Going to Mount Rainier with kids? You’re in for a treat, because Mount Rainier is a fantastic place to spend time exploring with little ones! We live 2 hours from Mount Rainier and have visited countless times, and in every single season. Read on for more about my favorite kid-friendly activities at Mount Rainier. When…
Sahale Glacier Camp is perhaps the most coveted backpacking destination in all of the North Cascades. The hike to the glacier is touted as the most spectacular trail in the region, if not the state. If you are looking for breathtaking 360-degree mountain views, incredible wild animal sightings, resplendent wildflower blooms in summer or fall…
When I moved to the Seattle area many years ago, I felt like spring was one of the hardest times of year. You’ve survived a long and dark winter, and now there’s still plenty of rain and the higher altitude mountain trails still aren’t open! Then I discovered the joy of wildflower hiking. The Pacific…
One of the most common questions I get asked about moving to Washington is, “But what about the rain?” Yes, it does rain here quite a bit, but no, it isn’t a deal breaker for me. While I don’t always love how wet it can get here, I do realize that the rain we have…
The North Cascades area is one of the most gorgeous places in all of Washington state, heck, probably even in the entire Pacific Northwest region! It is filled with stunning mountain peaks, glacial water, alpine lakes, and rich wildlife. It is also known as being a hiker’s paradise…for intense hikers. The majority of the hikes…
Spring hiking in Washington can be wonderful, but also tricky! Hikers are restless and eager to get to higher mountain trails that are inaccessible in the winter, the sun is shining more regularly, and the promise of summer awaits. However, there is definitely still snow in many mountainous areas. Here is a list of my…
It’s a beautiful day, and you want to be outside enjoying nature, but you don’t feel like doing a big workout. Or maybe you’re going with small children or older family members, and you want something that is suitable for everyone. You’re looking for the best easy hikes in Washington state. I’ve got you covered! …
Washington is known for its natural beauty, particularly its epic mountain ranges. With the mountain ranges (Cascades, Olympics, and Enchantments among the most notable) and generous rainfall and glacial history comes gorgeous mountain lakes. Read on for everything you need to know about the best lake trails in Washington: which trails are the best, where…
Mt. Rainier is filled with lush meadows, scenic vistas, soaring mountain ranges, gem-colored lakes, and beloved fire lookouts. If you’re looking for the best hikes at Mt. Rainier National Park with incredible views, read on for everything you need to know about the best hikes at Mt. Rainier National Park: where to find amazing views…
Washington is full of water and mountains, which means excellent waterfalls! In this post, you’ll find the best waterfalls in Washington: where they are, trail information, and of course, pictures. And maybe some bonus tips thrown in along the way! One of the best and worst things about Washington (for this California desert transplant) is…