A Guide to Backpacking to Gothic Basin and Foggy Lake
After years on my bucket list, I finally hiked Gothic Basin on a quiet weekday in early September—and it was worth the wait. This challenging alpine hike near Granite Falls rewards you with dramatic granite slabs, pristine alpine lakes, and some of the most otherworldly scenery in the North Cascades. The catch? You'll earn every bit of those views with steep switchbacks and nearly 3,000 feet of elevation gain packed into the final miles. Here's everything you need to know about tackling this spectacular trail, from directions to trail conditions to why you should absolutely skip the weekend crowds.
A Guide to Hiking Heather-Maple Pass Loop in Washington
Looking for one of the best hikes in Washington State? The Heather–Maple Pass Loop in the North Cascades offers everything you could want in a Pacific Northwest trail—alpine lakes, wildflowers, golden larches, and jaw-dropping mountain views. This 7.2-mile loop near Rainy Pass is especially popular in late summer and early fall, and it’s often ranked as one of the top hikes in Washington for its stunning scenery and variety of terrain.
Hiking Lake Valhalla: A Complete Guide
Planning a hike to Lake Valhalla? This dog-friendly trail in the Cascade Mountains is a must-see, offering stunning alpine scenery and a peaceful lakeside destination. In this guide, I’m sharing my top tips to make the most of your trip—best trail options, ideal seasons to visit, what to pack, and key things to know before you go. Whether you're hiking in summer or chasing fall colors, get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Royal Basin - Royal Lake (Olympic National Park)
Explore the stunning Royal Lake and Royal Basin in Olympic National Park. This blog post takes you through the adventure of hiking to one of the most breathtaking alpine areas in the park. From the crystal-clear waters of Royal Lake to the dramatic peaks surrounding Royal Basin, discover why this hike is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts.
Anderson and Watson Lakes
Situated in the beautiful Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest and the Noisy-Diosbud Wilderness, the Anderson and Watson Lakes trail features plenty of variety - from hiking through a lush forest to stepping over small streams to eventually finding yourself at Watson Lakes, the crown jewel of this quintessential Pacific Northwest hike.
Chain Lakes Loop
The Chain Lakes Loop is located in the Mount Baker Wilderness area up north. Located about 3 hours from Seattle, this can easily be done as a day hike or a backpacking trip for beginner backpackers.
