Mount Rainier
A 14,410-foot volcano ringed with glaciers and some of the best wildflower meadows anywhere.
3 national parks in Washington
National Parks in Washington
Washington has 3 national parks. Here's when each one is at its best, and the months that work for seeing several on one trip.
July through September are the best overall for Washington's parks. Mount Rainier: Jul–Sep; North Cascades: Jul–Sep; Olympic: Jul–Sep.
Season calendar
The parks
North Cascades
The 'American Alps': jagged peaks, hundreds of glaciers and turquoise lakes with a fraction of the crowds.
Olympic
Rainforest, wild coastline and glaciated peaks in one park.
Road trips through Washington
Pacific Northwest Loop
Rainforest, wild coast, a glaciated volcano and the 'American Alps', all within a few hours of Seattle.
Nearby parks in other states
Crater Lake
Oregon · Best Jul–Sep
Glacier
Montana · Best Jul–Sep
Questions
How many national parks are in Washington?
Washington has 3 national parks: Mount Rainier National Park, North Cascades National Park, Olympic National Park.
When is the best time to visit national parks in Washington?
July through September are the best overall for Washington's parks. Mount Rainier: Jul–Sep; North Cascades: Jul–Sep; Olympic: Jul–Sep.
Last reviewed October 4, 2026. Ratings are editorial. Rules and road openings change each year, so confirm on the official NPS site before you go.