Destinations
A Guide to Camano Island in Washington State
Spread the loveMy Experience on Camano Island I visited Camano island my first few weeks of living in Washington. I had always wanted to visit the Washington islands, so when I needed to find an airbnb for a few nights I started looking into this area. The spot I ended up staying at was on the west shores of Camano Island. After spending a few days hiking in the dense forest, walking along the beaches, and enjoying the foggy mornings, I knew I loved this island. Visiting Camano Island is perfect for anyone looking for a relaxing vacation with some of Washington’s best views. Getting to the Island Click here for Google maps directions to Camano Island The drive from Seattle to this Washington Island is easy and fast. I would say this is the easiest island to visit in Washington besides Bainbridge. You’ll get on I-5 North for about an hour until you see the exit for Camano Island. From there you just head west until you hit the Camano WA! If you’re visiting the state park, it takes 1 hr and 13 min to get there from Seattle. The drive to the island is typically easier in the morning than in the afternoon/evening. I’ve noticed I’m always able to get up north without any trouble, but traffic is always terrible on my way back to Seattle. Plan for this and expect traffic to add on a few minutes even if you’re avoiding rush hour. Things To Do One thing to note about the island is that you’re entering into a very slow paced town. Time seems to slow down when you’re here, and it’s rare to run into huge crowds of people. This is one of the reasons why I love to visit! It can be really relaxing to leave Seattle and go to Camano Island just for a break from the city. Many of these activities can be done in one day or spread out with relaxation time in between. Camano Island State Park If you’re visiting the island, you have to go to this park. Not only is this my favorite park in Camano, but it’s also one of my favorite state parks in Washington. You can explore the beaches, hike on the many trails, camp, or use their picnic areas. No matter what you’re doing, you’ll also be enjoying the views of the Puget Sound and the surrounding Islands. To get into Camano Island State park you’ll have to have a Washington State Discover Pass or pay $10 for a day pass. If you’ll be visiting multiple Washington State Parks or even hiking trails in Washington within one year, you should buy a Discover Pass. They’re only 30 dollars and they’re valid for 12 months. I really appreciate that they don’t expire each calendar year! Cama Beach State Park Cama Beach is yet another state park on Camano Island! This park is a slightly shorter drive, maybe 5 or 10 minutes, from Seattle. You’ll see views of the Puget Sound and surrounding Washington Islands, a really cool beach, hiking trails, and there’s a cafe as well! You’ll also need to purchase a Discover Pass to stay at Cama Beach State park. Other Beaches Mabana Beach is another beach worth visiting. You’ll find lots of locals here with their dogs. Island County Parks Tillicum Beach is the first beach I’ve mentioned that’s on the east side of the island. It’s similar to the other beaches in that there’s tons of space to walk around on the beach. The difference is that you’ll get views to the East instead of out into the Puget Sound. Whale Watching Camano island is a popular spot for people trying to spot orcas and gray whales to visit. Keep in mind that you will have to do your whale watching from the shores here because there are not any guided whale watching boats available on this Washington island. Instead, you’ll have to visit Whidbey Island. Food on Camano Island There are a few really great spots to eat on Camano Island! Here are a few of my favorites – Camping on Camano Island Camano Island State Park – Camping at the state park allows you to wake up in one of the most beautiful spots on Camano island. You can make your reservation here. You’ll also get all of the perks of the amenities at the park. Camano Island State Park has showers, bathrooms, accessible campsites, fire pits, and so much more. Cama Beach Cabins These cabins are a great option if you’re spending the weekend on the island. It’ll still feel like camping, but you have a little more shelter than you would in a tent. If your trip is looking like it’ll be rainy, look into staying in the cabins over a tent site. Conclusion This is a great place to visit for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. There are plenty of things to do on the island, from hiking and biking to kayaking and boating. With its beautiful scenery and relaxed atmosphere, Camano Island hasn’t let me down. Pack your bags and get ready for a scenic and chill vacation. If you liked this post, you might also like..
Exploring 10+ Washington State Islands
Deciding what Washington Islands to visit is tough. Learn about more than 10 different islands within driving distance of Seattle.
Free National Park Days in Washington State
Spread the loveNational Parks in the United States Visiting national parks in the USA offers a chance to experience some of the country’s most stunning natural landscapes. Unfortunately visiting these parks comes with certain costs. Entrance fees vary depending on the park, vehicle type, and the duration of the visit. Additionally, costs can include camping fees, guided tours, and other activities. Understanding these costs can help visitors plan their trips more effectively. Furthermore, if you plan strategically you can visit on a free national park day! At Arches National Park in Utah, the entrance fee for a private vehicle is $30, which grants access for seven consecutive days. Motorcyclists are charged $25 for the same period, while individuals on foot or bicycle need to pay $15 each. An annual pass specific to Arches is available for $55. This provides frequent visitors a more economical option if they plan multiple visits within a year. Mount Rainier National Park in Washington has similar pricing. The entrance fee for a private vehicle is $30 for seven days, with motorcyclists required to pay $25. Individuals entering on foot or bicycle are charged $15 each. For those who visit frequently, the annual pass for Mount Rainier costs $55. Yellowstone National Park, one of the most popular and expansive parks, spanning parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, charges $35 for a seven-day pass for a private vehicle. Motorcyclists pay $30, while individuals entering on foot or bicycle are charged $20 each. Yellowstone also offers an annual pass for $70, which is a good investment for those planning to explore the park multiple times in a year. In addition to entrance fees, visitors should budget for potential costs such as camping fees, which can range from $15 to $30 per night for standard campsites, and higher for sites with additional amenities or group sites. Some parks also offer guided tours, educational programs, and special activities, which may have additional charges. For those looking to visit multiple parks, the America the Beautiful Annual Pass provides access to all national parks and federal recreational lands for $80 per year, making it a cost-effective choice for avid travelers. National Parks in Washington State Washington State boasts an array of stunning national parks, each offering unique landscapes, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. For those looking to explore without breaking the bank, the National Park Service offers several free admission days throughout the year. Let’s dive into when you can visit Washington’s national parks for free, the usual cost of admission, and what to expect in terms of park traffic. Free Admission Days in Washington State’s National Parks Cost of Visiting National Parks on Regular Days Free admission days offer a fantastic opportunity to explore Washington’s national parks without cost. It’s still important to be aware of the usual entrance fees. Park Traffic and Visitor Experience During free admission days, Washington’s national parks may experience increased traffic and visitation, especially on weekends and holidays. It’s advisable to arrive early and carpool if possible. It’s also important to have alternative plans in case popular trails or parking areas reach capacity. On regular days, park traffic varies depending on the season, weather conditions, and specific attractions within each park. Generally, summer months tend to be busier, while fall and winter offer quieter experiences with fewer crowds. Conclusion Exploring Washington State’s national parks is a rewarding experience that allows you to connect with nature, history, and culture. By taking advantage of free admission days, you can enjoy these natural treasures without worrying about entrance fees. Whether you’re admiring the glaciers on Mount Rainier, wandering through ancient forests in Olympic National Park, or marveling at the landscapes of North Cascades, there’s no shortage of adventures for you in Washington’s national parks. So mark your calendar, pack your bags, and embark on a memorable journey to discover the beauty of the Evergreen State’s protected lands. If you liked this post, you might also like..
Backpacking Rachel and Rampart Lakes
Spread the lovef 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
Gas Works Park in Seattle
Spread the loveSeattle 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..
North Cascades National Park
The North Cascades National Park has been my most visited national park to date. With its easy access from Seattle and a wide variety of activities, I tend to find myself planning weekend getaways here. In this blog I will talk about a few of my favorite outdoor activities in the North Cascades National Park.
Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls
Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls is a great stop along I-5 in Olympia, Washington. I enjoy visiting this park to split up any long drive through Washignton state. You can visit the fish hatchery, enjoy the walking trails, and check out some beautiful Washington waterfalls!
Westport Washington
Discover Westport, Washington, through this comprehensive guide. From its rich maritime history to its stunning natural beauty, learn everything you need to know about where to stay, what to do, and how to make the most of your family vacation in this coastal gem. Whether you’re craving adventure on the waves, a taste of fresh seafood cuisine, or simply a relaxing retreat by the sea, Westport is calling.