HIKE OF THE WEEK: Seeley Lake
Hike Description: This City of Lakewood park offers an opportunity for a snow-free winter hike without a long drive. Seeley Lake is more of a marsh than a lake. You will be hiking in trees around the wetland that forms the center of this 47-acre park. Don’t expect to actually see much water unless you go in the rainy season. The trail is a wide graveled surface and is elevated to stay relatively dry. Start out heading to the left, so that you are hiking the trail clockwise. This will have the traffic noise at the start of the hike rather than at the end. Be prepared to share the trail with runners. The trail is a short one, but there is no limit to the number of times you can walk it.
(Published 5:53AM, December 28th, 2006)

Hike of the Week
Hike Description: The North Fork Skokomish trail makes a great day hike for those not up for an overnight trip. After several slow miles on Forest Service Road 24, you will find the main gate to the Staircase campground and ranger station closed during the winter and early spring. This means an extra 1.2-mile hike on uphill paved road to the trailhead. Over-the-ankle boots are recommended, but it’s a pleasant forest walk throughout, and you’re never out of earshot of streams.
(Published 1:00AM, November 16th, 2006)

Hike of the Week
Hike Description: An excellent destination for lunch on what feels like the top of the world. On a clear day, you will have views of mounts Adams, St. Helens and Hood, as well as of the Nisqually Glacier on Mount Rainier.
(Published 1:00AM, August 17th, 2006)

Hike of the Week
Hike Description: For a gentle introduction to the treasures of Mount Rainier National Park, go to Paradise. As you meander on the paved trails that take you through the meadows, you will see wonderful views of “The Mountain” and the surrounding areas.
(Published 1:00AM, August 10th, 2006)

Hike of the Week
Hike Description: This trail in the northeast corner of Mount Rainier National Park starts at 3,750 feet above sea level. This pleasant trail switchbacks through dense forest following nearby Shaw Creek. After about 3 miles, check out Tamanos Creek campsite in the trees, then continue on another half mile to Owyhigh Lakes. Stay on the main trail to protect the renewing fragile vegetation, with the ruggedly beautiful Governors Ridge soaring above. Enjoy the lovely terrain and meadows of the rocky Tamanos Mountain looming to the west. There are good shady lunch spots under nearby trees. After your fill of the tranquil scenery, turn around and hike back to the trail head retracing your steps.
(Published 1:00AM, August 3rd, 2006)

Hike of the Week
Trail Number: 1014
(Published 1:00AM, July 27th, 2006)

Hike of the Week
HIKE DESCRIPTION: The Eagle Peak Meadows trail at Mount Rainier National Park is quite steep as it climbs through the forest and crosses a creek at about 3 miles, reaching an open meadow. This is a good place to turn around after lunch or press on for an extra half mile to another wide meadow filled with wildflowers. The meadow below Eagle Peak has terrific views in every direction. Take a well-earned lingering break, and enjoy the success of your strenuous hike before heading back down.
(Published 1:00AM, July 20th, 2006)

Hike of the Week

(Published 1:00AM, July 13th, 2006)

Hike of the Week

(Published 1:00AM, July 6th, 2006)

Hike of the Week: Marmot Pass

(Published 1:00AM, June 29th, 2006)

Hike of the Week

(Published 1:00AM, June 22nd, 2006)

Hike of the Week: Clearwest Peak
Hike Description: This is a short hike with gradual elevation gain, one that can be enjoyed by young and old alike, making it a great family trip. The wildflowers (fireweed in July) and views of Mount Rainier will easily take your breath away. The trail head begins in a clear cut, full of brilliant fireweed. Once at the top, there is ample seating for enjoying lunch and the view of Willis Wall, Emmons and Winthrop glaciers, and the spire of Little Tahoma.
(Published 1:00AM, June 15th, 2006)

Hike of the Week: Mount Rainier National Park
HIKE DESCRIPTION: If you haven’t ventured to the northern side of Mount Rainier National Park, you are missing a real treat. Make a note on your calendar for the end of June to check the status of the road to Sunrise. It is scheduled to open July 1, but has been known to open earlier than that – it all depends on the snow. You have a short window to get up there – the road closes in October with the first snow.
(Published 1:00AM, June 8th, 2006)

Hike of the Week: Mount St. Helens
Hike Description: Yes, this is a bit of a drive, but it’s well worth it. Combined with an overnight stay, either in a backcountry camp or a local motel, this trip to the Mount St. Helens area will expand your hiking vistas. The trail meanders along Siouxon Creek, a real treasure. When you can’t see the creek, you will hear it. There are lots of campsites along the trail, again within sight or sound of the creek. The trail is gentle enough and the campsites inviting enough to make this a good family backpacking destination.
(Published 1:00AM, June 1st, 2006)

Hike of the Week: Wagonwheel Lake
Hike Description: This is a steep trail through the forest to a lake bordered by a dense stand of conifers. This is not an easy trail, but lunch by the lake is a worthwhile reward for slogging up this trail. This trail can be done by most anyone; it is all a matter of pacing yourself and taking the time to enjoy being outdoors.
(Published 1:00AM, May 25th, 2006)

Hike of the Week: Packwood Lake
Hike Description: All hiking guide books indicated that Packwood Lake is crowded. This has not been our experience of late. At one time, Packwood Lake was a resort destination with boat rentals and fishing outfitters. The businesses no longer exist, but the fishing is still said to be good.
(Published 1:00AM, May 18th, 2006)

Hike of the Week: Mount Zion
HIKE DESCRIPTION: It is a short hike to the summit of Mount Zion, a former lookout site, where there are views of Puget Sound and the Cascades, including Mount Baker and Mount Rainier. Rhododendrons line part of the trail; if you time your trip right, this is an awesome display.
(Published 1:00AM, May 11th, 2006)

Hike of the Week: High Rock Trail
Hike Description: This is a short, steady climb to a fire lookout with a breathtaking view of Mount Rainier. The lookout sits on a point of rock that juts out like a prow on a ship. The hike is a pleasant one through forest. As you approach the lookout, it is a steep climb up slanted rock that offers guide wires as handholds as you inch your way to the top before admiring the views. It’s a wonderful hike to do at either sunset or sunrise on a clear day. In season, the trail is huckleberry heaven.
(Published 1:00AM, May 4th, 2006)

Hike of the Week: Mount Townsend
Hike Description: This is one of those mountains that can be climbed by most anyone in fairly decent shape. It is a nice workout any time of the year, but it is especially beautiful in the spring, when you can enjoy the mountain flowers and rhododendron display in the woods on the way up the trail.
(Published 1:00AM, April 27th, 2006)

Hike of the Week: Klahane Ridge Trail
Hike Description: This hike, also known as the Klahane Ridge Trail, is usually done in the summer but can be attempted as early as April. This trail climbs through a forest to a beautiful lake below steep cliffs with plunging waterfalls. It is a good hike to do in different seasons for different perspectives on the landscape. And don’t forget the views. From the ridge, you can see Mount Baker, Mount Olympus, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, the San Juan Islands and Vancouver Island. In the summer, you can drive up to Hurricane Ridge and pick up the trail at the east end of the parking lot for a 7-mile hike with only 1,200 feet gained.
(Published 1:00AM, April 20th, 2006)

Hike of the Week: Olympic Hot Springs
Hike Description: Once a road to a hot-springs resort, this trail is now a pleasant walk to the abandoned springs. The pools frequently fail water quality standards for public bathing; therefore, use at your own risk. Nudity is prohibited, but that doesn’t stop some. The Olympic Hot Springs consist of 21 seeps located in a bank on Boulder Creek, a tributary of the Elwha River. The water temperatures vary from lukewarm to 138 degrees.
(Published 1:00AM, April 13th, 2006)

Hike of the Week: De Leo Wall Trail
Hike Description: This easy trail is part of the 3,000-acre Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, which is an extensive park in the King County park system. The park is bordered by the cities of Bellevue, Newcastle and Issaquah. It has more than 36 miles of trails with natural beauty and interesting historic destinations. The park is full of remnants from historic coal mines that operated in the late 1800s.
(Published 1:00AM, April 6th, 2006)

Hike of the Week: Rampart Ridge
Hike Description: Rampart Ridge is a wonderful hike through old-growth forest with enough of a slope to give you some good exercise. Various spots along the trail offer views up to Mount Rainier or down to Longmire and beyond. At the top, find your way through the bushes and have lunch among the rocks with a great view.
(Published 1:00AM, March 30th, 2006)

Hike of the Week: Rain Forest Loop Nature Trail
HIKE DESCRIPTION: If you are looking for a way to spend just part of your day immersing yourself in the great outdoors of the Pacific Northwest, check out these two trails within easy reach of Tacoma. Either or both are great trails for families with small children.
(Published 1:00AM, March 23rd, 2006)

Hike of the Week

(Published 1:00AM, March 16th, 2006)

Hike of the Week
Mima Mounds Natural Area preserve
(Published 2:30AM, March 9th, 2006)

Hike of the Week
Cedar River Trail via Landsburg Park
(Published 2:30AM, March 2nd, 2006)

Hike of the Week
HIKE DESCRIPTION: This rails-to-trails path is well-maintained and has little or no elevation gain. One route starts at the Lake Wilderness Park in Maple Valley. Once a summertime destination for Seattle vacationers in the early 1900s, this suburban gem is a great all-year recreational destination. The lodge, once a privately owned resort, is now owned and operated by the City of Maple Valley as a facility that can be rented for weddings, conferences, family reunions, etc.
(Published 2:30AM, February 23rd, 2006)

Hike of the week
Hike Description: If the recent record rains have you wanting to get out, but you’re afraid of getting caught in a downpour far from home, then consider this close-in urban hike on the border of University Place and Steilacoom. The county’s Web site (www.co.pierce.wa.) describes this trail as “rough and steep.” Although there is elevation gain, this is an easy stroll through mature forest.
(Published 2:30AM, February 16th, 2006)

Hike of the Week
TRAIL Number: 734
(Published 2:30AM, February 9th, 2006)

Hike of the Week

(Published 2:30AM, February 2nd, 2006)

Hike of the Week

(Published 2:30AM, February 2nd, 2006)

Hike of the Week
Preston-Snoqualmie trail
(Published 2:30AM, January 26th, 2006)

Hike of the Week

(Published 2:30AM, January 19th, 2006)

Hike of the Week

(Published 2:30AM, January 12th, 2006)

Hike of the Week: The Foothills Trail
Hike Description: A wonderful year-round experience, the Foothills Trail is a 12-foot wide asphalt surface suitable for hikers, bicycles, in-line skating, equestrians, runners and other nonmotorized traffic. The trail is essentially flat, with scenery varying from agricultural to urban to near wilderness.
(Published 2:30AM, January 5th, 2006)

Hike of the week

(Published 2:30AM, December 29th, 2005)

Hike of the Week

(Published 2:30AM, December 22nd, 2005)

Hike of the Week

(Published 2:30AM, December 15th, 2005)

Hike of the Week

(Published 2:30AM, December 8th, 2005)

Hike of the Week
Swan Creek Canyon
(Published 2:30AM, December 1st, 2005)

Hike of the Week
1000 loop
(Published 2:30AM, November 24th, 2005)

Hike of the Week
Point Defiance Park
(Published 2:30AM, November 17th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Saint Edward State Park
HIKE DESCRIPTION: This is the largest undeveloped area on Lake Washington. It consists of 316 acres with 3,000 feet of mostly wooded shoreline. The park’s history as a Catholic seminary is reflected in the architecture of its buildings.
(Published 3:00AM, November 10th, 2005)

hike of the week

(Published 3:00AM, November 3rd, 2005)

hike of the week

(Published 3:00AM, November 3rd, 2005)

Hike of the week: Blankenship Meadows
HIKE DESCRIPTION: Trail 980 starts with a gentle climb for 11/2 miles through lush forest. Fall is one of the best times to be bug-free on this hike. This is bug country during the warmer-weather days.
(Published 3:00AM, November 3rd, 2005)

hike of the week

(Published 3:00AM, November 3rd, 2005)

Hike of the week: Greenwood Lake Train
HIKE DESCRIPTION: The trail is not well-used. According to U.S. Forest Service Web listings, the trail is not maintained and might be difficult to follow. Take your map, and go slowly to be sure you stay on the main trail.
(Published 12:01AM, October 27th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Lake Eleanor and Grand Park
HIKE DESCRIPTION: If you’ve heard about the wonders of Grand Park but just aren’t sure you can manage the almost 14-mile round-trip hike from Sunrise, take heart. There is an easier way to get there. This trail starts outside the northern boundary of the park and takes you to Lake Eleanor, a lovely lake with campsites and a pit toilet, and then up and up to Grand Park. When you have reached the edge of Grand Park, Mount Rainier will fill the horizon and astound you with its majesty.
(Published 12:01AM, October 20th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Park Butte
DESCRIPTION: Get up close and personal with Mount Baker on the busy Park Butte trail. Start the hike crossing Sulphur Creek and enter Schreiber’s Meadow, a haven for huckleberries. The trail crosses Rocky Creek on a suspension bridge, which is usually in place between July and October.
(Published 12:01AM, October 13th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Juniper Peak
HIKE DESCRIPTION: This hike climbs to a ridge top where there are views of Mount Rainier, Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens and the Cispus River. There are small meadows with wildflowers and huckleberries in season. Take the time to wander the ridge or climb to the top of Juniper Peak. After the snow melts, the ridge is dry, making it a good day-hike destination but not a good backpacking locale. Caution: Motorcycles are allowed on the trail, causing ruts in places. If you don’t mind the occasional noise, this is a great view hike.
(Published 12:01AM, October 6th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Mount Adams North
TRAILS: Killen Creek Trail 113, a bit of the Pacific Crest Trail and High Camp Trail 112.
(Published 12:01AM, September 29th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Mount Fremont Lookout
Hike Description: A hike to an easily accessible viewpoint for surveying the northern reaches of Mount Rainier National Park. The lookout is not on Mount Fremont itself, but is well-placed to give you the feeling of dominion over all that belongs to Mount Fremont.
(Published 12:01AM, September 22nd, 2005)

Hike of the week; Skyscraper Pass
This trail starts as most here do – you’ll hike from the parking lot at Sunrise in Mount Rainier National Park to the Sourdough Ridge trail and on to Frozen Lake, where several trails intersect.
(Published 12:01AM, September 15th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Quinn and Lost lakes
Hike Description: The first part of this hike is the Greenwater (Meeker) Lakes Trail, No. 1176. When the snow is gone from the higher elevations, in this case at 4,100 feet in dense forest, you can continue on beyond the easy Greenwater Lakes Trail.
(Published 12:01AM, September 8th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Upper Palisades Lake
Hike Description: This multiple lake hike at Mount Rainier National Park offers several options depending on the ages and stamina of your group. Each lake beckons you to drop your pack, enjoy the view and even dip your toes. The trail is worth doing early in the season when the wildflowers are out and again toward the end of the season when fall is clearly in the air.
(Published 12:01AM, September 1st, 2005)

Hike of the week: Camp Muir
Hike Description: This trip is considered by many to be a day hike, so we are including this in our weekly offerings with lots of caution. Every year brings new reports of “experienced” hikers who run into trouble on this trail, most often on the descent. Two climbers died on this hike earlier this year when they were caught in a snowstorm. The trail should be attempted only by experienced, prudent and very well-equipped hikers in top condition.
(Published 12:01AM, August 25th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Second Burroughs Mountain
Second Burroughs offers incomparable views in all directions, not the least of which is the in-your-face view of the mountain so close you feel you could reach out and touch it.
(Published 12:01AM, August 18th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Summit Lake
Hike Description: This is a great family day hike, an easy beginner hike or backpack trip to yet another lovely subalpine lake with a view of Mount Rainier.
(Published 12:01AM, August 11th, 2005)

Hike of the week
This trail on the east side of Mount Rainier National Park starts off like many Northwest trails, through forest and along a rushing creek, climbing gradually for the first two miles. The next two miles is a more moderate climb with switchbacks that offer a good look down to Fryingpan Creek.
(Published 12:01AM, August 4th, 2005)

Hike of the week
Hike Description: Spray Park is a must for flower displays around late July, up close and personal views of Mount Rainier and the other peaks seemingly close enough to touch. The trail starts at Mowich Lake, then descends to Spray Falls, a nice, short side trip that should be on your “can’t miss” list. After Spray Falls, the trail ascends steeply but is worth the effort. Large meadows of wildflowers fill your vision against the stark peaks in the backdrop. This trail is very popular, so plan an early start. At the end of the day, before heading down the road to home, stop at Mowich Lake to enjoy the one last snack left in your lunch bag while soaking your feet in the lake.
(Published 12:01AM, July 28th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Glacier Basin Trail
Hike Description: The trail takes you to Glacier Basin Campground, a starting point for climbers heading up Mount Rainier from the east side. The trail starts in forest and is, for the most part, wide in tribute to its origins as an old mining road. At one mile, you pass the junction for the Emmons Moraine Trail.
(Published 12:01AM, July 21st, 2005)

Hike of the week: Yellow Aster Butte

(Published 12:01AM, July 14th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Dosewallips Falls

(Published 12:01AM, July 7th, 2005)

Hike of the week

(Published 12:01AM, June 30th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Emmons Moraine Trail
HIKE DESCRIPTION: This is a short forest hike with a great view of the east side of Mount Rainier. The trail takes you along the Inter Fork of the White River, to view the snout of what is purported to be the largest glacier in the lower 48 states.
(Published 12:01AM, June 23rd, 2005)

Hike of the week: Rachel Lake Trail
HIKE DESCRIPTION: It’s not an easy hike but is well worth the effort. Rachel Lake is an alpine lake nestled in a rock-lined bowl, reached by hiking up a maintained but rough trail.
(Published 12:01AM, June 16th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Heart of the Forest Trail
HIKE DESCRIPTION: Also known as Lake Creek Trail, the Heart of the Forest Trail is a fine sampling of the lowland wilderness afforded to day-hikers early in the year. Start with this trail, and you will have no trouble getting back to explore Olympic National Park farther.
(Published 12:01AM, June 9th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Dry Creek Trail
Hike Description: In mid-March, neither the creek nor the trail were dry, but this is a great forest hike to do rain or shine. In spring, the payoff is yellow violets, trillium and waterfalls – lots of them, including one waterfall that covers most of the trail, so you get to walk through it.
(Published 12:01AM, June 2nd, 2005)

Hike of the week: Fort Worden State Park
Fort Worden State Park is a 433-acre park with 11,020 feet of saltwater shoreline and more than 15 miles of hiking trails. It was one of three forts built in 1897 to protect the Puget Sound from an enemy naval attack. The fort closed in 1953 and was purchased by the state in 1955; it is a National Historic Landmark.
(Published 12:01AM, May 26th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Deception Pass State Park
HIKE DESCRIPTION: Deception Pass is a lowland hiking paradise with both natural and man-made marvels. The state park is known for its spectacular views from its rugged cliffs overlooking the turbulent waters of Deception Pass and Rosario Strait.
(Published 12:01AM, May 19th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Snoquera Falls Loop
HIKE DESCRIPTION: The main legs of this loop are trails 1167 and 1199, with a small stretch of 1169 thrown in for good measure. With map and compass in hand and a sharp eye out for the trail signs, which are sometimes obscured by the brush, nature’s bounty awaits you on this trip.
(Published 12:01AM, May 12th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Rialto Beach to Hole-in-the-Wall
HIKE DESCRIPTION: Rialto Beach’s beauty can take your breath away. Forests and rock formations surround this black sand and pebbled beach. Bald eagles, starfish and anemones are just some of the creatures that are abundant on this beach hike.
(Published 12:01AM, May 5th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Echo Lake
HIKE DESCRIPTION: This is a wonderful hike along the Greenwater River. The trail meanders through the forest crossing over the river many times before reaching Greenwater Lakes at two miles.
(Published 12:01AM, April 28th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Carter Falls, Madcap Falls
HIKE DESCRIPTION: Enjoy the lowland forest along the Nisqually and Paradise rivers on the Wonderland Trail. The trailhead is located near the Longmire Hiker Information Center in Mount Rainier National Park.
(Published 12:01AM, April 21st, 2005)

Hike of the week: Twin Firs Loop, Trail of the Shadows Loop
HIKE DESCRIPTION: Two short trails to give your family a taste of Mount Rainier National Park.
(Published 12:01AM, April 14th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Paul Peak Trail Mowich Loop
HIKE DESCRIPTION: A word of warning to the summit-oriented: This is a trail around Paul Peak, not to the peak itself.
(Published 12:01AM, April 7th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Green Lake
HIKE DESCRIPTION: A magical hike through old-growth forest in Mount Rainier National Park.
(Published 12:01AM, March 31st, 2005)

Hike of the week: Snow and Bench Lakes
HIKE DESCRIPTION: With the snow receding early this year, there are some new hiking opportunities available. When the Stevens Canyon Road in Mount Rainier National Park is open, you can drive to the Bench/Snow Lake trailhead for a short 2.6-mile round trip to these pretty lakes by the road. With the road closed, you can enjoy these lakes and Reflection and Louise Lakes without the sound of passing cars and get some good exercise to boot.
(Published 12:01AM, March 24th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Lake to Lake Trail
HIKE DESCRIPTION: Ever feel like taking a really quick leisurely hike but don’t have time to drive to the mountains? Or ever need to test out the new hiking boots but don’t want to take a 10-mile hike to do that? Well, the city of Bellevue has more than 50 miles of trails, some of which are smack in the middle of the city and you wouldn’t know it. That’s the case with the Lake to Lake Trail, also known as the Weowna Park Trail.
(Published 12:01AM, March 17th, 2005)

Weekend getaway: Dupont walk and bike
WHAT: Follow the City Walk or Country Walk trails along sidewalks and through the woods in DuPont in this volkssport event sponsored by the Over the Hill Gang of Federal Way. Walks are 6.2 and 3.1 miles, and biking distances are 9 or 15.5 miles.
(Published 12:01AM, March 17th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Doe Falls Trail
HIKE DESCRIPTION: Hike through forest and across clearcuts, where the views are magnificent. Trail 1183 starts out as a wide gravel path that will trick you into thinking this will be a walk in the park. When the gravel ends, the trail starts to head uphill with switchbacks and long inclines to carry you up.
(Published 12:01AM, March 10th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Hugo Peak
HIKE DESCRIPTION: Want a hike with views? Want a hike through lush forest? Want a hike close to home? Want a trail that isn’t snowed in? During the winter months, take a hike on the Hugo Peak trail at Pack Forest just outside of Eatonville.
(Published 12:01AM, March 3rd, 2005)

Hike of the week: Poo Poo Point
HIKE DESCRIPTION: This Tiger Mountain hike offers a good workout and great views. A map is highly recommended to help you sort out the labyrinth of trails at the start of the hike.
(Published 12:01AM, February 24th, 2005)

Hike of the week: Twin Falls
HIKE DESCRIPTION: Twin Falls, also known as Ollalie, is one of the best year-round hikes. The trailhead is at the South Fork Snoqualmie River, where whitewater kayakers are often seen launching into the river.
(Published 12:01AM, February 17th, 2005)

Mount Pete

(Published 12:01AM, February 10th, 2005)

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
HIKE DESCRIPTION: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service-run refuge offers a variety of trail experiences: a one-mile fully accessible boardwalk trail and a longer trail around the outer perimeter of the refuge.
(Published 12:01AM, February 3rd, 2005)

Lower South Fork Skokomish Trail
HIKE DESCRIPTION: The Lower South Fork Skokomish trail is a winter wonderland for hikers. This trail follows the river through a lovely forested valley. The highlights of this trip are beautiful groves of old-growth Douglas fir and cedars.
(Published 12:01AM, January 27th, 2005)

Wallace Falls Loop
HIKE DESCRIPTION: This trail is very popular in summertime – so popular that it’s recommended as a winter hike to avoid the massive crowds and the parking mess that is the norm during summer months.
(Published 8:35AM, January 20th, 2005)

Nisqually Vista Snowshoe Loop
HIKE DESCRIPTION: Snowshoeing is a great way to stay active and fit during the winter. This is a short, easy snowshoe trail to introduce you to snowshoeing and whet your appetite for more snowscape walks. You’ll pick up this trail by the Jackson Visitor Center at Paradise.
(Published 12:01AM, January 13th, 2005)

Spruce Railroad Trail
HIKE DESCRIPTION: This old-growth trail offers forest and lakeside vistas on a historic railroad grade along the north shore of Lake Crescent. The emerald green color of Crescent Lake is jaw dropping.
(Published 12:01AM, January 6th, 2005)

MUD MOUNTAIN DAM RIVER TRAIL
HIKE DESCRIPTION: A great low-elevation hike (1,300 feet) that is close enough to home to be doable during short winter days. Explore the trails in this U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project, finding a place for lunch with a view of the White River. The dam was built in the 1940s, with the recreation area a more recent addition.
(Published 12:01AM, December 30th, 2004)

Hike of the Week: Little Si
HIKE DESCRIPTION: When higher trails are snowed in but you still want a view hike, head to Little Si in North Bend. A new trailhead has been built, but guidebooks still have the old trailhead described. However, the newest Green Trails map (206S Mount Si) shows the new trailhead. The new trailhead is just a quarter-mile up the road from the old one. But this one has lots of parking to accommodate the crowds. This trail, although a lot easier than the Mount Si trails, can give you a cardio workout. And on a clear winter day, you have incredible views of the town of North Bend, the Snoqualmie Valley and Rattlesnake Mountain.
(Published 12:01AM, December 16th, 2004)

Rattlesnake Ledge
HIKE DESCRIPTION: This quick urban hike is not only close to home but is scenic, too. The combination of the two attracts huge crowds in the summer. But in the off-season, this trail is a great way to get into nature without having to take an entire day off. If you haven’t been on this trail recently, a return visit is in order. The trail, once a short and steep climb, has been rerouted and makes for a pleasant gradual walk up to a rocky ledge. From the ledge, views of the North Bend Valley and Snoqualmie area mountains surround you.
(Published 10:27AM, December 9th, 2004)

Poo Poo Point
HIKE DESCRIPTION: This hike offers a good workout and great views. A map is highly recommended to help you sort out the labyrinth of trails at the start of the hike in the Tiger Mountain area. The trail climbs and climbs and climbs at a steady rate that lends itself to frequent stops to enjoy the forest and catch your breath. The trail levels out for the last half-mile, taking you to the summit. Amenities at the summit include views across the valley, plenty of flat space to stretch out for the obligatory after-lunch nap and a restroom. Best of all, when the weather is right, the colorful display of hang gliders and paragliders provides wonderful lunch theater. These stalwarts lug their gear up the 1.7-mile Chirico trail and float down on what look like gossamer wings. On a sunny day, plan at least an hour lunch to watch the show.
(Published 12:01AM, December 2nd, 2004)

Sherman Valley Loop
HIKE DESCRIPTION: Just imagine hiking trails through a deep, lush forest in your back yard. Capitol Forest just outside of Olympia is just that. Miles and miles of hiking, biking and riding trails crisscross this forest. Motorbikes also ride up and down this forest, but several trails are designated for nonmotorized use, including this trail. All trails are closed to horses and ORVs between Nov. 1 and March 31.
(Published 12:01AM, November 25th, 2004)

Big Hump and Little Hump
HIKE DESCRIPTION: When high-elevation trails are inaccessible in fall but you still have that desire to take a hike, the Duckabush Recreation Area in the Olympic National Forest is a good place to head. The Big Hump/Little Hump trail is a low-elevation hike through old-growth forest, with glimpses here and there of the Duckabush River.
(Published 12:01AM, November 18th, 2004)

Frog Mountain
HIKE DESCRIPTION: This trail is not in any guidebooks but is shown on the map and has an intriguing name. In several visits, there have been no signs of The Frog, or any frogs. But it is a nice trail through the forest with lots of ups and downs for some good exercise.
(Published 12:01AM, November 11th, 2004)

Lower Lena Lake
HIKE DESCRIPTION: This is a beautiful hike through second- and old-growth forest. The destination is pristine, 55-acre Lena Lake. The well-maintained, gradually ascending trail with long switchbacks lends itself to a superb day outing for the whole family. There is also a campground at the lake with 28 rustic campsites for hikers who want to stay longer. Lower Lena Lake is a popular destination for hikers and backpackers, offering lots of options for further exploration. At 1,800 feet, the trail is accessible a good part of the year and is hikable even with a light snow cover.
(Published 10:29AM, November 4th, 2004)

Carbon Glacier viewpoint
HIKE DESCRIPTION: A popular family hike through the forest, along the river and over a suspension bridge, to a view of the snout of the Carbon Glacier. Eat your lunch as you listen to the thunk of rocks and debris falling off the glacier.
(Published 12:01AM, October 28th, 2004)

Crystal Lakes Trail
HIKE DESCRIPTION: This hike is easily accessible and has lovely scenery. The hike climbs via switchbacks for the first 11/2 miles through beautiful forest with gradual clearing near the lakes. On a clear day, there are some stunning views of Mount Rainier to the south. The trail leads to two mountain lakes with the second lake nestled against steep, snow-covered slopes. Lakeside picnicking is especially enjoyable on a crisp fall day.
(Published 12:01AM, October 21st, 2004)

Meeker Lakes Trail
HIKE DESCRIPTION: This is a lovely family-friendly and kind-to-beginner-hikers trail. It's also a great early- and late-season hike when most of the higher elevation trails are snow-covered. The trail follows the Greenwater River, crossing it a couple of times on large log bridges (with rails). During the spring, you can hear a hidden waterfall, just past the first river crossing. If you look up against the steep canyon walls, you can find it. Your final destination can be short, reaching the first of several lakes just 1 1/2 miles from the trailhead. At two miles is the second lake, your destination for this trip. The first lake has a great spot to camp or picnic. Not only is this trail easy and beautiful, it's also easily reached. The trailhead is about one hour from Tacoma, and the roads are paved all the way. So plan to arrive early. Hikers with longer legs and more time can extend the trip to Lost and/or Echo lakes.
(Published 12:01AM, October 14th, 2004)

You don’t have to climb a mountain to get a view of St. Helens
STRAWBERRY MOUNTAIN, Skamania County – Lounging in a blue folding chair on top of this 5,466-foot peak, Robert Marek chuckles as he tunes into radio reports about the grumbling mountain he’s been watching since Oct. 2.
(Published 12:01AM, October 9th, 2004)

Granite Mountain
TRAIL DESCRIPTION: This hike has it all for peak baggers. If you want an early conditioner hike, 360-degree views and mixed terrain and you’re goal-oriented, this is the trail for you. The trail is popular and not for beginners unless you’re pretty tough – then it’s a good test.
(Published 12:01AM, October 7th, 2004)

HIKE OF THE WEEK: Seattle Park
TRAIL DESCRIPTION: The trail starts out on an easy grade parallel to the Carbon River with occasional views of the Mount Rainier. At three miles you reach Cataract Creek and a junction with the Seattle Park Trail. The trail then starts up the Cataract Creek valley with views of several peaks. At five miles you pass Cataract Backcountry Camp and shortly after reach Marmot Creek, the lower portion of Seattle Park, elevation 5,200 feet.
(Published 12:01AM, September 30th, 2004)

Naches Peak Loop
Start early to avoid the crowds. If you can get there at sunrise you might see a rosy Mount Rainier against a deep violet sky as mist rises off Tipsoo Lakes. Begin with the only real climb: The trail uphill from the lakes is short of a half-mile from Chinook Pass, where you cross the road on a bridge. You'll come upon a couple of tarns - mirror lakes reflecting the blue sky.
(Published 12:01AM, September 23rd, 2004)