Silver Peak & Tinkham Peak: A Great First Scramble
Silver Peak and Tinkham Peak looked intimidating on paper — steep talus, exposed scrambling, a route that isn't always obvious. Turns out, with the right beta, both summits (plus the traverse between them) are more manageable than they look. Here's the full loop from Mirror Lake, beta, tips and all.
Best Alpine Lakes for Packrafting in Washington
Looking for the best alpine lakes for packrafting in Washington? This guide highlights float-friendly backcountry destinations across the Cascades, including trail stats, route tips, and lakes ideal for packrafting—like Snow Lake, Blue Lake, Goat Lake, and more. Whether you're just getting started or looking to expand your summer adventure list, these hikes offer the perfect mix of scenic trails and packrafting.
A Guide to Hiking the 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.
The 20 Best Hikes in Washington: A Local's Personal List
18 years of hiking in Washington and I've only scratched the surface — but these 20 trails have stood out above the rest. A personal roundup across the North Cascades, Olympic Peninsula, Central Cascades, and Mount Rainier, with trail stats, honest takes, and plenty of dog-friendly options.
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!
Backpacking the Ptarmigan Ridge Trail
Explore the Ptarmigan Ridge Trail, a breathtaking 9-mile round trip hike near Mount Baker, Washington. Experience stunning views of glaciers, wildflower meadows, and rugged alpine terrain. Perfect for experienced hikers seeking scenic vistas and adventure in the North Cascades.
Kayak Camping in North Cascades National Park
Are you ready to elevate your backpacking experiences? Dive into the ultimate adventure with a kayak camping trip at Diablo Lake in North Cascades National Park. Known for its stunning turquoise waters and majestic mountain scenery, Diablo Lake offers an unparalleled setting for your outdoor escapade and could potentially be where you get started with kayak camping.
A Guide to Hiking to High Rock Lookout
Are you ready to embark on a thrilling adventure that promises breathtaking vistas and a heart-pounding hiking experience? Look no further than the 3.2 mile roundtrip High Rock Lookout Trail in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest in Washington, where nature's majesty collides with your inner explorer. Prepare to be enchanted by panoramic landscapes, rugged terrain, and the promise of an unforgettable journey that leaves you in awe of the Pacific Northwest's rugged charm.
Backpacking to Anderson and Watson Lakes in the North Cascades
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.