THE US WASHINGTON STATE NATIONAL PARKS DESTINATIONS Root maps


Find out how to plan an itinerary in Washington State’s national parks with Jeannine Williamson’s guide


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t felt as if we had stepped into a fairy tale. Rounding a corner deep in the forest, we were dwarfed by a 60m-tall Douglas fir tree with a trunk measuring 9m in circumference. American parks are not just of the themed variety, and our journey through Washington State, dubbed the ‘evergreen state’ for its abundant forests, opened our eyes to many natural


wonders. Home to three of the country’s 59 national parks – Olympic, Mount Rainier and North Cascades – it’s a great spot for those who like the great outdoors, particularly in the countdown to the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service in 2016. Situated on the Pacific


coastline near Canada’s border, with a mild climate that’s ideal


for hiking and sightseeing, it’s the most northwestern state in the US. The airport gateway of Seattle is well known as a jumping off point for Alaska cruises, yet the mountainous heartland is relatively undiscovered in the UK market, making it an ideal destination for repeaters and active clients looking to discover a different part of the states. Special events, including


exhibitions and themed walks, are being organised to celebrate the park service’s centennial milestone. Delta offers the highest flight


frequency, with a daily non-stop service from Heathrow. BA also flies direct and there are one-stop services with Icelandair and other carriers. Most tour operators offer fly-drive options, twinned with a stay in Seattle.


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