Hike of the Week
We prefer trails with solitude but make an exception for trails at Sunrise in Mount Rainier National Park. Here, hikers and non-hikers mingle, all part of the experience because everyone's happy when The Mountain is out.
Some of the best hiking at Sunrise begins on the Sourdough Ridge Trail, whether you are a seasoned backpacker or a first-time visitor seeking a short stroll for unobstructed views of Mount Rainier.
By Karen Sykes | August 24, 2006
For all the fuss, the East Lake Sammamish Trail is fairly anticlimactic.
It's a pleasant enough lane weaving along the shore of Lake Sammamish atop an old railroad bed, mostly between and past a curious blend of old lakeside cottages and more recently sprouted edifices of opulence. But for eight years after King County purchased the corridor, this trail was derailed by a train of contention stemming from residents' concerns. So somehow when you finally travel it, you expect it to be more than it is.
By Greg Johnston | April 27, 2006
Hike of the Week
Mid-April is about the time it hits you -- spring fever! You can keep it at bay for a while, but sooner or later you'll give in and make that first sojourn to the east side.
Yes, the cost of gas is painful, but even that is not enough to stop us from scratching that itch for sun, flowers, the scent of sage and the slower tempo of the channeled scablands of Grant County. Save your pennies, carpool, or plan a weekend. But go!
By Karen Sykes | April 20, 2006
Hike of the Week
Spring often visits Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park before it shows up anywhere else. When rumors of wildflowers began to fly in the lowlands, it was high time to sample the magic of trilliums, spring beauties, coltsfoot, Indian plum, skunk cabbage and more.
By Karen Sykes | April 13, 2006
Hike of the Week
Was it desperation or inspiration that drew me to Golden Gardens on this cold day in February? Truth is, there are times that even hard-core hikers consider abandoning the mountains for safer territory. With wind-chill factors down to subzero temperatures and mountain snow the consistency of porcelain, this seemed a good opportunity to rediscover the magic of Golden Gardens, one of my favorite city parks.
By Karen Sykes | February 23, 2006
Hike of the Week
Islands are like small countries, each one a distinct personality with its natural history, demographics, language, ambience, geography, cultural values and environmental niche. Some feel open and friendly, others more introspective, but one characteristic that all seem to share is a slowdown in time. Those who live on islands seem to live at a more relaxed pace and are protective of their privacy.
Vashon Island is no exception.
By Karen Sykes | November 10, 2005
Location: Bellevue.
Length: About five miles of trails.
Level of difficulty: Level-to-moderate bark/dirt/gravel trails and wooden boardwalks.
By Cathy McDonald | August 25, 2005
What do a steel mill, Lorquin's Admiral butterflies, a shopping center, coho salmon, Chief Sealth High School students, public art and an ancient bog have in common?
Answer: The Longfellow Creek Legacy Trail in West Seattle.
By Kathryn True | August 18, 2005
Location: Renton.
Length: About a half-mile each way; grassy trail connects to the south with a paved pedestrian/bike path.
Level of difficulty: Level to gentle.
By Cathy McDonald | July 28, 2005
Hike of the Week
If you are looking for a cool, shady hike on a hot day, check out these trails in the northern section of Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Though flowers are few, these trails are spectacular nonetheless, with waterfalls, basalt cliffs and caves carved by geologic processes.
We recommend starting out on Covel Creek Trail No. 228, an easy milelong stroll beside Covel Creek that begins at the Cispus Learning Center. You can extend the hike with loops within loops and visit a series of waterfalls -- the trails are all well signed.
By Karen Sykes | July 21, 2005
