The Evergreen Gem

Known as “The Evergreen State,” Washington wears its nickname proudly. More than half of the state is blanketed in dense, emerald forests, dominated by, you guessed it, evergreens. It’s a landscape that feels alive in every direction, from towering pines to misty coastal trails.

From the rugged Pacific shoreline to the snow-capped peaks of the Cascade and Olympic Mountain Ranges, Washington delivers the best of both worlds: mountains and ocean, no need to choose just one! There’s no doubt that nature truly takes the spotlight here, not only for its postcard-worthy scenery, but also it's skyline defined by three iconic stratovolcanoes: Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Baker. And if the scenery isn’t captivating enough, local lore adds its own twist, stories of the elusive Sasquatch said to roam the misty forests of the Pacific Northwest.

Natural Beauty Meets Innovation

While Washington is celebrated for its wild landscapes, it’s equally known for its innovation and creativity. The state is the birthplace of global icons like Amazon, Microsoft, and Starbucks, making it one of the leading tech and business hubs in North America.

Yet, even amid the buzz of innovation, Washington stays deeply rooted in its agricultural heritage. It’s the nation’s largest producer of apples, raspberries, and sweet cherries, and its colourful Skagit Valley Tulip Festival draws visitors from around the world each spring. Rows upon rows of tulips bloom across the valley, creating a picture-perfect symbol of Washington’s natural beauty and vibrant spirit. 

Life OUTCAN in Washington

Washington’s military presence runs deep, and Canadian Armed Forces families posted here often find themselves near two major U.S. installations: Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) and Naval Air Station Whidbey Island (NASWI). Both offer unique experiences, from the urban energy of Tacoma to the coastal calm of island life, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Pacific Northwest.

Located just south of Tacoma and about an hour from Seattle, JBLM is one of the largest and most active military installations in the United States. It’s home to both Army and Air Force personnel, giving it an energetic, international atmosphere. The base sits between Puget Sound and Mount Rainier, so you’re never far from mountain views, forest trails, or the water. Families posted here often describe JBLM as the perfect balance of convenience and adventure. The surrounding area offers everything from big-city amenities to weekend getaways in the wilderness. Tacoma has a growing arts and food scene, Seattle is close enough for a day trip, and nearby towns like DuPont and Puyallup are popular for their family-friendly neighborhoods.

For those posted further north, NAS Whidbey Island sits along the coast about two and a half hours from Tacoma. Reached by the scenic Deception Pass Bridge, the island’s distance from the mainland can make this posting feel a little more remote, adding to its quiet pace and small-town charm. NASWI’s host community, Oak Harbor, has a population of about 24,000 (2024). With roughly 9,000 military members and their families stationed at the base, the military community makes up more than half of the town’s population. The Canadian presence here is part of TUSCPAC, a specialized unit that works closely with U.S. counterparts in sonar operations, tracking underwater activity across the Pacific. It’s a close-knit, collaborative environment, with a twin site located in Virginia.

Finding Home in the Evergreen State

Whether you find yourself under towering evergreens, sipping coffee in a Seattle café, or gazing out over Mount Rainier on a clear day, you’ll quickly understand why Washington State captures the hearts of so many who call it home, even for a 3-4 year posting.

Evergreen Extras 

• Famous Backdrops: When you think of Washington State, a few Hollywood favourites might come to mind — Sleepless in Seattle, 10 Things I Hate About You, and even Twilight. And for a touch of movie magic, Practical Magic was filmed right on Whidbey Island! 
• Coffee Capital: Starbucks was founded in Seattle in 1971, and Washington has the most coffee shops per capita in the U.S.
• Music Roots: The grunge movement (think Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden) started in Seattle.
• Rainy Reputation: While Seattle is known for drizzle, did you know it actually gets less annual rainfall than New York City?