Washington Travel Guide

Geographical Position and Climate of Washington

Washington state is located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It is bordered by the Canadian province of British Columbia to the north, the Pacific Ocean to the west, Oregon to the south, and Idaho to the east. The state’s geographical position includes varied landscapes, from the rugged coastlines and dense evergreen forests to the high mountains of the Cascade Range and the arid basins of the Columbia Plateau.

Best time to visit Washington

The best time to visit Washington state largely depends on what activities you’re interested in and which regions you plan to explore. Here’s a general guide:

Spring (April to June):

  • Enjoy mild temperatures and blooming flowers.
  • Ideal for visiting the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival.

Summer (July to September):

  • Warmest months with little rainfall, perfect for outdoor activities.
  • Great time for hiking in the Cascade Mountains or visiting national parks like Olympic and Mount Rainier.

Fall (October to early November):

  • Witness the beautiful fall foliage.
  • Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds make it pleasant for sightseeing.

Winter (December to March):

  • Cold, especially in the mountains, with snowfall ideal for winter sports.
  • Lower elevation areas like Seattle may have milder winter weather, suitable for city exploration.

Keep in mind that coastal areas tend to have more rain and fog, while eastern Washington is drier and experiences more extreme temperatures. Always check local weather and event schedules when planning your trip.

Travel to Washington

By Air:

  • The primary airport is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), also known as Sea-Tac, which serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
  • Other airports include Spokane International Airport (GEG), Bellingham International Airport (BLI), and Tri-Cities Airport (PSC) in Pasco.

By Train:

  • Amtrak operates several routes that serve Washington, including the Coast Starlight, Empire Builder, and Amtrak Cascades lines.

With Car:

  • Interstate highways I-5, I-90, and I-82 are the main routes into and around the state.
  • Scenic drives like the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway and Cascade Loop offer beautiful views.

By Bus:

  • Greyhound and other bus companies provide service to many cities across Washington.

By Boat:

  • Washington State Ferries operate the largest ferry system in the U.S., connecting the mainland with various islands in Puget Sound and the Olympic Peninsula.
  • Private boat charters and cruises are also available, especially in coastal areas.

Places to visit in Washington

Washington map and flag

Important Information

Capital – Olympia

Largest City – Seattle

Territory – 184,827 km2

Population – 7,812,880

Time Zone – UTC-8 (Pacific)

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