Destinations

Cape Flattery in Washington State
Destinations, Hiking, Hiking Trail in Washington State, Most Popular Hiking Trails in Washington State

A Day Trip to Cape Flattery: Tips and Highlights for Visitors

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Spread the loveI spent my first year or so living in Washington state with a serious dedication to exploring the coastal areas. There’s something special about moving from a landlocked state to one along the ocean. Every viewpoint of the Pacific brings me a joy that I wasn’t able to find in Utah. Plus, the possibility of seeing creatures in the ocean keeps me coming back on a regular basis. My commitment to spending time near the ocean led me to visiting Cape Flattery. This viewpoint is on the northwestern most tip of Washington state and offers the most amazing views of the pacific. In this guide i’ll be sharing my experience visiting Cape Flattery as well as important tips for your adventures. Overview Cape Flattery sits on the very tip of Washington state. In fact, when you’re at the lookout here you can easily see Canada’s Vancouver island! This is a great spot to visit if you’re seeking views of the pacific coast and some amazing sea stacks. The hiking trail weaves through a mossy forest and then leads you out to the cliffs at the end of the trail. At the lookouts, you’ll see expanding views of the ocean. You’ll also get to look down into the calm water below and look for seals, or if you’re lucky, other marine animals. Getting to Cape Flattery To get to Cape Flattery from Seattle, follow these detailed directions. Cape Flattery is located on the Makah Reservation in the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Tatoosh Island. Directions from Seattle to Cape Flattery: Google Maps directions to Cape Flattery Tribal Recreation Pass: To access Cape Flattery and other recreational sites on the Makah Reservation, you will need to purchase a Makah Recreation Pass. The pass is required for each vehicle and can be obtained at several locations in Neah Bay: Cost and Validity: Tips for Visiting Cape Flattery The Cape Flattery Hiking Trail Overview of the trail Mileage: The trail is approximately 1.5 miles round trip (0.75 miles each way). Elevation Gain: The trail has minimal elevation gain, making it a relatively easy hike for most visitors. Parking Information: Dog Policy: Dogs are not allowed on the Cape Flattery Trail. This policy helps protect the natural environment and wildlife in the area. If you liked this post, you might also like..

woman in a hot springs in washington state
Destinations, Hiking, Other

The Best Hot Springs in Washington State & How To Find Them

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Spread the loveI spent many years in Northern Utah, and one of my favorite parts of living in that area was the easy access to hot springs. A few times a week I would get out of school and head straight to the hot springs for a few hours of soaking. When I moved to Washington I thought it was going to be easy to find a few local hot springs to enjoy. There’s so much geothermal activity in the state and in my mind that meant there are going to be tons of different hot springs in Washington. I quickly learned that I wasn’t 100% correct in this assumption. Many of the hot springs in Washington are inaccessible due to the dense forests. In Utah, I could easily just hike in to various springs, but in Washington it’s unsafe to go deep into the forest in search of illusive hot springs. Instead, I found myself having to explore more developed hot springs in Washington. It’s hard to find information on all of the different hot springs in the Pacific Northwest, but this post goes over all of the hot springs I’ve learned about in Washington state. Sol Duc Hot Springs Location Sol Duc hot springs is located on the Olympic Peninsula Pricing $15 per person for 90 minutes in the pools. Seasonality Sol Duc hot springs is open from the end of March to the beginning of November. Overview When it comes to hot springs in Washington state, Sol Duc is a famous option. When I first started researching areas where I could relax in Washington hot springs, Sol Duc was always the first option on the list. To visit these pools, you’ll have to make a reservation online in advance. When you first show up you’ll see that this is more of a spa retreat than an adventurous exploration. There are changing areas, storage lockers, and beautiful pools to explore. The plus side of this being a regulated experience is that the pools feel fairly clean! This is very different than many of the hot springs I used to hike into and explore. Carson Hot Springs Location Carson hot springs is located in southern Washington in the Columbia River Gorge. Pricing Seasonality Overview TenZen Hot Springs Location TenZen hot springs is located in southern Washington in the Columbia River Gorge. Pricing Carson Hot Springs offers a range of services and accommodations to fit different budgets. The pricing varies depending on the type of service and the time of the week. Here’s a general overview: Special discounts and packages are often available, especially for groups and extended stays. Seasonality Carson Hot Springs is open year-round, with each season offering a unique experience: Overview Carson Hot Springs, located in the scenic Columbia River Gorge in Washington State, is a historic retreat known for its natural mineral waters and tranquil atmosphere. Established in the early 1900s, the resort offers a variety of amenities including soaking pools, a bathhouse, a golf course, and spa services. Guests can relax in the hot springs, which are rich in minerals believed to have therapeutic properties, or enjoy a range of outdoor activities available in the area. The resort’s rustic charm and natural setting make it a popular destination for those looking to unwind and rejuvenate in a peaceful environment. Doe Bay Resort & Retreat Location Doe Bay Resort & Retreat is located in northwestern Washington on Orcas island. Pricing Doe Bay Resort & Retreat offers a variety of accommodation options and services to suit different preferences and budgets. Here’s a general overview of the pricing: Seasonal discounts and package deals are often available, particularly during the off-peak season. Seasonality Doe Bay Resort & Retreat is open year-round, with each season providing a distinct experience: Overview Nestled on the picturesque Orcas Island in Washington State, Doe Bay Resort & Retreat is a serene destination known for its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. The resort offers a range of accommodations, including campsites, yurts, cabins, and houses, making it a versatile destination for solo travelers, couples, and groups. Doe Bay is renowned for its holistic approach to relaxation and wellness, featuring soaking tubs, a sauna, and massage services. The on-site Doe Bay Café serves delicious, farm-to-table meals, with ingredients sourced from the resort’s own garden and local producers. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, such as hiking, kayaking, and yoga, or simply relax and soak in the stunning views of the Salish Sea. With its focus on sustainability and community, Doe Bay Resort & Retreat offers a unique and rejuvenating getaway experience. Olympic Hot Springs Location Olympic Hot Springs is located on the Olympic Peninsula. There is a 19 mile strenuous hike involved in getting to Olympic hot springs. Pricing Free Seasonality Only accessible during the late spring – early fall. Overview Olympic Hot Springs, nestled within Olympic National Park in Washington State, offers a rustic and serene escape for nature enthusiasts. Accessible via hike through old-growth forests, the natural hot springs feature several small, geothermal-heated pools. Unlike commercial sites, these springs remain undeveloped, providing a unique, immersive experience. Visitors can soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters amidst the scenic beauty of the Olympic Mountains and diverse flora and fauna. The area also offers excellent hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities. Practicing Leave No Trace principles is encouraged to preserve this pristine setting, making Olympic Hot Springs a perfect getaway for relaxation and rejuvenation in nature. Goldmyer Hot Springs Location Goldmyer hot springs is located near North Bend, Washington. This is only about an hour east of Seattle. Pricing Goldmyer Hot Springs offers a rustic, natural experience with a focus on sustainability and limited impact. Here is an overview of the pricing: Visitors must also purchase a Northwest Forest Pass or pay a day-use fee for access to the trailhead. Seasonality Goldmyer Hot Springs is open year-round, with each season providing a unique experience: Overview Goldmyer Hot Springs, nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains in

View of zigzag falls from the bottom of the waterfall
Destinations, Hiking, Waterfalls

Zigzag Falls

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Spread the loveOne of my favorite places to visit in the Pacific Northwest is Mount Hood. It sits just south of the southern Washington boarder about an hour east of Portland Oregon. The entire Mount Hood Wilderness Area is beautiful and screams PNW! Plus, this area of Oregon is famously known for its mass amount of waterfalls. Every time i’m in Oregon I try to visit a new waterfall, and recently on one of these trips I went to see Zigzag Falls. I was initially intrigued by the photos of the falls, and when I found out how easy the trail was I knew I had to stop by! This post will share a guide to visiting Zigzag falls and other activities, food, and lodging in the area. Overview of Zigzag Falls The Trail to Zigzag Falls The hike to this Oregon waterfall is one of the easiest trails you can find in the area. There’s only 0.6 miles of trail to navigate and 101 ft of elevation gain, which really just means that this trail is short and flat. It’s suitable for people of all ages and ability level. The hiking trail to Zigzag falls follows along the Little Zigzag river until you reach the waterfall. This river is incredibly clear and beautiful to sit along and soak in the views. You’re surrounded by tall trees, mossy rocks, and lush greenery along your entire walk to the falls. When I did this hike in mid July the entire trail was lined with fresh huckleberries ready to be eaten! It was fun getting to break every few steps and eat these tasty berries. Once you get to the waterfall, there’s a nice viewing area for you to take in the water flowing down this steep rock face. There’s also a bench that you can snag if someone else hasn’t gotten to it first! This is where the previously mentioned 0.6 mile trail ends, but if you’re feeling adventurous you can continue up above the falls. My group of hikers only went to the top of the falls, but it looked like the trail continued up the river for a ways. Make sure you are a confident hiker before climbing up over this area, I would consider the water above the waterfall as a no-fall zone. Magic in the Air: The Negative Ions I learned about Zigzag falls by talking to locals in the town of Welches. Multiple people recommended the hike to this waterfall due to the negative ions in the air here. Negative ions are molecules that have gained an extra electron, giving them a negative charge. They are abundant in natural environments, particularly around moving water, such as waterfalls, oceans, and rivers. These ions are believed to have a range of positive effects on human health and well-being. The continuous movement of water over the rocks at Zigzag Falls creates a natural process called ionization. When water molecules collide, they split and release negative ions into the air. The result is an environment rich in these beneficial ions, especially around the base of the falls where the mist is thickest. Believed Benefits of Negative Ions Food Nearby When I visited Zigzag falls I was staying in an Airbnb in the nearby town Rhododendron. There was a surprising amount of food in this area, and a couple of places I highly recommend you check out. 1. Chicali Cantina The food at Chicali Cantina was amazing! This is a local Mexican restaurant with a ton of options for tacos, burritos, salsas, and more. 2. Mt.Hood Baking Company Mt Hood Baking Company has an amazing 5 star score on Google! They’re one of the only bakeries in this area unless you travel into the nearby town of Sandy. They serve coffee and a variety of baked goods for you to enjoy. 3. Zigzag Mountain Cafe If you’re looking for a meal a little closer to Zigzag falls, the Zigzag Mountain Cafe is an affordable and delicious option. They’re known for their home cooked breakfast and pizzas! Other Trails Near Zigzag Falls Zigzag falls is just one of many hikes near Mount Hood. This area of Oregon is packed full of iconic trails worth seeing. Below are a few of my favorites. Conclusion If you’re searching for an easy and rewarding hike near Mount Hood, Zigzag falls is an amazing option. Spend some time soaking in the negative ions and enjoying the views at this amazing waterfall. If you liked this post, you might also like..

View of mountains along Highway 2
Destinations, Other

Top 10 RV Campsites in Washington State

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Spread the loveDeciding where to camp can be overwhelming. There are endless lists online of options for your next RV camping adventure. I seek out RV parks that are near water, dog friendly, and offer access to nearby activities or views. If these priorities align with your travel plans, this is the list of RV campsites for you! Deception Pass State Park Overview of Deception Pass State Park Camping Deception Pass has one of the best RV parks in Washington State. Located on Whidbey Island, it offers breathtaking views of Deception Pass Bridge and the surrounding waters. The park spans over 4,100 acres, providing ample space for outdoor activities and exploration. Its stunning location and diverse landscapes make it a top choice for RV enthusiasts visiting Washington. As one of the best RV parks in Washington State, Deception Pass is incredibly popular. It features well-maintained campsites, modern amenities, and a family-friendly atmosphere. The park’s coastal environment adds to its appeal, attracting visitors from all over. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, due to its high demand. The park is renowned for its extensive network of hiking trails. These trails offer a range of difficulty levels and scenic views. Notable trails include the Goose Rock Perimeter Trail and the Lighthouse Point Trail. Hikers can enjoy forested paths, coastal cliffs, and panoramic vistas. This variety makes Deception Pass State Park RV Park a haven for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. Lake Chelan State Park Overview of Lake Chelan State Park Campign Lake Chelan has another one of the premier RV parks in Washington State. Located on the southern shore of Lake Chelan, it offers picturesque views and a tranquil setting. The park covers 139 acres, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Its location in north-central Washington makes it a convenient destination for both local visitors and tourists. As one of the most popular RV parks in Washington State, Lake Chelan State Park RV Park attracts many visitors year-round. The park features well-maintained campsites with modern amenities, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Chelan are a major draw, offering excellent opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. Due to its popularity, reservations are recommended, especially during the busy summer months. Nearby hiking trails add to the appeal of Lake Chelan State Park RV Park. The Lakeshore Trail is a favorite, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Other trails, such as the Little Bear Trail, provide a mix of challenging climbs and scenic vistas. These trails allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area, making Lake Chelan State Park RV Park one of the best RV parks in Washington State for outdoor enthusiasts. Cape Disappointment State Park Overview of Cape Disappointment Camping Cape Disappointment State Park RV Park is one of the most scenic RV parks in Washington State. Located at the southwestern tip of the state, where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean, it offers breathtaking coastal views and a unique natural setting. The park spans over 2,000 acres, providing visitors with ample space to explore and enjoy the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest. As one of the popular parks for camping in Washington State, Cape Disappointment State Park RV Park attracts many visitors throughout the year. The park features well-maintained campsites with modern amenities, making it an ideal spot for families, couples, and solo travelers. Its coastal location offers a variety of recreational activities, including beachcombing, fishing, and wildlife watching. Due to its high popularity, reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons. Cape Disappointment State Park is renowned for its numerous hiking trails, which further enhance its appeal. The Cape Disappointment Trail and the North Head Trail are among the most popular, offering stunning views of the ocean, lighthouses, and surrounding forests. These trails vary in difficulty, providing options for both casual walkers and avid hikers. The combination of scenic beauty and outdoor activities makes Cape Disappointment State Park RV Park one of the best RV parks in Washington State for nature enthusiasts. Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park Overview of Sun Lakes-Dry Falls Camping Sun Lakes-Dry Falls is one of the most unique RV parks in Washington State. Located in the heart of central Washington, near Coulee City, it offers visitors stunning geological features and desert landscapes. The park covers over 4,000 acres, providing plenty of space for outdoor activities and exploration. Its location in the channeled scablands makes it a fascinating destination for geology enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As one of the well-loved parks in Washington State, Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park RV Park attracts numerous visitors each year. The park offers well-maintained campsites with modern amenities, making it a comfortable and convenient choice for families and solo travelers. The park’s centerpiece, the ancient Dry Falls, is a must-see, offering a glimpse into the area’s dramatic geological past. Due to its popularity, especially in the warmer months, early reservations are recommended. Nearby hiking trails enhance the appeal of Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park RV Park. The Dry Falls Lake Trail and the Umatilla Rock Trail are popular choices, offering spectacular views of the dramatic landscape. These trails vary in length and difficulty, catering to both casual hikers and avid trekkers. The combination of unique geological features and diverse outdoor activities makes Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park one of the best RV parks in Washington State for outdoor adventure. Fort Worden State Park Overview of Fort Worden State Park Camping Fort Worden State Park RV Park is one of the top parks in Washington State. Located in Port Townsend, this park offers a blend of historical charm and natural beauty. The park spans over 432 acres and features a stunning coastline along the Strait of Juan de Fuca, providing picturesque views and a variety of recreational opportunities. As one of the most popular parks in Washington State, Fort Worden State Park RV Park attracts many visitors each

Bench near the beach on camano island
Destinations, Other

A Guide to Camano Island in Washington State

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Spread the loveMy Experience on Camano Island I visited Camano island my first few weeks of living in Washington. I had always wanted to visit the Washington islands, so when I needed to find an airbnb for a few nights I started looking into this area. The spot I ended up staying at was on the west shores of Camano Island. After spending a few days hiking in the dense forest, walking along the beaches, and enjoying the foggy mornings, I knew I loved this island. Visiting Camano Island is perfect for anyone looking for a relaxing vacation with some of Washington’s best views.  Getting to the Island Click here for Google maps directions to Camano Island  The drive from Seattle to this Washington Island is easy and fast. I would say this is the easiest island to visit in Washington besides Bainbridge. You’ll get on I-5 North for about an hour until you see the exit for Camano Island. From there you just head west until you hit the Camano WA! If you’re visiting the state park, it takes 1 hr and 13 min to get there from Seattle.  The drive to the island is typically easier in the morning than in the afternoon/evening. I’ve noticed I’m always able to get up north without any trouble, but traffic is always terrible on my way back to Seattle. Plan for this and expect traffic to add on a few minutes even if you’re avoiding rush hour.  Things To Do One thing to note about the island is that you’re entering into a very slow paced town. Time seems to slow down when you’re here, and it’s rare to run into huge crowds of people. This is one of the reasons why I love to visit! It can be really relaxing to leave Seattle and go to Camano Island just for a break from the city. Many of these activities can be done in one day or spread out with relaxation time in between.  Camano Island State Park If you’re visiting the island, you have to go to this park. Not only is this my favorite park in Camano, but it’s also one of my favorite state parks in Washington. You can explore the beaches, hike on the many trails, camp, or use their picnic areas. No matter what you’re doing, you’ll also be enjoying the views of the Puget Sound and the surrounding Islands.  To get into Camano Island State park you’ll have to have a Washington State Discover Pass or pay $10 for a day pass. If you’ll be visiting multiple Washington State Parks or even hiking trails in Washington within one year, you should buy a Discover Pass. They’re only 30 dollars and they’re valid for 12 months. I really appreciate that they don’t expire each calendar year! Cama Beach State Park Cama Beach is yet another state park on Camano Island! This park is a slightly shorter drive, maybe 5 or 10 minutes, from Seattle. You’ll see views of the Puget Sound and surrounding Washington Islands, a really cool beach, hiking trails, and there’s a cafe as well! You’ll also need to purchase a Discover Pass to stay at Cama Beach State park.  Other Beaches  Mabana Beach is another beach worth visiting. You’ll find lots of locals here with their dogs. Island County Parks Tillicum Beach is the first beach I’ve mentioned that’s on the east side of the island. It’s similar to the other beaches in that there’s tons of space to walk around on the beach. The difference is that you’ll get views to the East instead of out into the Puget Sound.  Whale Watching  Camano island is a popular spot for people trying to spot orcas and gray whales to visit. Keep in mind that you will have to do your whale watching from the shores here because there are not any guided whale watching boats available on this Washington island. Instead, you’ll have to visit Whidbey Island.  Food on Camano Island There are a few really great spots to eat on Camano Island! Here are a few of my favorites –  Camping on Camano Island Camano Island State Park – Camping at the state park allows you to wake up in one of the most beautiful spots on Camano island. You can make your reservation here. You’ll also get all of the perks of the amenities at the park. Camano Island State Park has showers, bathrooms, accessible campsites, fire pits, and so much more. Cama Beach Cabins These cabins are a great option if you’re spending the weekend on the island. It’ll still feel like camping, but you have a little more shelter than you would in a tent. If your trip is looking like it’ll be rainy, look into staying in the cabins over a tent site. Conclusion This is a great place to visit for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. There are plenty of things to do on the island, from hiking and biking to kayaking and boating. With its beautiful scenery and relaxed atmosphere, Camano Island hasn’t let me down. Pack your bags and get ready for a scenic and chill vacation. If you liked this post, you might also like..

A tent on the Rachel and Ramparts Lake Trail in Washington State
Destinations, Hiking Trail in Washington State

Free National Park Days in Washington State

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Spread the loveNational Parks in the United States Visiting national parks in the USA offers a chance to experience some of the country’s most stunning natural landscapes. Unfortunately visiting these parks comes with certain costs. Entrance fees vary depending on the park, vehicle type, and the duration of the visit. Additionally, costs can include camping fees, guided tours, and other activities. Understanding these costs can help visitors plan their trips more effectively. Furthermore, if you plan strategically you can visit on a free national park day! At Arches National Park in Utah, the entrance fee for a private vehicle is $30, which grants access for seven consecutive days. Motorcyclists are charged $25 for the same period, while individuals on foot or bicycle need to pay $15 each. An annual pass specific to Arches is available for $55. This provides frequent visitors a more economical option if they plan multiple visits within a year. Mount Rainier National Park in Washington has similar pricing. The entrance fee for a private vehicle is $30 for seven days, with motorcyclists required to pay $25. Individuals entering on foot or bicycle are charged $15 each. For those who visit frequently, the annual pass for Mount Rainier costs $55. Yellowstone National Park, one of the most popular and expansive parks, spanning parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, charges $35 for a seven-day pass for a private vehicle. Motorcyclists pay $30, while individuals entering on foot or bicycle are charged $20 each. Yellowstone also offers an annual pass for $70, which is a good investment for those planning to explore the park multiple times in a year. In addition to entrance fees, visitors should budget for potential costs such as camping fees, which can range from $15 to $30 per night for standard campsites, and higher for sites with additional amenities or group sites. Some parks also offer guided tours, educational programs, and special activities, which may have additional charges. For those looking to visit multiple parks, the America the Beautiful Annual Pass provides access to all national parks and federal recreational lands for $80 per year, making it a cost-effective choice for avid travelers. National Parks in Washington State Washington State boasts an array of stunning national parks, each offering unique landscapes, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. For those looking to explore without breaking the bank, the National Park Service offers several free admission days throughout the year. Let’s dive into when you can visit Washington’s national parks for free, the usual cost of admission, and what to expect in terms of park traffic. Free Admission Days in Washington State’s National Parks Cost of Visiting National Parks on Regular Days Free admission days offer a fantastic opportunity to explore Washington’s national parks without cost. It’s still important to be aware of the usual entrance fees. Park Traffic and Visitor Experience During free admission days, Washington’s national parks may experience increased traffic and visitation, especially on weekends and holidays. It’s advisable to arrive early and carpool if possible. It’s also important to have alternative plans in case popular trails or parking areas reach capacity. On regular days, park traffic varies depending on the season, weather conditions, and specific attractions within each park. Generally, summer months tend to be busier, while fall and winter offer quieter experiences with fewer crowds. Conclusion Exploring Washington State’s national parks is a rewarding experience that allows you to connect with nature, history, and culture. By taking advantage of free admission days, you can enjoy these natural treasures without worrying about entrance fees. Whether you’re admiring the glaciers on Mount Rainier, wandering through ancient forests in Olympic National Park, or marveling at the landscapes of North Cascades, there’s no shortage of adventures for you in Washington’s national parks. So mark your calendar, pack your bags, and embark on a memorable journey to discover the beauty of the Evergreen State’s protected lands. If you liked this post, you might also like..

Waterfall on the way to Rachel Lake in Washington
Destinations, Hiking, Hiking Trail in Washington State, Hiking Trail Near Seattle Washington, Other

Backpacking Rachel and Rampart Lakes

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Spread the lovef you’re short on time but still want to backpack near Seattle, I highly recommend checking out Rachel and Rampart lakes. I did a short backpacking trip up to the lakes my first year living in Seattle and loved it so much I went back the next year! If you’re looking for the perfect beginner friendly backpacking trail you’re in the right place. Getting to Rachel and Rampart Lakes Trailhead from Seattle One of the main reasons that I enjoyed this hike was it’s accessibility from Seattle. It takes me around 1.5 hours to to get here from my house near downtown Seattle, making it a great trip to start after work on a Friday. From downtown Seattle, you get on I-5 and then merge onto I-90 east. You stay on I-90 for about an hour until you get off at exit 65. From there, you’ll take a left. After driving about 5 miles you’ll find a split in the road. Here you want to stay left, if you go right you’ll end up at Lake Katchess Campground. You’ll continue on for .3 miles until you then turn right at a sign that says “Rachel Lake Trail 1313”. Continue on this road for another 4 miles until you arrive at the parking lot. You’ll see a few campsites along the road up to the trailhead. I have thought about driving up and car camping in one of these spots, but they have been taken every time I have driven by. If you really want to car camp in one of these spots I recommend arriving in the morning to snag a spot. Trail Overview Mileage: 8.9 Miles round trip Elevation: 2,526 ft Fees: North West Forest pass or $5 cash at the trailhead After you arrive and get your bags ready to go, you will head East in the parking lot and start on the Rachel and Rampart Lakes trail! The trail starts with you hiking uphill, but it levels out shortly after. You’ll hike along a creek and weave through old growth forest. The forest is dense out here so plan for it to be dark about an hour before the sun actually sets. The trail stays fairly flat until you hit the climb up to the lakes. You climb 2,526 ft in around 2 miles, so be prepared for it to be steep. There are lots of areas along the trial where you can take a break, and even a few spots that have water access. I’m not going to lie, every time I have done this hike I convince myself that we’re almost to the top only to realize I have hit what I will call a false summit. Try to remember that the uphill might seem never-ending, but you’ll get there! There is a waterfall near the top that is the perfect spot to take a break and sit by the water. 4 miles in you will arrive at Rachel Lake. Rachel Lake The blue water, trees, and waterfalls up there are amazing. The camping up here is perfect for someone who hasn’t done many backpacking trips. There are lots of campsites scattered around, a primitive toilet, and lake access for swimming. Every time I have slept up here the spots have filled up quick, so make sure you set up camp and then go explore the rest of the area. If you want to continue up to Rampart Lakes, that is another miles or so up the mountain. This section of the trail is very steep, but you get to look down at Rachel Lake on your way up so it never seems quite as intense. You’ll reach an expansive alpine meadow with what feels like hundreds of little lakes. You can wander around up here, but try your best to stay on the trail as to not disrupt the surrounding area. There are campsites scattered around up here but no toilets. Daily Itinerary This itinerary is for the first time backpacker who wants to have a chill first experience. This will also be a Friday – Sunday itinerary, minimizing the amount of time you’ll need to take off from work. Day 1: Arrive at Rachel and Rampart Lakes trailhead at 2pm and begin hiking at 3pm. Hike from the parking lot to Rachel Lake. Here, you will set up camp, cook dinner, and relax for the evening. Day 2: Spend the morning at Rachel Lake. Depending on how hot the weather is, begin hiking up to Rampart Lakes. If it is very hot I recommend going before 12 or after 4 because this section is fairly exposed. Set up camp at Rampart Lakes and enjoy your evening there. Another alternative is to do a day hike from Rampart Lakes to Alta Mountain. For more information on Alta Mountain, click here. Day 3: You only have a 4 mile hike back to your car at this point, and it’s all downhill. You could spend the day on a day hike, stay by the lakes, or head back home. What to Pack for Rachel and Rampart Lakes If this is your first backpacking trip, just know that you’re going to bring the wrong stuff. It takes a couple of trips to figure out what you really want to be carrying in, and just make do with what you have. The most common thing that I see is beginners over-packing. Thankfully, this trail is a really great beginner trail and you’ll be able to survive if you bring the bare minimum or if your bag is too heavy on the way up. My packing list for this trail is as follows: This trail is seasonally closed in the Winters due to snowfall. Make sure that you check on WTA or AllTrails for up to date trail conditions. If you go in the summer, be prepared for mosquito hell! When I went last July, we had read report after report on how terrible the mosquitos

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