Top Scenic Forests to Explore in Washington State

Washington isn’t called the Evergreen State for nothing — the state is filled with greenery, from ferns on the forest floors to towering Douglas firs (the tallest tree in the country just behind the Sequoia). Beyond providing natural beauty galore, Washington State’s forests are perfect places for hiking, camping, or photography. Moreover, they provide the perfect backdrop for simply finding a place to sit and connect with nature among the trees. Washington State forests are predominantly evergreen, filled with firs and pines, lush moss, and leafy ferns.

Whether you live in the state or are visiting, taking some time to recharge in some of the most beautiful forests in Washington is the perfect way to enjoy one of the things the Evergreen State does best.

Capitol State Forest

Address

Olympia, WA 98512, USA

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Phone: +1 360-825-1631

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Located less than an hour south of Olympia, Capitol State Forest spans 100,000 acres and is crisscrossed with trails for hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, and off-road vehicles. Within the forest lies a small ghost town called Bordeaux, which can be tricky to find, providing an adventure for explorers. If you can’t find it, you might stumble upon a waterfall or a meadow filled with wildflowers. Just outside the forest are the Mima Mounds, some of Washington’s unique natural formations. You will need a Discover Pass to visit the forest.

Mt. Rainier National Park

Address

Washington, USA

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Phone: +1 360-569-2211

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Mt. Rainier National Park is not far from either Seattle or Tacoma, and about half the park is covered in forest, both old and new. This area features towering Douglas firs, mountain hemlock, and Alaskan yellow cedar. Consequently, the park is home to a diverse range of trees, as well as a significant variation in tree age, from young trees to old-growth forests that are more than 1,000 years old. At the accessible Grove of the Patriarchs, visitors can hike among trees with circumferences greater than 25 feet and some over 1,000 years old.

Olympic National Park Rainforests

Address

3002 Mt Angeles Rd, Port Angeles, WA 98362, USA

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Phone: +1 360-565-3130

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Olympic National Park is famous for its rugged coasts, towering mountain range, and unique temperate rainforests — the Hoh and Quinault rainforests, known as some of the wettest places in the continental US. Wandering these enchanting forests feels like stepping into a fairytale, where towering old-growth trees, lush ferns, and moss hang from the branches. Exploring either of these forests is enhanced by an overnight stay in one of the nearby lodges, further immersing you in the beauty of nature.

Gingko Petrified Forest

This forest differs from typical Washington forests, as it features fossilized trees instead of vibrant greenery. Trails with fossilized logs provide a unique glimpse into the past. If you are passing through or wish to stay longer, camping is available at the Wanapum Campground located within the Gingko Petrified Forest State Park.

Point Defiance and Discovery Park

Address

5400 N Pearl St, Tacoma, WA 98407, USA

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Phone: +1 253-404-3980

Point Defiance and Discovery Park are large, forested urban spaces highlighting the beauty of Northwest greenery and even old-growth forest right within city limits. Specifically, Point Defiance Park features a giant sequoia that dates back to the 1600s, marked along Five Mile Drive. Both parks offer an array of trails to explore as well as locations to relax by the water, viewpoint spots, and meadows, providing a great escape from the city hustle.