Travel Jottings

My wanderings are urban as well as rural, and several have taken me overseas around Europe and to North America. All have needed at least some planning: knowing what to see and where to stay remain ever present needs. That and remaining ever open to new possibilities have contributed to what you find here. Everything builds up over time, and I hope that the horizons continue expanding to mean that I can continue to share new things with you here.

Washington's Wonderland: Mountains, Islands & Urban Delights

Mount Baker, Washington State, U.S.A.

Seattle presents a useful entry point to the Pacific Northwest that allows us to explore such wonderful places as the Olympic National Park or the North Cascades. Here is a list of websites that I eventually want to use in turning this into a more descriptive article. For now, we can use these for armchair planning and dreaming.

Alta Crystal Resort

LOGE Alta Crystal Resort is a hotel and cabin resort located near Mount Rainier National Park. The resort offers a variety of amenities, including a pool, hot tub, and lawn games. Guests can also enjoy free coffee and s'mores. The resort is pet-friendly and offers a military discount.

Argosy Cruises

The website for Argosy Cruises promotes the company's sightseeing cruises in and around Seattle. Argosy Cruises has been operating for over 75 years and offers various cruises, including a one-hour Harbour Cruise, a two-hour Locks Cruise, and a 1.5-hour Christmas Ship™ Festival cruise. The website also provides information on wedding and group tickets, corporate events, and special offers.

Bellingham

Bellingham and Whatcom County offer a variety of outdoor adventures, sightseeing opportunities, and cultural attractions. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, snow sports, scenic drives, museums, and more. The website provides travel inspiration, upcoming events, and stories about local experiences.

Bellevue

Bellevue, Washington is a city in the Puget Sound region known for its outdoor beauty, innovative ideas, and a blend of fashion, art, and cuisine. The city offers various experiences, shopping, dining, and accommodations, making it a popular destination.

Columbia Gorge Interpretive Centre Museum

The Columbia Gorge Museum, located in Stevenson, WA, is dedicated to the history, stories, culture, and people of the Columbia River Gorge. The museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm and is closed on Thanksgiving Day, December 24th and 25th, December 31st, and January 1st.

Colville

The City of Colville website provides information on city services, news and announcements, and events. There are a number of boards and committees, including the Airport Board, the Civil Service Commission, and the Historic Preservation Commission. The website also includes information on the city's history, parks and recreation, and how to contact city staff.

Coupeville

The Coupeville Chamber of Commerce website provides information about the town of Coupeville, Washington. The website includes a business directory, information on things to do, and a calendar of events. Visitors can also request a visitor's guide.

Crystal Mountain Resort

Crystal Mountain Resort is a ski resort located in Washington. It offers a variety of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and gondola rides. The resort also has a number of restaurants and shops. Visitors can purchase lift tickets, season passes, and rental equipment online.

Discover Forks

Forks, Washington is a town on the Olympic Peninsula known for its connection to the Twilight saga. The website provides information on lodging, dining, things to do, and events, including the Twilight Festival. Visitors can also request a visitor packet and view area webcams.

Discover Stanwood & Camano

Discover Stanwood Camano is a website that provides information on local businesses, events, and outdoor recreation in Stanwood and Camano Island, Washington. The website features articles and videos about the area. Visitors can also submit places or events to be included on the website.

Discover Pass

The Discover Pass is an annual parking permit that provides access to millions of acres of state-managed lands across Washington state. It supports the preservation and conservation of public lands for future generations.

Enjoy Port Townsend

Discover the enchanting Port Townsend on the Olympic Peninsula, a maritime and arts community rich in history and outdoor adventure. Renowned for its world-class restaurants, beaches, festivals, and dark skies, this historic seaport offers an abundance of cultural experiences. Named as one of the coolest small towns by Budget Travel and a top solo getaway by Seattle's KING5 Evening Magazine, Port Townsend boasts numerous local dining options with cuisines from around the world. With miles of beaches and trails, it is an ideal destination for rejuvenation and wonder.

Experience Anacortes

The Anacortes Chamber of Commerce website provides information about the city of Anacortes, Washington. The website includes a business directory, a calendar of events, and information on chamber membership. Visitors can also find information on things to do in Anacortes, such as visiting the Anacortes Farmers Market or attending the Anacortes Bier on the Pier Festival.

Experience Olympia & Beyond

Olympia, Washington and Thurston County offer a variety of attractions, including an eclectic arts and music scene, lush farmland, and the natural beauty of the South Puget Sound. Visitors can explore the Thurston Bountiful Byway, enjoy coffee and doughnuts, visit breweries and tap rooms, and explore farmers' markets.

Experience Westport

Westport is a charming beach town on Washington's coast renowned for its fishing, surfing, and beaches. Visitors can book charter trips for fishing, enjoy sustainable farmed oysters and other fresh catches, or try razor clamming on the shores. The town is home to Washington’s tallest lighthouse, Grays Harbour Lighthouse, and accompanying museums. A live webcam offers views of Westport Marina, Groins, Grays Harbour, and Cove. For beginners, the Jetty provides perfect waves for surfing. WDFW has announced the final 2024 razor clamming dates, which are also accessible to visitors. Conveniently located, Westport is within a 1-3.5-hour drive from Seattle, SeaTac, Tacoma, Olympia, Portland, and Port Angeles.

La Conner

La Conner is a town located on the Salish Sea between Seattle and Vancouver, BC. It is known for its beautiful scenery and friendly people. La Conner is a popular destination for weekend getaways and is home to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival.

Lake Chelan

The Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Centre provides information on the Lake Chelan area, including lodging, recreation, and weddings.

Leavenworth

Leavenworth, Washington is a Bavarian-themed village in the Cascade Mountains. The town offers a variety of attractions, including shops, restaurants, and festivals. Leavenworth is also a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with opportunities for hiking, biking, and skiing.

Long Beach Peninsula

The Evergreen Coast of Washington offers a variety of attractions, including beaches, restaurants, and state parks. Visitors can enjoy activities such as razor clam digging, bike riding, and kite flying. The Evergreen Coast is located near both Portland and Seattle.

Lopez Island

Lopez Island, located in the San Juan Islands, is known for its natural beauty, agricultural treasures, and welcoming community.

Moran State Park

Deer Harbour is a marina located on Orcas Island in the San Juan Islands of Washington state.

My Ellensburg

Ellensburg, Washington offers a unique blend of history and modern charm. Visitors can explore historic buildings, enjoy vibrant art and restaurants, and engage in outdoor activities.

Ocean Shore

The Ocean Shores Visitor Information Centre and Convention Centre provide information about the city of Ocean Shores, Washington.

Okanogan Country

Okanogan Country is a region in Washington state that offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, biking, and skiing. The region also has a number of arts and cultural attractions, as well as lodging and dining options.

Olympic National Park & Forest

Olympic National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with diverse ecosystems, including mountains, rainforests, and coastlines. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as hiking, fishing, and boating. There are also a number of lodging and dining options available in the park.

Olympic Peninsula

The Olympic Peninsula in the northwest of Washington State, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to Olympic National Park, offers diverse landscapes including forty-nine peaks over 6,500 feet, 600 miles of trails, 266 glaciers, four temperate rain forests, iconic rivers and deep lakes, 22 waterfalls, rocky beaches teeming with marine life, and roaming Roosevelt elk and flying squirrels. The peninsula is also home to Hood Canal, a 68-mile saltwater fjord, Dungeness Spit, the longest natural sand spit in the US, and Cape Flattery, the northwestern-most point in the contiguous United States. Visitors can enjoy peaceful nature, rugged beaches for trekking, surfing, tide pool discoveries, Pacific Ocean views, sunsets, and unique experiences like the Hoh Rain Forest's waterfalls, rivers, wildlife, fishing, Gallery Walk in Port Townsend on the first Saturday of each month, Bridge Lights in Sequim during November, and Winter Ice Village outdoor ice skating rink in Port Angeles during holiday season. The peninsula also includes areas like Bremerton and Forks, which offer undisclosed attractions.

Omak

The Omak Visitor Centre website showcases Omak, Washington, in the Okanogan Valley, as a sunny destination with 300+ days of sunshine. Its main attraction is the Omak Stampede and Suicide Race, held every August. The website provides details about accommodation, dining, and activities, including the 12 Tribes Casino, a skate park, and a historical downtown tour. Upcoming events like the Okanogan Farm Lights Festival and Christmas on Main are also listed.

Orcas Island

Orcas Island is a popular tourist destination in the San Juan Islands of Washington State, known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. The island features villages like Orcas Village, Deer Harbour, and Eastsound, each with their own attractions and events. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, kayaking, and whale watching.

Pierce County

Tacoma-Pierce County is a region where natural beauty and urban charm combine. Visitors can explore Point Defiance Park, Ruston Way waterfront, and the Museum District. The website offers itineraries, stories, and information on things to do, events, dining, and accommodations.

Rainier Guest Services

Mount Rainier National Park is home to a variety of natural attractions, including glaciers, forests, and waterfalls. Visitors can stay at the Paradise Inn, National Park Inn, or Sunrise Lodge. There are also a number of dining options available in the park.

San Juan County Land Bank

The San Juan County Conservation Land Bank protects and stewards natural areas in the San Juan Islands. The Land Bank manages a variety of preserves, offers public trails, and provides information on conservation efforts.

San Juan Cruises

San Juan Cruises offers a variety of boat tours and cruises in the San Juan Islands, including whale watching tours, crab dinner cruises, and trips to Friday Harbour. The website provides information on different cruising experiences, upcoming events, and policies. Visitors can also find information about local whales and purchase seafood and gifts at the Salish Trading Post.

San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands are a group of islands located in Washington state. The islands are known for their natural beauty, wildlife, and recreation opportunities. Visitors can enjoy activities such as whale watching, kayaking, and hiking. The website provides information on things to do, places to stay, and events on the islands.

Seattle Parks & Recreation

The Seattle Parks and Recreation Department provides a variety of services to the community, including parks, recreation programs, and community centres. The department is committed to meeting the needs of the community and honouring the legacy of indigenous peoples.

Spokane

Spokane, Washington is a city that offers a variety of attractions, including outdoor recreation, family fun, arts and culture, and dining experiences. The website provides information on things to do, events, places to stay, and travel planning resources.

Spokane City Parks & Recreation

The City of Spokane Parks & Recreation Department offers a variety of activities and amenities, including parks, recreation programs, and golf courses. Visitors can find information about fall activities in the Fall Activity Guide. The department also manages Riverfront Spokane, a popular destination for outdoor recreation.

Tri-Cities

The Tri-Cities, WA offers a variety of attractions, including wineries and vineyards, river recreation, history and science experiences, events and entertainment, and sunshine and open spaces. The area is made up of three cities: West Richland, Richland, and Pasco.

Twisp

Twisp is a town in the Methow Valley of Washington state. The town offers a variety of attractions, including recreation, arts and culture, food and farms, and lodging.

Visit Mount St. Helens

Mount St. Helens is a volcano located in Washington state. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in the area, including hiking, camping, and visiting the Mount St. Helens Visitor Centre. The website provides information on upcoming events, lodging, and communities in the area.

Visit Port Angeles

Port Angeles is a small seaside-meets-mountain town nestled in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains. As the gateway to Olympic National Park, one of the largest in the Pacific Northwest, it offers year-round outdoor adventures, including hiking, biking, and fishing. The town boasts a rich history, cultural attractions, and numerous events. With an array of hotels, vacation rentals, bed & breakfasts, restaurants, shops, and galleries, Port Angeles serves as the perfect basecamp for exploring the Olympic Peninsula. Notable mentions include being named one of the top small towns next to a national park by Condé Nast Traveller and one of the best national park getaway towns by Backpacker Magazine.

Visit Rainier

Mount Rainier is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, offering activities such as hiking, biking, camping, and skiing. The area also features craft breweries, waterfalls, and stunning mountain views. The Visit Rainier website provides information on lodging, events, and travel tips.

Visit Seattle

Seattle is a city in the Pacific Northwest that offers a variety of attractions, including museums, theatres, festivals, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The website provides information on things to do, upcoming events, and featured blog posts. Visitors can also find maps and guides, and book their trip through the website.

Visit Vancouver

Vancouver, WA offers a variety of attractions and activities, including historical sites, outdoor recreation, arts and entertainment, and dining. The website highlights featured events and provides information on trip planning, including a free travel magazine.

Visit Walla Walla

Walla Walla, Washington is a destination known for its wineries, restaurants, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The region hosts various events, including Fall Release Weekend, where wineries showcase their newest releases. Walla Walla is also gaining popularity as a gravel riding destination, offering scenic routes through the Palouse hills and vineyards.

Winthrop

The website for Winthrop, Washington, located in the Methow Valley, promotes the town as a year-round destination with a distinct western flair. It highlights various seasonal activities such as wildflower viewing and trail exploration in spring, hiking and river rafting in summer, admiring the autumn leaves, and cross-country skiing in winter. Visitors can also find information on events, accommodation, dining, and local news.

Washington State

As the official tourism website for Washington State, this website offers a comprehensive overview of the state's regions and promotes diverse experiences such as glamping, outdoor adventures, and kayaking. It provides trip inspiration, itinerary suggestions, information on fishing spots, and a visitor guide and map. Visitors can sign up for an email newsletter to stay updated on travel information.

Washington State Parks

The official website for Washington State Parks provides information on parks across the state and promotes outdoor activities like beach exploration, bird watching, camping, fishing, and golf. Visitors can find details on upcoming events, ways to support the parks, and blog posts about park experiences. The website also offers resources to locate parks, snow-parks, and activities.

Washington State Parks Foundation

The Washington State Parks Foundation website emphasises the importance of providing access to quality park experiences for everyone. It encourages donations to support state parks and their mission.

Washington Water Trails Association

The website for the Washington Water Trails Association (WWTA) advocates for and promotes public access to Washington's waterways for human-powered watercraft. It provides information on their efforts in advocacy, education, and stewardship, as well as their focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. The website also highlights the Cascadia Marine Trail, a National Millennium Trail, and offers resources for understanding Indigenous land rights and history.

Wenatchee

Promoting Wenatchee as a destination in central Washington, this website showcases the city's natural beauty and encourages exploration of its mountains, rivers, and parks. It provides information on local restaurants, wineries, and breweries, along with blog posts offering travel tips and event updates. Visitors can find information on accommodation, events, and things to do in various categories like arts, culture, shopping, and dining.

Wenatchee Valley

This website welcomes visitors to the Wenatchee Valley, including Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, and Cashmere, and describes its scenic landscapes of orchards, mountains, and the Columbia River. It offers information on East Wenatchee's parks, the Pangborn Memorial Airport, and the historic trans-Pacific flight landing. The website also features local trivia about the Wenatchee Valley, giving visitors a glimpse into the local culture.

White Salmon

Located in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, White Salmon is presented as a destination with various offerings, including lodging, dining, shopping, wind sports, whitewater rafting, hiking, wine tasting, events, and wellness options. The website provides details on upcoming events like the Halloween Fest and Holiday Wine Walk. Visitors can explore their blog, a list of 100 things to do in White Salmon, and acknowledgements of the Indigenous land on which the town is situated.

Yakima Valley

This website encourages exploration of the Yakima Valley, highlighting its wine country, craft breweries, farms, outdoor adventures, and festivals. It provides trip ideas, road trip itineraries, event information, and travel stories. Visitors can also access a free travel guide and find information on must-see stops in the Yakima Valley.