GET FIT
Take A Hike
Written by : Yasmin Tavakoli / Photo : kan _ khampanya
Hibernation has ended . It is time to get your Vitamin D supply for the rest of the year . Here in the lush Pacific Northwest we
have some of the best trails with the most breathtaking scenic views of snow-covered mountains , emerald green forests , clear blue lakes , and simply said , stunning views of nature in its full glory .
FRANKLIN FALLS
North Bend , WA ; 2.0 miles Level : Easy
Located right by North Bend , hikers can get up close to the waterfalls by following a narrow trail located at the end of the hike . Take extra precaution when walking on this narrow pathway due to the slippery rocks . Make sure to pack some waterproof gear if you plan on getting close to the waterfall since you will get sprayed by the powerful splashes of Franklin Falls . The best time to go see the waterfall flowing fully is now through July .
RATTLESNAKE LEDGE
North Bend , WA : 4.1 miles Level : Moderate
Rattlesnake is a very popular hike among Washingtonians . Due to the fact that it is only an hour drive from Seattle , this hiking spot tends to be visited again and again by hiking enthusiasts . Rattlesnake Ledge Trail can take anywhere from one to three hours depending on how fast you make your way up the mountain . Don ’ t forget to pack a lunch so you and your hiking companions can enjoy your meal on the rocks that overlook incredible images of Mount Si , Rattlesnake Lake , and so much more .
POO POO POINT
Issaquah , WA ; 7.2 miles Level : Moderate
If you don ’ t feel like driving a long distance to hike , then Poo Poo Point is for you . This trail may not have the best view compared to the rest of the list , but it is the best in Tiger Mountain State Park . It ’ s the hotspot for hang gliding and paragliding , so don ’ t be surprise if you see them flying through the air . If you feel adventurous , Tiger Mountain Hang Gliding and Paragliding Landing Field and Seattle Paragliding give you the opportunity to join the flock . Depending on what illuminates your soul – Mount Baker , neighboring cities , or the Cascade foothills -- you can choose your view depending on which direction you ’ re facing . If you stay to watch the sun set , make sure to face northwest .
CHAIN LAKES TRAIL
Mount Baker , WA : 5.7 miles Level : Difficult
Named one of the most stunning locations in the North Cascades , Chain Lakes Trail has it all . With lots of scenic variety from wildlife to mountains and lakes , this is one hike that surely will not disappoint . Don ’ t forget to grab a handful of blueberries , because there are blueberry bushes growing all along this adventurous trail . Don ’ t forget to bring your swimsuit to cool off after your hike to the oh-so breathtaking views of Mt . Baker and Shuksan .
PALOUSE FALLS
Lacrosse , WA ; 2.0 miles Level : Difficult
With views that not even Google Images can do justice , this waterfall offers a truly magnificent and one-of-a-kind view . People compare Palouse Falls to those of Mars , and it is understandable why this is a “ must see ” kind of place . Located in the middle of nowhere , Palouse Falls ( once named Aput Aput ) has been deemed the official waterfall of Washington State . Plan your hike around sunset , as nothing gets more iconic than seeing the lights and shadows creating a once in a lifetime image .
40 l VILLE l HEALTH & FITNESS ISSUE