I can’t claim to know all the hidden spots in Washington, but of all the hikes I’ve climbed and towns I’ve explored this one spot sticks out in my mind for a single reason: picnics. I first visited in April, on a brisk day when the greenery was just starting to revive itself after a cold winter. Even so, the potential for an amazing picnic … Continue reading The Best Hidden Picnic Spot in Washington State
When you’re in the middle of the rainy season, you can’t always bring yourself to travel 2+ hours for a good hike. I get it, and I hear you. Sunny days are still few and far between, so here are four beautiful hikes to get your outside fix without spending the whole day in transit. They have great views, moderate elevation, and are perfect for … Continue reading 4 Fulfilling Hikes within 1 Hour from Seattle
Living in Seattle means I don’t often get over the Olympic Mountains. For whatever reason the stars aligned this spring and I not only did my first solo hike in the Olympics, but I also went on a killer camping trip to the Hoh Rainforest. We hiked the Hoh River Trail to the Happy Four Shelter campsite, about 6 miles, to spend the night sleeping … Continue reading Springtime in the Hoh Rainforest
It took approximately 7 months to make it across the Sound and over to the Olympic Mountains. Too long, but Mount Storm King made for an incredibly scenic and ass-kicking first hike in Olympic National Park. I’d recommend this short, 2,000 ft stairmaster to anyone looking for regal views, mildly sweaty palms and buns of steel. Go on a windy day and you will absolutely feel like a king (or queen) upon it’s summit, and you might just be the only one up there. Continue reading Feel Like Royalty on Mount Storm King in Olympic National Park
This popular hike is classified in many places as a child-friendly hike, but the big steps, fallen tree hazards, and steep inclines put this in the “adult” category for me. It’s muddy, rocky and wet, so lush vegetation abounds. On a sunny day, like the one we had, the afternoon light will hit just right through the trees and give you a whimsical sense of being in a fairyland. The diverse trail and large lake at the end make it understandable why this hike is a favorite for many. Continue reading Fairytale Hike on Heather Lake Trail
This is more a less a how-to on snowshoeing in Washington. I’ve gone once, so I’m claiming to be an expert like the rest of the internet. In all seriousness though, snowshoeing is easy! Easier than you think. It’s quick to learn, fun, and accessible for just about anyone in any snowy place. I had a great time renting snowshoes and taking to the powder for a few hours this month in Snoqualamie at Gold Creek Pond. Here’s how I did it, what I learned, and the advice I’d give to other newbies. Continue reading Washington Snowshoeing for Beginners
As you can guess by the title we didn’t make it to the top, where sits a colorful mailbox full of hiking treasures. We could blame it on the weather, but really we were ill prepared and misguided. The New Mailbox Peak Hiking Trail isn’t a walk in the park, but the views we did see left an impression that will have us returning for a true ascent soon. Grab your crampons and buckle up for some serious adventure. Continue reading A Snowy Attempt at New Mailbox Peak
Looking for a quick ski trip close to Seattle? Steven’s Pass is a favorite among local and visitors alike. While I’m not sure I’d recommend visiting the slopes on New Years weekend, we found plenty to do without waiting in lift lines. Picturesque snowy landscapes, an adventurous hike, snowmobiling, and a quaint town await in Plain, Washington. Continue reading Plain, Washington: Not flashy, but definitely not boring.
You’ve seen the photos—Washington’s unofficial “most-Instagrammed” waterfall—and you wonder if it’s really all that cool. Franklin Falls is a photographer’s dream. A wild and tall falls just a quick 30 min walk to and fro, that’s suitable for absolutely any age and capability (read: very easy). It’s worth walking to in the rain or snow, and I’m looking forward to getting back there when it’s frozen. Continue reading Franklin Falls: Washington’s Unofficial “Most-Instagrammed” Waterfall
It doesn’t quite feel like the holidays until you’ve seen a light dusting of snow that finally sticks to the ground. It gently covers everything in sight and makes you feel pure bliss for wintertime, if only for a brief moment. We couldn’t have picked a better trail to experience pure bliss on than Annette Lake Trail in North Bend, WA. Continue reading First Snow at Annette Lake Trail
Where in Washington 