Being a born and raised Washington Lass, I might be biased in saying that we live in one of the most stunningly beautiful landscapes in the world. In a day, you can see Mountains, Oceans, Cliffs, Deserts, Rainforests and City Lights which seems crazy when you think about it.
My moody little heart adores the foggy forest floors, painted clouds and the smell of the rain,
but being able to see a sunset over the coastline, that is something that becomes a part of who you are. 
I selected few photos from my favorite places throughout the Upper PNW. Most of these places are easily accessible for all ages, no additional skills or supplies needed! 

THE pacific northwest

in all her glory

MOUNT BAKER // NORTH CASCADES // WASHINGTON

IF I HAD TO PICK ON PLACE TO EXIST FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE, IT WOULD BE HERE. THE LOWER TRAILS FOLLOW ALONG LAKES AND STREAMS AND IN THE LATE SUMMER MONTHS MEADOWS OF WILDFLOWERS. THESE TRAILS ARE PERFECT FOR AN EASY HIKE FOR THE FAMILY OR PEOPLE LOOKING FOR A CASUAL HIKE WITH EASY ACCESS. FOR ONE OF THE MOST INCREDIBLE VIEWS IN WASHINGTON, GO UP TO ARTIST'S POINT TOWARDS DUSK, THE SCENES CHANGE QUICKLY AND THE SKY PERFORMS A BEAUTIFUL LITTLE DANCE OF COLOR, 

lake cushman// olympic national park // WASHINGTON

MY HAPPY PLACE, A NICE 30 MINUTE DRIVE FROM OLYMPIA TO THE PICTURESQUE TOWN OF HOODSPORT IS THE
MOST MAGICAL RESERVOIRS WITH CRYSTAL CLEAR 'AND VERY COLD" WATER.
DURING THE WINTER MONTHS, THE WATER IS DRAINED AN UNEARTHS A GRAVEYARD OF OLD GROWTH STUMPS THAT PAIR WITH SNOW TOP TREES AND PEAKS IN THE DISTANCE. FOR THOSE WISHING TO EXPLORE, VISIT THE STAIRCASE RAPIDS AND WALK THE TRAIL UNDER A CANOPY OF MOSS COVERED TREES ALONG THE SKOKOMISH RIVER. HONESTLY, I TRULY BELIEVE THAT THE OLYMPIC NATIONAL FOREST POSSESSES HEALING ABILITIES,
IT IS A MAGICAL PLACE. 

mount st. helens // Gifford Pinchot National Forest  // WASHINGTON

the living legend herself, the infamous volcano that changed the landscape of the pnw in 1982. turning a once lush and forested mountain side into ash-covered other worldly terran. in the years since the eruption, the land has been healing itself, creating a delicate habitat for returning wildlife. Unlike her sister to the north who is surrounded by old growth timber and perfectly carved out waterfalls and canyons. Mt st. helens offers sweeping views of the lava riverbeds, open skies and stunning golden sunsets. 

Capitol state forest // olympia  // WASHINGTON
The Peak as the locals will say, is in my backyard. I have spent years exploring the area and while it is logging country, there are still some pretty stellar views up top, as well as Creeks and Trails that make for great day hikes. There is also a hidden gem in these forests known as the Ghost Town of Bordeaux. WHile in recent years vandals have disgraced the grounds, it is still a pretty cool scene to stumble upon in the middle of nowhere.

ruby beach // pacific coast  // WASHINGTON

The sunsets here are beyond words, the way the salt water mists through the incredible rock formations and dusts your face, it feels like a dream.  A small trek to get to the beach but so worth it. Exploring down the coast you will find cliffs, giant old growth driftwood and the Tree of Life which is worth the visit alone. The drive  through the HOH rainforest is incredible and for those familiar with the PNW Vampire genre, will love getting to visit La Push and Forks Wa..

woodard bay // olympia, wa

golden ears // canada b.c

gorge cliffs // eastern wa.

millerslyvania // olympia, wa.

woodard bay // olympia, wa

Mt. rainier & alder lake // ashford  // WASHINGTON

YOU CAN EASILY SPEND A WEEK EXPLORING ALL THat ASHFORD AND MT. RAINIER HAVE TO OFFER. IN THE FOOTHILLS OF THE MOUNTAIN ARE LAKES, RIVERS AND ROADS THAT WEAVE IN AND OUT OF RAINIER'S SHADOW. AS YOU TRAVEL UP THE MOUNTAIN YOU WILL SEE SEASONS CHANGE BEFORE YOUR EYES WITH TRAILS THAT CURVE AROUND LANDSCAPES AND WATERFALLS GIVING YOU A DIFFERENT VIEW OF THE PEAK FROM EVERY CORNER. IN LATE SUMMER, THE SNOW HAS melted away AND THE MOUNTAIN IS PAINTED WITH MEADOWS OF WILDFLOWERS AND COLOR. There is a reason this is a destination spot for people though the world, you will never be disappointed!

other mentionable favorites

crystal mountain // cascades 

cape b // eastern wa.

the orchard // chehalis, wa