Best Beginner Cross Country Skiing near Seattle
A wonderful strategy for getting outside more in winter to is to learn a new winter sport. (Learn about getting started with snowshoeing here.) This article will talk about learning to cross country ski (also known as nordic skiing) and where to find cross country skiing near Seattle. I...
Gold Creek Valley Snowshoe at Snoqualmie Pass
November 2021 Note: Last winter has seen a big increase in crowding at Gold Creek, as well as other Sno parks along the I-90 corridor. If safe and legal parking is full, head somewhere else. DO NOT PARK ON FREEWAY INTERCHANGES OR SLED NEXT TO FREEWAY RAMPS. Looking for...
Where can I go sledding near Seattle?
You might have heard that Seattle has some pretty depressing winters, lots of gray skies and rain! One of the best ways to combat winter blues is to get out and play in the snow. Somehow the snow is so much more fun and energizing than rain! If you’re...
Snowshoeing near Seattle: Best Beginner Routes
Don’t let winter keep you inside! It may be gray and rainy most of the winter in Seattle, but nearby are magical winter landscapes ready to be explored. If you’re new to snowshoeing, read more here to learn all about getting started with snowshoeing, including what snowshoeing is, gear...
Best Rainy Day Hikes in Mt Rainier National Park
When most people think of Mt Rainier, they think of going to the park for epic mountain views! The epic mountain views are AWESOME, but don’t let cloudy or rainy weather stop you from visiting. Some of the most incredible experiences in Mt Rainier are just as good on...
Maple Pass Loop North Cascades
The Maple Pass Loop in the North Cascades is an amazing view hike that I previously mentioned here and here, but it is such an amazing hike and one of the best in Washington and one of the best larch hikes in Washington that it deserves it’s own post!...
Fall Backpacking Lake Ingalls and Headlight Basin
Fall backpacking Lake Ingalls in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness is an annual tradition for me. Late September or early October when the larches are turning golden is the perfect time. You can’t actually camp at Lake Ingalls, but you can at Headlight Basin. You pass through Headlight Basin on the...
Mt Rainier and Yakima Loop Drive
If you’re looking for a less crowded and more unique trip through Mt Rainier National Park, look no further than a trip through the less busy east side of Mt Rainier National Park, over Chinook Pass and through the Naches Valley to Yakima. You can make a weekend out...
10+ Best Fall Hikes near Seattle
Fall is the BEST time of year for hiking near Seattle if you ask me. It’s cooler, less crowded and generally no bugs! In the Pacific Northwest we have an abundance of gorgeous fall color and hiking trails to enjoy them. So pack a hot drink, some soup in...
North Cascades National Park from Seattle: Best Day Trip or Weekend Itinerary
North Cascades National Park is a beautiful and rugged park in northern Washington State with less crowds than most. In fact, it is consistently one of the least visited national parks! Don’t miss out on this unique and beautiful place due to its relative obscurity. This article is all...