☀️August/September 2024 

🌊 Featuring beaches of the Pacific Northwest 

☀️August/September 2024 

💦 Featuring waterfalls of the Pacific Northwest 

☀️August/September 2024 

🪻 Featuring wildflowers of the Pacific Northwest 

☀️August/September 2024 

✨Diverse ecosystem - from rugged coastlines to temperate rainforests to glacier-capped mountains

✨Home to Mount Olympus - 7,980 feet tall 

Olympic National Park does require an entry fee but does NOT require reservations as of this writing. 

Nestled in the Quinault Rain Forest of Olympic National Park, the world's largest Sitka spruce stands as a towering testament to nature's grandeur. This majestic tree boasts an impressive height of over 300 feet and a circumference of more than 50 feet! 

Its massive trunk and sprawling branches make it an awe-inspiring sight, representing the lush and ancient forest ecosystem of the Pacific Northwest. The Sitka spruce is renowned for its resilience and immense size, thriving in the region's wet, temperate climate.

☀️August/September 2024 

✨Diverse ecosystem - from rugged coastlines to temperate rainforests to glacier-capped mountains

✨Home to Mount Olympus - 7,980 feet tall 

Olympic National Park does require an entry fee but does NOT require reservations as of this writing. 

The Tree of Life grows along a coastal bluff near Kalaloch Campground. Drive to the back of the parking lot, climb down the stairs, and walk straight ahead. The Tree of Life is on your right.

The Tree of Life in Olympic National Park is a fascinating natural wonder located in the Hoh Rain Forest. This ancient Sitka spruce tree, known for its unique appearance, is notable for the way it has adapted to its environment. 

Over time, the tree has developed an extensive network of epiphytes—plants that grow on other plants—such as mosses, ferns, and lichens. These epiphytes thrive in the moist, temperate rainforest environment of the Hoh Rain Forest, where high levels of rainfall and humidity provide ideal growing conditions. 

The Tree of Life's impressive appearance results from the accumulation of these epiphytes over many years, which gives the tree a distinctive, lush, and green appearance. This natural phenomenon is a testament to the rich biodiversity and unique ecological conditions of the Hoh Rain Forest.

 ☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Ruby Beach, 1 mile, easy

✨Diverse ecosystem - from rugged coastlines to temperate rainforests to glacier-capped mountains

✨Home to Mount Olympus - 7,980 feet tall  

Olympic National Park does require an entry fee but does NOT require reservations as of this writing. 

The Ruby Beach Trail is a short, 1-mile out-and-back trail leading to one of the most iconic coastal spots in Olympic National Park. The trail gently descends through a forested area before opening up to the rugged, driftwood-strewn beach, known for its dramatic sea stacks and tide pools. It's an easy hike suitable for all ages and offers spectacular ocean views, especially during sunset. The beach is popular, but the beauty and serenity make it worth visiting.

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Hall of Mosses, 1.1 miles, easy

✨Diverse ecosystem - from rugged coastlines to temperate rainforests to glacier-capped mountains

✨Home to Mount Olympus - 7,980 feet tall 

Olympic National Park does require an entry fee but does NOT require reservations as of this writing. 

The Hoh Rain Forest Hall of Mosses Trail offers a captivating, easy 1.1-mile loop through the temperate rainforest of Olympic National Park. Known for its vibrant green moss-draped trees, ferns, and lush undergrowth, the trail feels almost magical. The flat, well-maintained path is ideal for all ages and provides an immersive experience in one of the largest temperate rainforests in the U.S. It’s perfect for nature lovers seeking a peaceful, mystical atmosphere. 

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Second Beach, 2.1 miles, easy

✨Diverse ecosystem - from rugged coastlines to temperate rainforests to glacier-capped mountains

✨Home to Mount Olympus - 7,980 feet tall 

Olympic National Park does require an entry fee but does NOT require reservations as of this writing. 

The Second Beach Trail is a picturesque hike that takes you through a lush forest to a stunning Pacific Ocean beach. The 2.1-mile round-trip trail features a moderate descent through old-growth trees, leading to a scenic, driftwood-covered beach. It's known for its sea stacks, tide pools, and incredible sunset views. The trail can be muddy, and the final section includes a bit of scrambling over driftwood, but the serene, wild coastal landscape makes it a rewarding adventure. Perfect for a short, yet scenic escape.

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Sol Doc Falls Trail , 1.8 miles, easy

✨Diverse ecosystem - from rugged coastlines to temperate rainforests to glacier-capped mountains

✨Home to Mount Olympus - 7,980 feet tall 

Olympic National Park does require an entry fee but does NOT require reservations as of this writing. 

The Sol Duc Falls Nature Trail is a short, scenic hike through the lush Olympic National Park. The 1.8-mile out-and-back trail is accessible and family-friendly, leading to the stunning Sol Duc Falls. Surrounded by mossy trees and ferns, the well-maintained trail offers views of the dense forest, creeks, and waterfalls. It's a popular trail for a peaceful nature walk with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for hikers of all skill levels. 

☀️August/September 2024 

✨Scenic coastal views 

✨Access to Olympic National Park

✨Charming coastal towns and beaches 

The Marine Discovery Tours excursion offers a thrilling experience that includes a variety of activities. On this tour, you'll have the chance to go crabbing, view wildlife, and possibly see whales feeding in the area along their migration. We got to see a female gray whale from afar on this tour. Gray whales are impressive creatures, typically ranging from 40 to 50 feet in length and weighing up to 40 tons. 

☀️August/September 2024 

✨Scenic coastal views 

✨Access to Olympic National Park

✨Charming coastal towns and beaches 

Cobble Beach is known for its distinctive cobblestone shore. The beach features smooth, round cobblestones instead of sand, creating a visually striking and tranquil environment. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the shore, explore tide pools, and take in stunning views of the rugged coastline and nearby rock formations. The beach is also a great spot for photography and enjoying peaceful coastal scenery. Its unusual and beautiful landscape makes it a standout destination for nature lovers and beachgoers.

☀️August/September 2024 

✨Scenic coastal views 

✨Access to Olympic National Park

✨Charming coastal towns and beaches 

This excursion offers a unique opportunity to explore the largest sea cave in the U.S. and observe sea lions in their natural habitat. Visitors can access the cave via an elevator that descends into the cave, where they can view the sea lions on rocky ledges and listen to the sounds of the ocean. The attraction also features observation decks with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Heceta Head Lighthouse. 

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Yoakam Point and Bastendorff Beach Loop, 1.2 miles, easy

✨Scenic coastal views 

✨Access to Olympic National Park

✨Charming coastal towns and beaches 

Highway 101 North is a scenic drive along the coast of Oregon and Washington and features many beaches, state parks, and cliffs from which to view fawn and fauna.

The trail begins at Yoakam Point, where you'll enjoy views of the rugged coastline and expansive ocean vistas. The trail then leads to Bastendorff Beach, where you can take in the sandy shores and crashing waves. The route combines beach walks with forest paths, providing a diverse and scenic experience. 

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Horsfall Beach Loop, 3.6  miles, moderate 

✨Scenic coastal views 

✨Access to Olympic National Park

✨Charming coastal towns and beaches 

Highway 101 North is a scenic drive along the coast of Oregon and Washington and features many beaches, state parks, and cliffs from which to view fawn and fauna.

This easy to moderate loop trail takes you through a diverse landscape of coastal dunes and beach. The trail offers a scenic mix of sand dunes, forested areas, and the picturesque Horsfall Beach. You'll have opportunities to enjoy expansive ocean views and the unique dune environment. 

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Haystack Rock, 4.3 miles, easy

✨Scenic coastal views 

✨Access to Olympic National Park

✨Charming coastal towns and beaches 

Highway 101 North is a scenic drive along the coast of Oregon and Washington and features many beaches, state parks, and cliffs from which to view fawn and fauna.

This short, easy trail leads to the iconic Haystack Rock, a prominent sea stack and one of the most recognizable landmarks on the Oregon coast. The trail offers stunning views of the rock formation, as well as the surrounding beach and ocean. I recommend going at low tide to explore all of the tide pools along the beach.

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Tillamook Rock Lighthouse Loop, 0.4 miles, easy

✨Scenic coastal views 

✨Access to Olympic National Park

✨Charming coastal towns and beaches 

The Tillamook Rock Lighthouse Loop in Oregon is a scenic 0.4-mile loop trail that offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the historic Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. Hikers will enjoy the unique combination of forested pathways and ocean vistas, making it perfect for photography and wildlife observation. The lighthouse, perched on a rocky island, adds a historical and picturesque element to the hike.

P.S. Highly recommend an ice cream pitstop near here. The Tillamook dairy HQ is nearby and the Mudslide is the best ice cream I’ve ever eaten. 

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Susan Creek Falls Trail, 1.5 miles, moderate

✨Highway 138 in Oregon features a number of waterfalls. Susan Creek Falls is just one of the many accessible from this road.

This moderate trail follows Susan Creek through a lush forest, leading to the picturesque Susan Creek Falls. The hike features gentle inclines. Along the way, you'll enjoy views of the creek, dense foliage, and the tranquil falls. 

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Fall Creek Falls Trail, 1.0 miles, moderate

✨Highway 138 in Oregon features a number of waterfalls. Fall Creek Falls is just one of the many accessible from this road.

The hike features a mix of gentle and steep sections, with some rocky terrain. Along the way, you'll enjoy views of the creek and the picturesque waterfall. The trail is known for its scenic beauty and the rewarding sight of the falls, with a small pool at the end to wade in.

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Crater Lake National Park

✨Deepest lake in the US at 1,943 feet deep

✨Crystal clear, intensely blue water fills the caldera left behind by the collapse of Mount Mazama

✨No rivers flow in or out

✨Scenic rim drive route 

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Pinnacle Valley Trail, 0.8 miles, easy

✨Deepest lake in the US at 1,943 feet deep

✨Crystal clear, intensely blue water fills the caldera left behind by the collapse of Mount Mazama

✨No rivers flow in or out

✨Scenic rim drive route 

Around 7,700 years ago, eruptions from Mt. Mazama created the pinnacles featured at this trail. Red-hot pumice and scoria flowed down the volcano at speeds up to 100 mph, leaving deep deposits. Temperatures in these deposits may have reached 750°F (400°C). As gases escaped through vents called fumaroles, they formed slender cone shapes. Streams have since eroded these deposits, exposing the hollow fumarole cones. The area continues to evolve as streams cut new valleys. At the hike's end, you'll find the park boundary and an old entry sign.

☀️August/September 2024 

At the Lava Lands Visitor Center in the Deschutes National Forest, visitors can explore a unique volcanic landscape shaped by ancient lava flows. Highlights include:

✨Lava Butte: An extinct cinder cone volcano with a paved trail leading to an observation deck offering panoramic views of the surrounding lava fields, mountains, and the Cascade Range.

✨Lava River Cave: A lava tube cave that you can explore with a flashlight, revealing the fascinating underground features created by flowing lava.

✨Scenic Trails: Trails such as the Trail of the Molten Land offer opportunities to walk through and view various lava formations, including rugged lava rock and sparse vegetation.

✨Educational Exhibits: The visitor center features informative displays and exhibits about volcanic activity, geology, and the local environment.

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Multnomah Falls Trail, viewable from lodge, easy

✨Scenic waterfalls - home to over 90, including the tallest waterfall in Oregon - Multnomah Falls

There is a 2.3 mile, moderate hike to this waterfall, but you can also view it from the Multnomah Falls Lodge, which is a very short walk from the parking lot.

The falls are 620 feet high and feature a wooden walking bridge across about the halfway point. 

The lodge has fantastic dining options. Don’t miss their speciality mocktail menu.

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Latourell Falls, 0.3 miles, easy

✨Scenic waterfalls - home to over 90, including the tallest waterfall in Oregon - Multnomah Falls

The Latourell Falls Trail is a 0.3-mile loop located in the Columbia River Gorge, Oregon. The trail features a mix of forested paths and rocky terrain, with some steep sections, especially as you approach the falls. Latourell Falls is known for its impressive 249-foot drop and striking basalt columns. 

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Bridal Veil Falls Trail, 0.6 miles, moderate

✨Scenic waterfalls - home to over 90, including the tallest waterfall in Oregon - Multnomah Falls

This trail offers a relatively easy hike with beautiful waterfall views. The trail features a mix of paved and natural surfaces, with gentle inclines and scenic views of the surrounding forest and gorge. 

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Mosier Plateau Trail, 2.9 miles, moderate

✨Scenic waterfalls - home to over 90, including the tallest waterfall in Oregon - Multnomah Falls

The Moiser Plateau Trail is a 2.9-mile out-and-back hike located in the Columbia River Gorge, Oregon. This moderate trail offers sweeping views of the Columbia River and the surrounding plateau. The hike starts with a steady ascent through sagebrush and grassland, leading to a panoramic viewpoint at the top. Along the way, you'll enjoy diverse scenery, including rock formations and expansive vistas. The trail is well-maintained and provides an excellent opportunity for a relatively short but rewarding hike with impressive views. This hike is in full sun so prepare with plenty of water, sunscreen, etc.

☀️August/September 2024 

✨1980 eruption - most significant volcanic event in US history; reduced the height of the mountain by over 1300 feet

✨Active volcanic activity

✨Unique landscape viewing - ash, pumice, and rock as a result of the 1980 eruption 

The visitors center offers breathtaking views of Mount St. Helens, showcasing the dramatic landscape altered by the eruption. You can see the volcanic crater, lava dome, and surrounding landscape. For the best views, make sure to visit both sides of Mount St. Helens. The east side provides close-up views of the crater and blast zone, while the north side offers expansive vistas of the mountain and the surrounding terrain. On a clear day you can also see Mount Rainier from here.

Mount St. Helens is an excellent place to view elk herds as well. 

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Myrtle Falls Viewpoint, 0.9 miles, moderate

✨Tallest peak in Washington - 14,411 feet

✨Active volcano

✨Glacial views

✨Wildflower meadows

✨Waterfalls

Mount Rainier National Park requires timed entry reservations at certain times of the year. Be sure to check their website for official updates before visiting.

The Myrtle Falls Viewpoint via Skyline Trail is a 0.9-mile out-and-back hike in Mount Rainier National Park, Washington. This moderate trail starts at the Paradise Visitor Center and offers spectacular views of Myrtle Falls, with Mount Rainier towering in the background. The trail features a mix of paved and natural surfaces, with a relatively gentle incline. Along the way, you'll pass through meadows and enjoy lush alpine scenery. 

Don’t forget to grab a meal at the Paradise Inn Restaurant. 

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Trail of the Shadows, 0.7 miles, easy

✨Tallest peak in Washington - 14,411 feet

✨Active volcano

✨Glacial views

✨Wildflower meadows

✨Waterfalls

Mount Rainier National Park requires timed entry reservations at certain times of the year. Be sure to check their website for official updates before visiting.

The Trail of the Shadows is a short, 0.7-mile loop located near Mount Rainier. This easy, family-friendly trail meanders through forested areas and past historical sites, including the cabin of early settler James Longmire. It also features views of natural springs and meadows, providing a peaceful, educational walk. Suitable for all skill levels, it's ideal for a quick nature stroll and learning about local history.

Don’t forget to grab a meal at the Paradise Inn Restaurant. 

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Narada Falls, 0.2 miles, easy

✨Tallest peak in Washington - 14,411 feet

✨Active volcano

✨Glacial views

✨Wildflower meadows

✨Waterfalls

Mount Rainier National Park requires timed entry reservations at certain times of the year. Be sure to check their website for official updates before visiting.

The Narada Falls Trail is a short, 0.2-mile out-and-back hike leading to stunning views of Narada Falls (150’ tall) in Mount Rainier National Park. The easy trail descends to a viewing area where hikers can experience the powerful waterfall up close. Surrounded by lush greenery, it's an ideal stop for a quick scenic adventure. The falls are especially photogenic, making it a popular spot for visitors to the park.

Don’t forget to grab a meal at the Paradise Inn Restaurant. 

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Nisqually Vista Trail, 1.1 miles, easy

🥾Sunrise Nature Trail, 1.5 miles, moderate

✨Tallest peak in Washington - 14,411 feet

✨Active volcano

✨Glacial views

✨Wildflower meadows

✨Waterfalls

Mount Rainier National Park requires timed entry reservations at certain times of the year. Be sure to check their website for official updates before visiting.

The Nisqually Vista Trail is a 1.1-mile out-and-back trail located in Mount Rainier National Park. It offers stunning views of Mount Rainier and the Nisqually Glacier. The trail is relatively easy, with gentle inclines, making it suitable for hikers of all skill levels. Along the way, you'll see a variety of wildflowers and lush forest scenery. The trailhead is located at the Paradise Visitor Center, and it typically takes about an hour to complete. It's a great option for a short hike with breathtaking views.

The Sunrise Nature Trail is a short, 1.5-mile loop located in Mount Rainier National Park. This easy hike offers stunning panoramic views of Mount Rainier, wildflower-filled meadows, and the surrounding Cascade Range. The trail is family-friendly with minimal elevation gain, making it perfect for a leisurely nature walk while soaking in the mountain scenery. 

Don’t forget to grab a meal at the Paradise Inn Restaurant. 

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Thunder Knob Trail, 3.4 miles, moderate

✨The North Cascades are often referred to as “The American Alps”

✨Remote wilderness with opportunities for backcountry experiences

The Thunder Knob Trail in Washington is a 3.4-mile round-trip hike offering panoramic views of Diablo Lake and the surrounding North Cascades. The moderate trail features a gradual elevation gain, passing through forested areas and rocky outcrops, making it accessible to most hikers. At the summit, hikers are rewarded with stunning vistas of the turquoise lake and surrounding mountains. Be sure to hit the beaches of Diablo Lake at the end. 

☀️August/September 2024 

🥾Ladder Creek Falls Trail, 0.5 miles, easy

✨The North Cascades are often referred to as “The American Alps”

✨Remote wilderness with opportunities for backcountry experiences

The Ladder Creek Falls Trail is a short, 0.5-mile loop that takes hikers through a lush, forested area. The trail features views of cascading waterfalls illuminated at night, adding a magical touch. It's an easy, family-friendly hike with minimal elevation, perfect for a quick scenic stroll. The combination of forest and falls makes it a peaceful nature escape.

If you’re like me, when you travel you try to maximize your time in a place and see as much as possible. After a recent trip to the Pacific Northwest, I wanted to share the 15 day itinerary I used to see as much as possible. In the coming weeks I’ll share a deep dive into hikes and activities in each of these areas in detail. 

🌲Day 1 - Land in Seattle

🌲Day 2 - North Cascades

⭐️Your vibe if you like ⭐️

• Jagged peaks

• Forested valleys

• Cascading waterfalls

• Glaciers 

🌲Day 3/4 - Mount Rainier

⭐️Your vibe if you like ⭐️

• Tallest singular peak in the lower 48

• Visible glacial system 

🌲Day 5 - Mount St. Helens

⭐️Your vibe if you like ⭐️

• Craters

• Lava domes

• Effects of a landslide 

🌲Day 6 - Columbia River Gorge

⭐️Your vibe if you like ⭐️

• River canyon views

• Set near peaks of PNW’s Cascade Mountain Range

• Tall waterfalls 

🌲Day 7 - Lava Land / Crater Lake

⭐️Your vibe if you like ⭐️

• Lake formed by volcano

• Deepest lake in the US and one of the deepest in the world

• Rich blue water with pristine clarity

🌲Day 8 - Waterfalls along Highway 138 in Oregon

⭐️Your vibe if you like ⭐️

• Highly accessible waterfalls grouped in one central location 

🌲Day 9/10/11 - Highway 101 North Scenic Drive

⭐️Your vibe if you like ⭐️

• Scenic beaches

• Cliffs

• Whale watching

• Beach combing

• Tide pool viewing 

🌲Day 12/13 - Olympic National park

⭐️Your vibe if you like ⭐️

• Scenic rocky beaches

• Moss

• Deep wilderness 

🌲Day 14 - Seattle

🌲Day 15 - Return home