Stanwood, Washington

The climb to Buckhorn Mountain above Marmot Pass is a must see for every PNW adventurer with the endurance to tackle nearly 14 miles and 4,400 feet of gain.  Listen to the rushing waters of the Big Quilcene River as the trail gently traverses up 5.5 miles to Marmot Pass.  Be sure to filter water ...

The secret to this trip: Marmot Pass and Boulder Shelter, where you can camp on National Forest Service land. Multiple excellent, large backpacking sites sit just on the edge of the National Park, giving you great access to Mt. Constance and Mt. Deception, two of the tallest peaks in the Olympics...

Located at the top of Queen Anne Hill, Kerry Park is a favorite destination for photography. On any given day you'll find tourists and locals relaxing in the park and enjoying the beautiful view.The park is located in the Queen Anne neighborhood so there is free parking along the streets. If yo...

Access the hike from a 26.5-mile drive down Baker Lake Rd to the Baker Lake Trailhead. Note that the last 6 miles are unpaved and rather rough. The trail starts at low elevation so there's rarely snow or condition concerns, even in early spring. The trail runs alongside and then crosses the Bake...

My family and I were in Seattle for a wedding and I believe my mom across this gem being advertised in either a newspaper or a magazine. We had a great time and it was an affordable way to get onto the water and something everyone of all ages could do. I love checking out houseboats, being on the...

Most visitors park at this trailhead to hike Dickerman Mountain.  Until this spring, so did I.  However, don't overlook this stunning valley hike to Perry Creek, Mount Forgotten Meadows, and the scramble up Mount Forgotten!Begin this hike on the Perry Creek trail, which begins on the far left sid...

In general, this is a strenuous hike or snowshoe at approximately 8 miles round trip with nearly 4000 elevation gain. Be aware of current snow conditions and avalanche risk if heading up in the winter. Do not attempt a winter trip without proper knowledge, skill, and gear. Some previous winter tr...

From the main parking lot at English camp, follow the wide path east and cross West Valley road to the trailhead of Young Hill. The trail switchbacks several times and leads you past the English Camp cemetery. Continue left on the main trail through the forest of Pacific Madrone trees until you r...

It may be daunting to figure out how to kayak in the San Juan Islands.If you're a beginner/intermediate kayaker, this is the trip for you.First, you'll want to plan ahead and reserve a kayak for Sucia Island. We used Outer Island Expeditions which was nice because they make it pretty easy for you...

If you're looking for a long day hike or multi-night backpacking trip in the Olympics, add Royal Lake and Royal Basin to your adventure list!   The first mile of trail along the Dungeness River gains a gentle 300 feet.  When you reach the bridge, do not cross it (the trail across the bridge goes...

This hike is very strenuous, but nothing unconquerable! The views at sunset were once in a lifetime and something I will remember for the rest of my life. The first half mile or so of the trail begins in a wooded area then opens up to views of the lower valley. After hiking for about another ½ t...

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 ...

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...

Starting at the marked Heliotrope Ridge parking lot of FS Road 39, just 8 miles out of the quaint town of Glacier, Washington, you begin your ascent to the glacier viewpoint. The trailhead sign indicates that it is a strenuous 2,000 ft gain over 2.5 miles up to the overlook.This clearly cut trail...

Not for the faint of heart - or those with a fear of heights - Mount Pugh offers some of the most rewarding summit views in the Cascades.Located off the northern end of the Mountain Loop Highway, this is an easy day trip from anywhere in the Puget Sound area. Though finding the trailhead can be t...

The park is open dawn to dusk. The botanical garden is free to visit and offers excellent photography opportunities.   Additional InfoCopper Kettle Coffee Bar is available at the garden: Weekdays: 10am – 3pm; Saturday & Sunday: 10am – 5pmGarden Map with different attractions featuredBotanica...