Day Tripper

Mount Rainier National Park

From May through October, Evergreen Escapes and Tours Northwest offer 10- to 11-hour full-day journeys that provide a dazzling insider’s view of this spectacular park and its 14,410-foot namesake peak. You’ll traipse through wildflower-dotted meadows, before roaring waterfalls, and under towering old-growth conifers. And in summer, Evergreen Escapes trips offer the chance to pick wild berries. nps.gov/mora

The Summit at Snoqualmie

You can be skiing or snowboarding at this renowned winter-sports resort in no time by booking a trip with the convenient To the Mountain Shuttle. Buses and vans run daily throughout the winter season; there’s also summer service starting in mid-June for those wanting to hike, mountain bike, and ride the scenic chairlift. summitatsnoqualmie.com

San Juan Islands

More than 170 hilly, green islands make up this scenic archipelago in the Salish Sea, 75 miles northwest of Seattle. Kenmore Air flies six-passenger seaplanes on breathtakingly scenic flights to the three largest islands: Lopez, Orcas, and San Juan, and Friday Harbor Seaplanes has scheduled service just to San Juan Island, where you can rent bikes and kayaks, whale-watch, gallery-hop, and feast on fresh seafood. On Orcas, go for a hike on Mount Constitution or check out the boutiques of Eastsound. And on laid-back Lopez Island, you’ll find friendly eateries and unique shops in the main village. visitsanjuans.com

Friday Harbor Seaplanes at San Juan Island Daniel Piker

Whidbey Island

After taking the Mukilteo-Clinton Ferry to this verdant, 168-square-mile island just northwest of Seattle, it’s a quick and easy drive to the charming and walkable downtowns of Langley, Freeland, and Coupeville, with their ice cream stands, gift shops, and laid-back bistros. There’s also light hiking and picturesque beachcombing to be had at Fort Casey State Park (1280 Engle Rd, Coupeville) and dog-friendly Double Bluff Beach (6378 S Double Bluff Rd). whidbeycamanoislands.com

Woodinville Wine Country

Leave the driving to the local experts and book a day tour from Seattle to one of the West Coast’s leading wine towns. Both Wine Tasting Shuttle and Bon Vivant Wine Tours pick you up at your downtown hotel for a day of tasting and touring at acclaimed wineries, including lunch at a renowned restaurant. woodinvillewinecountry.com