Top 10 Washington State Parks Near Seattle

With over 20 parks in the surrounding Seattle area, you'll find many great destinations and adventures ahead of you. Ride a horse at Bridle Trail, spend time in the underwater parks at Fort Ward, or visit St. Edward, the once Catholic seminary. Washington State Parks have a variety of landscapes for you to explore!

1. Saltwater–This day-use park features 1,445 feet of saltwater shoreline and gorgeous views of Puget Sound. Halfway between Tacoma and Seattle, Saltwater State Park pays tribute to the end of a long rivalry between Tacoma and Seattle. Both cities literally buried a hatchet in the park to symbolize the end of their competition between each other. The park features beautiful views and a wide array of wildlife, so make sure you bring your camera!

2. Flaming Geyser—As its name suggests, Flaming Geyser has mini-geysers (methane seeps) throughout the park grounds. You'll enjoy the over 3 miles of freshwater shoreline on the Green River and 480-acres of park to explore. Of all Washington State Parks near Seattle, Flaming Geyser also offers the best whitewater rafting.

3. Olallie—At the foothills of the Cascade Mountains, Olallie State Park has breathtaking cliff formations, living old-growth trees up to 14 feet in diameter, and two stunning waterfalls. Hikers can head up to the Twin Falls, which cascade down a huge cliff area, and take in a stunning and expansive view of this Washington State Park.

4. Bridle Trails—Some Washington State Parks have great trail and equestrian centers. If you're looking for some nice areas to explore on horseback, drive to Bridle Trails—a day-park of 482 acres on the edge of Seattle's metropolitan area. The extensive network of trails and forested areas can keep any hiker busy for a full day.

5. Fay Bainbridge—For a fun overnight trip in one of the Washington state parks, visit Fay Bainbridge, a 17-acre marine camping park. Bring your camera to capture shots of the sweeping view of the Cascade Mountains, 2 volcanoes, and Puget Sound. Fay Bainbridge State Park also offers 1,420 feet of saltwater shoreline. Bring your suit and some warm clothes for cool evenings.

6. Fort Ward—Fort Ward has a great underwater park for scuba divers and a two-lane boat ramp for the water enthusiasts. Along the 4,300 feet of saltwater shoreline on the Rich Passage, Fort Ward State Park has many historic sculptures which pay tribute to the rich military history of the area. This is one of the Washington State Parks that offers something for everyone!

7. Nolte—To play in some fresh water, visit Nolte State Park, a 117-acre, day-use park with over 7,000 feet of freshwater shoreline on Deep Lake. The water looks pristine and the forests offer solitude to those who wander through. Like most Washington state parks, Nolte State Park has gorgeous views and quiet areas for relaxation.

8. St. Edward—A once Catholic seminary, Saint Edward State Park's ground and architecture reflect its rich history. (St. Edward is the only Catholic Seminary in Washington state parks). You'll enjoy walking along the lakeshore and interior nature paths. Bring a book to read near the seminary or head down to the 3,000 feet of freshwater shoreline on Lake Washington. With 316 acres to explore, you're sure to find a spot just for you!

9. Iron Horse—As a 1,612-acre Washington state park built on a part of the old Chicago-Milwaukee-St. Paul- Pacific, Iron Horse has more than 100 miles of trail which extend from Cedar Fall to the Columbia River. Climb up to a high trestle for a spectacular view of the valley below. Iron Horse has substantially more trails than most Washington State Parks.

10. Lake Easton—This forested, 516-acre park has 24,000 feet of freshwater access on the shores of Lake Easton. Unlike many Washington state parks, Lake Easton stays open year round for winter-sport enthusiasts. Snowmobilers and cross country skiers enjoy the large network of trails to explore. Be sure to bring your camera for the beautiful views of the Cascade Mountain foothills!

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