Jabba2009 wrote:
Looking for something 3-4 hours away from Seattle. just a friday-monday trip.
Wow, nobody mentions the national parks.
#1 Olympic NP
Your children will feel like they were in the movie "Honey I Shrunk The Kids" in the beautiful rain forest walking under the house plants with leaves the size of tables, and knee deep moss. The sea shores and snow capped mountains are also awesome. The tide pools on the shore are really cool to play with the marine life, star fish, crabs, and all that.
#2 Mount Rainier NP
The mountain with great hiking into snow fields
The massive old growth trees everywhere
Both fun and educational. If you can't get into the primary campgrounds go for the primitive ones which I like better for the naturistic experience.
A word of caution. In the camp grounds, don't let your kids wanter off too far. They can easily get lost in the forest.....much easier than realized. You go with them and follow clues which direction is back to camp. A good compass would be a good idea if you are not used to that yourself. That way you don't have to be concerned. Set your course going in and reverse when returning. Easy!