3 Unique Parks

Washington state is home to many beautiful parks and natural wonders, but some of its most unusual attractions can be found hidden within these natural landscapes. Here are three of the most unique and unforgettable attractions you can find in Washington parks.

Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park

VANTAGE - Located in central Washington, Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park is a geological wonder that is home to some of the most well-preserved petrified wood in the world. The park features a 7-mile trail that winds through the remains of an ancient forest, where you can see petrified tree trunks that are up to 200 feet long and 16 feet wide. The park also offers guided tours, a museum, and a campground for visitors.

The Tree That Owns Itself

HOQUIAM - Tucked away in a small park in the coastal town of Hoquiam, Washington, stands a tree that owns itself. The Western red cedar tree, known as the “Hoquiam Tree,” was deeded ownership of the land it stands on in 1936 by a local resident who wanted to protect it from being cut down. The tree’s unusual ownership status has made it a beloved attraction for visitors to the town, and a plaque at the base of the tree explains its unique story.

The Gravity Hill

PROSSER - Located near the Yakima River in eastern Washington, the Gravity Hill is a mysterious natural phenomenon that appears to defy the laws of gravity. The hill appears to slope upward, but if you stop your car and put it in neutral, it will roll uphill instead of downhill. The Gravity Hill has been a popular attraction for decades, with visitors coming from all over to experience the strange sensation for themselves.

Washington state’s parks are full of surprises and unique attractions that are sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors. From ancient petrified forests to mysterious gravity hills, there is no shortage of unusual things to discover in these natural wonderlands.