Bandera Mountain Hike: Big view hike near Seattle
Friends, Bandera Mountain is AWESOME. It is also CROWDED. By now, you’ll know I’m a big fan of avoiding crowds and don’t normally recommend crowded hikes. However, there are times when it just might be worth it to join the crowd! You can reduce the crowds by going later...
Ultimate Guide to Riding the Alaska Ferry
I’ve spent a lot of time on the Alaska ferry as a former Alaskan. I’m excited to share my knowledge about planning a trip to Southeast Alaska on the Alaska Ferry! The Alaska Marine Highway System (also known as the Alaska Ferry, or the Blue Canoe) is a unique...
Oyster Dome Loop Hike near Bellingham
Oyster Dome is a fantastic view hike near Bellingham through a peaceful forest to a spectacular view of the San Juan Islands. There are a few ways to do this hike, I like to do a loop from the Samish Bay Overlook that is about 6 miles with 1300...
Ebey’s Landing Loop Hike on Whidbey Island
The Ebey’s Landing Loop hike is my favorite hike on Whidbey Island and one of my favorite hikes in Washington and one that I almost always take visitors to! It includes a ferry ride and/or a ride over a cool bridge (see how this fits into a fun day...
How to Hike More Often: 7 Strategies
It’s that time of year when we’re all anticipating summer, longer days, more sun and more time outdoors! If you’re wanting to get out hiking more this summer, here are some tips that have worked for me for how to hike more often as I’ve increased the amount of...
Coal Creek Falls Cougar Mountain Hike near Seattle (car free option)
Coal Creek Falls in Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park is an ideal winter hike near Seattle and one of the best hikes in Bellevue. You can also get there by bus when the trailhead direct bus is operating (generally April through October). Coal Creek Falls makes a lovely 3...
The Story of Washington Asparagus
Manuel Imperial drives us in his truck along the side of a dusty field. It looks empty, just brown rows as far as I can see. He stops the truck. There are two people barely visible under coats, hats and scarves against the sun, dust and cold wind, containers...
Best Things to do in Skagway Alaska
Heading to Skagway, Alaska? Perhaps you’re taking an Alaskan cruise that stops in Skagway or taking the Alaska ferry on a trip on your own. Maybe you’re spending some time in Juneau and looking for some other places to visit? If you’re heading to Skagway, you are in for...
May Valley Loop Hike Close to Seattle
The May Valley Loop Hike is a delightful 6 mile loop through the forest with just under 1000 feet of elevation gain on a very lightly traveled trail! The first couple of miles are fairly busy (lots of folks going up to Central Peak) but after that it seems...
April in Olympic National Park
April is a popular time for travel around the Pacific Northwest for locals and visitors alike. The days are longer and warmer and it’s a great time for exploring and a wonderful time of year to head to Olympic National Park. I’m a born and raised Seattleite and have...