For our honeymoon, by husband and I wanted to go somewhere that would suite both our needs - the pacific northwest. We both love the outdoors (him especially) and having such a unique city like Seattle nearby was perfect for me. Included are some of my favorite stops along with some tips and tricks to make your trip to the PNW a breeze.
Mt. Pilchuck
Location: North Cascades -- Mountain Loop Highway
Length: 5.4 miles roundtrip
Elevation: Gain:Â 2300Â ft., Highest Point:Â 5327Â ft
Cost: $5 for a day pass (considered a federal recreation site) or purchase the Northwest Forest Pass ($30 for the year). Make it easy and buy online here: http://www.discovernw.org/store_national-forest-recreation-epass-national-forests-in-washington-and-oregon-only_20281.html
This intermediate hike is perfect for beginners who want a challenge or for anybody who wants breathtaking views. In other words, Mt. Pilchuck is for anybody willing to make the roughly five and a half mile trek up to the top. Because WOW! When we were there the wildfires in Canada were burning, so imagine these views on a clear day!
There are a two particular spots along the way that may make amateurs hesitate. There is a scree slope (loose boulder field) about a mile in that hikers must be careful when crossing. Just take your time and watch your step. Then, when you get to the peak you will find an amazing restored fire lookout. However, you must crawl up a less than sturdy wooden ladder to get into the building (watch the end of my highlight video below to see this gem!). Those weary of heights may take a little pep talk (like my brave husband), but trust me its worth it to see the views!
Some people even camp overnight to see the sunrise, but we just made it a day trip. The hike took us about 5 hours, but we were in no hurry. We stopped to eat our PB&J's and absorbed every second of the incredible views past the tree line. While this hike isn't without its challenges, we did see a couple close to their 70's tackling it as well as a dad with a baby carrier and dog. Beginners, push yourself because...I mean...check out the pictures below.
Whale Watching off the coast of the San Juan Islands
Location: Â Anacortes, WA - 1801 Commercial Avenue, Anacortes, WA 98221
Company used: Island Adventures Whale Watching - https://www.island-adventures.com/whale-watch-tours/anacortes-whale-watching
Best time of year: February-November - different species are in the area different months
Cost: Adults: $99-$109 depending on the time of year
LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCE. I have been the biggest fan of all things nature since the age of 3. I'm pretty sure I have 3 "adopted" whales via the World Wildlife Fund so getting to see Free Willy actually be free was awe-inspiring. We were so lucky to see a variety of species during our tour- humpback, orca, gray, and some porpoises. Make sure to check out the time of year you are visiting to see what is migrating through or living in in the area.
I'm still amazed that the tour guide could see a tail or dorsal fin once and know exactly which whale it was. Getting to see the resident orcas hunt, spy hop, and breach was so special and I hope you all get to experience the same. I honestly could have watched them all day and been perfectly content.
Some things to consider on your trip:
- You will need a jacket/sweatshirt. I don't care if it is an 80 degree day, it is immensely colder on the water. Sunglasses were also nice to have.
- Bring your own snacks and drinks to save money! We even brought peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for dinner. Just make sure to check your tour guide's policy on outside foods and beverages before hand.
- On the way up from Seattle stop at one of the 10 cherry stands you will pass on the side of the road. They are perfect to munch on!!
- Bring a camera - duh.
- Be prepared to not see any whales. There are times when you just get unlucky. Do not let this ruin your trip. Take in the gorgeous views and relaxing cruise.
- You will probably cross over into Canadian waters, meaning you will most likely loose phone service or be roaming. Turn off your phone to save the battery and be present in the moment.
- Take a few dollars cash to tip the crew when you get off the boat for the day. $5-10.
- Afterwards, stop at a cherry stand for a second time because you can never have enough!
Shopping at Pike Place Market
Location: North side of Downtown Seattle - 85 Pike Street
Parking: Two garages are available - check out this website for more information: http://pikeplacemarket.org/directions-parking. In my opinion driving downtown Seattle is stressful because the roads seem narrow, are busy, and are super hilly. All of these factors can make it overwhelming to those not used to city driving. Consider public transportation if this is you!!
Things to do: Shop, eat, walk around, people watch!
Overall, I give the market a 7/10. Not the most incredible thing I've ever seen, but still fun and a good use of your time. The market is touristy so expect large crowds and long lines everywhere. Evenings may be less packed and the parking is only $5 in the ramps if you go then! I enjoyed the view of the Puget Sound, all the fresh produce and flowers, and the unique crafts section of the market. The first ever Starbucks is right across the street as well! I couldn't resist going to check it out, but again beware of excessive wait time. Don't forget to check out the gum wall and leave a little piece of your DNA with Seattle!!
Hiking at Discovery Park
Location: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd - Overlooking the Shilshole and Elliott Bays, directly across from Bainbridge Island on the mainland
Parking: Three lots available, check out the trail map here: http://www.seattle.gov/Documents/Departments/ParksAndRecreation/Parks/DiscoveryParkTrailGuideMap-Capehart.pdf
Trails: Loop Trail (2.8 miles), about 12.5 total miles of trails
Attractions: Playground, Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center, Discovery Park Environmental Learning Center, West Point Lighthouse, Picnic areas, Water access
Discovery Park is maintained by Seattle Parks and Recreation. It is perfect for an easy nature hike within city limits. Beautiful trails, well-maintained pathways, & pretty decent views. At first I was expecting a more challenging hike, I hadn't really researched the area much. I was pleasantly surprised to just wander through winding pathways and decompress from our previous day of adventures. We started on the Loop trail from the North parking lot, hopped on the Hidden Valley trail briefly, then walked down to the water via the North Beach trail. Don't miss out on seeing the West Point Lighthouse!
Many people brought the family out for a picnic or long day at the beach. If this is your plan you won't be disappointed, just keep in mind it's not a short walk from the parking lot to the beach. Be prepared to carry children, walk dogs, or drag coolers for at least a mile. There are stairs throughout the trails as well so keep that in mind if you are bringing a stroller or cooler that rolls.
Deception Pass
Location: Separates Whidbey Island from Fidalgo Island, in the northwest part of Washington
Cost: $10/day/car or $30 for an annual Discover pass. More info here: https://parks.state.wa.us/167/Discover-Pass-fees
Things to do: Hike, fish, camp, etc.
Our trip to Deception Pass was short but oh so sweet. We drove through a few different areas of the park, then pulled over to check out this jaw-dropping bridge. If you are scared of heights, you may not be interested in driving or walking over this baby!!! My husband was happy to just watch from a distance as I walked over and back. The views go for miles and I could have stayed and admired them all day. This is one location I will for sure be returning to. I'd love the opportunity to hike around this state park, maybe do some fishing or bird watching.
Gas Works Park, Sea Fair 4th of July Festival
Location: North Shore of Lake Union - 2101 N Northlake Way
Cost: Free
We happened to be in Seattle during the holiday weekend. After some research, we decided to spend the day at Gas Works park. The Sea Fair 4th of July Festival was the place to be. Seriously, so unbelievably crowded. Being the planner that I am, I decided we had to get there early so we could find parking and a spot to sit for fireworks. We arrived around noon. And sat in the 90 degree heat until dark. Not my smartest move. However, we did get a decent parking spot on the street just a few blocks away and got our pick of where to set up camp.
There were activities, live music, food vendors, a beer garden, sky divers, etc. It did get a little rowdy at night time and the people behind us were experimenting with who-knows-what extra curricular. Be mindful of where you sit if you have kids as security was lax/nonexistent. It was enjoyable, but it was a very long day. I would suggest getting there around dinner time. And to avoid the traffic and parking debacle try parking on the opposite side of the lake and taking the water taxi across. Many locals told us this was the way to go. Lesson learned!
The Fremont Troll
Location: N 36th St, Aurora Ave N, Seattle, WA
Quirky. Weird. Something interesting to see if you are in the area. The Fremont troll is a neat public art piece that draws a lot of visitors. If you are a movie buff you may enjoy it, as it has been featured in a ton of movies. Sleepless in Seattle anybody?? Don't plan on spending a lot of time here, but it is neat to drive by or stop to take a picture of!
Twin Falls Hike
Location: Southeast of Seattle off of Highway 90 - Snoqualmie Region -- North Bend Area -SE 159th St, North Bend, WA 98045
Length: 2.6 miles round trip
Elevation: Gain: 500 ft., Highest Point: 1000 ft.
Cost: $10 with a day pass, $30 if you buy the annual Discover Pass
The name of the game here is hills. And stairs. A great hike to get that heart rate up! But if you want to see lush greens, ferns across the valley's ground, and waterfalls just 30 miles from Seattle, then this is for you. After you've made the trek to the waterfalls, you can hook up with a few other trails and continue on. There are a few points where you can hear the highway below, but most of the time this hike is as tranquil as it gets. It can get a little busy, so I would advise getting up early to make this trip!
While we were out in the Snoqualmie Region, we also decided to hit up Snoqualmie Falls (not pictured, but equally as impressive). This is another great waterfall to see and is easily accessible without much walking. It is located in more of a park setting and is very family friendly. There is a little shop there with souvenirs, restrooms, and refreshments as well!
Ballard Locks
Location: 3015 NW 54th St, Seattle, WA
Cost: Free
What to do: Salmon ladder, walk through the botanical garden, learn about the history of the site, see the locks in action!
Don't know what a lock is? It's ok me neither. I had no clue. Honestly, still not sure. Something to do with going from salt to fresh water and boats! My husband Drew was more interested in this aspect of the stop consider his environmental studies/natural resource background. I on the other hand loved seeing the salmon ladder. You can see them above the water or go to the underground viewing area. There you can get a good look at the hundreds of fish migrating through the area before heading out into the fresh water. Pretty stinking neat!
Kerry Park
Location: Queen Anne neighborhood - 211 W Highland Dr, Seattle, WA
VIEWS ON VIEWS. Honestly, don't spend your time and money on the Space Needle. Maybe that's an unpopular opinion, but I saw everything I needed to from Kerry Park for free. I mean the city skyline and Mount Rainier in one picture? Don't pass it up. We went at sunset and it was pretty packed. So be prepared to possibly elbow your way to the front to get your picture like mine below!
After the sunset, we drove around the quaint Queen Anne neighborhood. We found a little restaurant and had some good eats. There are plenty of fun places to fill up your tummy in this area that aren't touristy. It was a nice break from the crowds and its always fun to find local favorites.
Other Stops: Not featured above, but still worth it!
Edith Macefield House: You know the movie Up? The one that makes you constantly laugh and cry ugly tears all at the same time? Well, Edith is the real life version of this storyline, and you can go see her house! It still exists amongst a large business development. When we were there it was in the process of being taken down, but since has been revived. Who knows for how long, so be sure to stop and sign a balloon to tie to the fence to show your love and support.
Washington University & Lake Union: Rent a kayak or SUP and spend some time on the water. It goes right by Washington University's football stadium and is always a happening place.
Some highlights captured by my hubby, Drew:
Thanks for reading! I'd love to hear about your favorite stops in the PNW as this is a place I 100% want to go back to!
XOXO,
Em, The Wandering Blonde :)