Cynthia & Tex
hiking guides & photo essays
A local's guide to 17 of the best kayaking spots in Washington — from easy urban paddles near Seattle to alpine hike-in lakes, backcountry reservoirs, and island camping. Bring your kayak, packraft, or paddleboard.
I got on the wrong ferry. My legs were screaming up Roosevelt. My bike cost $200 and my cardio is trash. But 500 miles later, cycling has become the thing holding me together.
Discover 5 beginner-friendly bike rides in Seattle perfect for winter and summer cycling. From the flat, paved Burke-Gilman Trail to scenic ferry adventures to Manchester State Park, these routes prove you don't need a car to explore the Pacific Northwest.
After my car broke down, I rediscovered cycling as more than transportation - it became my mental health practice, my adventure tool, and my way of reclaiming freedom. Learn about accessible trails like the Snoqualmie Valley Trail, Centennial Trail, and Seattle's newly renovated waterfront path, plus practical tips on route planning, ferry logistics, and what it really feels like to climb Seattle's brutal hills as a beginner.
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.
Thinking about hitting the trail alone? Solo backpacking can feel intimidating at first, but it’s also one of the most empowering ways to experience the outdoors. In this guide, I share beginner tips, personal stories, and essential gear advice to help you confidently plan your first solo backpacking trip.
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.
After several trips to the Columbia River Gorge — most recently camping at Wyeth and finally hiking Eagle Creek to Tunnel Falls — here's my running guide to the hikes, waterfalls, and campgrounds worth building a trip around.
From after-work loops on the Burke-Gilman to river crossings in the Teanaway and gravel roads near Mount Baker that most people don't know exist — a local's guide to the best bike rides in and around Seattle, organized by how far you're willing to go.