You Can’t Fake Natural Beauty—That’s Why the West Coast Wins
Plenty of states talk a big game about loving the outdoors—but when it comes to real access, preservation, and postcard-worthy scenery, the West Coast doesn’t need to brag. It just delivers. California, Oregon, and Washington have some of the most iconic landscapes in the country—and they stay iconic because these states spend real money protecting them.
While others pave over, privatize, or cut funding, West Coast states double down on public access, park upkeep, and sustainable tourism. You can’t fake epic coastlines, glacier-fed lakes, or forests that stretch for miles. And you definitely can’t fake policies that keep them open and clean.
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Oregon Protects What Other States Fence Off
One of Oregon’s biggest flexes? All 362 miles of its coastline are public. That’s not common. Thanks to the Oregon Beach Bill, passed in 1967, anyone can walk, explore, and photograph any beach in the state—no exclusive resorts or private fences blocking the view (source: Oregon Parks and Recreation).
Beyond beaches, Oregon invests heavily in outdoor recreation, with over 11,000 miles of hiking trails and hundreds of state park sites. From Crater Lake to the Painted Hills, the state’s natural beauty stays accessible because it’s treated as a shared resource—not a profit center.
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California Has More National Parks Than Any Other State
California isn’t just known for its beaches and cities—it’s the most biodiverse state in the U.S. and home to nine national parks, more than any other state (source: National Park Service). Think redwood cathedrals, alpine lakes, desert canyons, and waterfalls—all within a day’s drive.
The state pours serious funding into preserving these places, managing wildfire risks, expanding trail access, and improving infrastructure like shuttles and campgrounds. Yosemite alone sees over 3 million annual visitors, and it still manages to feel wild thanks to how it’s protected.
This isn’t ruggedness by accident—it’s the result of long-term investment and smart policy.
Washington Is the Pacific Northwest’s Show-Off (For Good Reason)
Mountains, volcanoes, islands, and rainforests—Washington has all of it, and it’s not shy about showing it off. The state’s crown jewels—like Mount Rainier, Olympic National Park, and the North Cascades—are national treasures. But what sets Washington apart is how well-funded and accessible those natural wonders are.
Washington has more than 100 state parks and consistently ranks among the top states for per-capita outdoor recreation spending (source: Washington Recreation and Conservation Office). Trails are maintained. Access is prioritized. Scenic drives like the Cascade Loop and ferry systems to the San Juans make the journey part of the experience.
It’s not just pretty—it’s well-managed.
Other States Talk About Freedom—But These States Let You Roam
Let’s be honest: having a gorgeous landscape doesn’t matter much if you can’t reach it, afford it, or legally enjoy it. That’s where the West Coast shines. These states don’t just look good—they build access into their values. Public beaches, well-funded state parks, ADA-compliant trails, and preservation laws ensure everyone can experience the view.
Want to camp without breaking the bank? Oregon’s state park campgrounds are among the most affordable and accessible in the country. Want to surf and hike on the same day? California has you covered. And Washington lets you island-hop with a public ferry system that feels like part of the adventure.
The result? Real freedom to explore. And views that are 100% earned.
MORE ON THE WEST COAST:
READ MORE: The Best of Oregon
READ MORE: The Best of Washington
READ MORE: The Best of California
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