Washington

Take three or four nights and check out some of the most epic views in the Pacific Northwest. Though you can do a shorter or faster route, I highly recommend you consider the 19-mile loop from the Snowgrass trailhead through Cispus Basin and Cispus Pass (6400'), and then back down Nannie Ridge. D...

We backpacked our way to Lillian Lake and set up camp. There is a trail that lead around the lake and a trail that leads up to Rampart Lakes and Rachael Lake as well. We found a few more camps spots on Lillian Lake, then we noticed that only ONE other camp spot was being used. If you want peace ...

Choose from Trout Lake (1.6 miles each way with 500 feet of elevation gain), Copper Lake (4.2 miles each way with 2400 feet of elevation gain), or Big Heart Lake at 7.3 miles each way, with 3300 feet elevation gain). There are plenty of camp sites if you decide to go overnight at any of the lakes...

This trail is an easy trail to hike to the end and back. With very little to no elevation gain, some comfy shoes is all you need. There is a great opportunity near the start of the trail to walk down onto the beach and get right next to the river. Shortly after that there is a suspension bridge t...

Take Chuckanut Drive to the trailhead which is located directly across from the entrance to Larrabee State Park. A small lot in front of the trail has space for 8-10 cars, or you can park at the State Park and walk across the road (carefully!) to reach the trailhead. Either way you will need a Di...

The quintessential family friendly hike,  Gold Creek Pond is a simple yet spectacular hike next to Snoqualmie Pass. Easily accessible from the top of the pass (4.5 miles, 12 minute drive), the Gold Creek Pond hike is a simple addition to any itinerary if you're in the area.  From Hwy 90, take ex...

Parking at Kalaloch Beach 4 provides an easy walk to Olympic National Park's infamous tidal pools. With the correct tide schedule you will be able to explore and see ocean life such as starfish and sea anemones up close and personal. Kalaloch Beach 4 isn't the only place to explore tidal pools. Y...

Being one of the lucky recipients of an Enchantments overnight permit can't happen for everybody. So, for the rest of us, taking to the mountains in the winter is an awesome way to bypass this system and experience the central Cascades in a completely different, colder way. The suffering is almos...

You can reach this area off I-90.  Take exit 38.  If you are coming from the west (Seattle) take a right after exiting the highway and continue for about 2 miles.  You will drive under I-90 and then come to a parking area.  This is it!  If you are coming from the east it's even easier, turn right...

The Trail Begin backpacking the Paddy-Go-Easy Pass Trail (#1595) through dense spruce forests with riparian undergrowth. The trail will switchback and climb steadily across dry meadows filled with wildflowers, and you'll have increasing views westward of Mount Daniel, Mount Hinman, and Cathedral...

From the south end of the ski area, snowshoe past an old ski lodge along an old access road parallel to the ski hill. Then, ascend Austin Pass (2 miles) following the broad switchbacks. Once at the top of the ridge, follow the road to the left 1/4 mile and take in the views of Artist Point, Mou...

Friday after work I headed out to Snow Lake Trail and found my perfect camping spot. There is a sign that says no Camping but I broke the rule since I got the ok from the Forrest Department of Agriculture. Spent the night at Snow Lake and then Saturday I ran over to Gem Lake and notice no one t...

Located along FR-2270 (Google Maps calls it FR-2312) in Olympic National Forest, the trailhead is marked by a pullout and a pair of signposts but no sign. This area was formerly the Wynoochee Falls Campground. The trailhead is at the North end of the parking lot. This easy hike involves navigatin...

The trail up to Talapus Lake is well graded and relatively short, at only about 2.5 miles in length RT. The trail starts off on a wide old road cut and then veers off into the old growth woods in a slowly winding uphill tack. A few mellow switch backs deliver you to the top, where a short stretch...

The beauty of many of the north coast trails in the Olympic Peninsula is that your car does a lot of the heavy lifting for you.  This is certainly true of the Grand Valley Trail, which begins more than a vertical mile above the Strait of Juan de Fuca at the end of the Obstruction Point Road.  Six...

The campground is right at the very north end of Lake Crescent. It has bathroom and potable water, and for just $20 a night I think it is well worth it. Each campsite is equipped with a table and firepit (bring firewood). Open between May and October; first come first serve.  As for activities, t...