I have always been of the opinion that Washington is one of the most scenic states, and the Pacific Northwest region in general. Majestic mountains, evergreens, fresh water lakes, rivers, and streams provide post card scenery. But then, maybe I am biased. From the avoid-winter-creature I am, admittedly even the snow covered, ice glistening terrain of this state conjures up picture perfect holiday nostalgia and memories of a time when this cold stuff was fun.
An old friend once tried to convince me of the need for contrasting seasons to keep oneself in balance, and experience a greater appreciation for each and enhanced zest for life. I have yet to succumb to the need to live by such philosophy. However like the contrast in seasons, Washington State also has contrasting terrain, from green and mountainous to dry and desert flatlands, from cities and towns to country and agriculture, Pacific Ocean coasts to rainforests and islands. Summers provide a number of outdoor activities like hiking, rafting, sailing, and camping, while winters provide snowmobiling and skiing.
Visits to Washington usually always include a few days enjoying the local culture of the Seattle area, downtown to Pike Place Market, around the waterfront, Space Needle, and the Seattle Music Project if time permits, and morning scones at Chinook’s. When possible, making the drive over both mountain passes to Central Washington and Wenatchee provides two different sets of worthwhile mountainous scenery. A must stay location is always Jos Cottage in Lake Wenatchee a short turn off of Steven’s Pass, just up the road from the Bavarian styled town of Leavenworth, 
recently labeled by The Travel Channel as One of the Most Christmasy Places in America.
Once called the “Apple Capital of the World”, Wenatchee and surrounding Central Washington is rapidly becoming wine producing country, with wineries and grapes now combing the landscape even around the 
vast and deep Lake Chelan, in addition to known places such as the Columbia Valley. Apples, cherries, peaches, pears, Walla Walla sweet onions, good wine, great Mexican food, tasty burgers, an event for every season and a coffee/ espresso drive through kiosk on every corner with an active outdoor lifestyle. . . how can you go wrong?
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