Summer Destinations to Enjoy the Outdoors

Lake Chelan, 55-mile-long, is the centerpiece of a quintessential Northwest summer getaway. Read our six favorite things to see, do and explore in this awesome setting. Don’t miss the community of Stehekin near the far northeast end of the lake, which offers a uniquely remote experience. With no roads to town, the only way to get there is by boat, plane or foot.

Photo: Alamy

Port Ludlow is a remote, unincorporated community on the Olympic Peninsula surrounded by wilderness lakes, native heritage sites and endless waterfront access. This town is the ideal getaway for those looking to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. Plus, with 26 miles of hiking and biking trails, Port Ludlow is an outdoor lover’s paradise.

Thousands of climbers attempt to conquer Mount Rainier’s summit each year, but the 369-square-mile Mount Rainier National Park and its surrounding wilderness area can be enjoyed by those without mountaineering skills or backcountry chops. Several popular drives allow visitors to experience the park, including a 147-mile route that sweeps around Mount Rainier, a 129-mile loop along the Chinook Byway and the White Pass Scenic Byway.

Photo: iStock

Life is relaxed on Bainbridge Island, with lush gardens, fresh local foods, quiet country lanes and Northwest vistas that compel contemplation. A 35-minute Washington State Ferries ride brings visitors to Bainbridge from downtown Seattle, and many day-trippers walk or ride their bikes, as there is a full day’s worth of enjoyment in Bainbridge village, just up from the ferry landing.

Photo: iStock 

Lake Chelan, 55-mile-long, is the centerpiece of a quintessential Northwest summer getaway. Read our six favorite things to see, do and explore in this awesome setting. Don’t miss the community of Stehekin near the far northeast end of the lake, which offers a uniquely remote experience. With no roads to town, the only way to get there is by boat, plane or foot.

Photo: Alamy

Port Ludlow is a remote, unincorporated community on the Olympic Peninsula surrounded by wilderness lakes, native heritage sites and endless waterfront access. This town is the ideal getaway for those looking to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. Plus, with 26 miles of hiking and biking trails, Port Ludlow is an outdoor lover’s paradise.

Photo: iStock

Thousands of climbers attempt to conquer Mount Rainier’s summit each year, but the 369-square-mile Mount Rainier National Park and its surrounding wilderness area can be enjoyed by those without mountaineering skills or backcountry chops. Several popular drives allow visitors to experience the park, including a 147-mile route that sweeps around Mount Rainier, a 129-mile loop along the Chinook Byway and the White Pass Scenic Byway.

Photo: iStock

Life is relaxed on Bainbridge Island, with lush gardens, fresh local foods, quiet country lanes and Northwest vistas that compel contemplation. A 35-minute Washington State Ferries ride brings visitors to Bainbridge from downtown Seattle, and many day-trippers walk or ride their bikes, as there is a full day’s worth of enjoyment in Bainbridge village, just up from the ferry landing.

Photo: iStock