From its scenic lake and pristine meadows to its gun bunkers and time-honored buildings, Fort Worden Historical State Park is a treasure trove of nature and history. There is much to do and explore at the park, and Fort Worden's extensive features beckon to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The park offers camping opportunities, a marine science center, a boat launch, and several other recreational activities. With summer music events, several different museums, and acres of trails, this park gets crowded on summer weekends.
Sprawled along the shores of Port Townsend Bay, Fort Townsend State Park combines natural elements with historical features that delight all those who visit. Here, history buffs can peruse informative plaques to gain a deeper insight into the fort area's history, while outdoor enthusiasts can embark on hikes across its expanse. Explore scenic woodlands, cast a line and try your hand at fishing, go boating, or enjoy a picnic on lush lawns. You can also head down to the beach and soak in the sun on sandy shores. Additionally, the park features numerous campsites.
Price Sculpture Forest is a hidden gem tucked away in the serene locales of the Whidbey Island. This community park of Coupeville is a delightful destination for the young and old alike. Conceptualized by Scott Price, this park was created in collaboration with other avid nature lovers. The highlight of this fantastic parkland is the assortment of striking wooden sculptures that are interspersed in the wilderness here. A massive wooden arch serves as a portal to this fun-filled getaway. As you wander along the winding pathways, you will encounter one exemplary sculpture after the other. Followed by your memorable trail you can head to the on-site café to replenish and recount your favorite piece of art.
Nestled on Whidbey Island, housed within the impressive Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve, Fort Ebey State Park is a fascinating parkland. Sprawled across an area of 651 acres (263 hectares), this gem of Coupeville is renowned among outdoor enthusiasts for its ethereal environs. Built around Fort Ebey, a defense fort dating back to World War II, this state park offers extensive mixed-use walking and biking trails, with striking views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca serving as the fitting backdrop. Home to the stunning Lake Pondilla, this state park packs in a rich array of exhilarating recreational activities such as hiking, fishing and camping.
Nature lovers, history buffs and culture enthusiasts are all in for a treat at the Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve. This magnificent and massive expanse of land comprises the Fort Casey, Fort Ebey and Ebey’s Landing State Parks. Given the boundless stretch of undulating terrain and fantastic verdure, it is no surprise that the reserve is a haven for thrilling recreational activities. Whether you’re looking to embark on a hike or comb a sun-kissed beach, this stellar reserve has got you covered. Apart from the noteworthy assortment of natural gems, Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve is renowned for its rich history. Established in 1978, this reserve was founded to protect and conserve a rural community that has inhabited Puget Sound since eternity and boasts an unbroken record of exploration, making this reserve the nation’s first-ever national historical reserve.
Located at the heart of the picturesque Olympic Discovery Trail, the Railroad Bridge Park is a serene place to unwind, relax, and take in the town's pleasant atmosphere with your family. The centerpiece of this park is the archaic Dungeness Railroad Bridge that crosses the Dungeness River. Constructed in 1915, the bridge railroad bridge transported passengers and timber from Port Townsend to Port Angeles until it fell into disuse in 1985. Today, the carefully restored landmark is a popular recreational site. Visitors can stroll along the quaint river, admire the splendid bridge, and enjoy a leisurely picnic at the park.
Price Sculpture Forest is a hidden gem tucked away in the serene locales of the Whidbey Island. This community park of Coupeville is a delightful destination for the young and old alike. Conceptualized by Scott Price, this park was created in collaboration with other avid nature lovers. The highlight of this fantastic parkland is the assortment of striking wooden sculptures that are interspersed in the wilderness here. A massive wooden arch serves as a portal to this fun-filled getaway. As you wander along the winding pathways, you will encounter one exemplary sculpture after the other. Followed by your memorable trail you can head to the on-site café to replenish and recount your favorite piece of art.
Encompassing 200 acres (81 hectares), Hope Island Marine State Park is nestled on the beautiful Hope Island. This island park features lush green woodlands, open fields, and wooded picnic spots, with its coastline skirted by striking boulders. Set on Skagit Bay, this island is lined with scenic sandy beaches. Hike along the trails and bask in the picturesque views which abound here. When the weather is warm and sunny, visitors can partake in activities like sailing and camping by the beach.
Located at the heart of the picturesque Olympic Discovery Trail, the Railroad Bridge Park is a serene place to unwind, relax, and take in the town's pleasant atmosphere with your family. The centerpiece of this park is the archaic Dungeness Railroad Bridge that crosses the Dungeness River. Constructed in 1915, the bridge railroad bridge transported passengers and timber from Port Townsend to Port Angeles until it fell into disuse in 1985. Today, the carefully restored landmark is a popular recreational site. Visitors can stroll along the quaint river, admire the splendid bridge, and enjoy a leisurely picnic at the park.
The Greenbank region in Washington is flanked by the eminent Meerkerk Rhododendron Gardens. These stellar botanical gardens can be toured daily on a modest admission charge. The gardens were founded and established by Ann and Max Meerkerk. A visit to these gardens is a pleasant experience.
Located within the iconic Railroad Bridge Park, Dungeness River Audubon Center is an educational and informative center. Ideal for the entire family and especially kids, the center features an array of taxidermy exhibits of wildlife found in the North Olympic Peninsula. Take a tour of the center and learn more about the regional ecosystems as you walk through the meticulously curated, lifelike specimens. A spectacular library at the site is home to informative reference books, guides, and videos. The center also features a plant garden where you can view and learn about native plants and the role they play in nurturing wildlife.