Best General Washington Travel Guides of 2026

Nature's Silent Message, part of the Nature Book Series by Scott Stillman, is a captivating collection of essays based on his solo backpacking adventures across Western U.S. mountain ranges and desert canyons. The author emphasizes on the importance of listening to nature's silent message, which can teach us to live better and lead happier lives. Through his writing, Stillman conveys the idea of breaking free from old patterns and connecting with the ultimate intelligence that governs the natural world. The book is a perfect read for nature lovers who seek to deepen their connection with the wilderness and learn from it.

S is for Seattle is a delightful children's book that takes readers on a whimsical A-Z tour of Seattle's iconic landmarks, food, music, and nature. The book is illustrated with vivid design-centric images and short rhymes, making it a fun and engaging read for kids. From the Space Needle to the Gum Wall, readers will get to experience Seattle's unique culture and history. This book is not only great for kids but also for adults who want to learn more about Seattle. Overall, S is for Seattle is a must-have for anyone who loves the Emerald City and wants to share its magic with the little ones in their life.

"little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge" by Jessica Becker is an excellent guide for families who want to introduce their kids to hiking. The book provides 50 kid-friendly hikes on both sides of the Columbia River Gorge, along with safety information, camping and backpacking recommendations, and points of interest. What makes this guide unique is its focus on educating children about environmental and historical topics while on the trail. Jessica Becker's perspective as a homeschool mom and avid hiker is evident in the practical advice she offers on how to hike safely and have fun with kids. Overall, "little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge" is a valuable resource for families who want to explore the great outdoors together.

The "Washington Bucket List Adventure Guide & Journal" is a comprehensive travel guide that showcases more than 50 must-see destinations in Washington State. It provides readers with driving instructions, GPS coordinates, and information on the best time to visit, weather conditions, and average expenses. In addition, the guide offers a unique feature that allows readers to keep track of where they have been and where they plan to go next. The book is perfect for free spirits who crave deep connections with nature and want to explore the state's picturesque landscapes. Overall, this guide is an excellent resource for anyone looking to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Washington.

The Northern Olympic Peninsula - An Explorer's Guide is a top 10 best-seller travel book by Mike Fox Publications. It offers an updated guide for 2023, showcasing over 150 unique destinations and attractions to explore in Washington's Northern Olympic Peninsula. The book includes activities such as hiking, kayaking, whale watching, visiting historic lighthouses, and more. It also provides information on how to easily visit scenic Victoria B.C. from Port Angeles, among other great tips. It's a great resource for anyone looking to explore the beauty of the Pacific West United States.

"100 Things to Do in Spokane Before You Die" is a comprehensive guidebook for people who visit or live in Spokane, Washington. It covers a wide range of activities, including outdoor sports, recreation, wine tasting, craft whiskey and ale trails, and acclaimed restaurants. The book also highlights the city's literary and college town scene, as well as its "hipster-friendly, highly caffeinated" vibe. Written by the Spokesman-Review, this book is a must-read for anyone who wants to explore the best that Washington's second-biggest city has to offer."

The 2nd edition of "100 Things to Do in Seattle Before You Die" by Jake Uitti is an insightful guidebook that captures the essence of Seattle. The book covers everything from the city's diverse music scene, delicious cuisine, sports, and outdoor activities. Uitti has a friendly and conversational writing style that makes the book feel like you're getting advice from a friend. The book is a must-read for anyone planning a trip to Seattle, whether it's for a festival, family weekend, or a lifetime. Overall, the book is an excellent resource for discovering the hidden gems of the Emerald City.

Greater Than a Tourist- Olympia, Washington, USA by Jacob D. Saramago is a travel guide book that offers insider tips from a local. Unlike other travel books, this book doesn't provide exact addresses or store hours but instead gives readers excitement and knowledge about Olympia that they may not find elsewhere. It also includes bonus tips, a list of travel questions, and a place to write a travel bucket list. The "Greater Than a Tourist" series creator, Lisa, created this book series to help travelers slow down, stay in one place, and get to know the people and culture. Overall, this book is a must-have for anyone planning a trip to Olympia, Washington.

If you're looking for kid-friendly hikes in Southwest Washington and Mt. St. Helens, "little feet hiking two: 30 more hikes for kids" is a practical and inspiring guide that offers 30 hikes to explore with your family. It's a follow-up to "little feet hiking: 25 confidence-building hikes around Vancouver, WA" and provides learning opportunities for homeschooling or lifetime learning. The book includes high-level route maps to help you navigate the area. This hiking and camping excursion guide is a great addition to any family who wants to explore the beautiful area of Southwest Washington.

The Washington State Parks Bucket List is a must-have for anyone who loves outdoor adventures. The book contains a comprehensive list of state parks in Washington, with descriptions and maps of each park. It also includes pages for posting photos, inventory checklist, and a page for each park with everything you need to know. This journal is perfect for inspiring loved ones, children, and friends to embark on great adventures, making notes to make it more enjoyable and memorable, and sharing memories with loved ones. The book is a unique gift for couples, spouses, friends, and family. Overall, this book is an excellent travel guide that offers a comprehensive list of state parks in Washington and provides a unique experience for travelers.