Trees are blossoming, and flowers are pushing through the earth. The snow is melting, and the weather is getting warmer, too! Spring is the perfect season to enjoy all sorts of activities and attractions in so many of the destinations that are a part of the Kabino landscape.
Where to go? We have some great options for you.
Arizona. Hawaii. Idaho. Minnesota. Utah. Washington. Wyoming. No matter the location, we have the perfect place for YOU to stay. Build out your itineraries, pack your bags, and off you go with Kabino! We will make sure your stay will be as incredible as you imagined it to be!
Take a trip to Arizona! Visit the Grand Canyon, or bask in the grandeur of the majestic falls in the region. Or, drop by to appreciate the blooms at the Desert Botanical Gardens….a garden in the desert! The flowers will surely make you reflect on the beauty of life and might even make you amazed at how these blooms manage to show a burst of colors right in the center of the desert!
Are you going to Hawaii? There is so much to do during the spring! From farm tours to coffee-tasting to snorkeling in the bay, there will never be a dull moment. Thirsty? Drop by one of the state’s many breweries! For the more active and adventurous travelers, an ATV tour will be a true adventure to remember in the islands!
Want a taste of history in Idaho? You can go on an adventure ride at the Argo Mill and Tunnel. This historical 4.5-mile tunnel was formerly used for the transport of ore. While you’re in Idaho, do not miss out on the world-class fishing that the state is known for in the spring. The beautiful weather, cool breezes, and abundance of fish are something everyone is sure to enjoy.
Are you planning a trip to Minnesota? Enjoy some time at Whitewater State Park. Trout stream run among limestone bluffs in this 2,700 acre park that also features some great hiking trails!
Have you decided on going to Utah? Bring your mountain bike and explore the Wasatch Front with your loved ones! You can also swing by the reservoir, go for a hike, or make it more challenging by learning how to sail!
What about Wyoming? Spring Break is a time to break from routine and break free! The entire state has lovely weather during the springtime. This place defines spring as a break between skiing and whitewater rafting. There are great trails to explore, incredible natural wonders to visit, and plenty of relaxation to be had.
Spring is the PERFECT time to be outdoors! Dust off your fishing rods, tune-up the bikes, break out the binoculars and cameras, and prepare to seize any kind of day spring gives you! You can go camping, wildlife-watching, hiking, fly-fishing, road biking, spring skiing and snowmobiling, and so much more during this epic season.
Offering rentals in various incredible locations, Kabino is ready to help you with your vacation plans! We know you set out with plans of making the most of everything during your vacation, and we are your go-to place for a warm fireplace, friendly faces, and to make one of our stunning rentals your home-away-from-home!
If the first snowflakes of the season have you reaching for a pair of skis before a cup of hot cocoa, a winter trip to the Pacific Northwest may be the getaway for you. The area’s natural beauty only gets better as summer crowds thin and thick blankets of fluffy snow turn stunning landscapes into scenes of winter wonder. Whether you prefer to spend your winter days skiing, snowmobiling, or simply sightseeing, these four great destinations top the list of best places to enjoy nature this winter in the Pacific Northwest.
A natural wonder year-round, there’s something especially magical about the country’s most famous national park during winter. Bustling crowds are replaced by miles of quiet solitude. Billowing steam and boiling water erupt from under thick blankets of snow. Dark, wooly wildlife roam through drifts of white, foraging on sparse grass and sipping from icy streams.
Best of all, the winter season offers new ways to explore the park’s picturesque landscape. You can hop on a guided snowcoach or snowmobile tour, don a pair of skis or snowshoes to explore the snowy trails solo, or take an exciting dogsled ride through Paradise Valley. At night, retire to your lakefront cabin at Duck Duck Goose, where you can view the Northern Lights dancing over the water from your private outdoor deck.
Whatever you choose, you’ll soon learn firsthand why those who live near Yellowstone say winter is their favorite season.
Mount Hood
Nothing says winter like soaring snow-covered peaks, and you’ll find plenty of them around Mount Hood. As the highest point in Oregon, the area is a dream escape for those who want to ski, snowboard, sled, and sightsee through a pristine winter wilderness.
Six nearby ski resorts offer plenty of winter play for visitors of all ages and skill levels. Timberline and Mt. Hood Meadows are the biggest, each offering daring elevations and dynamic runs full of slope-shredding action.
If you prefer to stop and soak in the views, try cross-country skiing or snowshoeing the scenic Crosstown Trail, Government Camp’s longest and most accessible trail.
Leavenworth
Nestled in the Cascade Mountains of Washington State, Leavenworth is the quintessential winter wonderland. Soaring glacial peaks, forests of frosted evergreens, and a picturesque Bavarian village full of snow-dusted rooftops are just some of the ways the winter season takes over this charming mountain retreat.
Boasting thousands of acres of pristine winter wilderness, the area around Leavenworth is a perfect winter playland. If you want thrills with your chills, try shredding the slopes at Stevens Pass or racing over 150 miles of snowy trails on an exciting snowmobile expedition. For a more scenic snow adventure, book a magical sleigh ride or explore the terrain at your own pace on a family snowshoe adventure.
Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach paints an entirely different scene during the winter than in the warmer months. Sunny days are traded for dramatic winter storms and frenzied ocean waves. High tides and heavy winds leave miles of secluded shoreline ripe for winter beachcombing. Stunning sunrises burn off wintry morning fog, revealing herds of majestic Roosevelt Elk grazing in meadows.
You won’t see much sunbathing, but there are plenty of other unique ways to enjoy the Oregon Coast when it’s cold. Head to Ecola State Park’s Tillamook Head for stunning views of approaching Pacific storms. Savor an afternoon shower by exploring one of the area’s nearby rainforest trails (you’ll be getting wet anyway). If you visit during the annual winter migration, you’ll catch nearly 25,000 grey whales swimming just offshore as they head for the warmer waters of Baja, Mexico.
While winter may look different this year, booking a Pacific Northwest getaway with Kabino is as easy as ever. Browse our great destinations and book your stay today!
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Island Park, ID and Yellowstone National Park then we’ve got some great ideas, no matter which season you visit! With a plethora of fun activities, incredible sights to see, and so much more, there’s no wonder that so many come back again and again to discover the beauty and charm.
Cool Fun Awaits In Winter
Did you know: Island Park and the West Yellowstone area have earned the nickname “Snowmobiling Capital of the World!” Once you visit, it will be easy to see why. You’ll be amazed at the landscape and the miles and miles of trails. It’s the perfect destination for those who are fans of endless exploring in fresh powder! Plus, there are several snowmobiling tours and guides if you’re a novice and looking to learn more.
For those who love fur babies, the Dog Sled Race is also held here during winter. It is an exciting experience with events for mushers, spectators, and all kinds of dogs! This is one of the only spots to view this within the United States as well.
Spring Has Sprung … Fun New Activities
As the snow begins to melt, new activities abound in the area! Put your worries away and get ready for some fun. In the area, you will love trying your hand at some world-class fishing, ATV riding through unique terrain, horseback riding, boating, white water rafting….the list goes on and on!
Yellowstone National Park is America’s first national park, established in 1872. Some of the wildlife living within the park are grizzly bears, wolves, bison, and elk. Yellowstone National Park is also where you will find Old Faithful and a collection of the world’s most extraordinary geysers and hot springs, as well as Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon.
If you plan on going geyser-watching and you are with your kids, have their eyes peeled for bald eagles in the trees and trumpeter swan on the river. The spotting doesn’t usually get good until about 6 or 7 miles in, where the Madison River starts running right beside the road. You will also likely see elk and bison!
Summer Sun and FUN!
Around July, a round of activities are available leading up to the Fourth of July. It includes a hot air balloon rally, craft fair, antique show, rodeo, parade, community breakfasts, barbecues, and of course, fireworks! This 4-day event is perfect for families and good bonding activity for the whole family!
What better way to start a fishing season than with an excellent hot breakfast of pancakes with syrup and butter, hash browns, sausage, and various beverages?! Best of all, it’s FREE! This is an annual event from 6 a.m. – 1 p.m. the Friday before the fishing season begins. Anyone is invited to participate in this free breakfast paid for by the St. Anthony Chamber of Commerce. There is also a program and special guests for the kids like Woodsy Owl and Smokey Bear.
FALL for Yellowstone and Island Park
With thinning crowds and colorful foliage, fall is a spectacular time to visit Yellowstone. Plus, many of the park’s iconic animals tend to be more visible in the autumn, when cooler temperatures prompt them to move to lower elevations.
While Yellowstone can’t claim New England’s fall foliage fame, the park’s landscape does dazzle with golden aspens, yellow grasses, and red-leafed shrubs. In a typical year, the peak time for viewing color in the park is from the last week of September through the first week of October. Some of the most colorful spots are Mammoth Hot Springs, the Lamar Valley, Blacktail Plateau Drive, and Lewis River near the falls and the Lewis River Canyon.
Hiking a trail is a great way to enjoy panoramic views of the fall foliage. Just make sure you’re prepared for widely varying temperatures or inclement weather. Bicycling enthusiasts can also take advantage of Yellowstone’s fall bike season, which begins when park roads close in early November.
There are so many amazing things to do in Yellowstone and Island Park all year round – it’s worth visiting multiple times! We’re here to help you plan your escape! So pick out your favorite Kabino to serve as home base…and let the fun begin!
If you’re like many families across the globe, work and school look a little different this year. With more employees and students working and schooling remotely, offices and classrooms have been traded for screens and video calls.
The challenges of virtual working are obvious, but there are plenty of benefits, too! The biggest one being that you now have the flexibility to work and school from just about anywhere. That makes this the perfect opportunity to take the family on a trip to your biggest dream destinations – without ever having to burn through your coveted vacation time!
If you haven’t thought about taking work and school on the road this year, you definitely should. Traveling opens the door to priceless life experiences, introduces you to new cultures, and brings the whole family closer together. We have Kabinos in tons of great vacation destinations that act as the perfect home base to mark items off your to-do list and your bucket list. Here’s how:
A Private Office with a View
One of the best things about working and schooling virtually is that you can go just about anywhere with an internet connection. Why not check off your to-do list from a secluded mountain cabin, the balcony of a private beachfront oasis, or a luxurious hi-rise condo? You’ll have the privacy you need to focus and can escape from home’s many distractions (like that pile of laundry calling your name).
Depending on the destination you choose, you can also treat yourself to inspirational views that make working remotely much more pleasant. Work from your private balcony as you gaze at the mountains in Wyoming, or be serenaded by the lapping ocean waves from your rental in Hawaii. Who needs a tropical zoom background when the real thing is right outside your front door?
Gourmet Lunch Hour
They say you are what you eat – and that’s not always a good thing. For many families, a normal lunch hour consists of whatever is closest to your office or served in the school cafeteria. When working and schooling at a vacation destination, you can trade blah food for brain food! Many of our Kabinos are conveniently located near the best restaurants around, guaranteeing a delicious and nutritious lunchtime meal. So, when it’s time to get back to the grind, you feel fulfilled instead of just full.
Better Break Times
Whether it’s a quick trip to the company break room or endless loops around the track at recess, most people don’t use their allotted break times to their benefit. At a vacation destination, beautiful scenes and fun activities are often right outside your rental door! Instead of staring at the company fridge, you can gaze on mountain peaks. Rather than walking through the school halls, the kids can hike down a nearby nature trail to enjoy the fresh mountain air and scenic views.
Fun Field Trips
We all remember how excited we were for a class field trip day. At a vacation destination, field trips are easier (and better) than ever before! Explore a hidden beach to search for life in vibrant tide pools, take in the trails and sights at one of the country’s best national parks, or visit a local museum or art gallery to learn about new cultures. Best of all, many vacation destinations have a variety of great options right near your rental, so you can finish early and spend the afternoon getting in some hands-on learning and adventure.
Family Bonding
After spending a long day staring at a screen, the evening hours are yours to do as you please. Too often that means piling on the couch to watch TV or going to your separate rooms to veg out. When staying at a great vacation destination, the opportunities for family fun and bonding are limitless!
You can visit a park, try out a nearby attraction, or just stroll through town taking in some new sights. Whatever you choose, you’ll build lifetime memories and strengthen your family bond in ways you can’t achieve at home.
Are you ready to turn work and school into a fun-filled workcation? Browse our great destinations and book your trip today!
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 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!