Pacific Northwest Destinations - OREGON ESCAPES COMING SOON!

Seattle & Puget Sound (North Puget Sound)

Your visit to Seattle and the Puget Sound may bring you the sound of an orca blowing as it surfaces or the near silence of the Olympic rainforest. Visit a volcano, tease your wine palate, paddle the many islands scattered throughout the Sound.  The outdoor possibilities are endless in this region that Seattle’s tourism officials have coined “MetroNatural.”
Seattle embraces diverse cultures and creative ideas, and offers unlimited opportunities to experience art, heritage and culture, all in a setting of rare natural beauty.  But it is the proximity to the outdoors that the locals enjoy most.  A few miles in any direction and you find yourself paddling a kayak, whitewater rafting, mountain biking, hiking or climbing one of a hundred nearby peaks. From the stately flanks of its Cascade volcanoes to the stony shores of its myriad waterways, the region offers an unmatched wealth of al fresco activities.

The Puget Sound is a very large salt water estuary fed by highly seasonal freshwater from the Olympic and Cascade Mountain watersheds.  It extends from the southern end of Whidbey Island to Olympia.  Puget Sound is a watery maze of deep channels and over 300 timbered islands that rise like shoulders hunched against the seemingly perpetual rain of northwestern Washington.  It is truly a scenic paradise. Snowcapped peaks loom above the forested foothills—to the west the rugged Olympic Peninsula, to the east the Cascade Mountains.

Puget Sound is home to kayaks, fishing boats, sailboats and fleets of green and white ferries. In the bustling harbors and the quiet and secluded inlets alike, the waters of Puget Sound flourish with marine biodiversity. Orcas, porpoise and harbor seals frolic here, as does the gigantic Pacific octopus that can grow up to 20 feet in the these chilly waters. Rockfish, cod, cabezon, wolf eel, six-gilled shark and spiny-finned sculpin are in it’s depths; barnacles and mussels encrust the shore where tiny hermit crabs lurk at low tide; and a beach walk can reveal a bounty of wonders including sea stars, anemones and many other invertebrates. 

The Olympic Peninsula is a microcosm of Northwest ecosystems. The Olympic Peninsula is a unique geographic province consisting of five major landscape settings: temperate rain forest, rugged mountain terrain, large lowland lakes, cascading rivers, and saltwater beaches.  Here you find remote beaches littered with tide-scoured cedar logs alongside the country's oldest forests and one of the state's most dramatic mountain ranges.

Here the flora and fauna provide interest beyond the imagination.  Recreational opportunities seem unlimited and your senses will never rest.

A huge volcanic dome, one of the World’s most massive volcanoes, covered with ice and snow, it rises to 14,410 feet (4,392 meters), the highest point in the Cascade Range. It dwarfs 6,000-foot (1,828.8-meter) surrounding summits, appearing to float alone among the clouds.  Around it are valleys, old-growth forests, waterfalls, ice caves, meadows, and more than 25 glaciers. Here, less than 3 hours’ drive from Seattle, you can stroll through seemingly endless fields of wildflowers, listen to a glacier flow, wander among trees nearly a thousand years old

On May 18, 1980, the long-dormant Mount St. Helens erupted. Shaken by an earthquake measuring 5.1 on the
Richter scale, the north face of this tall, symmetrical mountain collapsed in a massive avalanche of rock debris.
Within moments, this slab of rock and ice slammed into Spirit Lake, crossed a ridge 1,300 feet high, and roared 14 miles down the Toutle River. The eruption lasted nine hours, but Mount St. Helens and the surrounding landscape
were dramatically changed within moments. A vast, gray landscape lay where once the forested slopes of Mount
St. Helens grew.

Carved out of the Gifford-Pinchot National Forest in 1982, the 110,000-acre National Volcanic Monument allows scientists and visitors to see the changes in the landscape and the volcano. Within the monument's bounds, the environment is left to respond naturally to the disturbance. Observe how surviving plants and animals rise out of the ash, colonizing plants catch hold of the earth, and birds and animals find a niche in a different forest on the slopes of Mount St. Helens.

Jagged peaks, deep valleys, cascading waterfalls and over 300 glaciers adorn the North Cascades National Park Service Complex. Three park units in this mountainous region are managed as one and include North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake, and Lake Chelan National Recreation Areas. These complementary protected lands are united by a contiguous overlay of Stephen Mather Wilderness.

North Cascades National Park escapes the attention of many hikers, mainly because it takes a little extra effort to get there (about three hours from Seattle). But those who make the pilgrimage will be rewarded with stunning views from high alpine passes, sheer granite walls that make for excellent climbing, and deep cool forests of fir and lodgepole pine. In the park is the Liberty Bell Roadless Area, which is cut in two by the glacier-carved Methow River valley—a quiet patch of hiking heaven.

Featuring the Mountains to Sound Greenway, straddling Interstate 90, and right in the heart of Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.  This corridor offers endless possibilities to explore soaring peaks, alpine lakes and raging waters, including the 268’ foot Snoqualmie Falls.  In the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest there is more then ample opportunity to go play in the outdoors including the chance to paddle a raft, kayak or funyak down the Powerhouse run of the Snoqualmie River, go mountain biking on the John Wayne Trail, or hike one of many trails or even go fly-fishing in a stream teeming with rainbows, spot wildlife and just take in some incredible scenery. This place is overflowing with peaks, lakes, rivers and streams and the perfect region to enjoy the outdoors.

The San Juan Archipelago is made up of over 700 islands and reefs, 176 large enough to be named.  Hike, bike or paddle around the Islands, including the largest, San Juan, Orcas and Lopez Island, all while enjoying great vistas and wild life viewing.   The San Juan Islands are place of dense forest and rolling fields, dotted with parks, small farms, some houses, venerable lodges and retreats, marinas, a wealth of snug coves and some of the country’s best sea kayaking.

San Juan residents are gaga over whales, especially the orcas that patrol local waters. Those cherished orcas can sometimes be spotted off the west coast. Docents, interpretive signs, and vantage points from the rocky shoreline draw whale-watchers to Lime Kiln Point State Park.  From May to the beginning of August, one of three resident pods of orcas will spend much of its time in this area feeding on salmon.

Besides the whales one should pay attention to other aspects of the islands’ natural history, such as the nesting bald eagles, the harbor seals that pup on some of the islets in early July, and the Dall’s porpoises that bound through the water like antelope. But the orcas remain the headliners, and for good reason. Not only are these up-to-30-foot [9.1-meter], black-and-white members of the dolphin family strikingly handsome, highly social, communicative, fierce and crafty predators; they’re also great fun to watch. Passengers sometimes will see orcas launch out of the water (breaching), slap the surface with their flippers or tails (tailslapping), and poke their heads straight up out of the water (spyhopping).

The Central Cascades and Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is a recreational paradise… Pristine wilderness, cascading rivers and waterfalls, alpine lakes and prime wildlife habitat north to south, from the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area to Mount Rainier National Park. This awe-inspiring stretch of mountainous forest encompasses Snoqualmie Pass connecting two protected areas where wildlife and wildflowers are abundant.  A perfect place for whitewater paddling, a fly fisherman’s dream and enough trails and peaks to satisfy the novice hiker to the expert mountaineer.  The Central Cascades is an absolute playground of winter activities, including the perfect powder for snow skiing and boarding, heli-skiing, as well as endless trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing and snowmachining… Even sled dog adventures.

The perfect base camp for these outdoor pursuits is the adventure town of Leavenworth. It is a charming Bavarian Village known for delightful specialty shops, numerous choices for cozy accommodations, and an active calendar offering a year-round schedule of festivals, music and live theater. The quaint, Bavarian theme is very at home against the breathtaking backdrop of Washington State's steep, snowy Cascade Mountains soaring thousands of feet above.

Exploring the Columbia Plateau you will have you feel like you’ve been transported far away from the lush evergreen forests and mountains that our State is known for and into a high sagebrush desert oasis filled with lakes and abundant wildlife, cut through by the mighty Columbia River and surrounding scablands. This region reflects exactly what makes Washington State such a remarkably complex place geologically.

Here you will find the geological wonder of the Channeled Scablands and the engineering marvel, Grand Coulee Dam. You can experience Soap Lake and the Sun Lakes – Dry Falls State Park. Dry Falls and the Coulee Canyon is one of the great geological phenomena of North America. Carved by ice-age floods such as the Lake Missoula flood that long ago disappeared, the former waterfall is now a stark cliff, 400 feet high and 3.5 miles wide. In its heyday, the waterfall was ten times the size of Niagara Falls.

You can also visit the numerous wineries that have made the wine regions of Yakima, Walla Walla and Red Mountain one of the most interesting and prestigious viticultural regions in the World...These burgeoning vineyards on the east side of the Cascades grow 99% of Washington's wine grapes and is host of eight of the state's nine official appellations—along with more than 130 wineries!      

The mighty Columbia River has drawn people to its waters for over 9,000 years. Historically the rich fishery of the river was used for survival and prosperity. Today Columbia River Gorge visitors continue to enjoy the river’s recreational offerings of fishing, paddling, windsurfing, and kite boarding surrounded by some incredible scenery.

When it comes to the art of wine, Washington State certainly knows its “terroir” – that’s the combination of soil, climate and geography that makes all wines distinct from each other.  Ideal soils, extensive sunlight and warm days with cool nights; mean we produce some of the best wines in the world. 

Washington State is the nation’s second largest wine producing region.  Made up of more than 400 wineries, 350 wine grape growers, and 30,000 vineyard acres.  Washington wineries are scattered across the entire state crafting quality wines from more than 20 primary varietals ranging from deep ruby red Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah, to the straw hues of Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon.  The most popular wine regions of Washington are Woodinville, Yakima, Walla Walla and Red Mountain.

Remember when cities were walkable and nature wasn’t miles away?  Welcome to Victoria, British Columbia, on the sunny southern tip of Vancouver Island.  Twice named Best City in the Americas since the year 2000.  Victoria is one of the world’s favorite places.  Imbued with the beauty and amenities of an historic capital city and blessed by magnificent nature all around.  Victoria is full of life, from superb cuisine, to museums and galleries to glorious beaches, wilderness retreats and a plethora of outdoor adventures, Victoria offers a truly remarkable experience and escapes from the hurried world.

Vancouver Island & the Gulf Islands is a sparsely populated area that is simply one of our world’s most secret and most beautiful pockets on the planet.  One of the world’s most diverse eco-systems showcasing mind blowing beaches, rainforests, waterways and peaks, as well as abundant wild and marine life… premier locations for bear viewing, whale watching, birding and salmon and trout fishing. Outdoor pursuits abound, surfing, hiking, paddling, mountain biking and fishing. 

Much of the island has been protected as parkland. It contains many pockets of old-growth fir and cedar forests, as well as rare, naturally occurring groves of Garry oak. Vancouver Island is bisected, north to south, by the Beaufort Mountain Range, which is home to one of Canada's biggest all-natural ski bases.

The beauty and tranquility of this region has long been a draw for artists and artisans. Galleries, studios and shops selling unique, locally produced arts and crafts are found in many population centers, particularly on the Gulf Islands.

Some of the lodges and wilderness retreats on this extraordinary island are repeatedly ranked among the best in the world offering uniquely wild escapes that are nestled so deep into the backwoods that you have to take a floatplane or heli to experience them. 

Legendary Whistler, regarded as one of the top four-season resorts in North America, has become even more world-renowned as the site of the alpine and Nordic venues for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Experience life at one of the most stunning resort villages in the world... Whistler, British Columbia. From golfing pristine fairways to the challenge of skiing two world-class mountains, from exploring the village trail to discovering the 2010 Winter Olympic village, Whistler features year-round activities for the whole family.

Whistler boasts a wealth of activities from hardcore sports to the ultimate in relaxation.

Whistler's wilderness offers a wonderful opportunity for hiking and walking. Learn about the ecology of diverse ecosystems from experienced naturalist guides and take in the incredible scenery.

Where mountains and ocean meet.  One of the world's most spectacular cities, Vancouver offers a remarkable combination of natural beauty and urban sophistication. Astounding scenery serves as the backdrop to your visit here - no matter the type of activities you enjoy. Cycle around downtown's English Bay. Hike your way up the North Shore's Grouse Mountain. Run or walk the Stanley Park Seawall. Savor a meal of west coast cuisine. Dive into beaches. Paddle a kayak alongside the ocean's shoreline.  Ski or snowboard all winter long. Turn a spa day into a spa week. The choices are endless. Vancouver offers a never-ending array of natural sights, invigorating activities and superlative events. The only challenge for you will be seeing and doing it all!

The city sits at the edge of the Pacific Ocean, nestled in and around the slopes of the impressive Coast Mountains.

This location will provide the ideal setting when Vancouver and Whistler host the world for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Northern BC's vast wilderness comprises more than half the province - approximately 500,000 sq km (193,051 sq mi). This is a land of jagged mountain peaks, roaring rivers, serene lakes, green valleys, rugged coastlines and ancient island archipelagos.

The region is known for its magnificent freshwater and saltwater fishing, canoeing, kayaking, whitewater rafting
and in the winter, powder skiing. The days are deliciously long - this far north you have natural light till 11 p.m. all summer long.

A wondrous system of national and provincial parks provides habitats and sanctuary for wildlife as small as birds and as large as grizzly bears. Easy walking trails and challenging backcountry routes abound, leading to such diverse natural sites as crashing waterfalls and ancient lava beds.

You won't want to miss the Queen Charlotte Islands, an untamed land rich in Haida culture and with distinct island flora and fauna that have evolved over thousands of years.

Some of the best examples of fossilized footprints in North America can be found in Northern BC, including the world's oldest bird footprints.

The Thompson Okanagan region is famous for its orchards and vineyards as well as the wildly varied landscape. To the north of the central wine-and-fruit producing valley are vast boreal forests and to the south the desert of the Great Basin. The highest mountain in the Canadian Rockies is here, as is a waterfall twice the height of Niagara Falls and Canada's only true desert environment. The Thompson Okanagan gets more sunshine than almost any other part of BC, creating prime conditions for outdoor recreation and events. Each year, outdoor enthusiasts flock here to hike, cross-country ski, snowshoe, fish, kayak, canoe, camp and view wildlife.