2024 Hike 3: White River Falls State Park

Located about a hundred miles east of Portland is a magical place called White River Falls State Park. From Portland, you can take the freeway through the Columbia River Gorge or the highway that snakes up and around Mt. Hood. Once you’re at the park, you’ll notice it’s not your typical Oregon terrain.

View from the observation area

The area felt a little more like New Mexico or Northern Nevada to me than Oregon, and I’m excited if this i the gateway to the eastern part of the state where the desert is located.

Not your typical Oregon terrain

The park has two parking lots, one is only open seasonally. There are bathrooms and a little picnic area. The highlight, obviously, is the viewpoint to see the main falls area. There’s a huge area with a fence to see the roaring waterfall.

The trail down

Take the trail, and follow it down to into the canyon, and you’ll see the falls from a new angle with a new waterfall added in. Keep going, along the river, and you’ll see the lower falls and subsequent rapids downstream. Take the walk and sit by the edge of the river. Take in the sounds and sights.

A View of Celestial Falls (with the main falls in the background) at about 1/3 of the way down the trail

I sat by the river for a while, feeling the spray from the lower falls and listening to the water splash into the rocks. I watched how the water flowed over the edge and how the clouds moved through the sky.

The Lower Falls

The trail itself is around a mile to the lower falls and back. It’s all uphill on the way ack, and not universally accessible. If you go when the weather is warm, take plenty of water.

2023 Hike 7 - Beacon Rock State Park

52 Hikes With Mike - Hike 7

Beacon Rock State Park - Skamania County, WA

I found a hiking group based out of Portland to join, thanks to some friends, and I went on my first outing with them to Beacon Rock State Park. The park is pretty well-known in the area, and is just north of Portland across the Columbia River.

The trail goes up and around this rock, climbing and climbing. The views from each point are amazing, or I assume, since it was a pretty gray and foggy day when I went. This hike took place back in February, and I’d say it’s challenging for anyone who isn’t used to go uphill. Don’t worry, there’s plenty of places to stop and take a “photo break” to catch your breath!

WA State Park Website: https://www.parks.wa.gov/474/Beacon-Rock

2023 Hike 6 - Hilburn Preserve

52 Hikes With Mike - Hike 6

Hilburn Preserve - Shelton, WA

I took a short drive (maybe 25 mins) to a small town called Shelton and parked behind the Ford dealership to go for a hike along the Goldsborough Creek. I didn’t want to adventure too far, and I wasn’t really feeling much as far as physical exertion, so I this little stroll looked perfect. It was a relatively easy trail, through some gorgeous trees covered in moss towering over an abundance of ferns.

It was a short hike through the first part which was right along the creek, through some big trees. From there, it opened up and I had to cross over some fallen trees. I followed the trail to the railroad tracks, and crossed, but it got a little thick and I didn’t feel like going any further. I turned back and took an alternative route through some bigger trees. The sun was streaming through, it was a gorgeous morning. The moss was illuminated and the ferns were a brilliant green. The area was relatively quiet and I saw no one around.

Happy trails and stay safe out there! Enjoy some photos.

2023 Hike 5 - Mima Falls

52 Hikes With Mike - Hike 5

Mima Falls - Capitol State Forest - Washington

I took a late afternoon hike in the Mima Falls area which is about 25 minutes from my house. The trail is near a shoot range, so be prepared to hear people doing that in the first part of your hike. From the trailhead, I headed out and wasn’t too sure what to expect. The Capitol Forest is managed, so the area I walked through was cut before, or so it seemed. The trail carried on into the forest and eventually I found some older, bigger trees that were more my style. It’s not that I don’t mind regrowth, in fact it made me feel nostalgic, I just prefer the big trees.

Parts of this hike reminded me of Northern Michigan where I grew up. The trees that were growing back looked like some of the full grown trees back there. The way the night sky came though the trees with no leaves made me feel like it was a fall evening back home walking through my dad’s property. I had a moment when I just had to stop and take it all in. I was overcome with feelings - and not the normal ones standing under huge trees.

Enjoy some photos from the trail - I never made it to the falls, wherever they may be. I’ll have to try again with more daylight and patience. Happy hiking!

2023 Hike 4 - McLane Woods

52 Hikes With Mike - Hike 4

McLane Woods Loops - Olympia, WA

I’m working hard to keep my hikes within a few minutes of home right now and it’s working. This week I drove a few miles, less than 10 minutes away, to McLane Woods. It’s a cute little area in the Capitol State Forest with a narrow road through tall trees to get to the trail.

We parked at the first parking area and took the loop around, through the forest, to the lake. The trees range from large and old to clearcut and new. The trail was mostly quiet, apart from a small section near the main road which was subject to some noise. Once deeper in the forest, that being the mile or so from the main road, all one heard was sounds of nature unless you happened upon a group of people.

Highlights from the trail included many large stumps with trees growing out of them (one of my favorite things to find) and so many lovely ferns. This trail didn’t seem as mossy also others in the area, until we moved away from the road and clearcut area and into the thick forest.

I loved this place because it provided some solitude and peace and was not far from where I live my life. I’m fortunate to be able to bike or drive there to go for a walk through nature. I’m grateful for the area in which I live and I don’t think that feeling will ever change.

2023 Hike 3 - LBA Woods

Hike 3 - 52 Hikes With Mike

LBA Woods - Olympia, WA

It’s been a few years since I visited the LBA Woods, but I was sure glad to be back. I ran my first trail 5K at LBA Woods with Rock Candy Running. I didn’t finish last and I completed the race, it was exhilarating.

I had to revisit this place and it was the perfect day with the sun peeking out from behind the clouds.

The second I walked out of the parking lot, I was taken back to the first time I visited which was actually the evening before my race. The trails were similar, but there was no sign or trail markers telling me where to go. I wandered through, making my way around. I explored areas I didn’t quite remember and wound up on trails that took me to some nearby neighborhoods.

The sun was peeking through the clouds and thus streaming through the big trees. It was a great walk through the woods that I’d recommend to anyone in the area.

Notes about this park: There are a lot of dogs (on and off leash, plenty of friendly people, and some external (road/neighborhood noises). Happy hiking!

2023 Hike 2 - Squaxin Park

Hike 2 - 52 Hikes With Mike

Squaxin Park - Olympia, WA

It was a wet Saturday morning, but that’s just the way it is some days here in the Pacific Northwest. The park is located in the city of Olympia, and rivals some of the state parks I’ve seen in other places. Squaxin has tall trees, old trees, and hills full of ferns. The trails have hills, which made it more interesting and there were views of Olympia from the high points across the water. Moss covered rocks and stump line the path and gorgeous boardwalks get you over the streams and swamps. Rainy day hikes are something I’ve longed for, and there’s plenty of that here.

Even though this counted as Hike 2, I’ll be going back to find new paths there! I hiked about 2 1/4 miles but there was definitely more to see! Happy hiking everyone. See you out there.

2023 Hike 1 - Grass Lake Nature Reserve

Hike 1 - 52 Hikes With Mike

Grass Lake Nature Park - Olympia, WA

This is my first day hike for 2023 and my first hike for the 2023 52 Hikes With Mike challenge. It felt good to get out and even better knowing I have a cute little trail within walking distance of my house. There’s not a lot to say about this trail - it’s short loop, in the neighborhood forest, and it’s pretty flat. It’s great for a variety of people because it’s not complicated or difficult. Today the trail smelled fresh and the ferns were flourishing. I encountered three people and walked about two miles total, including the walk to the trail from my house. The total elevation change throughout was about 110 feet - so very minimal. If you’re in Olympia and want a quick little walk to clear your head, this isn’t too bad. Pets are not allowed on this trail but there are plenty of other places in Olympia to take them. Happy hiking my friends!

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52 Hikes and Looking Forward

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First things first, I did not complete the 52 Hike Challenge for 2022. I tried, for a few months, and subtly gave up. I don’t love Dallas/Ft. Worth hiking, I didn’t take a lot of trips, and I just wasn’t feeling the temperatures. The hikes that did happen in 2022 were great and mostly occurred in New Mexico while I still resided there. I did a few paddles early on in the summer, before it was too hot to enjoy, and then didn’t do much until late summer when I purchased a bicycle. All in all, it wasn’t a total loss but nowhere near what I’d like to accomplish.

If you haven’t heard, I’ve relocated to Olympia, WA. I now reside within a quick drive of more places to hike, paddle, or bike than my tiny brain can handle. The options for getting hikes in for the next calendar year are so abundant, so it will inevitably mean I probably do more than 52, which would be a welcomed change.

I’ve been wanting to live in the PNW for years now, and I’m not letting any opportunities slip away now that I’m here. I have a google map full of pins and several documents full of ideas. I’m ready to be overwhelmed with the beauty and access I’ve only dreamed of between my semi-annual visits. I’d fly in to Seattle or Portland at least twice a year to visit the mountains, woods, and friends up here and now I live right in the middle of it all. It’s a dream come true, it is something I know is a privilege, and something I will not take for granted. I’m lucky to have a partner who wants to do many, if not all, of these things with me, so that’s just icing on the cake.

If you’re in the greater PNW region and want to hike along, get in touch. The plan is to do a variety of hikes in a variety of places, vague I know. Some weekends it’s going to be as simple as going somewhere around town, but others it may be a bit of a drive or a camping weekend to see all the sights out there. There so many forest trails, waterfalls, mountain views, beaches, and winding rivers to see.

I feel a renewed zest for life since being here and I can’t wait to share the hikes, stories, and adventures with you all.

2022 Activities 5-7

So far, February has been quite good for hiking. A recent trip to Caprock Canyons State Park in Texas gave us two more for the year, with some amazing views along the way. With the end of our time in New Mexico rapidly approaching, we visited White Sands National Park near sunset for one last stroll in the desert before heading to Dallas/Fort Worth. Happy hiking!

Activity 5/52 - Hike - Caprock Canyons State Park (Quitaque, TX)

Distance/Time: 3.07 miles

Trail: Hanes Ridge Overlook

I’ve hiked at Caprock Canyons many times, but I’ve never hiked this trail! It was straight up, about 600 feet, over rocks and dirt. We stopped many times to take in the view, catch our breath, and get a drink. Once up the most steep part, we had an amazing view above the ridges in the park. The hike is worth the effort, I promise.

Activity 6/52 - Hike - Caprock Canyons State Park (Quitaque, TX)

Distance/Time: 1.5 miles

It was Sunday and we were spent from a weekend of hiking, hanging out around the fire, and sleeping during a windy night. We decided after packing up to go with my aunt on a short little hike around the rim on the Canyon Rim Trail. It was a short walk from our campsite to the trail and then a nice little stroll. We took the dogs and a beer and enjoyed the sunshine!

Activity 7/52 - Hike - White Sands NP (Alamogordo, NM)

Distance/Time: 1 mile

On our last weekend in New Mexico, we hit up our third national park together for a sunset hike on the dunes. It was a cute little stroll with the dogs. The amount of people on a Sunday night was a bit shocking, but it was sunset on a holiday weekend.

2022 Activities 3 and 4

The first weekend of February brought us closer to being “on track” for our 52 hike challenge. This coming weekend will bring a few more hikes and then we’ll be mostly good to go moving forward. We visited two nearby national parks and they did not disappoint. Happy hiking!

Activity 3/52 - Hike - Guadalupe Mountains NP (Salt Flat, TX)

Distance/Time: 2.34 miles

Trail: McKittrick Canyon

This particular Saturday was a whirlwind. My partner was supposed to be in Indiana, but flights got messed up and he was home. We had reservations for Carlsbad, but missed them and decided to head back to Guadalupe Mountains for another hike. By the time we got there, the day was winding down and McKittrick Canyon gates close at 4:30 pm, so we didn’t have much time to hike. We hiked the trail and stopped at the riverbed for a break in the sunshine. It was a nice little hike, more sunny than last time, and a different view in the canyon. The McKittrick Canyon trail is mild, though we had some icy spots, and mostly flat. It’s suitable for all sorts of hiking experience levels.

Activity 4/52 - Hike - Carlsbad Caverns NP (Carlsbad, NM)

Distance/Time: 3 miles

We made it to our reservation and walked down the natural entrance. We meandered down, in awe of the formations and just how far we were going in. It was nice to show my partner something I love and something so spectacular. This marks our second national park together as we quest to see them all. Carlsbad Caverns will take a couple of hours to get through, but it’s something new around every corner. Make sure you look up when you’re there, as the stuff on the ceiling can be just as amazing to see. If your knees don’t like downhill, you can enter with the elevator instead of the natural entrance.

2022 Activities 1 and 2

It’s a new year and new set of activities for the 52 hike challenge. This year I will continue having an open mind on what counts as one of the 52 hikes. Paddling, hiking, trail runs, bike rides, and more will count. The goal with my version of the 52 Hike Challenge has always been to get outside and see the world. If the events I participate in do that, I’m good with counting them.

January 2022 included two hikes with my partner Randall. We have plans to complete this challenge together this year and we’re going into February with a plan to adventure even more.

Activity 1/52 - Hike - Ocotillo Nature Trail (Carlsbad, NM)

Distance/Time: 2 miles

This trail is a little gravel path that winds up the hillside and takes you to a high point and view of Carlsbad. We did this trail at night, with the dogs, because of work and whatnot so the view was especially cool. The activity itself was not difficult, but it was dusty and dry. Enjoy some of the photos!

Activity 2/52 - Hike - Guadalupe Mountains National Park (Salt Flat, TX)

Distance/Time: 2.38 miles

This hike started with good intentions, and ended with good plans to return. I think the original thought was to hike through McKittrick Canyon and have a nice picnic at the Pratt Cabin. As we drove, other trails looked more enticing so we shifted our plans to hike the Devil’s Hall trail. We started off, with plenty of snacks and water but only brought sunglasses. The sun was sinking, and the canyon walls made it darker faster. We hiked just over a mile and decided it was getting too dark in sunglasses (we both wear prescription sunglasses) and it was time to just have a snack and head back to the car. This is where we planned to return for this trail, and others, before we leave New Mexico. Flexibility is an important part of adventuring and our safety and enjoyment are top concerns making the decisions to come back easy!

June-July 2021 Hikes

Summer has arrived in the desert southwest. I escaped to the Great Lakes for a couple of weeks. Enjoy the hike and paddles from July!

Paddle 18 - McFarland Lake - Minnesota

  • It’s about 1 mile to the dock for the cabin

  • The water was a little wavy

  • The air was thick, and hot

  • I followed along with the pontoon, filled with my friends

  • The kayak back to the landing was smoky from Canadian fires

  • Overall, the hottest weekend I’ve ever spent at the cabin

Paddle 19 - Grand Lake - Presque Isle, MI

  • Around Crescent Island, Round Island, and shorelines

  • My brother and nephew were fishing, so my sister in law and I did a kayak

  • We meandered around and around

  • It was the first day it wasn’t raining

Paddle 20 - Grand Lake - Presque Isle, MI

  • Out to Tanglewood Island and around Crescent Island

  • Morning paddle, very introspective

  • Great morning to be out on the lake - wish this was life all the time

  • This was a solo paddle

Paddle 21 - Grand Lake - Presque Isle, MI

  • My nephew and I went out around Crescent Island on a sunny, warm afternoon

  • It was a nice paddle and he is pretty quick for a kid

Hike 22 - Camp of the Tall Pines - New Mexico

  • Spent the weekend at a cabin and hiked along the disc golf course as friends played

  • It was up and down, through the hills and forests

  • Rain hit at the end, and we were soaked by the time we got to the cabin

  • Overall, a great little course and hike

May 2021 Hikes

I’m back again with some late spring hikes to share! Good times with good people, all around. Enjoy the photos and tidbits, and thank you for following along. Technically Hike 17 was in June, but I’m including it here. Do you want to come along on an adventure? Contact me!

Hike 12 - Chiricahua National Monument

  • Met up with friends in Eastern Arizona to spend time here

  • Hiked the Massai Nature Trail to get the good views

  • Planned a follow-up visit to hike a more thorough route

  • There are expansive views of the beauty that is Arizona

  • The hoodoos reminded me of Utah, only less red

  • Huge pines line the trails here, including the one between the campsite and the visitor center we walked in the evening

Hike 13 - Fort Bowie National Historic Site

  • I hiked from the Apache Pass road to the ruins, worth it

  • Plenty of cacti, and some surprising shady spots

  • The ruins were interesting - the fort was much larger than I anticipated

  • Bring plenty of water and a hat

  • There are opportunities for longer hikes than just to the ruins

Hike 14 - Maple Glade Rain Forest Trail (Olympic National Park)

  • This was a group effort w/ my BFFs

  • I wanted to show them one of my favorite spots, and I think it went over well

  • Lush greenery, sun streaming through the trees/moss/ferns

  • Fresh air, cool but warm enough

  • Excellent little hike with a neat old homestead also

  • Highly recommend all year for all skills (it’s pretty flat)

Hike 15 - Lincoln National Forest (Wofford Lookout Trail)

  • This was a nice stroll through the woods at the end of nice dirt forest road

  • The trees were tall, the sun was lovely streaming through

  • Wofford Lookout Tower is closed, there is a gate, and it is fenced off

  • Look for a Rocky Mountain Maple tree along the trail - tiny maple leaves (so cute)

  • Gradual uphill, nothing too major

  • Trees were hugged, but no harmed (haha)

Hike 16 - Lincoln National Forest (Benson Canyon Trail)

  • This hike was all downhill, then uphill return nearly killed me

  • I found this to be very peaceful, as it was WAY down a long road that you have to take slowly if you don’t have off-road tires

  • There was no one but cows and a few people on ATVs

  • The canyon was shady, green, and full of life

  • I didn’t go too far, but this hike was more about the whole experience than distance

Hike 17 - Lincoln National Forest (Fir Trail)

  • Okay, this was barely a hike, but it was a mile so it counts

  • It was for the dogs - they romped around and had an enjoyable time

  • We walked down the hill and then hoofed it back up through the woods to the campground

March-April 2021 Hikes

Here’s a glimpse of my hikes through May 1, 2021. Thanks for following along. I’m sharing brief, less wordy summaries and more photos. To me, it’s all about the experience and the photos capture it better than my words can in this format. Happy hiking!

Hike 6 - Lincoln National Forest (no specific location)

  • Found a small canyon on the side of the road

  • Explored about a mile in the canyon, walking through a dry creek bed

  • Discovered plenty of desert plants and fun rocks

  • Enjoyed a break from the extreme wind in the area (thanks canyon)

Hike 7 - Guadalupe Mountains National Park

  • Hiked through McKittrick Canyon to Pratt Cabin

  • The trail is well marked and visible; it’s mostly gravel

  • Pratt Cabin has shady pines and good views

  • Take plenty of water and wear a hat!

  • There are many trail options, but this particular hike is perfect for someone looking for a pretty, quick, and easy day hike

Hike 8 - Oliver Lee State Park

  • This was less of a formal hike and more of a little romp with the dogs along the creek

  • The park has a big trial that goes much higher, we just weren’t quite feeling it

  • Camping and hiking with great views of vastness in New Mexico

Hike 9 - Lincoln National Forest (Zinker Canyon)

  • This canyon is a sunny, tree-lined path up in elevation (it’s gradual)

  • I went in the evening, and the golden sun just made it feel like magic

  • So many big trees along the way

  • Definitely elk territory; we ran up on some and turned back

  • Multi-use trails - so be courteous to one another

  • Dog friendly and kind of secluded, hardly anyone out in that area

Hike 10 - Lincoln National Forest (Osha Trail)

  • Easy to get to, just west of Cloudcroft, NM

  • The trail is rocky, but not too bad and good for dogs

  • There is shade and some open spots with great views of White Sands

  • A great day hike if you’re headed to Cloudcroft and want to get a little exercise

Hike 11 - Lincoln National Forest (Upper Karr Canyon)

  • This hike was more of a stroll through a snowy forest than following a trail

  • We had a few inches of fresh snow, blue skies, and sunshine

  • The trees were tall and plentiful, as were the moments of enjoyment

  • There may have been a trail, but I’m not sure, and don’t care (I know there are marked trails in the area)

  • Can’t beat a cool, crisp day in the forest

  • This would be a great place to escape the desert heat below in the summer time and is dog friendly

Jan-Feb 2021 Hikes

Here’s a brief write-up of the hikes I’ve taken through February of this year.
Thanks for following along.

Hike 1 - Hot Springs National Park (Arkansas)

  • Hiked 3.15 miles with my Eric, Brian, and Jen

  • West Mountain Trail, Mountain Top

  • It was rainy, gray, and cool and we brought the dogs

  • This was my first visit to Hot Springs

  • 0 lbs of trash recovered (very clean)

Hike 2 - Hot Springs National Park (Arkansas)

  • Hike 5.25 miles with my Brian

  • Sunset Trail - it was gray and cool and it snowed

  • We took the the big dogs with us

  • 0 lbs of trash recovered (very clean)

Hike 3 - White Sands National Park (New Mexico)

  • Hiked 3.25 miles with Mike and Cora (and their doggo)

  • It was bright and sunny, but not hot

  • The sand dunes were cool and the illusion of being lost is real

  • Take plenty of water!

  • 0 lbs of trash recovered (very clean)

Hike 4 - Huntsville State Park (Texas)

  • Hiked 7.13 miles on the Chinquapin Trail (solo, no dog)

  • It was sunny and warm with a good amount of people

  • The wind through the pines was magical and made me feel truly escaped

  • 0.5 lbs of trash recovered (not a whole lot, mostly wrappers/toilet paper)

Hike 5 - Lake Mineral Wells State Park (Texas)

  • Hiked 5.24 miles with my aunt on the state trailway system towards Mineral Wells, TX

  • There was so much trash, I couldnt’ even get it all. This path follows the highway and it’s just not great.

  • Very noisy and it was borderline rainy

  • 0.5 lbs of trash recovered (so much more, would require more bags and parking closer)

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52 Hike Challenge 2020 Recap

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2020 was a year that sparks a variety of emotions for many. I had a decent year, despite a pandemic and economic downturn. My need to be outside increased as my work grew more stressful, so I actually completed the 52 Hike Challenge for 2020.

I was bad about documenting all of the hikes, but I did try to do a grouped update more sporadically. I’m still finishing the last half of 2020, but my goal for 2021 is to update on a monthly basis. Look for monthly updates at the end of each month!

2020 In Review

Total Miles Hiked: 191.26

  • It wasn’t about the miles, this year

  • The average hike was between 3-4 miles

  • My longest hike was 12 miles at Fort Richardson State Park (TX)

  • The shortest hike was 1.59 miles at Big Thicket National Preserve (TX)

  • I did many big weekends of hiking many state parks and areas in a cluster to make up for lost time, bad weather, etc.

Favorite Hike: Skyline Trail at Mt. Rainier

  • This hike was one I have wanted to do for years, and regret not doing in 2018 when I was there

  • I hiked it with one of my besties, and we truly had a lovely time and took breaks

  • The weather was mild, sunny, and perfection with views for days

  • It was a busy, even during a pandemic, but we still felt safe

  • Skyline was just standout trail in what was one of my favorite trips to date

Least Favorite Hike: Lake Arrowhead State Park

  • Like many state parks in Texas, they’re not rich in trail uniqueness

  • This state park is centered around a lake for lake access, so the trail was a mowed field

  • It was fine, if you wanted to walk around while camping, but nothing of interest at all

Looking Ahead - 2021

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I’m doing things a little differently this year. I’m taking the base of the “52 Hike Challenge” and making it more “52 Hikes With Mike” style. I’ve always been pretty strict in terms of the “rules” set by the original challenge, and many will carry over, but I needed to add some options.

What’s the Deal?

  • Hikes, trail runs, paddles, mountain bike rides on trails, snowshoe adventures, and cross-country skiing adventures all count as a “hike” for 2021. I counted one paddle in 2020 as a hike, but it did include some beach walking and boardwalk excursions.

  • I’m a Groundskeeper this year! I’ve always picked up trash, but this year I’m going to publicize it a little more so look for that and if you feel inclined, share my social posts to spread awareness.

  • I’m still aiming for unique trails/paths/whatever each time. I managed 52 unique trails for 2020, so that will not change. If I go to Big Bend and do two BIG hikes in the same trip, they may be counted as individual hikes. It truly varies, because at many state parks the trails are short and so I’d count the whole day at the park as one. It’s totally subjective, and I will do what feels right.

  • I’m relocating so my state park quest is transferring to New Mexico - it was my main motivator in 2020 to get out and hike. There are many state parks in Texas I still want to see, so it will be on the back burner when it comes to planning

  • If you want to safely hike, paddle, or adventure just send me a note or a text! I’d love to explore new places with you!

I am thankful if you’ve read through all of that and follow my adventures. I create content to remember the stuff I do, and to share it with the world. I’m good if two people read it or no people read it… enjoy at your own pace. Cheers to 2021 - the year of great changes for me personally and professionally.

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Hikes 28-32 - Washington Hikes

Enjoy some photos from a few of my hikes in 2020. Washington is my favorite place, and I was lucky to get five hikes in while there in September.

Hike 28 - Point Defiance Park in Tacoma, WA (link)

September 24, 2020

I had heard of this park because some people I know in the PNW run here on occasion. My friend and I took a causal, rainy hike of about three miles through the trees in this wonderful city park. Can you imagine having a city park with tall trees, miles of trails, and lush greenery? Living in Texas has me fantasizing about places like this and I’m so thankful we found this park and had a good time. People kept their distance, masks were worn when necessary, and it was a lovely hike overall.

Hike 29 - Quinault Loop National Recreation Trail #854 (link)

September 25, 2020

Technically, I did part of this trail earlier in the year, but only part of it so I feel comfortable using it as a “unique” trail because I did the latter 80% of it. Along this trail we saw a baby snake, lots of greenery, and some big trees. It was a lovely hike that was a bit muddy, and confusing at one of the intersections. We ended up taking a turn that took us to the road in a place we did not expect. All was fine, and we just hiked back along the roadway.

Hike 30 - Hurricane Hill at Hurricane Ridge (link)

September 25, 2020

Paved trails are not my normal trails, but this one was the exception. I have a “no paved trail” policy, so I did take the offshoot at the end with no pavement to ensure I touched a little dirt on this glorious and windy hike. The trail is paved from the parking lot to the top, and it’s uphill the whole way. Fluffy spruce trees line the initial ascent and act as a windbreak and air freshener. Seriously, the freshest pine scent hits you and it’s so good. Take it easy, take breaks to enjoy the views, and don’t forget that the whole way back is downhill and can be hell on your knees!

Hike 31 - Cascade Pass (link)

September 26, 2020

This hike is one of my favorites of all time, and I got to do it again with the friend who recommended it to me last year. I was hoping we’d hike up to have a view, but there was only sleet and clouds. I saw more this time, through the clouds, but still not the views you see on the internet. The trail itself is steadily uphill, with endless switchbacks. On this particular day, the trial was muddy which made each step a little more calculated.

Hike 32 - Ranger Hole Trailhead (link)

September 27, 2020

If you’re looking for a quick little hike, down to the river, this is a great one. It starts in a gorgeous forest, where the sunlight can stream through, and ends along the Duckabush River. It’s a steady downhill trail to the river, but once there it is quite relaxing. Giant rocks offer places to sit along the bank, to listen to water rush by. I had the pleasure of watching broadleaf maple leaves fall gently down to the ground while there, in such a magical way.

Hike 27 - Lake Brownwood State Park

September 13, 2020

I set out on my quest to see all of the State Parks in Texas and knocked another one off the list. I hiked the Texas Oak, Nopales Ridge, and Council Bluff trails. It was a gorgeous morning, in the 60s, and sunny. The hikes started out good, but the Texas Oak trail was a little hard to follow at one point. The Nopales Ridge trail was sunny, but mostly boring. I spruced up my day with a trail beer I had stashed in my pack and enjoyed the final mile or two. My hike was about 5.5 miles, and that was most of the trails available in the park. It was a pleasant lake park, like the rest, with some shade but not much. Enjoy some photos!

Hikes 25-26 (State Parks)

Figured labor day weekend was a good time to take advantage of some day hikes at state parks a little further away from the DFW metro area that I needed to tick off. One location, Copper Breaks State Park, lived up to the expectations I had with amazing scenery and fun hikes. The other, Lake Arrowhead State Park, didn’t leave much of an impression on me. It’s fine for boating or locals to camp, but it certainly isn’t a destination park in my mind.

#hike25 - Copper Breaks State Park

Trails Hiked: Juniper Ridge, Rocky Ledge, Bull Canyon

Total Mileage: 8

Highlights: Gorgeous views, fun hikes, red rock scenery, interesting landscapes

For sure do the Rocky Ledge Loop while at Copper Breaks - you will not regret it!

#hike26 - Lake Arrowhead State Park

Trails Hiked: Onion Creek, Mesquite Ridge

Total Mileage: 2.67

Highlights: Great flowers, cool tunnel

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