Discovering the Great Outdoors in the Evergreen state

As its nickname, the Evergreen State, suggests, Washington State is a paradise for nature lovers. With its diverse landscapes, ranging from snow-capped mountains to beautiful coastlines, and vast expanses of lush forests, Washington offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re an experienced hiker, a boating enthusiast, or someone who just likes having some peace and quiet, you will find something you enjoy doing. If you’re looking to start exploring the great outdoors in the Evergreen State, you’re in the right place. After you relocate to the state with movers and packers Seattle offers and settle in, you can immersive yourself in the great adventure of exploring natural attractions in the Evergreen State!

Enjoy Winter Sports

Winter is the perfect time to explore the great outdoors in the Evergreen State. After moving with one of the trusted moving companies Marysville WA has to offer, you can grab your equipment and head to the nearest ski resort. Winters in Washington are exceptionally beautiful and since it snows a lot it is ideal for winter sports. If you want to go skiing, snowboarding, or cross-country skiing, here are the top 5 locations to consider.

1. The Summit at Snoqualmie

The Summit at Snoqualmie includes four mountain bases, and it is the closest ski resort to Seattle. This ski resort is great for all levels of skiers and boarders due to the variety of downhill runs. It has over 20 chairlifts and 100 runs.

2. Crystal Mountain Resort

Crystal Mountain Resort is a ski and snowboard resort located in the Cascade Range of Washington State. It features 2,600 acres of skiable terrain, 57 runs, and 11 chairlifts. In the summer, it offers hiking, mountain biking, and scenic gondola rides. It also has restaurants and lodging options.

3. Stevens Pass Resort

Stevens Pass Resort is a part of the Cascade Range of Washington state, too. However, it is significantly smaller than Crystal Mountain Resort, with around 1,125 acres of skiable land, 52 downhill runs, and 10 chairlifts. Stevens Pass Resort is special for its great dining options and nighttime skiing. Additionally, it is only 90 minutes away from Seattle so you can expect a crowd!

4. Mt. Baker Ski Area

Mt. Baker Ski Area borders the North Cascades National Park, and it has over 1,000 acres of skiable terrain. This part of the mountains gets the most snowfall during winter, with around 600 inches per season. Mt. Baker Ski Resort is more popular among experienced skiers and boarders since the runs are more steep and challenging. Additionally, this wonderful resort host numerous social events throughout the year.

5. White Pass Ski Area

This amazing resort has over 1,500 acres of skiable land and offers great runs for skiers and boarders of all levels of experience. The resort hosts carnivals and festivals, and it attracts big crowds during the peak season. This resort is a great family-friendly option.

Discover the Best Hiking Routes

Washington State has numerous outdoor activities and adventures to offer, however, it is most well-known for its amazing hiking trails which are some of the best in the world. If you like hiking while being surrounded by beautiful nature, visiting Washington State Parks, national forests, and National parks will be your best bet. In order to help you decide where to go first, we’ve narrowed it down to the top 5 hiking destinations in the Evergreen State.

1. The Enchantments Trail

The Enchantments Trail is located in Okanogan-Wentachee National Forest, and it is one of the most popular trails in the state. This is a challenging hike, known for its stunning views of the Cascade Mountains, including pristine alpine lakes and mountain peaks. The 19-mile-long trail usually takes two days to complete, so you should plan an overnight trip if you decide to go.

The trail has two sections, the Snow Zone, and the Core Enchantment Zone. Keep in mind that one needs to get a permit for hiking here, and the permits are issued through a lottery system. The trail is open from June to October, and if you’re interested in going you need to apply for the lottery in February.

2. Skyline Trail

This 5.5-mile trail is a part of the Paradise Hiking Area in Mount Rainier National Park. The trails offer some of the most scenic views of mountains, making it a hot spot for hikers. Here you can see alpine tundra, glaciers, wildflowers, and wildlife. Therefore, you can expect it to be crowded during the peak season, but that isn’t going to make the experience any less memorable. The trail is open from mid-July through September, and permits are required for camping.

3. Cascade Pass Trail

The Cascade Trail Park is the easiest and most accessible trail in North Cascades National Park. This makes it one of the most popular trails for both tourists and locals, and it can be a great adventure for the whole family. The trail is around 7 miles long with an elevation gain of up to 2,000ft. For advanced hikers, the North Cascades National Park has several more remote and challenging trails, such as the Sahale Arm Trail.

4. Hoh River Trail

After handling your move and storage needs with Newcastle storage, you can take a trip to the stunning Olympic National Park. This beautiful national park is home to a variety of wonderful landscapes, as well as hiking trails. The most loved one is the Hoh River Trail. This 17-mile-long trail has a choose-your-own-adventure approach.

Visitors may choose how far they want to go, before returning to the starting point. If camping is something you like, you can get a permit to spend the night on the trail and continue your hike in the morning. Just make sure to check the weather conditions beforehand!

5. Boundary Trail from Johnston Ridge Observatory

The Boundary Trail is located in Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Area. The eruption of the volcano in 1980 devastated the area, and the consequences can be seen by visitors during this unique hiking experience. The trail is 30 miles long and very challenging with an elevation gain of up to 4,000ft. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the recovery of the ecosystem and breathtaking views of Mount St. Helens. This hike usually takes multiple days, so you would need to prepare properly and obtain a permit for overnight camping.

Water Sports Adventures

With Washington’s 157 miles long coastline, 8,000 lakes, and 169 rivers, this state is a paradise for lovers of water activities. Whether you’re looking for a romantic beach gateway, a family boating trip, or thrilling scuba diving, you will find it here. Therefore, after you unpack, settle in, and leave your items in Seattle storage, it’s time to start exploring.

Surfing

Even though Washington State may not be a popular surfing destination, that doesn’t mean that you can’t hit some waves here. There are some great surfing spots around the state where you can try out your skills. You can explore the great outdoors in the Evergreen State while surfing on the waves in the Olympic Peninsula. La Push is a great surfing spot to visit after relocating with movers Bothell WA has. If you’d like to go, the summer months are the best time, and it usually isn’t crowded. Additionally, it is a good site for beginners as well as more advanced surfers, and it is public so you can surf for free.

Boating

Washington State is a beautiful destination for boating enthusiasts, with many bodies of water all over the state that are perfect for spending days outdoors. The Washington coastline is over 3,000 miles, including the Pacific Coastline. Some of the best locations include Puget Sound, Lake Washington, Lake Chelan, Lake Roosevelt, and many more.

After you move, you should research laws and regulations regarding boating in the state. Make sure you obtain all of the necessary permits and licenses required for the location you choose. Additionally, always check the weather and tides beforehand. The most important thing is to prioritize safety in the waters, but overall Evergreen State is a wonderful boating destination.

Kayaking

Due to its numerous water waves, Washington is a dream location for kayaking enthusiasts. You can enjoy calm water and beautiful lakes. What makes these kayaking routes extra special is the wildlife surrounding the water. You have a big chance of encountering compelling wildlife such as orca whales, seals, shorebirds, etc. Some of the most popular kayaking spots in the state are the San Juan Islands, Lake Union, Skagit River, and Hood Canal. Similar to boating, make sure to check the rules and keep track of weather conditions before you go.

Diving

If you’re looking for a unique introduction to the great outdoors in Washington State upon arrival, exploring the breathtaking world under the waves of Washington State is the way to. Washington State has some of the best cold-water diving in the world. With a rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and several shipwrecks to explore, there are great opportunities for divers of all experience levels. You can encounter all of the special creatures that live in the Salish Sea.

Outdoor Activities for an Adrenaline Rush

Mountain Biking

Mountain Biking (MTB) is an outstanding way to explore the great outdoors in the Evergreen State for any adrenaline junkies out there. Washington State has an abundance of amazing trails to test out after your move. If you relocate with moving services Seattle offers in King Country, Tiger Mountain, or Dutchie Hill in Isaquaah are popular options to explore.

Both of these flowy trail systems offer a variety of trails for all skill levels, so it doesn’t matter whether you’re a beginner or advanced in MTB. They are open year-round, just make sure to avoid rainy days. Since children are allowed it can be a good option for the whole family!

Ziplining

Wahington State offers a variety of zip-lining experiences, ranging from thrilling high-speed zips to more relaxed tours through scenic forests. Zipline Adventure at Crystal Mountain is one of the best in the state. You can view the stunning Mount Rainer while zipping through the mountains on one of the 6 ziplines. Near Lake Chelan you will find the Canopy Tours Northwest. This adventure park offers 7 ziplines, and 2 sky bridges.

If you’re looking for an extra thrilling, high-speed zipline tour, High Track Adventures is worth checking out. Besides the zipline, this park is home to various obstacle courses ranging from beginner-friendly to advanced. Whichever location you choose, research rules regarding height, weight, and age allowances, as well as safety guidelines.

River Rafting

Whether you’re looking for thrilling high-speed rafting or a calm ride for the whole family, both can be found in Washington State. Rapid river rafting can be found on the Wenatchee River, the Skykomish, Methow, and Spokane Rivers. If family-friendly rafting and sightseeing are more your style, check out Hoh River.

Rock Climbing

Since Washington State has many beautiful mountains, it is no surprise that rock climbing is a popular outdoor activity for the adventurous crowd. There are plenty of routes to try out, with some of the most loved being the Frenchmen Coulee, the Index, Icicle Creek Canyon, and Minnehaha.

Explore Other Beautiful Places in the Washington State

Since exploring the great outdoors in the Evergreen State is an unparalleled experience that offers endless possibilities, after your move you’ll have plenty of places to go to. Washington State has some of the most stunning natural attractions in the country that you get to discover upon arrival. If you’re not looking for adventures, but just want to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, then Deception Pass, Dry Falls, The Columbia River Gorge, The Hoh Rainforest, The Ape Caves, and Palouse Falls are some of the uniquely picturesque places to visit.

Why Choose Us

History

Hansen Bros. Moving & Storage is locally owned and operated by the same family for four generations, since 1890. We have a well-established reputation for service quality and reliability with a high percentage of repeat household and commercial clients.

Professionalism

We’re a certified ProMover by the American Moving and Storage Association with A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, voted “Best in Western Washington” in 2009 and from 2011 to 2016 by KING5. Our company is fully licensed and insured and member of WMC and AMSA.

Value

Hansen Bros. Moving & Storage provide free, no-obligation in-home estimate and competitive rates, including low minimum rates for shipments moving under 300 miles. We’ve set a refund policy for unused packing materials and three Puget Sound locations to help clients save on travel fee costs.