It is the story of the mountains. And the picturesque landscapes created by these mountains.

The massive volcanic region that crosses the northwestern United States is the Cascade Range, which runs through Washington.

These mountains are not just beautiful; they are deeply rooted in the daily lives, landscapes, and even the hearts of the people of Washington.

Among them, there are three mountains that are particularly noteworthy. They are not just tall; they are like the roofs of Washington, each with its own charm and presence.

The first is none other than Mount Rainier. Just hearing the name gives a sense of weight, doesn't it? Standing at 14,411 feet, or 4,392 meters, this mountain is the highest in Washington and one of the tallest active volcanoes in the continental United States. Although it is currently quiet, it is still classified as an active volcano, which evokes a sense of awe.

The entire mountain is protected as Mount Rainier National Park, which contains 25 glaciers. Among them, the 'Emmons Glacier' is the largest glacier in the continental United States. The presence of glaciers alone is astonishing, and the hiking trails are incredibly diverse. In particular, the route named 'Disappointment Cleaver' is a popular trail that, contrary to its name, provides great satisfaction to many hikers. Seeing Rainier in person is truly overwhelming. Its grandeur is so immense that, on clear days, its majestic form can be distinctly seen from downtown Seattle.

The second is Mount Adams. Although it is less known than Rainier, it stands at an impressive height of 12,281 feet (3,743 meters). This mountain is also a volcano and part of the Cascade Range. It is the second highest mountain in Washington, but relatively less developed, allowing it to retain its natural beauty.

Mount Adams is a truly quiet mountain. Its lesser-known status has become an advantage, making it popular among backpackers and those who want to truly enjoy the mountains. There are various access routes from the north and south, and once you reach the summit, a picturesque view of surrounding mountain ranges and plains awaits. The most well-known route is the 'South Spur,' which is relatively gentle, making it accessible for beginner climbers.

The third mountain to introduce is Mount Baker. With a height of 10,786 feet (3,288 meters), it is also quite impressive. Located in Whatcom County, close to the Canadian border, this mountain has a unique feature: snow. It is known as one of the snowiest places in North America, turning into a winter wonderland.

As a result, Baker is very popular as a ski resort in winter, and in summer, it becomes an ideal place for hiking and climbing in the cool air. Mount Baker is also an active volcano. The last eruption was recorded in the 1880s, but it is said that the fire has not completely disappeared. The representative hiking route is the 'Coleman-Deming Route,' which allows you to experience the wonderful harmony of snow, ice, rock, and sky. This mountain is connected to North Cascades National Park, giving you the feeling of being part of a grand natural landscape rather than just viewing a single mountain.

Traveling through Washington State and taking in these three mountains will truly help you understand why this state is special. It's not just about their height and ruggedness; the expressions, climates, and landscapes of these mountains are entirely different. They are not just mere rocks; each is a piece of 'natural art' and history, serving as pillars that give Washington its distinctive presence.