Author name: Rylee

View of Mt Baker in Washington State
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Free Camping in Washington State

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When I was living in Utah I used to go camping on BLM land land all of the time. It was free, easy to find, and offered me a place to sleep when I was doing various outdoor activities. When I moved to Washington, I couldn’t find any information on where to camp for free. It took time, but eventually I learned about free camping on forest service roads in Washington. In this blog I will talk about the rules around free camping in Washington State. What is Forest Service Road Camping? Forest Service road camping, also known as dispersed camping, involves setting up camp along designated Forest Service roads on public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Unlike traditional campgrounds, where reservations and fees are required, dispersed camping allows you to camp for free in designated areas, often with no amenities. One of the great parts about doing this in Washington is that there is typically a river or lake nearby, so as long as you pack your water filter you will have plenty of water! Rules and Regulations While free camping in Washington is fairly easy, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations. By following these guidelines, you can help preserve Washington state while you save a little money. Stay in Designated Areas: When camping on Forest Service roads, be sure to choose designated dispersed camping sites indicated by established campsites or signs. Avoid setting up camp in undesignated areas to minimize your impact on the environment and protect sensitive ecosystems. These areas should be fairly obvious. Look for established fire rings, large pull outs, and as a best practice sleep at least 200 feet away from any stream or body of water. Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash and waste, including food scraps and human waste. Leave your campsite cleaner than you found it to preserve Washington state. I also encourage you to bring an extra trash bag along and take a few minutes to clean up any garbage you can find. I have camped along forest service roads in Washington countless times, and it is rare that I don’t find any garbage to clean up. If we all work together we can clean up Washington state one campsite at a time. Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from wildlife and refrain from feeding or approaching animals. Store food securely in bear-resistant containers or bear-proof lockers to prevent encounters with wildlife and minimize the risk of attracting bears to your campsite. Be sure not to leave food at the campsite when you leave in order to keep future campers safe. A fun fact about bears is that they have incredible memories. They can remember where they found food and they will come back around looking for more. Campfire Safety Follow local fire regulations and restrictions when building campfires. Use existing fire rings where available and always fully extinguish your campfire before leaving your campsite or going to sleep. Consider using a portable camp stove for cooking to reduce the risk of wildfires. This is incredibly important due to the increase in wildfires over the past few years. As a general rule, if you’re unsure about fire regulations just stay on the safe side and opt out. Stay Limitations Most Forest Service roads in Washington state have specific stay limitations for dispersed camping. These typically range from 14 to 16 days within a 30-day period. Where to Find Information For detailed information on dispersed camping opportunities and regulations in Washington State, visit the official website of the U.S. Forest Service. Additionally, the Washington Trails Association offers valuable resources and tips for planning your dispersed camping adventure, including trip reports, trail conditions, and Leave No Trace guidelines.Washington Trails Association Conclusion Sometimes there is no way to get around paying for a campsite, but I almost always opt for free camping in Washington state. I have camped on forest service roads countless times and have had really great experiences. Pack your bags, grab your phone, pull up your map, and start looking for forest service roads that you can camp at for free in Washington. It’s as simple as that! If you liked this post, you might also like..

Waterfall on the way to Rachel Lake in Washington
Destinations, Hiking, Hiking Trail in Washington State, Hiking Trail Near Seattle Washington, Other

Backpacking Rachel and Rampart Lakes

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f you’re short on time but still want to backpack near Seattle, I highly recommend checking out Rachel and Rampart lakes. I did a short backpacking trip up to the lakes my first year living in Seattle and loved it so much I went back the next year! If you’re looking for the perfect beginner friendly backpacking trail you’re in the right place. Getting to Rachel and Rampart Lakes Trailhead from Seattle One of the main reasons that I enjoyed this hike was it’s accessibility from Seattle. It takes me around 1.5 hours to to get here from my house near downtown Seattle, making it a great trip to start after work on a Friday. From downtown Seattle, you get on I-5 and then merge onto I-90 east. You stay on I-90 for about an hour until you get off at exit 65. From there, you’ll take a left. After driving about 5 miles you’ll find a split in the road. Here you want to stay left, if you go right you’ll end up at Lake Katchess Campground. You’ll continue on for .3 miles until you then turn right at a sign that says “Rachel Lake Trail 1313”. Continue on this road for another 4 miles until you arrive at the parking lot. You’ll see a few campsites along the road up to the trailhead. I have thought about driving up and car camping in one of these spots, but they have been taken every time I have driven by. If you really want to car camp in one of these spots I recommend arriving in the morning to snag a spot. Trail Overview Mileage: 8.9 Miles round trip Elevation: 2,526 ft Fees: North West Forest pass or $5 cash at the trailhead After you arrive and get your bags ready to go, you will head East in the parking lot and start on the Rachel and Rampart Lakes trail! The trail starts with you hiking uphill, but it levels out shortly after. You’ll hike along a creek and weave through old growth forest. The forest is dense out here so plan for it to be dark about an hour before the sun actually sets. The trail stays fairly flat until you hit the climb up to the lakes. You climb 2,526 ft in around 2 miles, so be prepared for it to be steep. There are lots of areas along the trial where you can take a break, and even a few spots that have water access. I’m not going to lie, every time I have done this hike I convince myself that we’re almost to the top only to realize I have hit what I will call a false summit. Try to remember that the uphill might seem never-ending, but you’ll get there! There is a waterfall near the top that is the perfect spot to take a break and sit by the water. 4 miles in you will arrive at Rachel Lake. Rachel Lake The blue water, trees, and waterfalls up there are amazing. The camping up here is perfect for someone who hasn’t done many backpacking trips. There are lots of campsites scattered around, a primitive toilet, and lake access for swimming. Every time I have slept up here the spots have filled up quick, so make sure you set up camp and then go explore the rest of the area. If you want to continue up to Rampart Lakes, that is another miles or so up the mountain. This section of the trail is very steep, but you get to look down at Rachel Lake on your way up so it never seems quite as intense. You’ll reach an expansive alpine meadow with what feels like hundreds of little lakes. You can wander around up here, but try your best to stay on the trail as to not disrupt the surrounding area. There are campsites scattered around up here but no toilets. Daily Itinerary This itinerary is for the first time backpacker who wants to have a chill first experience. This will also be a Friday – Sunday itinerary, minimizing the amount of time you’ll need to take off from work. Day 1: Arrive at Rachel and Rampart Lakes trailhead at 2pm and begin hiking at 3pm. Hike from the parking lot to Rachel Lake. Here, you will set up camp, cook dinner, and relax for the evening. Day 2: Spend the morning at Rachel Lake. Depending on how hot the weather is, begin hiking up to Rampart Lakes. If it is very hot I recommend going before 12 or after 4 because this section is fairly exposed. Set up camp at Rampart Lakes and enjoy your evening there. Another alternative is to do a day hike from Rampart Lakes to Alta Mountain. For more information on Alta Mountain, click here. Day 3: You only have a 4 mile hike back to your car at this point, and it’s all downhill. You could spend the day on a day hike, stay by the lakes, or head back home. What to Pack for Rachel and Rampart Lakes If this is your first backpacking trip, just know that you’re going to bring the wrong stuff. It takes a couple of trips to figure out what you really want to be carrying in, and just make do with what you have. The most common thing that I see is beginners over-packing. Thankfully, this trail is a really great beginner trail and you’ll be able to survive if you bring the bare minimum or if your bag is too heavy on the way up. My packing list for this trail is as follows: This trail is seasonally closed in the Winters due to snowfall. Make sure that you check on WTA or AllTrails for up to date trail conditions. If you go in the summer, be prepared for mosquito hell! When I went last July, we had read report after report on how terrible the mosquitos were at

Whitewater raft guide training on the Sauk River
Information on Whitewater Rafting, Whitewater

How I Became A Whitewater Raft Guide in Washington

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In 2021, I embarked on an adventure that would change my life. I left Utah behind and set my sights on Washington state with a singular goal. I was going to learn how to navigate class three whitewater as a raft guide. During my time in Washington I not only developed my rafting skills but also discovered an enduring passion for rivers. Along the way, I delved into the world of whitewater kayaking, created lasting friendships, and gained insights into river rescue techniques. I now tend to enjoy whitewater kayaking more than rafting, but I never would have been introduced to the world of kayaking without the rafting community. For those eager to explore the thrill of whitewater, I offer the following advice. Basic whitewater classes are essential, but there’s no substitute for the experience a summer of raft guiding will give you. Join me on this blog journey as I reflect on the lessons learned both before and during my inaugural season as a whitewater rafting guide. From the highs to the challenges, I’ll share candid insights and reveal what I would do differently if given the chance to turn back the clock. My Whitewater History Back in 2018 when I was graduation high school, my whitewater experience was limited. At that point, I had gone on three whitewater rafting trips. They were all payed tours, but each time I was so draw to the guides. I spent the entire trip asking them how they became guides and was searching for advice on how I could end up in the same position as them. Fast forward to the summer of 2020 – I was living with my dad and going absolutely stir crazy. We decided that we needed something fun to do one weekend, so we drove to the Green River in Utah, rented a raft, and got ourselves down the river. Now, to be clear, this is not something I recommend. You shouldn’t go out on the river without taking safety precautions. That being said, this trip is the main reason why I decided to become a guide. I started obsessing with the idea of living on the river with people who loved the lifestyle as much or more than myself. This led me to researching many different companies, areas in the United States, and types of rivers. All of this is what ultimately brought me to Leavenworth, Washington. Finding the Right Company When I was finally ready to become a guide it was going to be for the summer 2021 season. I started doing my research on different companies in the December 2020. In order to become a guide, you typically have to pay a company to train you and then hopefully get hired on at their company. I was looking for a place that would reimburse training if you continued to guide for them because I wanted to make this happen as cheaply as possible. There was a lot of back and fourth but I ended up choosing a company in Washington State. My key takeaways from selecting a company for your first season are: Housing as a Raft Guide Choosing the Right Company Continued First Season of Whitewater Guiding The first few weeks of guiding after training are going to be intense. I remember having thoughts like, “ How am I responsible for getting this group of people down the river safely?”. That is completely normal! If you did your research and chose a good company, you should be ok. Just trust your gut and remember what you learned in training. Be prepared for long hours working outside. I knew going into it that I was going to be exhausted physically. Because I was prepared for it that side of things didn’t bother me too much. The part that was hardest for me was having to entertain people all day long. By the end of the season my social battery was empty and I was just searching for any alone time. Make sure to set time aside for yourself and try to find time for a hobby outside of the river. Go into it with an open mind, and you’ll have a great time. If you have any questions on how to choose the right company, send me a message! I would love to talk about your options and share more about my experience as a whitewater raft guide in Washington State. If you liked this post, you might also like..

Gasworks Park
Destinations, Seattle

Gas Works Park in Seattle

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Seattle is a city packed full of parks waiting to be explored, and Gas Works park is one that cannot be forgotten. Gas Works was the first park that I visited after moving to Seattle, and I’ve been back many times since! In this blog I will talk about why I like visiting Gas Works park and help you to plan your time in Seattle. The History of Gas Works Park Gas Works Park in Seattle has a fascinating history that mirrors the industrial rise and transformation of the city. From the early 1900s until the mid-20th century, the plant produced gas by heating coal. This was then distributed to light the streets and homes of Seattle. This industrial facility played a crucial role in powering the city’s growth and development during the industrial era. However, as the city evolved and technologies advanced, the coal gasification process became obsolete and the plant shut down in 1956. The site was left abandoned and contaminated. Then, in the 1960s, plans emerged to repurpose the site for other business ventures. However, these proposals faced strong opposition from environmentalists and community members who wanted to preserve the area and transform it into a public park. In 1970, landscape architect Richard Haag won an international design competition with his plan to convert the area into a park for the people. Haag’s design retained many of the original structures, including the iconic gasification plant’s skeletal remains, which were repurposed as striking architectural features within the park. Gas Works Park in Seattle opened to the public in 1975 and has been a local favorite ever since. Getting to Gas Works Park Getting to this Seattle park is quite easy. Google and Apple maps have been extremely reliable when it comes to directing me to Gas Works. Parking at Gas Works Park is also very convenient. There is a large parking lot just north of Gas Works, and it’s not typically full. If you visit on a busy night like the 4th of July or New Years, you might have to take advantage of nearby street parking. Click here for a link to directions to Gas Works Park. Gas Works Park Seattle WA: The Most Unique City Park Gas Works Park in Seattle WA shows the city’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in urban design. Opened to the public in 1975, the park integrates remnants of the gas plant’s industrial infrastructure with expansive green spaces and panoramic views of the city skyline. It is a great reminder that we can reclaim industrial spaces and turn them into something that the community can cherish for years. As you wander through the park, you’ll encounter towering rusted structures, including the iconic Gas Works Tower, which once housed the gasification process. These industrial relics, now repurposed as climbing structures and observation points, serve as poignant reminders of the site’s industrial heritage, inviting visitors to explore and reflect on the city’s past. In contrast to the industrial remnants, lush meadows, picnic areas, and walking trails offer opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Whether you’re flying kites on the expansive lawns, picnicking with friends and family, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, Gas Works Park provides a tranquil oasis amidst the urban bustle. Preserving History, Embracing Sustainability Gas Works Park in Seattle WA is more than just a green space—it’s a testament to Seattle’s dedication to historic preservation and environmental stewardship. The park’s innovative design incorporates sustainable features such as biofiltration swales and wetlands, which help mitigate stormwater runoff and enhance habitat for native wildlife. Furthermore, the park’s transformation from industrial wasteland to beloved public space serves as a model for adaptive reuse and urban renewal projects worldwide. By embracing the site’s industrial past and reimagining its future, Gas Works Park embodies the spirit of innovation and resilience that defines Seattle as a city. If you’ve read any of my other blog posts about Seattle you may have already heard me say this, but the Seattle’s parks are one of the main reasons why I fell in love with this city. Gas Works stands as yet another reminder of how dedicated Seattle has been to preserving outdoor recreation, even within city limits. Activities at Gas Works Park Like many of the other parks in Seattle, Gas Works is filled with different activities for you to enjoy. From walking trails to sledding hills – this park has it all. Below is a list of my favorite activities to do at Gas Works park in Seattle. Holidays at Gas Works Park One thing that Gas Works is known for is it’s amazing views of downtown Seattle. There is a clear view from the park to the Space Needle, making this a great place to sit and watch Seattle firework shows. You’ll find hundereds of Seattle locals gathering at Gas Works on the 4th of July and New Years to watch this show. If you’re planning on catching the holiday views of Seattle from Gas Works park make sure you arrive early in order to get your spot! Food Near Gas Works Park Seattle WA Luckily, Gas Works is very close to the University District. This area holds some of my favorite restaurants and coffee shops in Seattle. I’ll start with some locations that are walking distance from the park, but if possible, head over to ‘The Ave’ and treat yourself to my favorite Seattle food. Walking distance from the park: My favorite food in Seattle: Conclusion Gas Works Park is a great destination for anyone in Seattle looking for views or a relaxing hang. When you’re spending time at this park it’s easy to imagine this space before it was transformed into a park. Don’t forget to soak up the views and let tell your friends a little about the history of Gas Works park. Pack your favorite snacks and a blanket and head over to Gasworks today! If you liked this post, you might also like..

Shoreview dog park
Dogs, Seattle

The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Shoreview Park Dog Park

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I typically go to Warren G. Magnuson off-leash dog park, but on occasion I like to explore different dog parks. One day I decided to head north about 20 minutes to Shoreview Off-Leash dog park. I was pleasantly surprised and have been back a few times since that first visit. There are a few things you need to know before your visit, so keep reading to get the rundown on Shoreview park off-leash area!

Edmonds beach dog park
Dogs, Seattle

Edmonds Off-Leash Dog Beach

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While there are tons of great dog parks in Seattle, the drive to Edmonds off-leash dog park is well worth your time. There is a sandy beach for your dog to explore and access to the Puget Sound for swimming. In this post I will be sharing everything you need to know about visiting Edmonds off-leash dog beach near Seattle, Washington.

Golden Gardens dog park in Seattle Washington
Dogs, Seattle

Golden Gardens Dog Park

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When you’re searching for dog parks in Seattle, Golden Gardens Off Leash Area is one of the top search results. My dog Rio is very active and needs to go on a good run a couple of times a week. This leads us to visiting different Seattle dog parks every week! I have visited Golden Gardens dog park many times throughout my years of living in Seattle and in this post I will be talking about what you can expect if you bring your dog here.

Woman and dog on paddle board on Lake Washington
Dogs, Seattle

Dog Parks in Seattle

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Whether you’re a local looking to switch up your routine or a visitor seeking a fun outing with your furry friend, Seattle’s dog parks are sure to give you what you’re looking for. In this blog post I will talk about some of my favorite and least favorite dog parks in the greater Seattle area.

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