Photo Journal Skagit and Beyond

    Nestled in the heart of Washington’s Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, the Big Four Ice Caves offer a breathtaking natural wonder that draws adventurers year-round. While this popular destination is a relatively short trek in the warmer months, winter transforms it into a more challenging—and rewarding—7-mile hike due to seasonal gate closures.     The Big Four Ice Caves sit at the base of the 6,160-foot Big Four Mountain, formed by avalanches and the persistent freeze-thaw cycles of the Cascades. Snow piles up at the mountain’s base, and over time, it compacts into ice, hollowed out by melting water and wind to create stunning caves. These icy grottoes glow with an ethereal blue hue, making them a must-see for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike. However, they’re not without risks—more on that later. During the summer, the Big Four Ice Caves Trail is a manageable 2.2-mile round-trip hike, starting from a trailhead just off the Mountain Loop...

  Skagit Valley is a birdwatcher's dream come true. With its diverse ecosystems ranging from wetlands and estuaries to farmlands and forests, this region offers a haven for both resident and migratory birds throughout the year. The winter months, from November to March, bring a spectacular show as thousands of snow geese and trumpeter swans descend upon the area, transforming fields and wetlands into a sea of white. These majestic birds can often be spotted in the Skagit Wildlife Area, particularly around Fir Island and the Samish Flats. Winter also attracts numerous raptors, including bald eagles along the Skagit River and short-eared owls hunting at dusk over the Samish Flats. As seasons change, so does the avian landscape of Skagit Valley. Spring and summer bring an influx of songbirds, shorebirds, and waterfowl, with excellent viewing opportunities at locations like the Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Fall heralds the return of migratory waterfowl and birds of ...

  Nestled in Skagit County, Washington, the Northern State Recreation Area offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Once home to the sprawling Northern State Mental Hospital, this site now invites visitors to explore its extensive trail system, winding through wide-open pastures and forested lanes. As you wander, you'll encounter remnants of a bygone era - weathered barns, an old milking shed, and a cannery - silent witnesses to the thousands who once called this place home.  One of the most poignant areas is the old cemetery, where at least 1,500 former patients and staff members rest. This somber site, along with the repurposed hospital buildings now used for job corps projects and drug rehabilitation, serves as a powerful reminder of the facility's peak in the 1950s when it housed 2,700 patients. As you explore, remember to approach the area with respect, particularly around sensitive locations. While active buildings are off-limits, the accessible areas offer a...

         If you're looking for a stunning hiking experience near Bellingham, WA, look no further than the Burnout Trail in Larrabee State Park. This lesser-known trail offers a journey through diverse landscapes and breathtaking vistas that you won't soon forget. As you hike the Burnout Trail, you'll notice it can be divided into two distinct sections. The lower reaches will lead you through a serene mixed forest, providing a peaceful and quiet experience. You'll find yourself surrounded by tall evergreens and deciduous trees, with the forest floor carpeted in ferns and moss. As you ascend, you'll be rewarded with sweeping views that will take your breath away. From the upper sections of Burnout, you'll be treated to panoramic vistas of the San Juan Islands and the Salish Sea. On clear days, you can see for miles, with the islands dotting the horizon like emerald jewels set in a sea of blue. If you visit in spring or early summer, you're in for a special tre...

This accessible and family-friendly nature trail, located near the charming town of Newhalem, is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone seeking a serene escape into the wilderness. As you embark on this self-guided adventure, you'll find yourself immersed in a world of towering trees, diverse wildlife, and the soothing sounds of nature. The trail begins at the end of Main Street in Newhalem, where a picturesque suspension bridge spans the mighty Skagit River. This crossing serves as a perfect photo opportunity, with the rushing waters below and the lush greenery surrounding you. One of the trail's most appealing features is its accessibility. The wheelchair-friendly loop boasts a moderate grade, making it suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities. Thoughtfully placed benches along the path provide ample opportunities to rest, reflect, and soak in the beauty of your surroundings. As you meander along the nature trail, you...

      Click on a photo to zoom in Nestled in the heart of the North Cascades, Ladder Creek Falls is a  natural wonder that offers visitors a unique blend of history, nature, and enchanting beauty. Located behind the Gorge Powerhouse in Newhalem, this hidden gem provides a refreshing woodland retreat and an up-close view of a spectacular waterfall. The falls have a rich history dating back to the 1930s and '40s when J.D. Ross, the owner and developer of the hydroelectric project near Ross Lake, built a trail to showcase the area. Ross's vision transformed Ladder Creek Falls into a popular tourist attraction, complete with colorful nighttime illumination and music piped in on Friday evenings for visitors from Seattle seeking a night out. Today, the magic of Ladder Creek Falls continues to captivate visitors. The light show, a 15-minute repeating program that runs from dusk until midnight year-round, remains a major draw. However, the falls are equally mesm...

    Click on a photo to enlarge Nestled high in the North Cascades at 6,254 feet, Blue Lake is a true hidden gem that should be on every hiker's bucket list. A moderate hike from Highway 20, this pristine mountain lake offers jaw-dropping scenery with towering granite peaks, lush meadows, and sparkling blue waters. While beautiful year-round, Blue Lake is an especially magical destination in the fall when the alpine larches turn a brilliant golden hue. These deciduous conifers create a striking contrast against the rugged grey peaks and deep blue lake. It's a sight that has to be seen in person to be fully appreciated. The hike itself is a moderate 4.6 miles out-and-back with around 1,050 feet of elevation gain, making it accessible for most ability levels. The well-maintained trail winds through shady forests, across idyllic streams, and into a wildflower-dotted meadow with views of the imposing Early Winters Spire. As you approach the lake, the views open up to reveal Cutthr...