With accessible roads and trails offering breathtaking views of Salt Creek, rivers, forests, and the incredible Wyoming Ranges, the Grey’s River Trail is one you cannot miss. This fantastic trail is a perfect mix of trail and off-trail adventure. You would feel like you have the wilderness to yourself with its heart-stopping views!
The best time to visit is during the summer. The days are not so hot, and it gets nice and cool as the day ends…just perfect to gather around a bonfire with your friends! But, it’s truly a wonderful place to experience year-round!
Driving through the main road is by itself a feast for the eyes; you get a view of the Salt River Range to the west and the Wyoming Range to the east.
Some of our favorite trails to take note of:
- Trail 10002: (Murphy Creek Road) is the most leisurely and most scenic trail. Be sure not to miss it!
- Trail 10146: a short side trail from Deadman Creek (Trail 10005). Vail Mine is on the top end, and a few old buildings and a large ore bin can be seen here. The downside to this is there is a tendency for traffic to build up here, but it’s still an excellent place to visit. If you do decide to check this out, it is an hour round-trip.
- Trail 10123: (Blind Bull Creek Trail) is right after Deadman Creek, a comfortable and slightly inclining trail that will lead you through an old mine.
- Trails 10140 and 3081: will lead you through some flowery meadows. During the spring, you can find a large creek crossing with water well over the footboards. A remarkable sight but be extra careful, as it can be slippery!
- Trail 10256: this trail climbs very high, offering great views of Salt River Range’s main ridge. No worries, there is no need for a 4×4 as the road is moderately slanted as it goes up.
- If you wish for a bit more of a challenge, you can take on Trail 10214 to Trail 10255. Take note; this is an ATV-only trail. Moderately tricky with logs and rocks to traverse, this trail is one of the most fun to try to add more spice to your adventure!
Bring a map and choose your adventure! Whatever the season, the Greys River and its excellent trails are sure to offer you an unforgettable outdoor experience! Be it with your family or with your friends, time spent in these surroundings is sure to fill your heart and your soul for that much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle! And we’ve got the perfect Kabinos to serve as home base for your adventures!
For many travelers, a vacation begins when you reach your destination. When it comes to the Pacific Northwest, miles upon miles of unspoiled wilderness create a stunning scene through every window, turning your vehicle into a moving stage. Best of all, our conveniently placed rentals provide easy places to stop, start, and rest on your quest for scenic seclusion.
For a journey that’s as fun as the destination, here are four great pacific northwest road trips you can’t miss!
Distance: 105 Miles
Driving Time: 3-4 Hours
This scenic drive takes you on a stunning journey around the edge of Mount Hood, the highest point in Oregon and one of the most iconic landmarks in the Pacific Northwest. The route winds along the OR-35 and OR-26 highways from Hood River to Wood Village, offering mesmerizing views and fun activities every step of the way. Gaze at the vibrant fruit orchards and vineyards in the Hood River Valley, journey to Timberline Lodge for jaw-dropping views of Mount Hood’s soaring glacial peaks and descend into the surrounding Mount Hood Wilderness.
The full drive takes about four hours, but is so packed with history and activities that you’ll want to stay awhile. Rhododendron, a historic village about halfway along the route, is a perfect place to stop for a stretch or a night. Here, you can visit the West Barlow Tollgate, the site of the final Toll Station on the original Oregon Trail, before heading to Eagle Falls Lodge for a rejuvenating rest in rustic splendor!
Seattle to Leavenworth
Distance: 117 Miles
Drive Time: 2 Hours 19 Minutes
While not the fastest route from Seattle to Leavenworth, I-5 to US Highway 2 is by far the prettiest. This scenic drive follows the original route of the Great Northern Railroad, winding through the Cascade Mountains via Stevens Pass before ending right at your destination. Along the way, you can stop in charming communities like Gold Bar and Index, enjoy panoramic views of Wallace Falls and the Skykomish River, and stretch your legs at one of several popular trailheads that span the route.
Your journey ends at Majestic Pines Lodge, a cozy home just minutes from Stevens Pass on the Wenatchee River. This elegantly appointed lodge offers peaceful tranquility near all of the convenience and recreational activities Leavenworth has to offer!
Cannon Beach Drive
Distance: 5.8 miles
Drive Time: 10 minutes
Although not a long trip, the coastal drive from Arch Cape to Cannon Beach is as scenic as they come. Beginning at your Sunset Retreat rental, you’ll head north on US Highway 101, passing miles of pristine coastline and charming oceanfront communities. You’ll also wind near the best beach landmarks in the area – Hug Point, Arcadia Beach, Jockey Cap and Silver Point, and of course, the legendary Haystack Rock. It’s a great way to see everything the Cannon Beach area has to offer – without getting sand in your shoes!
At the end of your drive, stay coastal at Ocean Villa, a sprawling hilltop retreat at the end of Ecola Park Road. You’ll enjoy unimpeded oceanfront views from your spacious deck and be just ½ mile from the beach and downtown!
Saanich Inlet to Victoria
Distance: 29.6 kilometers
Drive Time: 32 Minutes
This fun expedition lets you explore the vast array of natural and historical attractions that dot the southern tip of Vancouver Island. From your Otter Rock rental on Saanich Inlet, head south on Patricia Bay Hwy/BC-17 until it reaches downtown Victoria. Along the way, you’ll ride along the east coast of the island, skirt the Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park, and pass through the charm of Saanich before arriving in downtown Victoria. There are days of endless fun to be had in this vibrant city, so drop your bags at Beach Drive Manor before venturing out to explore its many parks, attractions, restaurants, and more!
Known for its stunning landscapes and fun outdoor adventures, the Pacific Northwest is at its best during the fall. The weather is cool, the foliage is fantastic, and the summer crowds are gone, making autumn the perfect time to get out and explore this pacific paradise. From fall fun events to seasonal outdoor tours, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the autumn season across the area. Here are the best fall activities and virtual events in the Pacific Northwest!
Leavenworth
Like any self-respecting German town, Leavenworth celebrates the autumn season with good food and better beer. During the fall, head to the Leavenworth Community Farmers Market any Thursday from 4-7 to browse vendors full of locally-grown produce, arts and crafts, local brews, and more. Best of all, it’s just minutes from Bavarian Mountain Suite, your lavish downtown condo rental!
Whistler
Fall is a great time to visit Whistler for several reasons. One of the best is the chance to view the area’s famous black bears and cubs in their natural habitat on a guided Bear Viewing Tour! Explore the wilderness and get up close and personal with the resident bears as they forage for the winter season – from the safety of a rugged 4X4 vehicle, of course! You’ll be just steps from the Olympic Plaza in our Tyndall Stone #206, a private downtown condo with sweeping views of Rainbow Mountain.
Victoria
There’s no better time to soak in Victoria’s year-round foliage than during the fall. A trip to Beacon Hill Park during autumn finds its 200 acres awash in glorious hues of yellow, orange, red, and gold. Stroll along the water beneath orange-tinged willows or find a bench to admire the park’s many Japanese Maples bursting with crimson leaves. You can even walk to the park from your Beacon Hill View Condo, a spacious and sunny rental in the heart of downtown Victoria!
Cannon Beach
While fall is hardly peak beach season, it’s a popular time to visit Cannon Beach thanks to the Stormy Weather Arts Festival. This annual event celebrates the area’s vibrant cultural scene by packing as much live music and local artists into the weekend as possible. Stroll through the charming downtown streets as you take in live demonstrations, jamming sets from local musicians, and even a fun fashion show. You’ll be just steps from the event’s Coaster Theatre Playhouse at Cozy Cottage, a charming rental boasting coastal style and ultimate convenience!
San Juan Island
During the fall, San Juan Island comes alive with fantastic foliage and plenty of fun fall events to celebrate the harvest season. To get a real taste of the island’s fall flair, stop by the San Juan Islands Museum of Art to view their seasonal exhibitions. Fall 2020’s exhibition is “SPACE, MUSES, etc.”, a curious collection of works by Samuel Stubblefield.
Virtual Events
Don’t miss these virtual events for 2020, then put the 2021 versions on your agenda to return for next year!
The Port Townsend Virtual Film Fest
Date: September 24-October 4, 2020
Cost: $120
Screening more than 100 films in over eight venues, the Port Townsend Film Fest is “a film lover’s block party celebrating great films and filmmakers.” The festival attracts industry professionals and film buffs alike, culminating in a big screen event like you’ve never seen! This year’s program is fully virtual, allowing you to scope out the best new and noteworthy films without ever leaving your jammies.
Filmmaking In The Wilderness: How To Tell Your Adventure Story
Date: September 23, 2020
Cost: $22.50
This fun workshop hosted by The Mountaineers is led by Alex Maier, an experienced documentary filmmaker and long-distance hiker. In an interactive seminar, you’ll learn practical ways to document your hiking experiences by exploring the best tools and tips in the business for adventure filming. It’s a perfect lesson for new and noted Pacific Northwest adventurers!
One of our favorite seasons is here – it’s spooky season! There’s nothing better than telling a great scary story by the campfire. And, there’s no place better for a wonderful campfire and some downtime with your loved ones than at the Kabino!
But, there are so many great ghost stories out there – how do you find the right one?! We’ve put together some of our favorite ones to tell by the fireside and put them right in this blog. One that is a bit innocent, then a couple that are a little more frightening! We hope you enjoy them and are able to spin some tales by the fire this fall at the Kabino!
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The Impish Ghost
My neighbor Diane and I had a playful poltergeist for years, and we called it Billy. I’d come home and find something put in a weird place: milk in a cupboard, toilet paper in the fridge, laundry detergent in the bathtub.
Diane once called to ask if Billy had been around, because she couldn’t find a gallon of milk.
We finally found it outside on her back steps. And sugar … darn sugar! Every morning, my sugar bowl was empty.
When I had enough, I’d point to Diane’s home and yell, “Go see Diane!” Within five minutes, I’d get a call from her, and she’d say “Thanks a lot,” because he’d gone and pulled shenanigans at her place.
This occurred for the entire two years we lived there. No one believed us – not even our husbands. My mother thought someone was stealing from us when we were sleeping or out of the house. My sister believed something was going on but didn’t know what. I still can’t explain any of it.
The Eerie Attic
A few years ago, I moved into a one-bedroom apartment in Melbourne, Australia; it was my first time living on my own. The apartment block had been built in the 1930s. I’d been there for a few months when I came home from work one day and went into the bathroom.
I saw something strange: The wooden board covering a hole in the ceiling that led to a small attic space lay broken in two pieces on the ground. I examined the broken pieces. The board was an inch thick, and it would have taken a Bruce Lee to break it. I thought the landlord had sent someone to work on the attic. I was frozen stiff with fear. I thought someone was up there for sure.
I e-mailed pictures to the landlord asking if anyone had been there (with an undertone of annoyance, since she hadn’t warned me). Her reply read, “Please call me as soon as you are able to.” I called, and she explained that her last two tenants had said the same thing happened. She promised to replace the board, and she did. A month later, I woke up one night around 4 a.m. I had so many goose bumps, it felt like someone was rubbing his or her hands on me.
Everything was silent, but then I heard this sound coming from above my bed. It was a dragging sound, like someone pulling a sack of potatoes. I was frozen stiff with fear. I thought someone was up there for sure. There is no way an animal could make that sound. After five minutes, I managed to work up the courage to turn on the light and walk to the bathroom. I was armed with a baseball bat. When I looked, I saw that the new board covering the hole was broken in two! I felt sick. The dragging sound had stopped. But I heard something else—whispering.
The sound was clear and coming from the attic. It sounded like children’s voices, and I could hear one sentence repeated over and over:
“It’s your turn … It’s your turn …” I switched on every light in the apartment to make things feel normal. It was 5 a.m. and dark outside.
I watched TV to try to unwind. Then a fuse blew. My pet budgie, Dexter, whom I kept in the kitchen, usually never made a sound at night, but he started squawking like he was being strangled. I’d never heard him make those sorts of noises – he was screaming. I grabbed my car keys, ran out, sat in my car, and waited there until the sun came up.
When I saw people walking their dogs, this comforted me enough to go back in. The front door was open, but I thought I hadn’t closed it when I’d run out. I went to the kitchen to check on Dexter, and he wasn’t in his cage – I felt sick again. All my windows were closed, so I looked everywhere inside. When I walked to the bathroom, I heard splashing. Dexter was in the toilet! I
took him out, washed him, and dried him. I was so confused.
At 8 a.m., I called the landlord and gave her a watered-down version of the night. “Oh, wow, you heard the whispering too!” she said. I stayed in that apartment for another 18 months. I heard the whispering on a few occasions, and twice the board covering the hole in the ceiling moved. Although I moved away, the landlord recently called me. She said that her new tenants had begged to speak with me about some of the stuff that’s been going on there. Seems that whatever was with me in that place is still hanging around!
The Boy With No Eyes
One night when I was ten, I was awakened by my bedroom door opening, followed by someone sitting on my bed. I felt my leg grazed and the bed sink under a person’s weight. Thinking it was my mom, I opened my eyes to see an eyeless boy (he had black empty sockets) about my age sitting at the foot of my bed. He extended his hand, and in it was a little box.
I was startled but reached out. He pulled back. I reached again and said, “Give it.” Then I blinked, and when I reopened my eyes, he was gone, but the imprint of someone sitting on my bed was present.
Fast-forward a few years. My girlfriend came over to do homework. After she finished, she took a nap while she waited for her parents. When they arrived, I tried waking her up. She opened her eyes suddenly, looking up at a corner where the wall met the ceiling. She pointed there and went back to sleep. I shook her again. She came to full consciousness, and I explained what she’d done. She said, “Up on the wall, I saw a little boy with no eyes. He was there in a Spider-Man pose, staring at me.” I freaked out and told her my story about the same kid.
Fast-forward another few years, and now we had a two-year-old. We were living in my parents’ house, in my old room. My daughter started waking up at the same time every night, and she’d talk. After a while, I noticed she had almost the same conversation every night. I playfully asked her once whom she was talking to. She said, “It’s a little boy. He’s nice. He’s lost and looking for his mommy. And there is something wrong with his eyes.”
Chills shot down my spine, as I knew that she too was experiencing the same thing I had so many years ago. We moved to another place soon after, and the “visits” ceased at that point. But still, to this day, probably every couple of months I’ll sit straight up out of a deep sleep and catch my breath, afraid that the little boy will be on the bed again.
The Pacific Northwest is brimming with famous national parks and treasures that top the bucket-list of brave explorers across the globe. While the popular attractions should definitely rank high on your to-do list, the area also boasts plenty of hidden gems that are off the beaten path, but no less enjoyable than their famous neighbors. In fact, their lower crowds and undisturbed wilderness make them even better!
If you’re planning your Pacific Northwest vacation, be sure to include some of these lesser-known landscapes in your itinerary.
Hoh Rain Forest Loop, Olympic National Park
You might not immediately think ‘Washington’ when you think ‘rainforest’, but the Hoh Rain Forest in Olympic National Park says you should. This temperate jungle has everything you’d expect for a magical rainforest adventure: giant conifer trees, vibrant plants and flora overlapping in splendid color, along with plentiful wildlife.
The Hoh Rain Forest Loop Trail is a short, family-friendly stroll through three popular trails in the Hoh Rain Forest. You’ll begin on The Mini Trail, a short-paved loop that gives a nice introduction to the forest and provides access to several other trailheads for deeper exploration. When you reach the junction, head right to access the Spruce Nature Trail, an easy 1.2-mile loop that takes you through lush old-growth forest and along the Hoh River before winding back to the Mini Trail. When you return, take the opposite loop for the .8-mile Hall of Mosses Trail, where you can explore the towering trees draped in thick sheets of dense, vibrant moss before returning to The Mini Trail and the parking lot.
Capitol Reef National Park
Overshadowed by the nearby Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden gem in southern Utah that should be high on your itinerary. This natural treasure features amazing geological wonders like the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic monocline where a wrinkle in the earth almost 100 miles long has formed deep canyons and interesting formations across the surface.
Hiking, canyoneering, and rock climbing are popular ways to explore the diverse landscapes of the park. Head to the small town of Fruita inside the park to stroll through vibrant fruit orchards (and grab a fresh snack of their abundant limbs), view the ancient petroglyphs left by the native Fremont people nearly 1,000 years ago, and hike to the Capitol Dome to see the amazing rock formation that looks just like the U.S. Capitol.
This 5.5-mile loop in the Mount Rainier National Park takes you through the best scenes in Paradise, the park’s southern hub. Your journey will take you through subalpine meadows brimming with wildflowers and along the majestic Nisqually glacier before climbing to Panorama Point. Here, you’re treated to stunning views of Paradise Valley all the way to Mount Hood. The second leg of your journey will treat you to such icons as the Stevens-Van Trump Memorial and the impressive cascade of Myrtle Falls before winding back to the trailhead.
The trail can be completed in either direction from the trailhead behind the Jackson Visitor Center. A clockwise direction quickly offers impressive views and lots of ancillary trails to explore, while a counter-clockwise loop has a slower elevation gain and a more tranquil beginning.
Maple Pass Loop (Wenatchee, WA)
A few miles south of Maple Falls, this classic loop is the epitome of a perfect Washington hike. Its diverse landscape changes with the seasons, boasting vibrant ridges coated with colorful wildflowers in the summer, tranquil lakes framed by golden larches and resplendent foliage in the fall, and of course, plenty of stunning views of the snow-topped Cascade peaks.
The 6.5-mile loop can be hiked in either direction. Both ways will bring you to the same sights: serene Lake Anne in her dramatic talus field, and Heather Pass, the starting point for several auxiliary trails that wind into the Cascades. But the crowning jewel is Maple Pass, a 7,000-foot high-point that offers unmatched views of the surrounding Cascade Mountains in all directions.
The Crescent Beach Hike, Cannon Beach
This short, but moderate, hike leads to the ultimate reward: a hidden beach featuring a small waterfall, teeming tide pools, and intricate caves to explore (when the tide is low). Though the wildly popular Cannon Beach isn’t far away and is easier to access, the journey to Crescent Beach from Ecola Point is well worth the effort for its picturesque seclusion.
The trail begins at a clearly marked trailhead just off Ecola Point. You’ll meander through dense forests of spruce and alder trees, across lush gullies and trickling streams, and along towering cliffs that offer stunning views of the coastline and beaches below. After traversing a series of switchbacks in and out of the forest, you’ll follow the sign to Crescent Beach and begin a harrowing descent toward the shore. Shed your shoes and explore the beach, but don’t lose them – you’ll need them for the trek back!
Note: The Crescent Beach Trail is often muddy and has some seriously staggering switchbacks, making it a challenging trek suited to experienced hikers.
Mount Grant Preserve, San Juan Islands
The Mount Grant Preserve may be San Juan’s best-kept secret. This 250 acres of protected landscape offers nearly 5 miles of hiking trails through native forest, vibrant meadows, and sky-high ridges. If you trek all the way to the ridgetop summit, you’ll be rewarded with a striking view of three of Washington’s five volcanoes in the distance: Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, and Glacier Peak.
The preserve is still under construction, and visitors are strongly encouraged to stick to the designated trails to protect the fragile ecosystem. Each trailhead can be accessed from the parking lot at West Valley Road.
The band TLC had obviously never visited the Pacific Northwest when they crooned, “Don’t go chasing waterfalls.” The area’s stunning and diverse wilderness includes hundreds of jaw-dropping waterfall wonders that are worth chasing, from small but scenic falls to dramatic drops that leave you breathless.
As with most wilderness adventures, the chase is worth the prize. We’ve put together the best six Pacific Northwest waterfalls, giving you a crash course in where to start, how to get there, and what you can expect when you cross the finish line. Read on to take the plunge!
It’s an easy race to Multnomah Falls, but the finish line may be the most rewarding of the group. Its impressive cascade is fed by underground springs and melting snow from Larch Mountain, falling 611 feet to the glittering pool beneath. The viewing area is nestled into a carved-out wall at the fall’s base, giving you an impressive upward view of the sheer power and beauty of this natural wonder.
For an even better vantage point, hike the paved trail to Benson Bridge for a stomach-dropping view of the fall’s final 69-foot drop.
Drury Falls
The 1,270-foot Drury Falls is formed as Fall Creek tumbles into a free-fall over the rim of Tumwater Canyon. Fall Creek is relatively small and runs dry during the summer months, but during snowmelt season it provides a powerful flow over the cliffs that crashes against the steep cliffs below.
The most popular viewpoint is along Highway 2, as 600 feet of the flow can be seen from the road. Park at one of the pullouts about 500 yards from the falls on either side; you’ll need to walk beside the highway to reach the viewpoint, so be aware of passing cars!
Deception Falls
Hidden just off an inconspicuous rest area along Stevens Pass, Deception Falls is often overlooked. But its magical trip through an ancient Douglas Fir forest is worth the stop. Though not as tall as some other waterfalls on our list, this multi-tiered beauty tumbles in short but dramatic drops full of impressive white-capped waves as it makes its way to join the Tye River. There are multiple lookout points that offer great views right past the parking lot, but the best vantage point is at the designated viewing platform at the top of the falls. You can even be serenaded by the waves as you grab a quick bite at the Picnic Area (but be sure to protect your snack from the spray).
If you have time, be sure to take the .8-mile interpretative trail loop nearby to learn about the ecology of the area and enjoy even more lookout points to the falls. You’ll find interpretative signage, cross picturesque bridges, and get to see the fall’s powerful whitewater rapids blend into a cool, crystal pool at the bottom of the trail.
Bridal Veil Falls
In the depths of Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park in the Fraser Valley, this popular waterfall gets its name from the unique way its powerful cascade flows over a wide, smooth rock face in a delicate-looking veil. But don’t mistake its deceptively fragile appearance for weakness; crashing more than 122 meters to the bottom, this waterfall is truly awe-inspiring in its natural power.
An easy 15-minute trail through cedar and fir trees leads to a designated viewpoint at the base of the falls. During the winter, falling sheets of ice and unstable cliff rocks make this a hazardous, slippery endeavor. Perhaps the best time to view Bridal Veil Falls is during the summer when the water flow dries considerably, and the intimidating spray slows to a mesmerizing stream.
Elk Falls
This 25-meter waterfall is so impressive they named the entire park after it. It’s one of the area’s best “plunge waterfalls,” meaning it falls vertically and loses contact with the cliff face behind it as the Campbell River plunges into the rock-walled canyon below. The powerful drop creates an abundant spray and a thunderous roar that can be heard for miles around.
There are multiple trails in the park that lead to great lookout points for Elk Falls, but the newest addition is also the most popular: a thrilling suspension bridge that floats 60 meters above the Canyon floor. Offering a top-to-bottom view of the cascading flow, its multiple viewing and cantilevered platforms give you a breathtaking sight of the waterfall from every angle!
Alexander Falls
Don’t be fooled by their bottom position on our list – Alexander Falls is a frontrunner in the amazing waterfalls category. Three impressive tiers drop over 43 meters in a 12-meter wide flow that’s framed by jagged andesite cliffs and vibrantly green trees. The forest that surrounds it is wide and wild, offering views of curious wildlife (watch out for bears) and plenty of prime hiking territory.
A dedicated viewing platform and picnic area sits just across from the falls and offers a wide, but dry, view of its immense drop. There’s also an obscure trailhead not far from the platform that leads to the top and bottom of the falls, but both hikes are considered strenuous in difficulty and should only be tried by experienced hikers.
A vacation can be more than just for relaxation and exploring the sites. It can be a great way to get in some learning as well! We have Kabinos located in some stunning and unique places – perfect for learning about the environment, about our country, and about a variety of topics in the sciences and beyond. We’ve put together a couple of our favorite spots and resources that are perfect for learning and discovery when you vacation. They’ll help you get familiarized with the area you’re staying in. Check them out!
Visit the Old Faithful Visitor Center
The Old Faithful Visitor Education Center features displays on Yellowstone’s hot springs, mud pots, fumaroles, and of course its world-famous geysers. Scientists take advantage of these extreme environments to conduct research at one of the greatest living laboratories in the United States. Children will love the Young Scientist Exhibit, which contains hands-on exhibits, models, and much more. This is a great place to discover information about the flora and fauna that you can see in the area as well, and has plenty of resources about the park overall,
Grand Teton Park Resources
Take your educational offerings to new heights by exploring the curriculum materials, and even Distance Learning programs available through the Grand Teton National Park! The Park offers unrivaled access to outdoor learning experiences. Located in one of the biggest temperate-zone ecosystems on the globe, you’ll be exposed to wolves, moose, & billion-year-old rocks – highlights of the park!
A Great Pit Stop in Alpine
At the junction of the Greys and Snake Rivers, you can find the Alpine Visitor Center. Guests can visit to learn about the surrounding habitat and the abundance of wildlife that call it home. Located off Highway 89, this makes for a great stop on the way to Yellowstone or Jackson Hole. The Center has many guides, maps, and books that will enhance your experience in the area.
Another great spot in Alpine? The Alpine Nature Center is the best place to learn all about all of the unique animals, plants, and more in the Alpine area. They also have a plethora of information on their website about what’s in bloom, what you’ll see exploring the area, and so much more.
Are you ready to inject some adventure and discovery into your vacation? Then all that’s left is to pack your bags, pick out that perfect Kabino near these amazing natural wonders, and get started!
There are few places on the globe that offer the scenery and outdoor adventures to match the Pacific Northwest. That’s why this unique area is richly populated with National Parks that protect its natural beauty and give visitors the chance to explore its wilderness.
If you’re new to park-going, the sheer number of National Parks in this area can seem overwhelming. Where do you start? What do you see? Where do you stay? Luckily, we’ve made this helpful guide to make planning (and living) your national park adventure as easy as possible. Read on for the top six can’t-miss national parks in the Northwest!
Even novice parkgoers have heard of the wonders that await at Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. This complex and diverse landscape became the world’s first National Park in 1872, inviting nature enthusiasts the world over to explore its unique geothermal landscape. From active geysers to bubbling hot springs to the world’s largest petrified forest, park-goers will find plenty of unique outdoor experiences to create memories and adventures as you explore the wonders of this historic national park.
What to Do: Hiking, photography, sightseeing and camping are the most-popular activities in Yellowstone. During the summer, you can also enjoy fishing, swimming and boating at Yellowstone Lake.
Don’t Miss: Old Faithful. The park’s most-famous attraction is a natural geyser that erupts every 90 minutes, offering visitors an awe-inspiring view at nearly 130 feet in the air. Find a seat near the geyser boardwalk or hike to the overlook point for an aerial view.
Where to Stay: After a long day, Little Fox cabin keeps you in rustic comfort just minutes from Yellowstone National Park.
Located just 10 miles south of Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton may be less known than its famous neighbor – but it’s no less mesmerizing. The park boasts 310,000 acres of stunning mountain landscape, ranging from the major peaks of the Teton Mountain Range to the mountain valley known as Jackson Hole. Its changing elevations give visitors plenty of diverse ecosystems to explore, from glittering alpine lakes that mirror soaring mountain peaks to lush valley floors teeming with flora and wildlife.
The park is known as a historic hotspot, its first explorers canvassing the area almost 11,000 years ago. Some of its rock formations are the earliest you can find in any American National Park, dating back some 2.7 billion years!
What to Do: Hiking, sightseeing, swimming and boating are the most popular recreational activities in Grand Teton National Park.
Don’t Miss: Mormon Row. This iconic historical site gives visitors a glimpse into life on a Mormon homestead in the 19th century. The road is dotted with original homestead barns framed against spectacular mountain backdrops and is popular among professional photographers and travel enthusiasts alike.
Where to Stay: Teton Harmony is a luxurious mountain hideaway just minutes from Grand Teton National Park. Get in the hiking mood with an invigorating session in your private weight room, and retire to your personal hot tub for some relaxing TLC when the day is done!
If you’re new to national park journeys, Crater Lake National Park is the perfect place to get your feet wet. Its namesake lake is the deepest and clearest in the United States. At nearly 2,000 feet, its volcanic depths are fed almost entirely by snowfall, giving it a reflective sapphire hue you have to see to believe. Surrounding the lake are more than 180,000 acres of mountainous peaks and evergreen forests that reflect off the water in postcard perfection. You’ll be Instagram-famous with these pics!
What to Do: Obviously, boating and sightseeing are the most popular activities in the park during the busy summer months. During the winter, visitors can enjoy cross-country snowshoeing and skiing to explore the landscape.
Don’t Miss: The Rim Drive. This scenic driving trail surrounds the lake and offers 30 distinct viewpoints where you can stretch your legs and overlook the park from a birds-eye view.
Mount Ranier, the park’s namesake peak, is an active volcano that soars more than 14,000 feet to the most glaciated peak in the continental United States. Wildflower meadows and ancient forests line the outer rings of the mountain, offering park-goers a dramatic climb full of stunning scenery and thrilling pursuits.
What to Do: Mountain climbing, hiking, winter sports, and scenic drives are the most popular recreational activities in the park.
Don’t Miss: A trip to Paradise. No matter what time you go, the Paradise area of the park is one of the most popular spots for visitors. During the summer you can soak in views of its lush meadows full of blooming wildflowers; during the colder months, it’s a prime area for winter sports and snow-lovers.
Hardcore adventurers will love the snowy glaciers and isolated wilderness that stretch across North Cascades National Park. A picture of rugged terrain, the 700,000-acre park is known for its stunning combination of cascading waterfalls, jagged peaks, alpine lakes and deep valleys. The majority of the park lacks basic infrastructure and is only accessible by foot, making it one of the most strenuous (but rewarding!) national park adventures in the state.
What to Do: Hiking, mountain climbing and boating are the most popular recreational activities in the park.
Don’t Miss: Stehekin Valley. This secluded community nestled at the foot of the North Cascade Mountain Range is only accessible by foot or ferry. Its unspoiled culture, history, and dramatic landscapes make it the perfect base from which to explore North Cascades National Park.
With more than a million acres of diverse landscapes and wildlife, Olympic National Park is the place to go if you’re seeking ecological diversity. The park encompasses miles of wild coastline, lush rainforests, and glacial peaks that provide stunning views and recreational fun for visitors of all ages.
What to Do: Hiking, tidepooling, camping and fishing are the most popular recreational activities at Olympic National Park.
Don’t Miss: Taking a trip into the Hoh Rain Forest. One step into this lush, dense canopy of trees, moss and wildlife, and you’ll feel like you’re hiking through an enchanted fairy tale. Stop by the visitor center first to grab a map and get some advice from the knowledgeable park rangers.
Got your park itinerary ready? Then let’s #PackYourBags and get started planning that adventure!
From the moment you step foot on this beautiful land, you’ll immediately be mesmerized by the humbling grandeur of Sand Hollow State Park. Among its landscape attractions are warm, crystal blue waters, and a beautiful red rock landscape. Whether you’re interested in cycling, kayaking, horseback riding, or anything in between, Sand Hollow is the place for you.
Since its initiation as a part of the Utah Parks System in 2003, Sand Hollow has become one of the most visited parks in the state. Boasting 20,000 sprawling acres, you are bound to fall in love with the many offerings of Sand Hollow. With over 15,000 acres of dunes, ATV and off-highway vehicle enthusiasts will find this park perfect for their adventures. Plus – Zion National Park is within an easy driving distance, making for an absolutely perfect Utah vacation!
Sand Hollow State Park’s pristine reservoir waters are also a prime location for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and boating, among other fun water activities. And, the reservoir is huge – over 1,322 acres!
Just past the main gate along the northwestern edge of the reservoir are the main boat ramp and Westside campground. Along the south end of the lake are the second boat ramp and beach area for day use. Just past the beach, following the southeast and east corners of the reservoir, are the Sandpit Campground and primitive campground areas for the most adventurous among us.
You can enter Sand Mountain through a tunnel on the south end of the reservoir. Here you will find the more than 15,000 acres of dunes for all-terrain and off-highway vehicle riding. The expansive dunes sprawl around the south and east ends of the reservoir.
For avid outdoor lovers – this park is a dream! ATV trails run over sand dune access to Sand Mountain in the park, and additional trails are located nearby. The most popular St. George ATV trails are located right here!
Need a quick bite to eat while you’re exploring the area? Check out some of our favorites:
- The Pizza Wagon: Need We Say More?! Delicious pizza awaits at this rustic spot that’s about a 15 min drive from the park.
- Main Street Cafe: Down-home American eats await at this local gem located in Hurricane.
- River Rock Roasting Company: The BEST coffee and tea around – and a delectable brunch menu.
- Muddy Bees Bakery: Hands down, some of the best bakery items you will ever eat.
And one of our favorite things about this stunning state park: the close proximity to Hurricane, Utah, and some of our favorite vacation Kabino’s. Discover this amazing area today and get ready for the getaway of a lifetime.
Did you know: Yellowstone National Park is the world’s first National Park! The park is famous for its wildlife and its incredible and extensive geothermal features. With hiking, camping, fishing, geysers, wildlife and so much more, there is no shortage of things to do in Yellowstone. So, how does one exactly plan a visit and be sure to get the very best that Yellowstone has to offer? Let us help, by giving you some unique and memorable things to do during a trip to Yellowstone that will fill an entire week full of fun and adventure.
Day 1 – View The Old Faithful Eruptions
Start your week off with a bang! There are nearly 500 geysers in Yellowstone, and although Old Faithful isn’t the tallest geyser in the park, it is definitely the most popular one. Make sure you check out eruption times at the Old Faithful Visitor Center. Intervals range from 60-110 minutes and eruptions usually last 1.5-5 minutes, with its maximum height ranging from 90-184 feet. It is absolutely a sight to behold! The Old Faithful Lodge Porch is one of the most coveted viewing spots to take it in. And don’t forget to grab some cookies and sweets!
Day 2 – Visit the Grand Prismatic Spring
The 3rd largest spring in the world, the colorful Grand Prismatic is located in Midway Geyser Basin. There is a 0.8-mile boardwalk loop that provides an up-close encounter with the spring. Make sure you stay on the boardwalk! It’s a stunning part of the trip that you cannot miss, and a great way to mark your second day in the park.
Day 3- Hike Uncle Tom’s Trail
There are plenty of places to see the grandiose Lower Falls in Yellowstone. Although it’s only a 0.8-mile roundtrip hike, the 300-step steel stairway is what makes this trail unique. The descent down the canyon is a little tough, but the view definitely makes up for it! The trailhead is located near Canyon Village and is a great way to get in some steps and some exercise.
Day 4 – Experience the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone
Fun fact: Yellowstone has its own Grand Canyon. Just like the Grand Canyon in Arizona, erosion formed this canyon that stretches approximately 20 miles long and a half-mile wide. Lower Falls can be viewed from several vantage points: Red Rock Point, Artist Point, Inspiration Point, and Lookout Point. Enjoy the stunning canyon views, and be sure to photograph the Lower Falls during the Golden Hour. It’s spectacular. And it’s one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in the park.
Day 5 – Explore Norris Geyser Basin
Norris Geyser Basin is the oldest, hottest, and most dynamic of Yellowstone’s thermal areas. The highest temperature yet recorded in any geothermal area in Yellowstone was measured in a scientific drill hole at Norris: 459°F at just 1,087 feet below the surface! It’s not just the temperatures that make Norris so notable, though. You should see the colors! They are so impressive, thanks to a combination of minerals and life forms. So be sure to grab some great pics! The basin consists of two areas: Porcelain Basin and the Back Basin. Porcelain Basin is barren of trees and provides a sensory experience in sound, color, and smell; a 3/4-mile bare ground and boardwalk trail accesses this area. Back Basin is more heavily wooded with features scattered throughout the area. A 1.5-mile trail of boardwalks and bare ground encircles this part of the basin.
Day 6 – Visit the Unique and Stunning Mammoth Hot Springs
As you can tell, there are a lot of must-see attractions in Yellowstone. Among the geysers and waterfalls is Mammoth Hot Springs, a collection of hot springs with travertine terraces made up of limestone. The formations resemble a cave turned inside out. Colorful stripes are formed by thermophiles or heat-loving organisms. It is incredible, and unique! Be sure to plan for plenty of time inside the Albright Visitor Center to explore Yellowstone’s history and to learn about wildlife.
Day 7 – View Wildlife in their Natural Habitat
You can see wildlife almost everywhere in Yellowstone, but the two best places to see them are Hayden and Lamar Valley. Hayden Valley is located centrally in the park, and is the easiest place to get to when viewing wildlife. Driving along this valley, you are most likely to see herds of bison, scattered gatherings of elk, and the occasional bear. You can stop at one of the pullouts along the road to have a better view of the wildlife. The Lamar Valley also provides a great opportunity for viewing some of the most famous residents of the park, such as bison, bears, pronghorn, elk, marmots, osprey and much more.
There is so much to see and do in Yellowstone. You’ll definitely need a week to take it all in! And after each day, you can settle in at your favorite Kabino to rest up and recharge for your next day’s adventure. Let us help plan an amazing and unforgettable trip for you! Visit Kabino.com and get started planning today!