Blog

December 10, 2024

Fee-Free Days: Everything You Need to Know

As a new year approaches, the National Park Service announces their fee-free days for the upcoming year. But what exactly does "fee-free" mean? This blog lists out free national park entrance days and explains how the NPS is celebrating!

November 25, 2024

Preserving the Parks in Perpetuity: National Park Endowments 

At WNPF, we take immense pride in being the philanthropic heart supporting the state's three national parks. Central to our mission are our national park endowments, funds that are invested for the long run, playing a crucial role in securing the future of these cherished parks. Learn about preserving the parks...

November 15, 2024

Olympic National Park Shines as a World Heritage Site

Olympic National Park is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Washington State. Learn about what that designation means and how one of our state's three national parks got added to the list.

November 14, 2024

A Journey of Connection with Nature: BIPOC Camping Trip to Mount Rainier National Park

This past summer, a group of BIPOC youth embarked on an overnight camping adventure at White River Campground in Mount Rainier National Park. In partnership with Rachel Heaton, REI, Patagonia, and WTA, 19 youth gained resources to explore outside and grow in so many ways while being in nature.

October 22, 2024

Wildfires and Wildlife in Washington’s National Parks

With wildfire season winding down for the year, you may wonder how these fires – and the altered landscape left behind – impact the wildlife of our national parks. Read how animals react and the aftermath from the wildfires affecting Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks.

October 7, 2024

Stunning Sunset Spots in Washington’s National Parks

Sunset in the PNW is an unforgettable experience. But where are the best sunset spots in Washington's national parks? Get our staff's favorite areas and trails to take in the final rays of the day. Some are classics and others are more surprising.

October 1, 2024

Disability History Month: Accessibility Resources in Washington’s National Parks

Here at Washington's National Park Fund, we’re joining with our park partners in honoring Disability History and Awareness Month by highlighting efforts at Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks to promote access for all visitors.

September 20, 2024

Washington's National Parks vs. National Forests, Explained

September 28, 2024 is National Public Lands Day! With several government agencies managing recreational lands, it can be confusing, overwhelming, yet exciting to figure out where you want to recreate across Washington. This blog provides a general breakdown of the various lands you might find in our state.

September 11, 2024

History, Hikes, and Hydrology: Things You Should See on the North Cascades Highway

On your next road trip into North Cascades National Park Service Complex, you'll want to check out these pit stops in Newhalem and Diablo. If you enjoy history, hiking, or even hydrology, there may be something that piques your interest!