Olympic National Park
Spanning nearly a million acres, Olympic National Park is one of the most diverse ecosystems in the country. It includes glacier-capped mountains, old-growth rainforests, and over 70 miles of wild Pacific coastline.
Hoh Rain Forest: A rare temperate rainforest teeming with moss-covered trees, ferns, and wildlife.
Hurricane Ridge: Offers sweeping views and accessible trails for all experience levels.
Coastal Trails: Rugged beaches like Rialto and Ruby Beach provide opportunities for tidepooling and photography.
Sustainability tip: Stay in designated campgrounds or eco-lodges around the park to reduce your impact.
Mount Rainier National Park
Dominated by the 14,410-foot Mount Rainier, this park is known for its wildflower meadows, alpine lakes, and glacier-fed rivers. It’s also home to one of the largest glacial systems in the continental U.S.
Trails range from family-friendly strolls to multi-day backpacking routes.
The park emphasizes leave-no-trace principles and has multiple conservation efforts in place to protect its fragile ecosystems.
Eco-Friendly Outdoor Activities
Washington is made for outdoor enthusiasts—and many of its activities align perfectly with sustainable travel.
Kayaking in the San Juan Islands: Paddle alongside orcas and sea lions in one of the best marine wildlife viewing areas in the U.S. Choose tour companies that follow strict wildlife protection rules.
Hiking the Cascades: The North Cascades offer solitude, towering peaks, and alpine lakes—ideal for those looking to explore away from crowds.
Cycling the Burke-Gilman Trail in Seattle: This 27-mile multi-use trail connects parks, neighborhoods, and waterways—perfect for low-impact urban exploration.
Washington’s Green Cities
Seattle: The Emerald City
Seattle blends nature and urban life like few places can. It’s consistently ranked as one of the greenest cities in the U.S., thanks to its commitment to clean energy, public transportation, green buildings, and urban forests.
Visit Discovery Park, the largest green space in the city.
Shop local and dine at farm-to-table restaurants that support Washington growers and fishers.
Join eco-tours focused on sustainable urban living and local conservation efforts.
Olympia and Bellingham
These smaller cities are sustainability powerhouses. Bellingham, in particular, boasts a walkable downtown, strong public transit, and local cooperatives focused on environmental responsibility.
Wildlife and Conservation
Washington is rich in biodiversity and has taken important steps to preserve its natural habitats:
The Puget Sound is vital to marine life and home to species like orcas, sea otters, and harbor seals.
Birdwatching in areas like the Skagit Valley attracts eco-travelers hoping to see bald eagles, herons, and migratory birds.
Local conservation groups offer guided wildlife experiences that educate while preserving habitats.
How to Travel Sustainably in Washington
Avoid single-use plastics when hiking or camping—bring reusable gear.
Choose eco-certified lodging, including locally owned hotels, cabins, or LEED-certified properties.
Use public transit in urban areas or explore by bike where possible.
Respect trail rules and stay on designated paths to protect delicate flora and fauna.
Support Indigenous and Local Communities
Much of Washington’s land is tied to Indigenous heritage. Consider guided experiences offered by Native organizations, where you can learn about traditional ecological knowledge, storytelling, and cultural practices tied to the land.
Supporting local businesses—farmers markets, independent shops, and community-run eco tours—not only enhances your experience but directly contributes to the sustainability of the region.
Washington: A True Model of Sustainable Travel
From towering volcanoes and emerald forests to wild coastlines and progressive cities, Washington offers a rare blend of natural beauty and environmental responsibility. It’s a place where you can explore vast, wild spaces one day, and sip locally roasted coffee in a green-certified café the next—all while leaving a lighter footprint.
Washington invites you to slow down, stay curious, and tread lightly—a true ecotourism destination for the mindful traveler.
