Janelle Baarspul on October 23rd, 2008

The sun is leaving us earlier and earlier, but don’t let that dim your passion for the outdoors! There are plenty of things to keep the fall and winter months hopping, including using the time to get involved with one of the many volunteer organizations that serve our fair city and state. Here is a [...]

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Janelle Baarspul on September 28th, 2007

It’s the season for grand vistas, and we want to help you enjoy the view!
Mt. Dickerman (near Granite Falls) - Well known for its incredible views, this hike is steep but well worth the switchbacks. Once you make it to the top, you will be able to see Mt. Baker and Glacier Peak, plus many [...]

Continue reading about MHO Recommends: Mountain Tops

Janelle Baarspul on August 24th, 2007

Bluff Loop (Fort Ebey State Park, Whidbey Island)
Take a couple of hours and tour this lovely park along a bluff overlooking Puget Sound. The loop trail encompasses everything from old growth timber (called the “Granpa Tree” trail) to beautiful views of the Olympic Mountains. Both the park and this trail are hidden gems on [...]

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Janelle Baarspul on July 13th, 2007

“Challenging” can mean many things to many people, but in this case I’ve determined hike length, elevation gain/loss, and terrain to be the most important factors. Read on to find out what trails inspire the adventurer in us!
The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail (British Columbia through Mexico) - Only around 200 people a year [...]

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Janelle Baarspul on June 18th, 2007

The hiking season has already begun, but there is still time to check out some of these gorgeous destinations without too many other people to keep you company!
 
Annette Lake (on Snoqualmie Pass) – A beautiful waterfall fills this lake on its eastern boundary, and its moderate-level trail makes this a great first camping or [...]

Continue reading about MHO Recommends: Lakes

Janelle Baarspul on May 18th, 2007

It’s the perfect time of year to hop on the water and check out the view! We have compiled our favorite kayaking locations in Washington and given them to you in order from nearest to farthest away (though we guarantee that all are worth the trip!).
 
Lake Union – Great for beginners since it [...]

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Janelle Baarspul on May 4th, 2007

With the weather beginning to thaw our wandering spirits, it is a good time to look around and explore the beauty of our area! Many people like to hike based on a certain destination, whether it be a mountain top, lake, lookout, or waterfall, so we will start our specific hiking recommendations with descriptions [...]

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Janelle Baarspul on April 13th, 2007

With the spring upon us and thoughts leaping forward to summer camping adventures, it’s the perfect time to put out our recommendations for good Washington locations! Pack your vehicle, throw in the kids and pets, and have an adventure at any one of these wonderful local treasures.
Best Campgrounds:
Deception Pass State Park (9 miles north [...]

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Janelle Baarspul on March 23rd, 2007

Welcome to a new feature of our blog! I’ve polled our intrepid group of outdoors coordinators and will now share the results periodically with all of you. Recommendations include web links so you can continue to research our suggestions (for instance, to hike these you’ll need to get a map!) but at the [...]

Continue reading about MHO Recommends - Short hikes