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Crystal Mountain’s Flying Raven Adventure Course
There is more to explore during the summer months at Crystal Mountain than the gondola. They now have the Flying Raven Adventure Course! The course is set amongst evergreen trees, above a babbling brook and, at first glance, it looks like a setting for a tranquil treehouse. Look closer and you’ll notice suspended log bridges, rickety steps, and obstacles between the trees.
How to Tide Pool in the Pacific Northwest
Tide pooling is an essential part of visiting the coast in the Pacific Northwest. If you can find a good location and visit at low tides, you’ll have hours of free entertainment on your hands. Below is everything you need to know to start tide pooling!
All You Need to Know About the Goldmyer Hot Springs
Goldmyer Hot Springs was everything we hoped for and more. It’s a natural geothermal hot spring cared for by the Northwest Wilderness Programs, a nonprofit organization established in 1976 to protect this area. The hot springs are so idyllic that soaking there felt like a dream. Move this activity to the top of your Pacific Northwest bucket list!
DIY Food Tour of Pike Place Market (From Locals)
Pike Place Market has over 200 vendors and countless options for good eats. We love the variety of food the market offers, and that a food tour is something everyone can enjoy. Since the market is indoors, it’s a great activity regardless of the weather.
Winthrop Hot Air Balloon Festival
Taking place over the first weekend of March each year, the Winthrop Balloon Roundup makes for the perfect winter weekend getaway. Winthrop is four hours from Seattle, located at the base of the North Cascades National Park on the eastern side of the mountains. It has extremely beautiful scenery, a western theme in town, and tons of activities to fill your time between the ballooning festivities.
Washington State Backpacking Permits Explained
Permits have never meant to be a barrier to entry, but we know first-hand that they can be confusing and difficult to secure. We can’t help how quickly permits sell out, but we hope this blog clears up details making backpacking more accessible to all.
How to Backpack the Enchantments in Washington
Backpacking in the Enchantments is a highly coveted privilege. It’s full of some of Washington’s best scenery, including alpine lakes, beautiful waterfalls, rugged peaks, and larches. To help preserve the environment, there is a permit lottery to backpack, and the area is regularly patrolled by rangers.
Mount Rainier Timed Entry Reservations Explained
Mount Rainier National Park is piloting timed entry requirements in 2024. Due to a heavy increase in visitation and damage to park ecosystems, the park is hoping timed reservations will improve the visitor experience by reducing traffic, waiting times, and negative impacts on trails.
Whale Watching in Oregon (How, When, and Where)
Whale watching is fun and free! We love that it’s easily accessible — you can choose between stopping to search for whales at various roadside pullouts, beaches, viewpoints, or lighthouses, and even take your chances on a hike. Knowing where, when, and what to look for is key to having a great experience.
How to Hike in the Rain
Ready to embrace the rainy season? Say goodbye to crowded trails and fair-weather hikers! Hiking in the rain may take a bit more effort, and often motivation, than in dry weather, but it’s so rewarding.
21 Spooky Hikes in Washington
From ghost towns and historic military forts to Sasquatch and ghost sightings, Washington has plenty of spooky trails to keep you on your toes this fall.
Columbia River Gorge: Top Hikes, Waterfalls, and More
The Columbia River Gorge is a treasured part of the Pacific Northwest. Visit to find iconic waterfalls, beautiful views, adorable towns, and great hiking and biking trails. While it’s not a national park, it was one of the very first federally protected national scenic areas and the very first scenic byway. It’s incredibly gorgeous and is the perfect destination for a quick road trip or extended weekend getaway.
