For those visiting the Seattle area as well as those living around it there is a great place to get away not far that will transport you to a European Alpine like atmosphere.
Leavenworth is the place. Just two hours away from Seattle, it is a beautiful little town in the central Cascades. You can go all year around. My favorite season is winter, our kids love sledding and we can go skiing; cross-country is right there though downhill is an hour away to Stevens Pass going back West or the other way to Mission Ridge by Wenatchee. There are many other things to do as well.
CD