Making the Most of National Get Outdoors Day
Saturday, June 13, is National Get Outdoors Day, which means you can access both Washington State Parks and Forest Service lands without a parking permit! Check out our list of great areas to explore on this fee-free holiday.
On Saturday, June 13, we're celebrating everything outdoors with National Get Outdoors Day. This holiday is the perfect excuse to lace up your hiking boots and enjoy both Washington State Parks and U.S. Forest Service trails at no cost. That's right, it's a fee-free day!
What does fee-free mean?
Fee-free means that you can park at trailheads or recreation facilities without displaying a Northwest Forest Pass or Discover Pass. (Keep in mind that camping usually still requires a fee.) Get a full list of fee-free days in 2015.
These days are a great opportunity to explore a new park or trail before committing to an annual Discover or Northwest Forest pass.
Where should I go?
Since there are so many great options to explore in Washington, we've put together a starter list of some places you can hike in State Parks this Saturday. For more ideas in State Parks or on National Forest land, search our Hiking Guide.
Deception Pass State Park
Location: West of Burlington
With expansive stretches of coastal access and miles of hiking trails, Deception Pass offers a diverse set of outdoor experiences. Camping is also available if you want to extend your weekend and take in the views (camping fees may still apply).
Be sure to check out the Headlands trail if you go!
- Photo by Eric Jain
Rainbow Falls State Park
Location: South of Olympia
Rainbow Falls State Park boasts an impressive waterfall along with 10 miles of hiking trails and swimming access. We recommend taking a dip if the weather gets too hot! Get more info about Rainbow Falls State Park.
Steamboat Rock State Park
Location: South of Grand Coulee
With a nice mix of of hiking, biking and horse trails, Steamboat is a great place to stretch your legs. Situated on the shore of Banks Lake, you can also take a swim if the mood strikes you. Get more information about hiking Steamboat Rock State Park.
- Photo by Abhi
Centennial Trail State Park
Location: Spokane
We hope your legs are rested, because Centennial Trail State Park is host to an impressive 37 miles of trail! The paved trail rambles alongside the Spokane River and is open to hiking, biking and other foot traffic. With plenty of access points and things to see along the way, this is a great way to get outside in the Spokane area.
Squak Mountain State Park
Location: Issaquah
If you're wanting something close to Seattle, Squak Mountain is a great place to spend the day. The trails here wander all over the mountain and provide great views of the area. Remember to bring some water -- there isn't any provided at the park! And if you need to cool down after a hot day on trail, swing by Lake Sammamish State Park on your way home for a swim.
Cape Disappointment State Park
Location: Long Beach
Though the name might be intimidating, Cape Disappointment is anything but a disappointment. Featuring 8 miles of hiking trails and a couple miles of beach to wander, you won't run out of activities anytime soon. Did we also mention there are two lighthouses to check out?
We hope you have an excellent time outdoors this Saturday, and be sure to share a trip report if you take a hike!
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