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!

#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