Jason Graham
One of my favorite spots to hit during the shoulder season when I’m ready for a break from the rain and grey of Western Washington, especially during a such a sad snowpack winter season in the mountains. I just couldn’t bring myself to do another wet hike in the rain, or dodge more “sharks” in the middle of ski runs. So this past Saturday some friends and I made our way over to the amazing Ancient Lakes. Parking at the upper trailhead we made our way over to Judith Pool and our first glimpse of the basin out in front of us. I had seen this breathtaking view before, but everyone else in my party was experiencing if for the first time, and they were speechless. Such beauty and a unique landscape just an hour away from the mountains we had driven over on our way here was just another reminder that we live in one of the most beautiful states. Making our way down the steep, rocky, talus slope was a bit of adventure. I had forgotten to pre-warn my friends about this part of the hike that I promised was supe easy! But taking our time and enjoying the sun and views we all made it down and across back to the dirt trail no problem. We spend a couple of hours hiking around the various trails in the basin, taking our time, just enjoying our company and the nice weather. In no hurry, no set milage goals, and without any specific destination other than back to the trailhead at some point. We wondered among ourselves why the large group of backpackers that had set up their tents at one of the highest points of the basin hadn’t moved, as the winds were whipping and beating the heck out of their tents. It wasn’t like they were off day hiking and didn’t realize it was so windy, we knew that based on the person we say napping in their completely collapsed tent, right next to another collapsed tent. Other than the wind, you couldn’t ask for a better day out there. Sun out, but moderate temperatures. No rattlesnakes. And while we saw other hikers (and bikers, and horseback riders), the area is large enough that we were all able to enjoy some peace and solitude out there.
5.0
Headed up to the park with intentions to go snowshoeing, but the park made a late call to leave the road to Paradise closed for the day. With the full day open for us still, we decided to head up anyway and just see what kind of alternate solution we could come up with. Long story short, the rain was heavy and everything was socked in, so we decided options such as High Hut just wouldn't be worth the effort, so we elected to keep it simple and enjoy some exercise and time in the woods on the Rampart Ridge trail. Got to Longmire just after 10am, plenty of parking. The warm temps recently (it was around 44f on this day) and rain have melted all of the snow off the trail. Other than one or two spots of no more than 20 feet of hiking on well packed snow. Zero need for spikes. Highly recommend gators though. A lot of deep, large, puddles on the trail. To many people already going off trail to get around them. Just wear your waterproof boots and gators and stomp through them please! Enjoyed the trail for what it was. Beautiful forest hike. Couple of nice lookout points that I would love to re-visit on clear day. Not the day we planned, but still better than not being out and about in the park.
4.0
The castle’s exterior and location are beautiful, and if you find yourself in the area, it’s worth visiting to get some great pictures. I particularly recommend hiking up to Maria Bridge to get the classic shot of the castle. Yes, you will be dealing with a lot and lots of people if you visit in the summer, but like many tourist attractions, it’s popular for a reason. I also did the castle tour while there, and I wasn’t that impressed. You can’t take any pictures inside the castle (they want you to buy postcards or photo books from the gift shop, but you can find pictures online). But the interior is over the top, eccentric, and gaudy. And as you learn the story and history of the castle, it just felt kind of gross. Despite King Ludwig II technically being a “king”, he was more just rich guy with limited political power, so he built himself a vacation “castle” for getaways. It made me feel like if people in a 100-years from now were to treat Jeff Bezos or Mark Zuckerberg’s vacation home as a tourist attraction.
3.0
My local hike, just minutes from my front door. Never get tired of hitting it up for a quick workout.
5.0
I’m lucky enough to live the PNW and hike the North Cascades, Mt. Rainier, and the Olympic Mountains regularly, plus I’ve traveled and hiked in many beautiful national parks around the US. But Tre Cime may very well be my favorite hike of all time. All the hikes I got to do on a 2-week trip throughout the Alps were incredible, but this place was special. It was absolutely my favorite kind of hike. A full loop hike, with the right amount of challenging elevation gain, and the kind of views that left my jaw dragging on the ground by my feet the entire time. Plus, multiple rifugios along the route for bonus mid-hike beers! Social media will warn you that Tre Cime is an overcrowded spot where you'll find yourself waiting in-line along parts of the trail. And that's partially true, it was one of the most populated hikes I've ever done, literally 1000's of people in the park. But once you get about a mile in from the parking lot, the crowds tend to spread out quite a bit. It's popular for a reason, and I never found myself "waiting in line", except at the rifugios. Plus, how can I complain about crowds when I'm part of the crowd?
5.0
This was my first stop on a 2-week trip through the Alps across 5 countries, and wow, what a great introduction to the Alps! I started by going all the way to the top at the Hafelekar stop, and from there hiked to the summit of Hafelekar. I then continued along the ridge trail, taking the side trails to summit both Gleirschspitze and Mandlspitze peaks. I then backtracked a bit, then took a trail hiking down to the Seegrube lift station where I enjoyed a cold beer with a view! Overall ended up being a 4.66 mile hike with 1,486’ gain. There are a lot of trails and options from both stops with something for everyone.
5.0
A Monday, plus not the best weather for views, offered the perfect recipe for solitude on Bandera Mountain. Luckily, I was hitting the trail more for the workout than the views, so the typical Pacific Northwest gloom was just fine. I arrived at the Ira Spring Trailhead late morning to find plenty of parking, but I wasn’t alone. I passed two or three groups heading up, but they were all heading to Mason Lake. Once I turned off the Ira Springs Trail and onto the Bandera Summit trail, I had that all to myself. This trail is legit, a straight climb up right from the very beginning. It’s a more gradual climb, up a well-maintained trail, to start with. But right at about three miles, the trail splits: left toward Mason Lake, right up to Bandera’s summit. Here, things get real. The route gets steep abruptly, trading wide switchbacks for a rooty, rocky scramble that is essentially straight up the mountain for about one mile and just over 1000’ of gain. (And don’t forget, you must go down this same steep route, trekking poles for the win!). At the summit, the world was a study in gray. No sweeping vistas, no panorama of the Middle Fork valley or the jagged Alpine Lakes peaks—just completely socked in. The clouds did part just enough to offer a fleeting peek of Mason Lake right before I began my descent, so I appreciated mother nature for offering me that.
4.0
Despite living less than 30-minutes from the trailhead, I tend to avoid this hike due to how popular it is. It's been probably 10 years since I last came up here in the summer, but figured it was time to check it out again. Unsurprisingly this is still a very busy trail, even for a Thursday, but way better than dealing with weekend crowds. I arrived at the parking lot at about 9:30am and there were 30+ cars there already. On the run/hike I was passing multiple groups going up and coming down the entire time, but with plenty of space in between groups. Still better than what I imagine the weekend crowds to be like. But obviously, the hike is popular for a reason, it's beautiful up there. And once to the lake, there is room to spread out a bit and find your own spot on the lake shore. And don't miss the side quest to check out the Source Lake viewpoint along the way up to Snow Lake. That little pond in the bottom of the bowl may not look like much, but it's the starting point of the South Fork Snoqualmie River. Kind of crazy such a large river, one that flows right through my town offering lots of recreational opportunities, starts right here. I'll probably stick to more off the beaten path spots like normal, but I'm glad I made the trek up again, it had been too long.
5.0
Noticed this adventure is marked as a hike and the one review from 2023 mentions that the road is gated. I was there in July 2025, and Cal Barrel Road is currently open for vehicle traffic. Which was a welcome note as I was eager to explore the interior of the park beyond the standard footpaths. While I love hiking, I also enjoy getting to explore off-road trails in my truck, and there are limited opportunities for that in Redwoods. So nestled within the heart of Redwoods National Park, Cal Barrel Road offered me a rare opportunity: the chance to drive between the towering redwoods themselves. Unlike the heavily trafficked scenic highways that skirt the edges of these ancient groves, Cal Barrel Road plunges you into them. The road is well maintained; most vehicles can manage the drive with little trouble; you do not need to bring a high-clearance off-roader to make the most of your visit. However, it’s important to note that trailers and RVs are forbidden. The tight turns, narrow shoulders, and limited parking at the top make maneuvering anything longer than a standard vehicle unfeasible. While the road is open to vehicles, it is still open for hikers as well. As you wind your way up, it is essential to keep an eye out for foot traffic.
5.0
An early morning on the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail is the key to enjoying this very popular, for good reason, experience. Hiking early: there was no need to step aside for crowds, no distant voices echoing between trunks—only the soft crunch of pine needles beneath my feet and click of my camera. I arrived at the trailhead just after 8am, the parking lot was less than half-full (by the time I left about an hour later, the lot was almost completely full). One of the trail’s most magical qualities is the morning fog, a lingering veil cast by the Pacific. Before the sun rises high enough to burn it away, the fog wraps the redwoods. Sunbeams struggle through the misty canopy, making for a magical morning and dramatic views of the giants you only get during the morning fog.
5.0
On a Tuesday in July, I set out for a trek to one of Lassen's most storied and primeval features—Bumpass Hell. Rather than the classic route, I started at the King’s Creek Trailhead, threading my way along the Cold Boiling Lake Trail to join the Bumpass Hell Trail. This unconventional approach promised both solitude and a deeper immersion in the park’s evolving story, which, in the wake of the Dixie Fire, is written in both ash and green shoots. Arriving at the King’s Creek Trailhead that afternoon, I was met with a scene emblematic of summer peak: the modest lot was already overflowing, cars lined the narrow shoulders in both directions. This was understandable, as the main Bumpass Hell trailhead parking lot was closed, pushing hikers to seek alternate starting points. I set out on the Cold Boiling Lake Trail, this route more rugged than the standard approach, weaves through stretches of forest still bearing the scars of the Dixie Fire. Cold Boiling Lake itself appeared suddenly, a subtle turquoise eye ringed with grasses and the occasional shimmer of geothermal bubbles. The trail from here to Bumpass Hell grew steeper, switchbacking up through a mosaic of old growth and fire-cleared slopes. With each step, the landscape shifted: sun-dappled glades gave way to fields of wildflowers, and the air grew faintly sulfurous, a prelude to what lay ahead. As I climbed, I found myself almost entirely alone. The more challenging approach from Cold Boiling Lake seemed to deter the crowds; I encountered only a handful of fellow hikers. Passing through this fire-altered forest was both mournful and uplifting. The devastation wrought by the Dixie Fire a few years ago was evident in every scorched hillside and fallen log, yet the park was already healing. Mother Nature’s resilience was on full display here. After about 2.5 miles, I made it to Bumpass Hell. Steam rose from fissures and vents, and the bright blue pools and bubbling mudpots of Bumpass Hell spread out before me like a vision from another world. Standing on the boardwalk, I watched geysers plume and pools pulse with unnatural colors—sapphire, aquamarine, ochre, and bone-white. On my return journey, curiosity led me on a brief side quest down to Crumbaugh Lake. Earlier, from a vantage on the Bumpass Hell Trail, its placid surface had shimmered below a few hundred feet beneath the ridgeline. I headed south along the Crumbaugh Lake Trail back at Cold Boiling Lake and soon I stood on its shore, only adding about a mile total to my hike for the day. For those willing to take the longer, hillier route, the rewards of solitude versus the busier main Bumpass Hell Trail are worth the effort.
5.0
My local spot, I love it here. Best on weekdays to avoid the Seattle crowds that take it over on the weekends. Paddleboarding, swimming, lake side picnics, basecamp for hiking/biking the nearby trails... We do it all here, year round!
5.0
Made a quick stop at the Shoe Tree while driving across “America’s Loneliest Road,” as it is one of those must-see roadside attractions. One, it is literally on the roadside of Highway 50, no side roads to deal with. Good sized pullout well off the shoulder of the highway with room for multiple cars, and you feel a safe distance from the highway traffic (although, it’s the loneliest road for a reason, not much traffic to worry about). Tree itself is something to behold. The number of shoes on, and around, it was impressive, and such a quirky thing to see. I did not have full shoes to sacrifice, but I did offer up an old pair of flip-flops to keep the tradition going. While not a destination to seek out, definitely worth the stop if you are making the drive by.
3.0
Camping at Spencer Hot Springs was the perfect way to break up the drive across “America’s Loneliest Road.” Although, doing it in the middle of July resulted in not fully being able to enjoy the hot spring tubs proper, as it was just way too hot. I arrived around 4:30pm on a Monday, it was still 95+ degrees (f) out, and there was no shade to be found. I was able to make my own shade by situating my truck and roof top tent to provide a shadow. The hot springs themselves are hot tub hot. If I had to guess, well over 100 degrees (f). Even after dark, it was still too hot to enjoy. But I did enjoy sitting next to it while watching the sunset and making friends with some of the wild burros. Plenty of space for camping. There were two other campers there, and we had no problem staying far away from each other. I’m sure in peak times it is a bit busier, but there is endless space to spread out.
5.0
Great hike with beautiful sites that is accessible for just about all skill levels. The trail goes by multiple alpine lakes with multiple access points to get along the shore lines and find a nice spot to sit and relax or enjoy a picnic. If you are looking to take it up a notch, you can combine the loop with the Bristlecone and Glacier Trails for a longer hike with a little over 1000 more feet of elevation gain.
4.0
Stepping onto the Bristlecone Pine Glacier Trail in Great Basin National Park is to move through time and elevation, where ancient trees stand sentinel and glaciers nestle in alpine solitude. Arriving at the trailhead at about 1pm, I found the parking lot already full, fortunately, roadside parking less than a quarter of a mile away was available, making for a short and pleasant walk to the trail’s official start. If you plan a weekend visit in peak season, factor in a little extra time for parking, as early birds will have an easier go of it. While the Bristlecone Pine Glacier Trail is often rated as relatively easy, the elevation—over 10,000 feet—demands respect. The trail’s gentle grades and clear path are welcoming, but the thin alpine air and the strong mountain sun can catch even experienced hikers off guard. The heat, surprisingly intense despite the elevation, made hydration and sun protection essential. On the way up to the glacier, a stop at the celebrated Bristlecone loop, where ancient, twisted pines—some over 3,000 years old—is a must. Past this loop, the trail becomes noticeably more exposed, weaving through open alpine terrain. There’s little shelter from the sun, so ample sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and plenty of water are non-negotiable. Even in July, the sun’s rays at this altitude felt relentless. The views are breathtaking: from dense stands of bristlecone pine, you emerge into wind-swept openness with sweeping vistas of rocky peaks and distant desert basins. The transition is remarkable; less than half an hour before reaching the trailhead, I was traversing sunbaked desert, yet here I stood amid snow patches and ancient trees under a clear blue sky.
5.0
Smith Rock State Park, the iconic gem nestled in the heart of central Oregon, is as renowned for its dramatic cliffs and winding trails as it is for inspiring awe in all who wander its rugged landscape. On a sun-drenched afternoon, I set out to explore some of the park’s most celebrated paths. My route began at the footbridge crossing the Crooked River. The plan: to ascend the legendary Misery Ridge Trail, skirt the Red Wall, enjoy the summit’s grand vistas, then descend the backside to connect with the Mesa Verde Trail, and finally curve counterclockwise along the River Trail—completing a loop of just over 4 miles and tallying a stout 1,043 feet of elevation gain. The climb up Misery Ridge lived up to its name—an exposed, relentless ascent that quickly demanded attention as sweat formed with the sun beating down. Even though the temperature was a moderate 80°F at the 2:30pm start, the lack of shade amplified the heat, making each switchback feel more intense. The terrain was steep and rocky, but despite the challenge, the effort was rewarded in spades. The panorama views of spires, the winding Crooked River below, and the distant silhouettes of the Cascades were breathtaking. Leaving the summit, I descended the backside of the ridge. The path here was quieter, shaded in part by outcrops and softened by the gentle wind. Connecting to the Mesa Verde Trail, I felt the landscape subtly shift—cliffs giving way to rolling slopes and pockets of wildflowers. Then connecting to the River Trail, it welcomed me with the soothing presence of the Crooked River. Following the trail counterclockwise, I traced the loop back toward the footbridge. The trail was alive with fellow adventurers—families, climbers, and trail runners, but didn’t feel overcrowded.
5.0
Crater Lake National Park is renowned for its deep blue waters and volcanic landscapes, and the Garfield Peak Trail offers one of the park’s best vantage points, getting you up higher than any of the pullouts on the scenic drive allows. On Saturday June 28th, I arrived at the park around 9 a.m. to find plenty of parking near the trailhead. The Garfield Peak Trail rises steadily from Rim Village, traversing rocky slopes and hugging the rim of Crater Lake. The climb was not overly strenuous but provided a satisfying challenge, with switchbacks revealing new, ever-more-stunning perspectives of the lake below. As I gained elevation, patches of snow lingered alongside the trail. Despite the snow, the trail was mostly clear and easily navigable up to about 7,700 feet, where I encountered a section still deeply covered in snow. Here, the path to the actual summit was impassable without proper winter gear—micro spikes and trekking poles would have been essential to continue safely. Opting for caution, I stopped at a natural viewpoint just before the final ascent. At this lookout, the reward was immense. The entirety of Crater Lake spread out below, a mirror of sapphire blue encircled by dramatic caldera cliffs, with Wizard Island and Phantom Ship dotting the blue landscape. Turning southward, I was awestruck to see the snowy crown of Mt. Shasta piercing the horizon all the way from California. The surrounding mountains formed a rugged amphitheater, framing the lake and sky in every direction. On the ascent, I encountered only a handful of fellow hikers. However, as I began my journey back down, the trail steadily filled with people making their way up, so early is the way to go if you are looking for solitude. The hike, which took just over an hour to complete, offered a perfect window into the unique splendor of Crater Lake. Even without reaching the very summit, the journey felt complete. The early start not only ensured solitude and easy parking but also allowed for unhurried appreciation of the park’s grandeur before midday crowds arrived. Garfield Peak remains a highly recommended adventure for anyone visiting Crater Lake—especially in early summer, when snow still lingers and the vistas stretch for what feels like forever.
4.0
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