Park Experiences

Climb of a Lifetime: Lessons from Climbing Mount Rainier

As soon as we arrived at Paradise, a thousand thoughts occupied my mind: Did I pack too much? What if an avalanche happens and I get caught? After months of reflecting on my time on “The Mountain,” it became clear that the mental aspect was, indeed, the most difficult part...

Spring Experiences in Washington’s National Parks

Roads are opening, wildflowers are blooming, trails are emerging under the snow, and park visitation increases. These spring recommendations from our community were made for you: everyday park users, first timers, seasoned visitors, and everyone in between.

Sneak Peek: Live Packages at the 2022 Auction for the Parks

To whet your appetite for Auction for the Parks on April 30, we’ve pulled together a sneak peek of some of the packages that will be featured in our live auction. Take note and be ready to bid – from spending a day as a glacial ecologist to a four-night...

Wildlife in Winter: Coping with Cold

What’s life like for the wildlife of Washington’s parks when instead of fun, winter brings hardship? Creatures of the high country must cope with bitter temperatures, fierce storms, little access to food, and some of the highest snow accumulations in the country. Learn how do they do it.

Meet the Birds of the North Cascades

Chris Williams, an interpretive ranger at North Cascades National Park, took us on a virtual field trip to the North Cascades to meet some of the many bird communities that call the park home.

What to Do in Washington’s National Parks This Winter

We know that it can be intimidating figuring out what there is to do and how exactly to do it when snow is falling and major roads are closing. Check out the WNPF team's recommendations on how to experience our parks in the winter months.

WNPF’s 2021 Holiday Giving Guide

When giving gifts to friends and family, we like to give back to our parks by supporting small businesses and partners of Washington’s National Park Fund. From lodging in the parks to adventure van rentals, hand-crafted glassware to essential oils, cozy park-inspired candles, apparel, and more, Washington’s National Park Fund...

An Ode to Hiking Solo

Much has been written about the restorative powers of being in nature. When I think about the moments that I have felt the most alive in the outdoors, I think about being in remote spaces far away from crowds. Many experiences are with a friend or a small group, but...

Fall Color Hikes in Washington’s National Parks

With the long-awaited departure of heat and bugs, the best hiking season is now upon us! Though fall hiking is not only the most comfortable in Washington, but also the most beautiful. This year, instead of jostling with the masses in search of #LarchMadness, consider immersing yourself in the fiery...