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Lindsy Dugan

Our first full day here in Iceland, we set out on a day trip from Reykjavik. Þingvellir National Park is a great first stop. You could spend all day hiking and exploring different trails within the park, although we chose to press on down the road. Grab a free map at the visitors center. There is a small fee to pay for parking, and a fee for the restrooms. There are free restrooms and a little cafe 3 km further down the road. The views of the lake and surrounding area are amazing, hiking through the tectonic plates was cool, and there is so much history. We were very lucky to catch it on a morning with low wind and blue skies!

Best spot on a nice clear night or a perfect Seattle summer day. Great place to bring out of town guests, its the most photographed view of the city so make sure to bring your camera and get your own shot. This place can be crowded especially in the summer, be patient if you want a seat on the park bench. Also be mindful of the residents, this is popular shot in a neighborhood and surrounded by houses and apartments. Bring along a coffee and enjoy the view!

This is a hike I have done several times and the views are always spectacular, Panorama Point gets it's name for a reason. August is a great month for this hike the Washington weather is typically the best and the wildflowers are in full bloom. Have your camera ready at all times to capture the beauty of the meadows and Rainier itself. Don't be discouraged by clouds, but if you see some moving up with you, try to stay ahead of them I have seemingly raced clouds to the top to capture the last few glimpses of the peak before it is covered by clouds. Definitely pack a lunch and take a load off up at the point before heading back down to the car.

This is a popular tourist destination, but do not be discouraged by all the people on the paved road at the viewpoints up above. Few actually make the trek down below. The hike is easy going down, just make sure you save enough energy to make it back up after exploring and climbing around the rocks down below the waterfall. It is always misty down there so be prepared to get wet. And go earlier in the summer when water levels are higher especially with the dry summer we have had although still spectacular Snoqualmie Falls is smaller this time of year.

Accidentally turned this into a very long day hike. Set out to do a quick out and back 3 mile trip to Denny Creek, the adventuring spirit lead us all the way to Melakwa Lake which is beautiful and well worth the sweat and energy expended. Pack plenty of water and snacks. There are a number of overnighters at the lake and continuing beyond. With the elevation changes it is definitely a hard day hike, that is well worth it,

An intermediate hike with an awesome pay off! Once you reach the fall plan for time to scramble around a bit and explore.

On those warm summer days get there early to grab a prime spot, parking can also be difficult when the park is busy so best to get there early and enjoy a BBQ while you get your fire going. Enjoy good company, food and views to take in the sunset while at Golden Gardens.

This is an amazing spectacle and an easy hike to get there. But be warned, do not enter the ice cave there have been tragic deaths of some who have ventured inside. The ice cave is made from build up of avalanche snow over the winter and the cave develops as water melts and the wind blows into the rock face. The cave can collapse or fail at any time. Be safe and admire from a safe distance.

The views from Rattlesnake Ledge are amazing. Because there is no pass required for this trail it is extremely busy. Most of these people are not regular hikers and do not abide by any sort of edict. There also tend to be a number of trail runners so be aware. Few people continue on to East Peak so you can continue 2.4 miles for some solitude if you'd like. My suggestion is to go early or during the week, avoid weekends especially as the weather gets nice in the summer time.

There are some temporary trail closures. The main trail head is closed until further notice (via wta.org) Make sure to check before going out. Can still access the falls via Homestead Valley

This is a perfect hike for little ones or a friend who isn't a big hiker and you just want to get out doors. Pack a lunch or snack to be able to enjoy near the falls or find a spot along the river to layout on a rock and play in the water. Denny Creek is also just up the road another great family friendly watering hole. (Both spots require a Northwest Forest Pass)

Love hiking around and exploring along the Wonderland Trail. Narada Falls also has it's own parking area. The adventure can also be extended to include Reflection Lakes (1.5 miles beyond Narada Falls) which offers a 5.0 mile loop option to the lakes and back to the viewpoint.