Category: Puget Sound Adventures

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Thurston County’s Best Parks for Outdoor Adventure

If you’re a resident of Thurston County, chances are you’ve been to a park or two. But, have you found the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure yet? If not, then this blog post is for you! We’ve rounded up the top five parks in Thurston County that offer something special for everyone. So grab your walking shoes and let’s explore!

#1 – Chehalis Western Trail: This 11-mile-long paved trail offers a flat, easy route through some of the most beautiful areas in Thurston County. You can bike, rollerblade, jog or walk along this path and take in all the beautiful scenery. Along the way, you’ll pass by wetlands, farmland, and wooded areas. And if you need to take a break from the exercise, there are plenty of benches and picnic tables available to rest your legs!

#2 – Black Lake Park: For those who prefer water activities over land-based ones, Black Lake Park is an ideal spot for kayaking and fishing. The lake is also surrounded by trails that offer great views of nature at its best. Whether you want to go on a peaceful stroll or test your skills with some more intense hiking trails, there’s something here for everyone!

#3– Tolmie State Park: This park is perfect for beach lovers! Spend an afternoon sunbathing on the sandy beach or take a dip in one of the two freshwater lakes. Afterward, explore some of the park’s hiking trails that lead through dense forests and meadows where you may even catch sight of some wildlife. Tolmie State Park also has camping sites available if you want to stay longer than just one day!

#4 – Tumwater Falls Park: For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life without leaving town, Tumwater Falls Park is a great option. Take in stunning views of cascading waterfalls while enjoying some peace and quiet away from it all. There are plenty of paths here to wander down so don’t forget your camera!

#5 – Percival Landing Park: Last but certainly not least is Percival Landing Park located right next to Olympia’s downtown area. Here you will find an entertaining mix of sculpture gardens, boardwalks, and waterfront views that make this park one of Thurston County’s hidden gems! Have fun exploring all this park has to offer – from biking paths and fishing piers to playgrounds perfect for kids – there’s something here for everyone!

From scenic hikes to relaxing days spent at the beach (or lake!), there are so many amazing parks in Thurston County waiting to be explored by locals like us! So why not get out there today and start planning your next outdoor adventure? With these top five parks as our guide, we’re sure we won’t be disappointed with what we find along our journey. Happy exploring everyone!

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The Best Dog-Friendly Trails in Thurston and Pierce County

Dogs make great hiking partners – here are some of the best dog-friendly trails in Thurston and Pierce County

Are you looking for a way to make your next hike even more fun? Why not bring your four-legged best friend along for the adventure? There are tons of great trails in the Thurston and Pierce County area that are perfect for canine companions. Here are just a few of our favorites.

Blog Body:  Nisqually Wildlife Refuge Trail – This two-mile loop trail is located at the Martin Way entrance to the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. It’s an easy, flat trail with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife like deer and birds. Plus, dogs must be leashed at all times so you don’t have to worry about them running off into the woods!

Chimacum Creek Trail – This moderate 3-mile loop takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the region. Start at the Chimacum Creek Park parking lot and follow the trail as it winds through lush forests and along sparkling creeks. Dogs must remain on a leash as there is livestock in some parts of this trail.

Mount Rainier National Park – Believe it or not, this iconic national park allows dogs on some of its trails! Leashed dogs are allowed on certain roads, meadows, campgrounds, picnic areas, and other developed areas throughout Mount Rainier National Park. Be sure to check out their website before planning your trip as only certain areas are open to canines.

Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a more challenging trek, there’s something for everyone—including our furry friends—in Thurston and Pierce County! Remember to always keep Fido safely leashed during your hike and pay attention to posted signs regarding pet restrictions in various parks and trails. So lace up those hiking boots and hit one of these great dog-friendly trails today!   

Here’s hoping for clear skies and lots of tail-wagging fun ahead!

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10 Olympia Valentine’s Day Adventures

It’s that time of year again! Time to start thinking about what you’re going to do for your special someone on Valentine’s Day. If you’re stuck for ideas, never fear! We’ve put together a list of 10 fun things to do in Olympia this Valentine’s Day. So whether you’re looking for something active, romantic, or just plain fun, we’ve got you covered.

  1. Take a hike! What could be more romantic than exploring the great outdoors with your special someone? Puget Sound is full of beautiful hiking trails, and Olympia is lucky to have some great options right in its backyard. Check out Priest Point Park, Percival Landing, or one of the many other trails in the area for a Valentine’s Day hike you’ll both love.
  2. Visit a winery. Washington state is well-known for its wine, and there are plenty of great wineries to choose from right here in Olympia. Spend an afternoon touring a winery and tasting some of the best wines the Pacific Northwest has to offer. Cheers!
  3. Get crafty at a painting class. Unleash your inner artist with a painting class at one of Olympia’s many local art studios. Whether you consider yourself a master painter or have never picked up a brush before, you’re sure to have a blast (and maybe even end up with a masterpiece).
  4. Go stargazing. There’s nothing quite like looking up at the night sky and admiring the stars with the one you love. For an extra-romantic experience, head to Tumwater Falls Park where you can view the falls lit up at night while you stargaze. Perfection!
  5. Attend a comedy show. Laughing is said to be good for relationships, so why not double up on the love this Valentine’s Day with a trip to a comedy show? Check out what’s playing at The Capitol Theater or one of Olympia’s other great venues and get ready to laugh until your sides hurt.
  6. Make it a movie night. Sometimes the simplest things are the best things, and that definitely applies to movie nights! Curl up on the couch with some popcorn and your favorite person and enjoy a classic film or something new that you’ve been dying to see. Happy viewing!
  7. Treat yourselves to dessert. Who doesn’t love dessert? And what could be more romantic than sharing a decadent treat with your Valentine? Indulge your sweet tooth at one of Olympia’s many amazing bakeries or cafes. Yum!
  8. Get moving at an indoor rock climbing gym. For couples who like to keep things active, an afternoon of indoor rock climbing is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s the perfect opportunity to overcome any fears of heights together!
  9. Browse through a local bookstore. What could be more romantic than spending an afternoon browsing through your favorite bookstore with your partner? If you need some help finding the perfect book, just ask one of the knowledgeable staff members – they’ll be happy to help!
  10. Plan a picnic lunch. Pack up some sandwiches, fruit, drinks, and whatever else sounds good, then head out to one of Olympia’s many lovely parks for a picnic lunch. This is definitely an activity that can be tailored to suit any couple’s taste – so go ahead and get creative!

Whatever your taste, there’s sure to be an activity on this list that will make your Valentine’s Day extra special this year! So get planning and enjoy all that Olympia has to offer this month of love.

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15 Romantic Date Night Ideas to Spice Up Your Love Life in the Puget Sound

If you’re looking for romantic date night ideas around the Puget Sound area, look no further! Whether you’re a Thurston County resident or a Pierce County native, there are plenty of activities to choose from. From outdoor adventures to cozy indoor excursions, we’ve got 15 fun and romantic date night ideas that will help spice up your love life. Let’s get started!

Visit the Tacoma Glass Museum – Located in downtown Tacoma, the Tacoma Glass Museum is home to some of the most unique glass art in the Pacific Northwest. Take a tour together and explore hundreds of beautiful pieces of glasswork from artists around the world. And don’t forget to take a selfie with one of their famous Dale Chihuly sculptures in front of the museum!

Take an evening boat ride – Climb aboard one of Washington State Ferries’ vessels for an evening boat ride across Puget Sound. Enjoy a romantic sunset while taking in views of Seattle’s skyline, Mount Rainier, and other stunning sites along the way. You can even bring snacks or drinks on board for the perfect evening out on the water.

Go stargazing – Get away from city lights and head out to one of Thurston County’s dark sky preserves for some quality stargazing time. Pack some blankets, hot cocoa, and snacks for a romantic night under the stars – it’s sure to make your date extra special!

Have dinner at Rhein Haus – This German-inspired restaurant located near Tacoma Dome Station is known for its delicious food and lively atmosphere. With its Bavarian beer hall vibe and communal seating style, it’s sure to be a memorable experience!

Take part in an escape room challenge – Put your problem-solving skills to the test by taking part in an escape room challenge together! It’s an exciting way to bond as you work together towards completing puzzles and finding clues to help you “escape”. Escape rooms are popping up all over Thurston County – so go ahead and give it a try!


Visit one of Olympia’s breweries – Olympia has become quite well-known for its craft beer scene – so why not take advantage? Visit one (or more!) of Olympia’s local breweries for some samples (and maybe even take home a growler). Be sure to check their websites first as many have limited hours or require online reservations due to Covid-19 restrictions.


Go on a hike – There are plenty of hiking trails around Thurston county that offer breathtaking views and incredible landscapes perfect for couples who love nature walks or are just looking for something different than your typical dinner-and-a-movie kind of date night!

Explore Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge – If you’re looking for something outdoorsy but less intense than hiking, try exploring Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge together instead! This wildlife refuge is home to several species of animals such as bald eagles, seals, otters, and more – all waiting to be discovered by you two lovebirds!

Attend an outdoor concert – With our lovely spring weather here comes lots of opportunities for outdoor concerts around Thurston county – so grab your tickets early before they sell out! Live music makes everything better – plus dancing with your significant other under twinkling stars is always an added bonus when it comes to romance…

Visit Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium– What better way to show off your animal knowledge than by visiting Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium? Learn about fascinating creatures from all over the world while also spending quality time with each other? It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for something fun yet an educational activity that both you AND your partner can enjoy!

Go wine tasting at The Northwood Winery– Located in Olympia near Tumwater Falls Park, The Northwood Winery offers wine tastings throughout the year — making it the perfect destination if both you & your partner are fans of vino

Take salsa lesson– Looking to add a little bit of spice into the relationship? Try taking salsa lessons together at El Centro de la Raza! Not only will these classes teach two how to dance beautiful Latin dances like salsa cha cha, bachata , also great way to spend quality time with each other

Check out local farmer’s market– Visiting local farmer’s markets like Olympia Farmers Market and Franklin Farmers Market great way to support the community while enjoying fresh produce

Play mini golf course– Grab a putter and head over to one Thurston county mini golf courses like Sprinker Recreation Center Fun Forest Arcade Mini Golf and enjoy game friendly competition

Head beach and watch the sunset – To end your day on a high note, visit the beach and witness the sun slowly sinking beneath the horizon. As you marvel at this majestic sight, take pleasure in listening to the sound of waves crashing onto the shoreline.

As you plan your romantic date night in the Puget Sound region, look no further than these 15 activities! From outdoor expeditions to cozy bedtime stories shared indoors—there is something special for everyone. Don’t forget that having fun and creating memories is of utmost importance. Here’s to happy dating!

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Dog-Friendly Activities in Thurston County – The Ultimate Guide

Whether you’re a Thurston county resident or just visiting, Thurston county is a great place to bring your furry friend for some fun activities. From the parks and trails, to the dog-friendly restaurants, there are plenty of places that welcome your pup with open arms. Let’s take a look at some of the best activities for you and your pup in Thurston county!

Hiking Trails

Thurston County is home to several beautiful hiking trails that you can explore with Fido. One of the most popular destinations is Budd Inlet Trail, located along the shores of Budd Inlet in Olympia. This moderate trail offers incredible views of Mount Rainier and the Puget Sound. If you’re looking for something a bit more strenuous, try out Capitol Forest near Shelton. This trail offers several routes ranging from easy to difficult, with plenty of wildlife sightings along the way.

Dog Parks

Are you looking for an off-leash area where your pup can run free? Thurston County has several dog parks that allow your pup to roam leash-free and make friends with other pups. Some of our favorites include Woodard Bay Natural Resources Conservation Area (NRCA) near Olympia and Chehalis Riverfront Park in Centralia. Both parks offer plenty of space for playtime and exploration.

Restaurants & Breweries

Looking for a delicious meal or beverage after a long day out? Look no further than one of Thurston county’s many dog-friendly restaurants and breweries. From seafood spots like Oyster House at Point Defiance to craft breweries like Top Rung Brewing Co., you can find plenty of delicious options for you and Fido alike! Just be sure to keep an eye on your pup while dining outdoors – no one likes an unruly pup!

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or delicious food, Thurston County is sure to have an activity that will both entertain you and give Fido some much-needed exercise! With its wide variety of dog-friendly trails, parks, restaurants, and breweries, there’s something here everyone can enjoy – two-legged friends included! So, grab those leashes and get out there – there are plenty of adventures waiting just outside your door!

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Washington Fall Hiking Essentials

With the air cleared of smoke and the return of the rain, autumn has finally arrived in Washington! The state’s most beautiful season of the year is upon us and as the landscape starts to shift from green to gold, orange and red, it’s time to hit the trails for the most breathtaking views! There is no better way to see autumn arrive than from the mountain tops, just make sure you have everything you need to make the journey.

Here are some of the best fall hiking essentials for Washington!

Feet First

The best way to prepare for any hike, but especially as the weather gets colder and wetter, is by starting from the ground up with your feet! In order to keep your feet warm and protected from blisters, hiking-specific socks provide better insulation and cushion compared to standard cotton socks. As trails become wet and possibly slippery, it is time to store away open-toed and trail running footwear and opt for hiking boots/shoes.

Layer Up

As any Washingtonian knows, the weather can change on a dime and the last thing you want when you’re in the middle of your hike is to be caught in a situation where you are not prepared for any change in weather (especially with elevation). The key to hiking attire? Layers! The first layer should be a base layer, and for the fall and winter months, this means some form of thermal wear. Next, a warm insulating layer is best, whether that is a wool sweater or a fleece jacket, as long as it can keep you warm. Finally, and in our state this is a must, a water-proof layer. This could be a rain and wind jacket as well as even waterproof hiking pants. Hats and gloves are also a must with keeping warm and dry on the trails!

Pack Responsibly

Depending on what kind of day out you have planned, whether it’s up a mountain trail or a less intense walk along a river trail, it’s best to always be prepared. If you are planning a less strenuous hike in larger state parks, bring a bag that is comfortable to wear all day, has room for your layered clothing as you need it, and has space for water bottles and some snacks. If you are planning a more intense hike out on further trails, day packs may be the better option. On these longer hikes, items like enough hydration and nutrition, navigation tools, first aid kit, fire starter, sun protection, and illumination tools are all essentials.

Research

Safety first! The best thing you can do to make your hike more enjoyable is come prepared! Taking time to look up the trail map, the weather forecast, and any potential risks (usually due to weather) is always important. It is also a good idea to let someone know where you will be going and when you plan on being back, especially in case you do not get cellphone reception on a trail. Just as we want to care for ourselves, we also need to be mindful of the nature we plan on enjoying by following any trail rules and doing all we can to leave no trace behind.

Make a Memory

Finally, one of the best things you can bring on a hike, especially this time of year, is a camera or binoculars to really be able to enjoy and even capture some of the changing scenery along the way!

Happy hiking!

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Washington Summer Spots to Enjoy with Your Pup!

Summer has finally arrived in Washington! This season brings so many amazing opportunities to explore and enjoy new adventures and locations all around the state, but what makes any summer spot even better? When you can bring your furry friend with you! Whether it is at the beach, hiking a trail, or even going to a brewery, here are a few pet-friendly options to enjoy this summer!

Long Beach

As its name rightfully reflects, Washington State’s longest beach offers miles of wide sandy spaces, making this a summer paradise for all the lucky dogs who get to play on these shores! The beach has also been known to host Doggie Olympics too!

Deception Pass

About an hour and a half north of Seattle, you can find the most visited state park in Washington is also pet-friendly! As long as your pup stays leashed, you can enjoy the moderate 4.7-mile loop of Rosario Head Trail to Lighthouse Point and Lottie Point.

Yakima Valley Wine Country

This area in Eastern Washington is home to over 100 wineries and a lot of them are pet-friendly! If you are looking for a quick summer getaway, what could be better than sipping wine with your furry best friend at your side! If you are looking to stay west of the Cascades, there are a number of options, but Spoiled Dog Winery on Whidbey Island seems to be a crowd favorite – they even have their own “Winery/Vineyard Dogs” on duty!

Marymoor Park

In Redmond, you can find a 40-acre off-leash dog park, just a portion of the 640-acre Marymoor Park! This space offers open fields, swimming opportunities in the Sammamish River, and hiking/walking trails, a perfect day trip for you and your pooch!

Leavenworth Waterfront Park & Beer Garden

Traveling through the mountains this summer? Make a stop in the Bavarian town of Leavenworth! The beautiful waterfront park is pet-friendly and walks just along the Wenatchee River. When you are done with your walk, bring your dog with you to cool off Müchen Haus’s beer garden where you can enjoy a cold beer under their covered patio.

Dog Breweries/Bars

In almost every zip code around the state there seems to be a number of local dog-friendly breweries and bars to enjoy, find one in your local area!

No matter if it is in the mountains, at the beach or enjoying a cool drink there is no better way to enjoy the summer than with your four-legged friend at your side!

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Five Fall Must-See Spots in Washington

Autumn is here! After one of the hottest summers the state has ever seen, the cool breeze and changing landscape is a welcomed change! Washington alone is an incredible spot to call home with rivers, mountains, farmlands, rainforests and beaches there is no place quite like it – but in the fall, it is something magical.

Five Fall Must-See Spots in Washington

Leavenworth

Though this little Bavarian-style village is best known as a winter holiday destination, being nestled in the heart of the Cascade Mountains offers breath-taking fall scenery, whether you are traveling two hours from Seattle or just three hours from Spokane. It is the perfect day or weekend trip to really get into the fall spirit! For a little extra fun, visit on the weekends this October to enjoy their Oktoberfest Market!

Kubota Garden

For a more urban fall experience, Rainier Beach’s Kubota Garden has been an autumn favorite for years. The unique part of this park is that all of the plant life in this garden is indigenous to the area, but the layout and style of the garden is Japanese. Enjoy a peaceful and beautiful afternoon stroll in this gorgeous city experience!

Spokane

Live on the east side of the state? Another breathtaking urban experience can be found in Spokane! Between the 90-acre public park that is Manito Park, the 65-acre John A. Finch Arboretum, on-campus at Gonzaga University, the Riverfront Park and a drive around Mount Spokane, there are endless fall foliage opportunities to experience in this eastern city!

Olympic Peninsula

Looking for a more removed autumn experience? The Olympic Peninsula is the perfect place to get out into the beautiful color-changing rainforests! Whether by car or hiking trails, this location will not disappoint when it comes to scenic views. For hikers, the Quinault Rain Forest and Hoh Rain Forest are the must-see trails to see before the winter months. For drivers, follow Highway 101 around these rain forests for the color-popping views!

 Mount Rainier

Though an obvious Washington State staple, this national park does not disappoint no matter the season. Between the lakes, forests and mountain views autumn is definitely a breath-takinig season to take a trip to this famous park. If you are driving, the most scenic views can be seen from the Chinook Pass roadway. If you want to experience the park on foot, the Grove of the Patriarchs is a beautiful wooden walkway that puts you right into the picturesque landscape.

Wherever you are in this beautiful state, take some time to get out and enjoy the magic of autumn in this gorgeous place we call home!

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The Best Summer Spots Across Washington State

After the first heatwave of the summer and loosening safety restrictions this year, people are getting out of their homes and hitting the roads to enjoy the warm weather all across the state! No matter what part of the state you call home, Washington is never short on the perfect summer getaways!

Here is our list of the best summer spots across Washington state!

Northwest Washington

Olympic National Forest

Escape the heat and get lost in the trees in the Olympic National Forest, part of the Olympic National Park and surrounding the breathtaking Olympic Mountain range. With activities like hiking, fishing, horseback riding and more, it is the perfect place to explore this summer!

Southwest Washington

Long Beach

Looking for a beach experience without wanting to cross state lines? Long Beach is the perfect spot for the summer! Not only is there plenty of shopping, kid’s activities and camping options available here, but at 28-miles long, it is also the World’s Longest Drivable Beach!

Central Washington

Lake Cle Elum

Located right on the other side of Snoqualmie Pass, Lake Cle Elum is a beautiful hidden body of water just seven miles north of the city of Cle Elum. With a sandy beach, clear and cool water, and a fishing season that is open all year long, it is the perfect destination to cool off from the summer heat and enjoy breathtaking views of this mountain lake!

North Central Washington

Lake Chelan

In a little valley about 180 miles northeast of Seattle, Lake Chelan is the summer oasis everyone is looking for! This beautiful, glacier-fed body of water is cool, crystal clear, and surrounded by orchards and vineyards. Vacationers have the option of watersports, boating, a waterpark, golf courses, campsites, beautiful lodging, wine-tasting, and more! This is definitely a Washington summer must, and we recommend making this trip longer than a weekend!

Eastern Washington

Spokane Riverfront Park

If you are looking for a more urban experience, this 100-acre park right on the Spokane River is the place for you! It offers a great view of upper Spokane Falls, walkways, a carousel, gondola rides, a giant Red Wagon playground, and more! It is the perfect mix if you are looking to get some scenic views and enjoy the benefits of a big city in the summer with excellent cuisine and shopping!

We hope this list is helpful wherever you are in the state for packing up and hitting the road for your summer adventures!

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Quintessential Spring Hiking Gear to Have in Your Arsenal

Lately we’ve been on the topic of the great outdoors. Now that I have given you my must-stop-spots for spring, along with some invigorating hikes for the winter, this blog post I’ve decided to let you in on some of my favorite essential gear for the rainy season. 


Whatever distance you are hiking, there are a few items that must be brought. The most obvious would be a backpack, preferably with a rain cover. This will allow you to bring the true essentials detailed down below.


Water, though seemingly everywhere in the PNW, is a must-have when on a hiking excursion. Often times, river and stream water is OK to drink if filtered. To ensure you are staying safe and away from any parasites, it’s always best to bring your own. 


Bringing a map, headlamp, and first aid kit starts becoming more necessary the longer the hike. As a good rule of thumb, stick to packing these items for any hike ranging over five miles long. In addition to these three, packing a way to start fire (matches, lighter, etc.), some extra food, and a knife can be a life saver, literally. 


Now that we’ve gotten the boring safety items out of the way, let’s get into the fun stuff. When it comes to the spring season, rain is almost guaranteed. With this, we want to prepare properly and avoid wet feet and cold shivers. A solid pair of water-proof boots can aid with the first problem, with a water proof outer-layer solving the next.


Trekking poles, though not used by everyone, can be helpful with avoiding slips and tumbles of freshly unburied land after the snow melt. In addition to grip, trekking poles allow you test the depth of puddles along with the stability of the upcoming path.


I hope this helped you better prepare for getting outside and enjoying the weather. Let me know if you have any questions or additional recommendations!