Rattlesnake Ledge, Snoqualmie region, WA

When my father suggested to do this hike with him during a Seattle visit, I pictured a nice routine hike on a Sunday morning. Instead, my expectations were blown away. Parking is plentiful (and free!) but get there early to avoid crowds.

The trail starts out innocently enough at Rattlesnake Lake. It then immediately moves into a lush forest over several switchbacks. At about mile 2 is a junction. Bear right to get to Rattlesnake ledge, where you'll emerge into a clearing onto a large rocky ledge. Those who persist to this point will be stunned by storybook 360-degree views of tree-covered Mount Si and gorgeous Rattlesnake lake. The scenery will be difficult to beat on a sunny day.



Trail: Rattlesnake Ledge Trail (4-mile round trip, 1100-ft elevation gain)
Difficulty: Moderate

Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge, WA

Located near the logging city of Hoquiam, this marshland is the site of bird migrations in the spring and fall. The Sandpiper trail provides a good view of the marshlands and Grays harbor, along with the abundant plant and animal life.



Thanks to my parents for playing tour guide on this hike!

Trail: Sandpiper Trail
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (wind)

Barr Trail near Manitou incline, Colorado Springs, CO

During a work trip to Colorado Springs, I did a short 5-mile round-trip hike along the first 2 1/2 miles of the Barr Trail, approaching the top of the Manitou incline (which itself was closed for maintenance, unfortunately).

Trail: Barr Trail (first 2 miles), Manitou incline connector trail
Difficulty: >Moderate

★ Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County, CA

About 40 miles northwest of San Francisco, this coastal wonder is a photographer's dream come true. It was one of those hikes I had wanted to do for years but never got around to, until I suggested it to my uncle and brother in the days leading up to Labor day weekend 2016. And so the three of us began a little adventure that Saturday.

The first point of interest is the Point Reyes Lighthouse. From Sir Frances Drake Blvd turn right (west) at the Chimney Rock/Lighthouse junction. After finding parking, go west until reaching the visitor center. You can get a free trail map there if needed. Descend 309 steps until you reach the lighthouse. If desired one can go inside. Ascend 309 steps for a good workout, and retrace the remainder of your path until getting back to the car.

Next, take Sir Frances Drake Blvd and keep right at the junction. Park at the Chimney Rock trail head. Take Chimney Rock Trail 0.4 miles. Heed all warning signs and continue past the junction. If you decide to risk going on the 0.1 mile Headlands Overlook Trail exercise extreme caution & proceed at your own risk. [Note: Maintain a large distance from the overhanging cliff edge--it and surrounding areas can give way at any time and a fall at that height is likely fatal!!] Head east on Chimney Rock Trail another 0.3 miles to take in the 300+ degree panoramic view of the ocean and headlands. Turn back and go the 0.7 miles back to the parking area.



I'd like to thank my Uncle David for driving & playing tour guide once again!

Note: It gets very windy here.

Trail: Pt Reyes lighthouse (1.3 to 2 miles round trip), Chimney Rock trail (1.5 mile round trip)
Difficulty: >Moderate (due to safety considerations)