Carbonado, Washington

Found my first PNW troll!  Jakob Two Trees is a remarkable wooden troll sculpture located in Issaquah, Washington, crafted by Danish artist Thomas Dambo as part of his worldwide recycled art series. Standing about 14 feet tall, this eco-friendly giant was built using repurposed wooden pallets an...

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...

Some days you don't need to tackle a grueling summit or long mileage loop, just getting outside the city is enough. Driving forest roads is always an adventure and pays its dividend in seclusion, viewpoints, and peacefulness. The Middle Fork Snoqualmie (FR56) offers a photo enthusiast numerous pi...

Immerse yourself in tranquility at Seattle’s Kubota Garden, a haven of Japanese-inspired design nestled in the Rainier Beach neighborhood. Founded in 1927 by Fujitaro Kubota, a Japanese immigrant who longed to recreate his homeland’s serene landscapes, the garden flourished from a humble 5-acre p...

*Disclaimer this article is in regards to the newly built trail.* For the old trail, head to Hike Mailbox Peak.  Just off of exit 34, Mailbox Peak offers a birds-eye view of the surrounding area. This hike begins at a mere 800 ft. above sea level and by the time you are done you are nearly touch...

This is one of the most magical and romantic places on the planet to get a good night's rest. You'll find that words will escape you when it comes to describing how this place makes you feel. With the Raging River as a backdrop, the powerful white noise will put you into one of the deepest sleeps...

Visiting Hat and Boots Park in Seattle's Georgetown neighborhood is a journey through kitschy Americana. This giant roadside attraction, once a gas station, boasts the title of the largest cowboy hat and boots in the country. The hat itself even served as the station's office in the 1950s! After ...

Franklin Falls via Wagon Road Trail is an alternate route to the falls adjacent to the Franklin Falls Trail. Off the 90 East of Seattle lies the Wagon Road Trailhead. The hike is just about 2 miles and at 400ft elevation gain we had an easy time hiking to the falls. At the end was the 70ft water...

Located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, the hike to Keekwulee Falls via the Denny Creek Trail is a classic Washington adventure. Just off I-90 near Snoqualmie Pass, this popular trail offers lush forest scenery, cascading waterfalls, and a beloved natural water slide. It’s a great ...

Enjoy a wonderful view of the Seattle skyline from Dr. Jose Rizal park. Parking is easy and accessible, and the park has lots of benches for sitting and taking in the view. Walk around the park for different views of the city or take in the surrounding neighborhood, you'll most likely catch a lot...

This is a relatively tame hike through the beautiful Gifford Pinchot National Forest, winding to the Goat Rocks Wilderness. With only 600 feet of elevation gain over 4.6 miles in, I would recommend it for hiking or trail running. Keep in mind this trail is open to horses and other stock so you ma...

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...

There is parking for about a mile along Alki Ave. SW, however it quickly fills up quickly so get there early. The beach is about a mile long and since there is little parking there is a good chance you will need to walk a fair distance.  There are many things to do at this beach. There are kayak...

Although weekend sails are available, this is one of the best ways to get a mid-week fresh air fix in Seattle.Start with a 1.5 hour sunset sail reservation with Emerald City Charters ( approx. $33 per adult). The day of your sail, pack a bag with blankets, drinks and picnic-style dinner. Catch th...

There are 2 ways to get to Blake Island: private boat or via the Argosy Cruises tour boat (or if you're ambitious, I guess you can swim there!). If traveling by private boat, there is a marina with limited dock space as well as buoy moorings around the island for a moorage fee. Blake Island is ...

Nestled amidst the modern high-rises of Alki Avenue, Seattle's iconic Flower Houses offer a stunning contrast of nature and urbanity. This enchanting oasis, created by Randie Stone, is a must-see for visitors to the Emerald City. Admire the vibrant explosion of colors as you explore this register...