 Mustang, and other planes that flew in the skies of Europe and Asia. 15. Wormsloe Historic Site The Wormsloe Historic Site is a museum and park that preserves the estate of Noble Jones, one of the original settlers of Georgia and a close associate of James Oglethorpe, the founder of Savannah. The site features the ruins of Jones' tabby house, which is the oldest standing structure in Savannah, as well as a colonial life area, a museum, and a nature trail. You can also see the iconic avenue of live oaks, one of the city's most photographed scenes.  How to Plan Your Itinerary for the Museums in Savannah? Now that you know the best museums in Savannah, you might be wondering how to fit them all in your schedule. Here are some tips on how to plan your itinerary and make the most of your time in this beautiful city: Day 1 Start with the Savannah History Museum, which will give you an overview of the city's past and present. From there, you can walk to the nearby Georgia State Railroad Museum, the Savannah Children's Museum, and the SCAD Museum of Art, which are all located in the same complex. Next, head to the Telfair Museums, which consist of the Jepson Center for the Arts and the Savannah Museum of Art. You can also visit the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters, which is another branch of the Telfair Museums and a historic landmark that showcases the life of the wealthy and the enslaved in the 19th century. After that, you can explore the historic district of Savannah, which is full of charming squares, parks, monuments, and buildings. You can also hop on a trolley or a carriage tour, which will take you to some of the most popular attractions and landmarks in the city, such as the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, Forsyth Park, the Mercer Williams House, and the Bonaventure Cemetery. Day 2 For the next day, you can venture outside the downtown area and visit some of the museums that are located in the outskirts of the city, such as the Wormsloe Historic Site, the Pin Point Heritage Museum, the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum, the Webb Military Museum, and the American Prohibition Museum. You can also take a short drive to the nearby Tybee Island, where you can enjoy the beach, the lighthouse, and the Fort Pulaski National Monument. Day 3 On the last day, you can visit the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum, located near the airport and a must-see for aviation and military enthusiasts. You can also stop by the Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum and the Savannah African Art Museum, both located in the historic district and worth visiting. Why You Should Visit Savannah in 2024? Savannah is a city that is always worth visiting, but especially in 2024, when it will celebrate its 300th anniversary. The city will host a series of events and festivities throughout the year, such as parades, concerts, fireworks, exhibitions, and more. You can also expect to see some new and improved attractions and facilities, such as the Savannah Riverwalk, the Savannah Arena, and the Savannah Convention Center. Savannah will also host some major events and conferences, such as the G20 Summit, the World Economic Forum, and the Savannah Film Festival. Wrapping It Up! Savannah is a city that is rich in history, culture, and creativity. It is also a city that has some of the best museums in the country, which will take you on a journey through time and space. Whether you are interested in art, history, nature, or anything in between, you will find museums in Savannah that will satisfy your curiosity and inspire your imagination. If you wanted to know about eth best museums in Savannah, I hope that this blog has been of help to you. If there are any other queries related to the same, please feel free to let me know. All that you need to do is scroll down till you reach the bottom of the page. Then leave your comments and queries in the box below. And I will be there to answer them all for you! Read Also: Atlanta To Savannah: A Scenic Road Trip Adventure That You Can’t Miss! 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BY  Abdul Aziz Feb 13, 2024

The majority of people from the Pacific Northwest will tell you that the outside world simply does not understand them. Many outsiders have the impression that Washington is a rainy city that lives off lattes, complete with techies and tree huggers. Yes, it has all of that, but the state's vast, unmatched wilderness, difficult to find anywhere else, is what really defines it. To really understand Washington national parks, you need to go beyond the Seattle city limits. Its famous national and state parks will make you speechless. Each presents an entirely distinct interpretation of the 18th largest state in the union. The three national parks in Washington are so large and varied that residents return year after year to explore more areas. Additionally, the more than 100 state parks are comparable, with lesser-known areas offering deserted campsites and uncrowded trails. In addition, there are deep fjords, moss-draped archipelagos for island hopping, snowy volcanic peaks, and canyons carved by Ice Age glaciers. There are also temperate rainforest trails, sea stacks off misty shores, and an abundance of waterfalls. To put it simply, you may want to consider a yearly park pass. National Parks In Washington Washington State National Parks are so much more than what they get credit for. Are you curious about what secrets Washington is hiding? We are listing the national parks in Washington state below. Make sure to put them on your to-do list. You will be surprised by the stuff you had left previously undiscovered in Washington. Moran State Park There are few places in the Pacific Northwest that compare to the delightfully remote Moran State Park. It is a haven for wild island getaways. Being the most populous island in the San Juan archipelago, Orcas Island has dense forests. It is a popular outdoor recreation destination for island hoppers. It offers multiple freshwater lakes for swimming and boating. The Washington State Ferries are the only way to get here; they connect to Seattle, San Juan, and other nearby launch points. If you're up for exercise, then consider hiking or biking up Mount Constitution, the highest point on the islands. Bring boots for the 38 miles of trails within the park. In order to see the interpretive center and enjoy the views, you can also drive up to the summit. Cape Disappointment State Park It's hard to estimate how many dad jokes went like, "Well, it's definitely not a disappointment," as they entered Cape Disappointment State Park. And it's not. The park, located in the southwestern region of Washington, boasts dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean and the powerful Columbia River. It also has moody beaches and windswept sea cliffs. You can tour decommissioned installations like Gun Battery Harvey Allen and the remnants of Fort Canby. It was once a strategically significant military site. The park's eight miles of trails lead to its two operational lighthouses, Cape Disappointment Lighthouse and North Head Lighthouse. They are arguably the most photographed sights in the area. Palouse Falls Palouse Falls was Washington's official state waterfall in 2014 after state legislators approved a bill from local students. The region is well-known for its abundance of waterfalls. The fall's special scenic location demonstrates why it was given that recognition. This 200-foot waterfall in the Palouse River Canyon cascades down basalt cliffs. It is one of the last remnants of the Ice Age floods. It should come as no surprise that this little state park is all about admiring the scenery. The park has three official vantage points. A short 0.1-mile ADA-accessible walk leads to one of the viewpoints. Dry Falls State Park The moss-covered forests west of the Cascade Range appear vastly different from the dry canyon-like settings of Sun Lakes–Dry Falls State Park. The park's striking cliffs are the result of the melting of the Ice Age. It created the bleak landscape of eastern Washington through ancient floods. It is a single stop on the multi-state National Geologic Trail: Ice Age Floods. The 3.5-mile precipice known as Dry Falls, which was formerly home to a massive waterfall, is the park's most striking feature. As the name suggests, the falls dried up long ago, but water is still a major attraction here. Boating, swimming, and water skiing are all popular in shimmering lakes. During the summer, the only thing breaking up the endless blue sky is the cliffs. Larrabee State Park Bellingham's hippies and college students frequently head toward Larrabee State Park when they want to go hiking. This is the first Washington State Park, established in 1915, and it protects a large portion of the Chuckanut Mountains' coastline. Moderate hikes to Clayton Beach's pebbled shores and Fragrance Lake, one of the park's many picturesque lakes, are popular routes. Mountain biking is another popular activity in the area, and Larrabee offers a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels. It includes steeper technical slopes that are best left to the pros. Of the many national parks in Washington, Larrabee will offer the most fun-filled experience. Lime Kiln Point State Park The San Juan archipelago is well-known for the year-round orca whale population that calls these chilly waters home. Visit Lime Kiln Point. The Washington State Parks's team likes to call it one of the world's top locations for whale watching, to witness them in action. And they’re not wrong. For views of the orcas and other whale species, which are most commonly spotted from May through September, climb the elegant 1919 lighthouse. This includes porpoises and pods of gray, humpback, and minke whales. Located on a rocky outcropping on San Juan Island's western shore, this small day-use park has a seasonal interpretive center that is usually open from late spring to summer. Deception Pass State Park This state park in Washington receives the highest number of visitors for two main reasons. The first is the range of outdoor activities it offers close to Seattle. It is a little over an hour’s drive if the traffic is not too heavy. The second is the 360-degree view that can be obtained from the two-span arched Deception Pass Bridge. It towers over the channel, which is a more romantic and compelling reason to visit. Deception Pass State Park encompasses two adjacent islands, Fidalgo and Whidbey. They are popular both for camping and day-use marine adventures. Three freshwater lakes and the surrounding saltwater are accessible from five boat launches. Visit this place to kayak around the coves of the islands, explore their rocky shorelines, and trek through the old-growth forests on a 38-mile network of trails. Beacon Rock State Park On the north bank of the largest river in the Pacific Northwest, Washington offers a more serene and visually appealing experience than Oregon. It is home to a majority of the Gorge's well-known as well as congested attractions. The overlooked Beacon Rock State Park offers expansive, slightly less crowded views of the national scenic area. Although Oregonians take great pride in their state, even they will admit that Beacon Rock is one of the best day hikes you can do. Within an hour's drive of the City of Roses. Enjoy expansive views of the gorge after ascending the basalt monolith via a mile of winding switchbacks and staircases. Locals cringe at this pun, but the views from the top are, well, gorgeous. If you are looking for national parks in Oregon and Washington, then this is your cue. Olympic Park If you can only spend time in one Washington park. Situated in the northwest, then choose Olympic Park. Corner of the state on the Olympic Peninsula, this vast wilderness has glacier-capped mountains, mossy rain forests, and tide pools. Rarely will any other of the national parks in Washington match up to the beauty of the Olympic. Except for Hawaii, the Olympic Peninsula gets more rainfall than all other location in the United States. It protrudes into the Pacific and is divided from the mainland by the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Puget Sound. This is the most glaciated US landscape outside of Alaska, with over 250 glaciers fed by the snowfall that occurs high in the 2,000-meter-plus Olympic mountains. The vast ice fields feed several significant rivers, which then meander towards the Pacific through temperate rainforests. Travelers can follow the Bogachiel River inland to the Hoh rainforest from its Pacific outlet at La Push to see the highlights. The following day, go in a northeastern direction and ascend to Hurricane Ridge, which offers a stunning vista of the Olympic mountain range. Those with extra time will want to soak in the Sol Duc hot springs and take a scenic stroll to Marymere Falls. Lake Crescent and Sol Duc offer lodging and the park is home to many campgrounds. Wrapping Up Yoking in the center of the Pacific Northwest, Washington State is famous for its breathtaking scenery and varied ecosystems. Locals and visitors alike have a variety of outdoor activities to choose from, ranging from a relaxing ferry ride to the iconic San Juan Islands to a strenuous hike to the Cascade Range peaks. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about national parks in Washington, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: 7 Fun Things To Do In The Great Smoky Mountains National Park Top 12 National Parks In Florida That You Must Visit Best 10 National Parks In New Mexico To Visit