Spring in such a lovely season and the green is emerging everywhere!
There’s awesome benefits of exercise which includes increasing energy, enhancing cognitive function, and increasing your metabolism... but did you know how awesome the benefits of hiking in nature are?
The soil is much more gentle on the joints than pavement
Being away from technology helps to push the focus on the moment
Fresh air
Peaceful
Grounding
Vibrant colors... autumn is a perfect time to see the colors changing into gorgeous red hues
Cleansing
...and the best part? It's totally free and all around you!
HIKING IN NATURE
#1 Granite Mountain
Okay, so the first part of this hike gets a little vertical but the scenery is amazing... you go through forest, meadows full of wild flowers, and hike up a waterfall to reach the observation post.
Roundtrip: 8 miles
Elevation Gain 3800ft
Highest Point 5629
Location: Snoqualmie Pass
#2 Wallace Falls
It's an easy hike but it's absolutely gorgeous! I always hike this one during the week days because the weekends get a little crowded. This is a great hike to have a good conversation and catch up with old friends.
Roundtrip 5.5 miles
Elevation Gain 1200ft
Highest Point 1500ft
Location: Gold Bar
#3 Hoh Rainforest Hike
The moss, the forest, the river... absolutely stunning! A very Loooong drive so be prepared to spend the night.
Roundtrip 10.6 miles
Elevation Gain 300ft
Highest Point 800ft
Location: Olympic National Park
#4 Kendall Catwalk
Scenic route on part of the Pacific Crest Trail... and the katwalk is the perfect place for a picnic.
Roundtrip 11 miles
Elevation Gain 2700 ft
Highest Point 2500ft
Location: Snoqualmie Pass
#5 Carbon Glacier
This hike is located on the less traveled side of Mt. Rainier and isn't too far away from Seattle. The first 5 miles are relatively flat since it was a road back in 2006 then you come across an enchanting waterfall, cross a beautiful river full of glacier water, and cross a suspension bridge!
Roundtrip 16.5 miles
Elevation Gain 1000ft
Highest Point 3400ft
Location: Mt. Rainer
Okay, so the first part of this hike gets a little vertical but the scenery is amazing...