Water is a way of life in the Pacific Northwest. From the vast Pacific Ocean to the resource-rich Salish Sea, our world is cleansed with the daily tides that bring in life and wash away the rest. In the early days, before roads dissected the lands around Washington State, hundreds of small boats known as “Mosquito Fleet” dotted the salty waterways, transporting people and goods … [Read more...] about All you need to navigate the Washington State ferries
Day Trips and Planning
Lumberjack road trip to timber rich Vernonia and rural environs
Columbia County is a quiet area of Oregon located north of popular Portland. The population is just over 50,000 people, who mostly live in small towns lining the mighty Columbia River. This includes my hometown of Scappoose -- now considered a bedroom community of Portland due to the convenient location on a beautifully scenic and easy highway only 15 miles away. This … [Read more...] about Lumberjack road trip to timber rich Vernonia and rural environs
Nisqually Wildlife Refuge — remarkable day access to nature’s balance
The Puget Sound is a commanding body of water that encapsulates a rich diversity of plants, trees, animals and interesting nooks and crannies -- all changing with the rise and fall of the daily tides. Where high tide exudes a water world of salty goodness, the low water mark reveals the underwater secrets -- uncovering giant kelp beds, mud flats and mollusks bathing in the … [Read more...] about Nisqually Wildlife Refuge — remarkable day access to nature’s balance
Seattle to Deception Pass — including things to do in Anacortes
This article outlines a fantastic day trip itinerary taking in the beautiful nature of the Salish Sea -- from Seattle to Deception Pass. The itinerary includes things to do in Anacortes Total drive time from/to Seattle 3:57 hours. Total distance from/to Seattle 184 miles.Table of contents -- Seattle to Deception Pass including things to do in AnacortesA local's way -- an … [Read more...] about Seattle to Deception Pass — including things to do in Anacortes
Amazing lava and lakes — visit the south side of Mount St. Helens
A day trip from Portland to visit Mount St. Helens is a right of passage for any Pacific Northwest local or visitors to the area. The south side of the National Volcanic Monument is easy to reach and the open road inspires freedom and fresh air. Take a break from the stresses of daily life and break away to pine needles, lava tubes, pristine lakes and alpine hikes. Mount St. … [Read more...] about Amazing lava and lakes — visit the south side of Mount St. Helens