Author name: Rylee

Cape Flattery in Washington State
Destinations, Hiking, Hiking Trail in Washington State, Most Popular Hiking Trails in Washington State

A Day Trip to Cape Flattery: Tips and Highlights for Visitors

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I spent my first year or so living in Washington state with a serious dedication to exploring the coastal areas. There’s something special about moving from a landlocked state to one along the ocean. Every viewpoint of the Pacific brings me a joy that I wasn’t able to find in Utah. Plus, the possibility of seeing creatures in the ocean keeps me coming back on a regular basis. My commitment to spending time near the ocean led me to visiting Cape Flattery. This viewpoint is on the northwestern most tip of Washington state and offers the most amazing views of the pacific. In this guide i’ll be sharing my experience visiting Cape Flattery as well as important tips for your adventures. Overview Cape Flattery sits on the very tip of Washington state. In fact, when you’re at the lookout here you can easily see Canada’s Vancouver island! This is a great spot to visit if you’re seeking views of the pacific coast and some amazing sea stacks. The hiking trail weaves through a mossy forest and then leads you out to the cliffs at the end of the trail. At the lookouts, you’ll see expanding views of the ocean. You’ll also get to look down into the calm water below and look for seals, or if you’re lucky, other marine animals. Getting to Cape Flattery To get to Cape Flattery from Seattle, follow these detailed directions. Cape Flattery is located on the Makah Reservation in the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Tatoosh Island. Directions from Seattle to Cape Flattery: Google Maps directions to Cape Flattery Tribal Recreation Pass: To access Cape Flattery and other recreational sites on the Makah Reservation, you will need to purchase a Makah Recreation Pass. The pass is required for each vehicle and can be obtained at several locations in Neah Bay: Cost and Validity: Tips for Visiting Cape Flattery The Cape Flattery Hiking Trail Overview of the trail Mileage: The trail is approximately 1.5 miles round trip (0.75 miles each way). Elevation Gain: The trail has minimal elevation gain, making it a relatively easy hike for most visitors. Parking Information: Dog Policy: Dogs are not allowed on the Cape Flattery Trail. This policy helps protect the natural environment and wildlife in the area. If you liked this post, you might also like..

woman in a hot springs in washington state
Destinations, Hiking, Other

The Best Hot Springs in Washington State & How To Find Them

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I spent many years in Northern Utah, and one of my favorite parts of living in that area was the easy access to hot springs. A few times a week I would get out of school and head straight to the hot springs for a few hours of soaking. When I moved to Washington I thought it was going to be easy to find a few local hot springs to enjoy. There’s so much geothermal activity in the state and in my mind that meant there are going to be tons of different hot springs in Washington. I quickly learned that I wasn’t 100% correct in this assumption. Many of the hot springs in Washington are inaccessible due to the dense forests. In Utah, I could easily just hike in to various springs, but in Washington it’s unsafe to go deep into the forest in search of illusive hot springs. Instead, I found myself having to explore more developed hot springs in Washington. It’s hard to find information on all of the different hot springs in the Pacific Northwest, but this post goes over all of the hot springs I’ve learned about in Washington state. Sol Duc Hot Springs Location Sol Duc hot springs is located on the Olympic Peninsula Pricing $15 per person for 90 minutes in the pools. Seasonality Sol Duc hot springs is open from the end of March to the beginning of November. Overview When it comes to hot springs in Washington state, Sol Duc is a famous option. When I first started researching areas where I could relax in Washington hot springs, Sol Duc was always the first option on the list. To visit these pools, you’ll have to make a reservation online in advance. When you first show up you’ll see that this is more of a spa retreat than an adventurous exploration. There are changing areas, storage lockers, and beautiful pools to explore. The plus side of this being a regulated experience is that the pools feel fairly clean! This is very different than many of the hot springs I used to hike into and explore. Carson Hot Springs Location Carson hot springs is located in southern Washington in the Columbia River Gorge. Pricing Seasonality Overview TenZen Hot Springs Location TenZen hot springs is located in southern Washington in the Columbia River Gorge. Pricing Carson Hot Springs offers a range of services and accommodations to fit different budgets. The pricing varies depending on the type of service and the time of the week. Here’s a general overview: Special discounts and packages are often available, especially for groups and extended stays. Seasonality Carson Hot Springs is open year-round, with each season offering a unique experience: Overview Carson Hot Springs, located in the scenic Columbia River Gorge in Washington State, is a historic retreat known for its natural mineral waters and tranquil atmosphere. Established in the early 1900s, the resort offers a variety of amenities including soaking pools, a bathhouse, a golf course, and spa services. Guests can relax in the hot springs, which are rich in minerals believed to have therapeutic properties, or enjoy a range of outdoor activities available in the area. The resort’s rustic charm and natural setting make it a popular destination for those looking to unwind and rejuvenate in a peaceful environment. Doe Bay Resort & Retreat Location Doe Bay Resort & Retreat is located in northwestern Washington on Orcas island. Pricing Doe Bay Resort & Retreat offers a variety of accommodation options and services to suit different preferences and budgets. Here’s a general overview of the pricing: Seasonal discounts and package deals are often available, particularly during the off-peak season. Seasonality Doe Bay Resort & Retreat is open year-round, with each season providing a distinct experience: Overview Nestled on the picturesque Orcas Island in Washington State, Doe Bay Resort & Retreat is a serene destination known for its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. The resort offers a range of accommodations, including campsites, yurts, cabins, and houses, making it a versatile destination for solo travelers, couples, and groups. Doe Bay is renowned for its holistic approach to relaxation and wellness, featuring soaking tubs, a sauna, and massage services. The on-site Doe Bay Café serves delicious, farm-to-table meals, with ingredients sourced from the resort’s own garden and local producers. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, such as hiking, kayaking, and yoga, or simply relax and soak in the stunning views of the Salish Sea. With its focus on sustainability and community, Doe Bay Resort & Retreat offers a unique and rejuvenating getaway experience. Olympic Hot Springs Location Olympic Hot Springs is located on the Olympic Peninsula. There is a 19 mile strenuous hike involved in getting to Olympic hot springs. Pricing Free Seasonality Only accessible during the late spring – early fall. Overview Olympic Hot Springs, nestled within Olympic National Park in Washington State, offers a rustic and serene escape for nature enthusiasts. Accessible via hike through old-growth forests, the natural hot springs feature several small, geothermal-heated pools. Unlike commercial sites, these springs remain undeveloped, providing a unique, immersive experience. Visitors can soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters amidst the scenic beauty of the Olympic Mountains and diverse flora and fauna. The area also offers excellent hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities. Practicing Leave No Trace principles is encouraged to preserve this pristine setting, making Olympic Hot Springs a perfect getaway for relaxation and rejuvenation in nature. Goldmyer Hot Springs Location Goldmyer hot springs is located near North Bend, Washington. This is only about an hour east of Seattle. Pricing Goldmyer Hot Springs offers a rustic, natural experience with a focus on sustainability and limited impact. Here is an overview of the pricing: Visitors must also purchase a Northwest Forest Pass or pay a day-use fee for access to the trailhead. Seasonality Goldmyer Hot Springs is open year-round, with each season providing a unique experience: Overview Goldmyer Hot Springs, nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains in Washington State,

View of zigzag falls from the bottom of the waterfall
Destinations, Hiking, Waterfalls

Zigzag Falls

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One of my favorite places to visit in the Pacific Northwest is Mount Hood. It sits just south of the southern Washington boarder about an hour east of Portland Oregon. The entire Mount Hood Wilderness Area is beautiful and screams PNW! Plus, this area of Oregon is famously known for its mass amount of waterfalls. Every time i’m in Oregon I try to visit a new waterfall, and recently on one of these trips I went to see Zigzag Falls. I was initially intrigued by the photos of the falls, and when I found out how easy the trail was I knew I had to stop by! This post will share a guide to visiting Zigzag falls and other activities, food, and lodging in the area. Overview of Zigzag Falls The Trail to Zigzag Falls The hike to this Oregon waterfall is one of the easiest trails you can find in the area. There’s only 0.6 miles of trail to navigate and 101 ft of elevation gain, which really just means that this trail is short and flat. It’s suitable for people of all ages and ability level. The hiking trail to Zigzag falls follows along the Little Zigzag river until you reach the waterfall. This river is incredibly clear and beautiful to sit along and soak in the views. You’re surrounded by tall trees, mossy rocks, and lush greenery along your entire walk to the falls. When I did this hike in mid July the entire trail was lined with fresh huckleberries ready to be eaten! It was fun getting to break every few steps and eat these tasty berries. Once you get to the waterfall, there’s a nice viewing area for you to take in the water flowing down this steep rock face. There’s also a bench that you can snag if someone else hasn’t gotten to it first! This is where the previously mentioned 0.6 mile trail ends, but if you’re feeling adventurous you can continue up above the falls. My group of hikers only went to the top of the falls, but it looked like the trail continued up the river for a ways. Make sure you are a confident hiker before climbing up over this area, I would consider the water above the waterfall as a no-fall zone. Magic in the Air: The Negative Ions I learned about Zigzag falls by talking to locals in the town of Welches. Multiple people recommended the hike to this waterfall due to the negative ions in the air here. Negative ions are molecules that have gained an extra electron, giving them a negative charge. They are abundant in natural environments, particularly around moving water, such as waterfalls, oceans, and rivers. These ions are believed to have a range of positive effects on human health and well-being. The continuous movement of water over the rocks at Zigzag Falls creates a natural process called ionization. When water molecules collide, they split and release negative ions into the air. The result is an environment rich in these beneficial ions, especially around the base of the falls where the mist is thickest. Believed Benefits of Negative Ions Food Nearby When I visited Zigzag falls I was staying in an Airbnb in the nearby town Rhododendron. There was a surprising amount of food in this area, and a couple of places I highly recommend you check out. 1. Chicali Cantina The food at Chicali Cantina was amazing! This is a local Mexican restaurant with a ton of options for tacos, burritos, salsas, and more. 2. Mt.Hood Baking Company Mt Hood Baking Company has an amazing 5 star score on Google! They’re one of the only bakeries in this area unless you travel into the nearby town of Sandy. They serve coffee and a variety of baked goods for you to enjoy. 3. Zigzag Mountain Cafe If you’re looking for a meal a little closer to Zigzag falls, the Zigzag Mountain Cafe is an affordable and delicious option. They’re known for their home cooked breakfast and pizzas! Other Trails Near Zigzag Falls Zigzag falls is just one of many hikes near Mount Hood. This area of Oregon is packed full of iconic trails worth seeing. Below are a few of my favorites. Conclusion If you’re searching for an easy and rewarding hike near Mount Hood, Zigzag falls is an amazing option. Spend some time soaking in the negative ions and enjoying the views at this amazing waterfall. If you liked this post, you might also like..

View of mountains along Highway 2
Destinations, Other

Top 10 RV Campsites in Washington State

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Deciding where to camp can be overwhelming. There are endless lists online of options for your next RV camping adventure. I seek out RV parks that are near water, dog friendly, and offer access to nearby activities or views. If these priorities align with your travel plans, this is the list of RV campsites for you! Deception Pass State Park Overview of Deception Pass State Park Camping Deception Pass has one of the best RV parks in Washington State. Located on Whidbey Island, it offers breathtaking views of Deception Pass Bridge and the surrounding waters. The park spans over 4,100 acres, providing ample space for outdoor activities and exploration. Its stunning location and diverse landscapes make it a top choice for RV enthusiasts visiting Washington. As one of the best RV parks in Washington State, Deception Pass is incredibly popular. It features well-maintained campsites, modern amenities, and a family-friendly atmosphere. The park’s coastal environment adds to its appeal, attracting visitors from all over. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, due to its high demand. The park is renowned for its extensive network of hiking trails. These trails offer a range of difficulty levels and scenic views. Notable trails include the Goose Rock Perimeter Trail and the Lighthouse Point Trail. Hikers can enjoy forested paths, coastal cliffs, and panoramic vistas. This variety makes Deception Pass State Park RV Park a haven for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. Lake Chelan State Park Overview of Lake Chelan State Park Campign Lake Chelan has another one of the premier RV parks in Washington State. Located on the southern shore of Lake Chelan, it offers picturesque views and a tranquil setting. The park covers 139 acres, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Its location in north-central Washington makes it a convenient destination for both local visitors and tourists. As one of the most popular RV parks in Washington State, Lake Chelan State Park RV Park attracts many visitors year-round. The park features well-maintained campsites with modern amenities, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Chelan are a major draw, offering excellent opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. Due to its popularity, reservations are recommended, especially during the busy summer months. Nearby hiking trails add to the appeal of Lake Chelan State Park RV Park. The Lakeshore Trail is a favorite, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Other trails, such as the Little Bear Trail, provide a mix of challenging climbs and scenic vistas. These trails allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area, making Lake Chelan State Park RV Park one of the best RV parks in Washington State for outdoor enthusiasts. Cape Disappointment State Park Overview of Cape Disappointment Camping Cape Disappointment State Park RV Park is one of the most scenic RV parks in Washington State. Located at the southwestern tip of the state, where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean, it offers breathtaking coastal views and a unique natural setting. The park spans over 2,000 acres, providing visitors with ample space to explore and enjoy the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest. As one of the popular parks for camping in Washington State, Cape Disappointment State Park RV Park attracts many visitors throughout the year. The park features well-maintained campsites with modern amenities, making it an ideal spot for families, couples, and solo travelers. Its coastal location offers a variety of recreational activities, including beachcombing, fishing, and wildlife watching. Due to its high popularity, reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons. Cape Disappointment State Park is renowned for its numerous hiking trails, which further enhance its appeal. The Cape Disappointment Trail and the North Head Trail are among the most popular, offering stunning views of the ocean, lighthouses, and surrounding forests. These trails vary in difficulty, providing options for both casual walkers and avid hikers. The combination of scenic beauty and outdoor activities makes Cape Disappointment State Park RV Park one of the best RV parks in Washington State for nature enthusiasts. Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park Overview of Sun Lakes-Dry Falls Camping Sun Lakes-Dry Falls is one of the most unique RV parks in Washington State. Located in the heart of central Washington, near Coulee City, it offers visitors stunning geological features and desert landscapes. The park covers over 4,000 acres, providing plenty of space for outdoor activities and exploration. Its location in the channeled scablands makes it a fascinating destination for geology enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As one of the well-loved parks in Washington State, Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park RV Park attracts numerous visitors each year. The park offers well-maintained campsites with modern amenities, making it a comfortable and convenient choice for families and solo travelers. The park’s centerpiece, the ancient Dry Falls, is a must-see, offering a glimpse into the area’s dramatic geological past. Due to its popularity, especially in the warmer months, early reservations are recommended. Nearby hiking trails enhance the appeal of Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park RV Park. The Dry Falls Lake Trail and the Umatilla Rock Trail are popular choices, offering spectacular views of the dramatic landscape. These trails vary in length and difficulty, catering to both casual hikers and avid trekkers. The combination of unique geological features and diverse outdoor activities makes Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park one of the best RV parks in Washington State for outdoor adventure. Fort Worden State Park Overview of Fort Worden State Park Camping Fort Worden State Park RV Park is one of the top parks in Washington State. Located in Port Townsend, this park offers a blend of historical charm and natural beauty. The park spans over 432 acres and features a stunning coastline along the Strait of Juan de Fuca, providing picturesque views and a variety of recreational opportunities. As one of the most popular parks in Washington State, Fort Worden State Park RV Park attracts many visitors each year. It

Two girls in hammocks while backpacking in Washington State
Hiking, Uncategorized

Backpacking Gear For Beginners

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A lot of prep work goes into a backpacking trip, and learning how to effectively pack comes with practice. Each trip I go on I learn what gear I really needed and what I know i’ll want for next time. If you’re a beginner backpacker and searching for advice on what to bring on your first trip, you’re in the right place. This guide will go over all of my favorite tried and true backpacking gear from the essentials to the splurge items I love. Essential Backpacking Gear Clothing Footwear Cooking and Hydration Navigation and Safety Personal Items Optional Backpacking Gear Tips If you liked this post, you might also like..

Three people doing cheers with their coffee in Seattle Washington
Seattle

The Top 15 Coffee Shops in Seattle

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Seattle, the coffee capital of the United States, is packed with unique cafes. When I moved to Washington I couldn’t believe the sheer quantity of coffee shops available to me. I spent the first few months spending way too much time and money searching for the best cup of coffee. Turns out, it was well worth it. I’m yet to find one single shop that has my heart, but here are my top 15 coffee shops in Seattle. Starbucks Reserve Roastery & Tasting Room Directions to Starbucks Reserve Roastery & Tasting Room When it comes to coffee shops in Seattle, visiting the Starbucks Reserve Roastery & Tasting Room is a no brainer. This is one of the popular tourist activities in Seattle, but even as a local I enjoy stopping by for a coffee. Espresso Vivace Directions to Espresso Vivace Espresso Vivance was one of the first coffee shops I visited when I moved to Seattle. When it comes to finding high quality espresso, this is one of the best coffee shops in Seattle! There are two locations in the city, both of which have a great vibe. Milstead & Co. Directions to Milstead & Co. Milstead & Co. is an adorable cafe in Fremont. I love spending an afternoon walking around Fremont soaking up the fun energy of this neighborhood. These afternoons typically consist of grabbing coffee at Milstead and wandering through the many shops in downtown Fremont. Victrola Coffee Roasters Directions to Victrola Coffee Roasters Caffe Vita Directions to Caffe Vita Elm Coffee Roasters Directions to Elm Coffee Roasters Seattle Coffee Works Directions to Seattle Coffee Works Anchorhead Coffee Directions to Anchorhead Coffee Analog Coffee Directions to Analog Coffee Slate Coffee Roasters Directions to Slate Coffee Roasters Storyville Coffee Company Directions to Storyville Coffee Company Zoka Coffee Roasters Directions to Zoka Coffee Roasters Broadcast Coffee Directions to Broadcast Coffee Caffé Umbria Directions to Caffé Umbria Fulcrum Coffee Directions to Fulcrum Coffee Conclusion: The Best Coffee Shops in Seattle Exploring the different coffee shops in Seattle is one of my favorite pass times in the city. The expectation to get a delicious cup of coffee creates a unique atmosphere in Seattle. Each cafe seems to be competing to brew the perfect coffee and add unique elements to their shop to draw people in. Get out and explore the many quirky and delicious coffee shops in Seattle today! If you liked this post, you might also like..

Rafters going over husum falls in White salmon Washington
Hiking, Hiking Trail in Washington State, Most Popular Hiking Trails in Washington State, Waterfalls

Top 5 Must See Waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge

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The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is a Pacific Northwest playground. Hikers traverse dramatic trails, windsurfers carve across the river, and rock climbers tackle sheer cliffs. But perhaps the most iconic feature of the gorge is its abundance of stunning waterfalls. Each with its own unique personality, these cascading marvels offer a breathtaking spectacle for visitors year-round. Now, onto the main event: chasing waterfalls! Here are five must-see cascades within the Columbia River Gorge, each offering a unique adventure: Multnomah Falls The undisputed crown jewel of the gorge, Multnomah Falls boasts a staggering 620-foot drop. A short, paved trail leads to an observation deck right behind the lower falls, offering a mesmerizing perspective. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season. While Multnomah Falls is accessible year-round, the winter can bring icy conditions. For a more strenuous adventure, tackle the Multnomah Falls Loop Trail, which ascends behind the falls for even more impressive views. Tunnel Falls Nestled within the lush greenery of Eagle Creek State Park, Tunnel Falls requires a moderate 4.6-mile hike. The highlight? The aptly named Tunnel Falls, where you can walk behind the cascading water via a short tunnel carved into the cliffside. This waterfall is best visited during spring runoff when the water flow is at its most dramatic. It’s important to note that due to recent wildfires, some sections of the Eagle Creek Trail may be closed, so check current conditions before you go. Punchbowl Falls Deeper within Eagle Creek State Park lies Punchbowl Falls, another gem accessible via a moderate 4.8-mile hike. The reward? A cascading waterfall plunging into a large, green-hued pool, perfect for a picnic or a refreshing dip (during permitted times). Similar to Tunnel Falls, Punchbowl Falls is best enjoyed during the spring when the water flow is strongest. Panther Creek Falls This 120-foot waterfall offers a convenient and scenic stop along the Historic Columbia River Highway. A short, paved trail leads to a viewing platform, making it perfect for families with young children or those seeking an easily accessible waterfall experience. Panther Creek Falls is beautiful year-round, but the spring brings wildflowers that add a colorful touch to the landscape. Falls Creek Falls Located on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge, Falls Creek Falls requires a moderate 4.6-mile out-and-back trail. While the hike itself is lovely, the true star of the show is the 250-foot waterfall cascading through a scenic gorge. This waterfall is best visited during the spring runoff for maximum water flow. Whether you seek a gentle stroll behind a cascading curtain or a challenging hike rewarded by a hidden gem, the Columbia River Gorge has a waterfall adventure waiting for you. So lace up your boots, grab your camera, and get ready to be awestruck by the power and beauty of these cascading wonders. The History of the Columbia River Gorge Native American tribes inhabited the region for millennia, and Lewis and Clark’s expedition documented its wonders in the early 1800s. The scenic majesty of the gorge led to a tourism boom in the late 19th century, with the construction of the Historic Columbia River Highway further boosting its popularity. Today, the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area attracts millions of visitors each year, eager to experience its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. If you liked this post, you might also like..

Man jumping into a snowy lake at the end of the rachel and ramparts lake hike
Hiking, Hiking Trail in Washington State, Hiking Trail Near Seattle Washington, Most Popular Hiking Trails in Washington State, Seattle

The 10 Best Hikes Near Seattle

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Most lists compiling the best hikes near Seattle include a wide range of Washington. This is because there are so many amazing hiking trails to choose from in the state! It surprises me when I read a list talking about the best hikes near Seattle and they include trails that are 3-4 hours away. While these trails further away from Seattle have a lot to offer, so do the trails within an hour of the city. This post will share a list of what I consider the best hikes within one hour of Seattle. 1. Mount Si Trail Directions to hike Overview of The Trail The Mount Si Trail is a popular destination for anyone wanting views of the cascade range. Frequently listed among the best hikes near Seattle, the trail offers amazing views and a real workout! Expect some crowds when you hike Mount Si and plan to go during an off time for the best experience. The hike begins in a dense forest and quickly turns into steep switchbacks. Along the way, there are occasional clearings where you can take in the surrounding landscape This includes views of Mount Teneriffe and the Snoqualmie Valley. The trail is well-marked and maintained, and you’ll almost always see other people along your hike. When you reach the summit you’ll find expansive views of the Cascades, Mount Rainier, and the Seattle skyline. The rocky feature at the top is known as “the Haystack” and is the final push to get to the very top. This does require a bit of scrambling! As one of the best hikes near Seattle, Mount Si offers a classic PNW hiking experience that combines exercise with scenery. 2. Mailbox Peak Directions to hike Overview of The Trail Mailbox Peak, a challenging and iconic hike located in the North Bend area of Washington State, is a must-visit for avid hikers seeking a rigorous adventure with rewarding views. Often listed among the best hikes near Seattle, the trail offers two routes: the old trail and the new trail. The old trail is a steep, direct ascent that climbs approximately 4,000 feet in just 2.5 miles, while the new trail, constructed to reduce erosion, provides a more gradual incline over 4.7 miles. Despite the longer distance, both trails eventually converge near the summit, offering a demanding trek through dense forest, rocky terrain, and narrow switchbacks. As hikers ascend Mailbox Peak, they navigate through a lush forest of towering evergreens, which provides a serene and shaded environment for the initial part of the journey. The trail’s rugged nature and significant elevation gain make it a true test of endurance and strength. Along the way, hikers are treated to occasional viewpoints that offer glimpses of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing a brief respite and a reminder of the breathtaking reward awaiting at the summit. The challenging nature of the hike is one reason it’s frequently mentioned as one of the best hikes near Seattle. Reaching the summit of Mailbox Peak is a triumphant moment, greeted by the iconic mailbox that gives the peak its name. This quirky landmark is filled with trinkets and notes left by previous hikers. The panoramic views from the top are nothing short of spectacular, encompassing the Snoqualmie Valley, Mount Rainier, and the Cascade Range. On a clear day, the vistas stretch as far as the eye can see, making the strenuous climb well worth the effort. While the descent can be just as challenging as the ascent, the sense of accomplishment and the stunning scenery make Mailbox Peak a quintessential Pacific Northwest hiking experience, and one of the best hikes near Seattle. 3. Middle Fork Snoqualmie Trail Directions to hike Overview of The Trail The Middle Fork Snoqualmie Trail is one of my top picks for the best hikes near Seattle. This trail extends up to 24 miles round trip, but doesn’t have to be that large of a trip. There are various points where hikers can choose to turn back, making it suitable for both short and long hikes. The trail meanders along the Middle Fork of the Snoqualmie River with views of the river, forests, and nearby peaks. The Middle Fork Snoqualmie Trail has many scenic spots perfect for breaks, picnicking, or soaking in the beauty. I’ve heard stories of people bumping into bears along this trail, so come prepared and be aware while you’re hiking! Overall, the trail’s beauty and lack of crowds makes it one of the best hikes near Seattle. 4. Franklin Falls via Denny Creek Directions to hike Overview of The Trail The Franklin Falls via Denny Creek Trail is a delightful and accessible hike that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and ease, making it a popular choice for families and novice hikers. Frequently listed among the best hikes near Seattle, this trail is only 2 miles round trip with an elevation gain of just 400 feet, making it an ideal outing for those looking to experience the great outdoors without a strenuous climb. The main highlight of the trail is the picturesque Franklin Falls, a stunning waterfall that cascades 70 feet into a rocky pool below. Starting at the Denny Creek Campground, the trail winds through a lush forest of towering evergreens and alongside the tranquil Denny Creek. The well-maintained path is relatively flat and wide, with gentle inclines that are manageable for hikers of all ages. Along the way, informative signs provide insights into the local flora and fauna, adding an educational aspect to the hike. The soothing sounds of the creek accompany hikers as they make their way towards the falls, enhancing the peaceful ambiance of the trail. The final approach to Franklin Falls is especially enchanting, as the trail narrows and descends slightly to bring hikers up close to the waterfall. The sight of the cascading water, especially during the spring melt, is truly breathtaking. The cool mist from the falls provides a refreshing break, and there are plenty of spots to sit

Summer activities graphic
Seattle

The Best Summer Activities in Seattle

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Going from winter to summer feel like a drastic change in Seattle. You go from a constant drizzle and dark days to bright warm days. The entire city seems to wake up and get involved in various outdoor activities. Whether you’re a seasoned Seattleite or a visitor, there’s always something new to discover under the summer sun. From kayaking alongside majestic mountains to savoring fresh seafood at Pike Place Market, this guide will jumpstart your unforgettable Seattle summer experience. Swimming in Seattle Swimming is one of the best summer activities in Seattle. It’s hard to find a place with air conditioning in the Pacific Northwest, so instead of beating the heat inside like I would in Utah, I head to the water! The Puget Sound Swimming in the Puget Sound is one of my favorite summer activities in Seattle. The water temperature sits around the high 60s in the summer and makes for a very refreshing dip on a warm day. You can go for a swim at a few different parks in Seattle. My main picks are Golden Gardens, Alki Beach, Carkeek park, or Discovery Park. Lake Washington If you’re looking for a warmer body of water to swim in, Lake Washington is perfect during the summer months. It stays cold until late June or July due to its size, but by mid summer the temperature averages in the mid 70s. You’ll see people lining the shores and laying out at the lake, as well as people on boats tubing or fishing in the summer. My favorite beaches on Lake Washington are at Magnuson Park, Matthews Beach, and St Edwards State Park. Lake Union This is another lake easily accessible from Seattle. I often see people kayaking, paddle boarding, and floating in the famous hot tub boats here. I personally prefer to go to one of the other swimming spots in Seattle over Lake Union. There is a lot of traffic on this lake and I find it more fun to swim in other areas. If you’re set on swimming in Lake Union you can visit Gas Works Park! Summer River Floats Near Seattle As far as summer activities in Seattle go, this is my favorite! I spend a lot of time on the rivers in Washington and am always excited to float no matter how easy or difficult the run is. There are a few great options if you’re wanting to get on a river this summer in Seattle, and if you’d like to hear about even more feel free to reach out to me! Fall City Float The fall city float is a fun 3 mile float that many Seattleites do every year. I recommend going in lake June and early July for the best water levels. By the time we get into lake July the water will be really low. You can still float this river at low flows, but it’s not as enjoyable. Most people just float on a classic river tube. The one that I use each year can be found here. Be aware of safety while you’re on the float. People get seriously injured every year and a few have died during this float. There is a bend about half way down the river that has a lot of trees piled up in the current. If your tube is pushed into these trees you can become tangled in the branches with the current flowing against you. The last time I did this float there was signage stating to get out and walk around this area, I recommend you do so! Whitewater Rafting on the Wenatchee River The Wenatchee river is my favorite river in Washington! I worked as a guide on this Leavenworth river and enjoy every minute on the water here. You’ll have to go with a group who is capable of navigating class 3 whitewater or book a guided tour. If you’re booking a tour, I recommend reaching out to the company Wildwater! Summer Hiking Trails Near Seattle There are many trails near the city, and if you’re looking for an activity to do in the summer in Seattle I recommend a hike! Hiking in Washington is one of my favorite things to do in the summer due to the amazing weather. It can still get hot in the middle of summer, so make sure you go somewhere with water if it’s going to be a hot day! Rachel and Rampart Lakes Trail I hike this trail each year and have a blast every time. It’s a 9 mile trail that I would consider moderately difficult due to the elevation gain. You hike in dense forest, along a river, past waterfalls, and finally up to a beautiful lake. This is a great hike to do on a hot day, just bring a swimsuit so you can take a dip at the top! The Enchantments Loop This is a difficulty hike located about two and a half hours from Seattle. Plan for 19 steep miles winding through alpine lakes that are out of this world. Most people try to get backpacking permits for this trail and never succeed due to how difficult it is to get these permits. Instead, what many people end up doing is through hiking it. For more information on the Enchantments through hike you can read about it in my blog post here. Lake Serene and Bridal Veil Falls This trail is known as a classic amongst Washington hikers! The trail is steep and fairly long, but well worth the trip. You’re hiking in some of the mossiest forests near Seattle until you reach a rocky summit and bright blue lake. Along the trail you’ll see signs for a short detour to Bridal Veil Falls and I highly recommend you go to the falls. It’s especially great to visit the falls on a hot day if you need to cool off before you start the steep incline up to Lake serene. Visit A Park In Seattle The

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