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Parks and Gardens

How to find magic at Oswald West State Park

December 17, 2024 by Matthew

Matthew Kessi leans against an old growth sitka spruce tree on the Oregon Coast at Oswald West State Park. He's wearing black raingear head to toe that appears very wet, with a striped colored hat. There are roots from another smaller tree and green fir branches hanging down into the shot.

Oswald West State Park seems to have it all. Old-growth giants greet visitors, ushering them through a dramatic canopy of texture and light to a beach – an alchemy of sand, rocks, and drift logs. Creeks flow to the Pacific Ocean, and 14 trails meander the rugged topography. Most people rush directly to the iconic Short Sand Beach, but way more magic is possible. This … [Read more...] about How to find magic at Oswald West State Park

How to enjoy Fall in Seattle — 30 of the best outdoor things to do

August 27, 2024 by Matthew

A roadway is covered by a canopy of fall trees losing their colorful leaves of different colors. Some of the leaves are on the blacktop pavement and there are a few black lamp posts along the drive.

Read more for Leaf-peeping, jumping salmon, brilliant colors, joyful flowers, cleansing rain, forest bathing, installment art, urban walks, mindfulness meditation, and setting emotions adrift in local waters. Also known as, a fantastic Fall in Seattle. Includes map and videos. Fall in Seattle is my favorite time of year. The weather holds out well into October. Crisp, cool … [Read more...] about How to enjoy Fall in Seattle — 30 of the best outdoor things to do

Great destinations for nature connection — Global top 15

July 3, 2024 by Matthew

A tree drapes over a leaf covered lawn in a park in Seattle.

This article will help you plan transformational nature travel and provide 15 inspiring destinations across the globe to practice a deepening nature connection. Have you ever returned from traveling, only to feel like you need a vacation from your vacation? Did you go somewhere that was hyped on social media but only felt meh? Or, you connected with Nature on a fantastic … [Read more...] about Great destinations for nature connection — Global top 15

Lake Crescent Lodge — let the soul float in nature’s magic

July 17, 2023 by Matthew

Two brown rocking chairs sit peacefully on a small entry porch outside a cabin at Lake Crescent Lodge. Three large fronds of Sword Fern rise up to the deck as a hanging begonia pot clings to the rafter. The double hung windows reflect the hundred year old charm of this cabin.

The blue depths of Lake Crescent cleanse the soul. The lake that formed millions of years ago as glaciers sliced through the terrain continues to inspire the freedom to wander -- in mind, body, and spirit. Fir trees cascade from steep peaks to the gravelly banks that welcome the slow laps of pristine glacial melt-off. The 12-mile-long lake is perhaps the flagship welcome … [Read more...] about Lake Crescent Lodge — let the soul float in nature’s magic

How to plan an Olympic Peninsula road trip

July 10, 2023 by Matthew

Destinations of splendor. A beach scene of the Pacific Ocean waves crashing on the fine sandy beach with two large rocky islands in the background with fir trees growing on top.

This article about planning an Olympic Peninsula road trip is for you if: Best for first-time visitors or those with limited time (less than four days) on the Olympic Peninsula.    … [Read more...] about How to plan an Olympic Peninsula road trip

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I would like to acknowledge that much of my inspiration comes from living on the traditional land of the first people of Seattle, the Duwamish People past and present and honor with gratitude the land itself and the Duwamish Tribe.

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