U.S. National Parks: Top Picks from 2021

As we were outlining our 2021 travel plans, especially in the months before we were able to get vaccinated against COVID-19, we decided to once again prioritize visiting national parks and other sites where we could spend our time outdoors. This took us to: Joshua Tree National Park (California)Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)Montezuma Castle National …

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Washington Hikes: Mildred Point

Last weekend we decided to check out a longer hike in Mt. Rainier National Park. Now that we live in the South Sound, the west entrance is less than an hour from our house so we're looking forward to spending more time in the park. We arrived around 7 a.m., breezed through the gate thanks …

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Yellowstone National Park: Mammoth Hot Springs and Norris Geyser Basin

After an exhilarating hike outside Bozeman, we drove through the rain to the north entrance of Yellowstone National Park -- the first major stop on my birthday road trip. Despite arriving just after lunchtime, which is much later then we would typically arrive at any national park. we had no trouble entering and driving to …

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Hiking in Pinnacles National Park

Our travels have taken us to some beautiful places, both at home and abroad. While I’ve always found those outdoor experiences to be highlights of our trips, it wasn’t until we moved to the Pacific Northwest and really picked up hiking as a hobby that I’ve intentionally planned vacations around spending time in nature. Meaning, …

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A Day at Channel Islands National Park

On January 31, Seattle-area news outlets reported that there had been 28 rainy days in Seattle throughout the month, tying records set in January 1953 and 2006. We’re pretty accustomed to clouds and rain after having lived here almost five years, but even this was a bit much for me! I don’t mind the rain …

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Opt Outside: Exploring the National Parks

Last year I asked for an annual U.S. National Parks Pass for Christmas, and it ended up being one of the most useful things I could have put on my list! I wanted to make the most out of having it. As we were plotting our travel plans for the year, we prioritized destinations where …

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Exploring Elbe, Washington

On our recent weekend getaway to Mt. Rainier National Park we made a loop through the park, entering via the northern entrance and leaving via the western entrance. This route is ideal if you’re heading to the park in the morning because the road follows the sun, meaning Mt. Rainier’s summit is perfectly lit as …

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