7 Most Scenic Small Towns In Washington For Nature Lovers

Washington, renowned for its verdant landscapes, encompasses lonesome and habitable islands, soft-sanded beaches along the rugged coast, rainforests, and a wine country. Between the hidden gems and adventure hubs, the most scenic towns draw nature lovers to experience some of the Pacific Northwest's iconic landscapes.

It all feels accessible from Seattle, Olympia (the state's capital), and even Oregon. Each with a hospitable feel, these eight let nature do the talking. Kalaloch and Ruby Beach are two of the most visited areas of Olympic National Park, with their majestic mountains, large nesting colonies of birds, and thousands of marine species. Similarly, all of these Washington towns are sure to shine for outdoor activities.

Chelan

Lake Chelan is the third deepest lake in the U.S. and one of Washington's largest. Located at the heart of the state, Chelan is enamored with scenic views on its southern tip, a stone's throw from the Columbia River east. Chelan is an outdoor hub for recreational water sports like paddleboarding and parasailing, allowing sailors to explore the upper reaches. It has a beach scene right downtown at Don Morse Memorial Park, with rentals. Take off from the boat launch in town at Chelan Riverwalk Park or hop on a cruise aboard the Lady of the Lake.

The prevailing natural scenery extends to the 127-acre Lake Chelan State Park, with trails, a boat ramp, a large dock, and campsites for serenity through the night. If feeling too winded after exploring or adventurous watersports, don't bother driving around scenic country roads in search of a winery, but feel unbothered at Vin du Lac just across the shore. French for "Wine of the Lake," this bistro & winery is among the area's finest of over 40 around, pairing award-winning wines with delish bites in front-row Lake Chelan views.

Cle Elum

Often overlooked, this lakeside town shines with the motto "Heart of the Cascades," amid wilderness, peaks, and scenic lookouts. Exposing the range's uncensored scenery to all, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the natural splendor throughout the rolling valley dotted with farms and vineyards. Cle Elum's Fireman's Park offers a quaint town beach on the Yakima River flowing through, great for picnicking, plus walking trails. Meanwhile, the unique Washington State Horse Park speaks to equestrian lovers with its trails and arenas.

Teanaway Community Forest is an adventurer's paradise for every hiking level and fly fishing along the Teanaway River. This woodsy 50,000-acre river basin encompasses trails to a scenic ledge and camping in the heart of the night with elk and deer wandering by. Wander back in town for local agricultural treats. You won't be remiss in Cottage Cafe & Fireside Lounge's renowned pies, cinnamon rolls, and hash browns. For something upscale, Swiftwater Cellars pairs New American dishes with fine wines and patio views of a golf course.

Enumclaw

This adventure-ridden town is tangled amid hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country trails at the gateway to Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. The old-growth forests, alpine meadows, and sparkling lakes offer a slice of nature for everyone. Pristine fishable rivers teem with trout and salmon—the majestic Cascades stunningly backdrop downtown, reminiscent of its mining and logging past. Also, the northwestern gateway to Mt. Rainier National Park is a launchpad that scales to the fifth-highest peak in the continental United States. The local Cal Magnusson Trail is a perfect opportunity to stretch your legs to a fire tower for views.

Just an hour away from Seattle, it is an easy retreat to change pace from the mundane city for the fun Scottish Highland Games. Take a stroll along century-old buildings housing boutiques, a dynamic culinary scene, and tasting rooms, perhaps during the King County Fair. Taking place during July, it is full of delicious food stalls and a community spirit that visitors are sure to enjoy.

Friday Harbor

Friday Harbor may be the archipelago's recreational hub at the east end of the San Juan Islands. But it is also a wildlife hub of unspoiled natural vistas and marine species, including whales, orcas, and sea lions. Accessible via ferry, a private boat, or a jet, the eponymous, largest island beckons tourists to explore over and around the blue waters of the San Juan Channel. With popular guides like Sea Quest Kayak Tours at your beck and call, there are also canoe rentals and boat docks throughout.

San Juan Islands National Monument is a tranquil oasis for the unaccustomed city eyes. The 1,000-acre land area encompasses beaches, rocks, and forested areas for every type of adventure and scenic recreation among local wildlife. For real local island entertainment, San Juan Community Theatre steals the spotlight with enthralling shows and performances. Meanwhile, the Whale Museum showcases artwork and artifacts on whales and the preservation of the Salish Sea ecosystem.

Kalaloch

Kalaloch is accessible via a winding Hwy 101 drive, skimming the Quinault Reservation towards the western coast of the iconic Olympic Peninsula. The creekside downtown is but a restaurant, a convenience shop, and the historic lodge, plus nearby camping options to get exploring. Kalaloch Lodge Rainforest Trail is a short, well-defined trail through a grove of trees connecting north to the beach from the Twilight screens. At Kalaloch Campground, the ancient Tree of Life is nearly off the ground with an epic root cave.

There are seven beautiful beaches for every crowd or loner off the coastal highway, from rugged to ruby-colored. Backed by ancient cedar forests, this desolate coastal area is a habitat for thousands of marine species. The rugged Ruby Beach, allegedly the most striking beach in the United States, offers trails, campsites, and a lodge. Wandering among the sea stacks in the salty spray and lively tidepools, it is a perfect vantage point for whale watching and picnics. Many enjoy taming the waves on a surfboard until out-of-this-world sunsets drop into the Pacific.

Westport

This charming beach town tips the peninsula into North Bay. The large public marina is a perfect parking spot for sailors, with a viewing tower and rentals for everyone else to enjoy fishing and boating from the jutting Westport Fishing and Crabbing Area. The circa-1898 Grays Harbor Lighthouse is the state's tallest at the heart of town. After climbing to the top at 107 feet, visit the Westport Maritime Museum with exhibits from the historic port town to the present day.

It is a hop from adventures at Westport Light State Park, a 560-acre hiker's dream overlooking the Pacific with accessible trails, amenities, and saltwater fishing. Take a stroll along the soft, white-sanded beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing, or find an intimate spot to relax in the shade, watching surfers handle the waves. After dinner or drinks, the uncommonly magical hour calls for a romantic stroll to the end of the rocky jetty to feel one with the Pacific Ocean.

White Salmon

White Salmon is Washington's hidden gem. Commonly overlooked for Hood River across the Columbia River, this family-friendly town packs a punch between the White Salmon River and Jewett Creek. Hop on Lewis and Clark Highway to a riverside spot to your liking, paralleling a historic railway to skip rocks and picnic. White Salmon offers easy access to the iconic Columbia Gorge, the 80-mile, 4,000-foot-deep canyon with countless waterfalls, under 40 minutes east.

Nothing hits the spot after a hot hike like a cold house brewski at the retro-chic framework of Everybody's Brewing, plus seasonal pub fare. In addition to reputable brewing culture, there are a few boutique shops and wineries for an easygoing retreat with no crowds. Just down the road, the Gorge Heritage Museum offers insights into the nearby natural attraction. Meanwhile, Pacific Hermitage is an easy drive or hike north to a breathtaking place of utter tranquility for strolls and meditation.

Witness The Natural Charm In Washington’s Small Towns

From the lakeside of Chelan to the overlooked White Salmon across from Hood River, these tiny towns amidst the Pacific Northwest splendor capture the essence of the dramatic natural wonders in the Evergreen State. Among the lush river valleys, Walla Walla has a relaxed boutique feel. Mt. Rainier is "easily" accessible from one of these towns. Juxtaposed by a thriving cultural scene with seafood and wineries, all that's left to do is choose the vibe. Follow your nature-starved heart, the best guide to indulge in the beaches, scenic drives, wild adventures, or watersports.