Fun Places to Fly in Washington
Washington State boasts numerous natural wonders, making it very attractive to outdoor enthusiasts. The Cascade range, which divides the state, also creates two very different climate systems and topographies. Western Washington is wet, green and lush with numerous lakes, rivers, beaches and the salt-water Puget Sound, while Eastern Washington is dry, arid and sunny. The result is a myriad of possibilities for hiking, skiing, climbing, kayaking, cycling, waterskiing, boating, camping and fishing. If you're in a hurry and don't want to drive the state, Washington has many small airports and commuter flights.
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San Juan Islands
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Few things are more "Washington" than a sea plane flight from Lake Union in the heart of Seattle to one of the San Juan Islands. The 30- to 40-minute prop plane flight is guaranteed to be loud and bumpy, but on a fair weather day, it's one of the best tours of the Puget Sound you can get.
The verdant, peaceful San Juan Islands are a favorite summer vacation spot for Washingtonians. The area offers water sports, camping, hunting and killer whale watching, especially off Orcas Island.
Pullman
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Pullman is home to Washington State University and is known for its rowdy football games. In Autumn, you can catch "Cougar Fever" during homecoming and Apple Cup, the annual Washington State vs. University of Washington rival game. If beers at the college pubs aren't your thing, take a short drive to the Columbia River for some great fishing and windsurfing.
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Tri-Cities
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A 40-minute commuter flight from Seattle will put you in the heart of Washington's wine country. Land in Pasco, which along with sister towns Kennewick and Richland, form what are commonly known as the Tri-Cities.
Over the past several years, what used to be wheat farming land has been transformed into vineyards. Rent a car and go wine tasting. Many wineries offer getaway packages with lodging and gourmet wine-paired meals, as well as live entertainment on weekends. The Tri-Cities also sit along the Columbia River in an area noted for good windsurfing.
Wenatchee
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Nestled in the center of the state, Wenatchee is the central hub for activities in the Cascades. The tiny airport receives flights from Seattle and Spokane, allowing for quick access to Washington's natural wonders.
Wenatchee is bordered by numerous lakes and campgrounds including Squilchuck, Lincoln Rock and Lake Wenatchee State Parks. The nearby Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth features mountain resorts, hotels and several bed and breakfasts ideal for weekend getaways.
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References
- Photo Credit summer in mountain area image by A. Leonardo from Fotolia.com
