On the Road Again
Summer starts after July 5th around here, only then you can you hit the road and hope for good weather. Then the question is “where do we want to go?” For weekend get-a-ways or mini vacations the choices are endless. Here are a few of my favorites:
North Cascades Highway: This is beautiful country offering magnificent scenery and access to trails in the Boulder River Wilderness Area and Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest. Hike in the Cascades; take a whitewater adventure out of Leavenworth, boat on Lake Chelan or golf at Desert Canyon overlooking the Columbia River. Summer fruit is abundant at roadside stands throughout the Wenatchee Valley.
Yakima Wine Country: Wine lovers can sample the newest releases from 22 wineries in the Yakima Valley and then head south and catch SR 14 along the Columbia River. This is a 2-lane country road that follows the contour of the land through open country and past towering basalt outcroppings. Along the route you’ll find wineries that feature distinctive varietals and picturesque surroundings. Be sure to stop at the Columbia Gorge Interpretive Center in Stevenson that houses extensive collections of Indian artifacts and pioneer relics as well as exhibits about the natural history of the area and transportation on the Columbia.
The Olympic Peninsula: I am always drawn to the wonders of the Hoh Rain Forest and ocean beaches at LaPush. The National Park with its majestic mountains, vast glaciers and wilderness trails, lures hikers and climbers. Rushing rivers, pristine lakes, distinctive wildlife, old growth forests, and magnificent vistas offer unlimited opportunities for fishers, naturalists and photographers.
Roche Harbor Resort: Rich in history and ambiance with its world-class marina, Roche Harbor is an international resort where you will meet people from all over the world. The islands offer many activities such as hiking, sailing, kayaking and whale watching. The Hotel de Haro has a wonderful old bath tub for soaking after day of adventure and you must have at least one “Fuzzy Duck” cocktail before dinner. It looks and tastes just like an Orange Julius, but don’t be fooled! I was first introduced to this resort in 1982 when the Island Jazz Festival was held on the grounds for several seasons, I try to return each September. You can get there quickly with Kenmore Air or take the Anacortes Ferry. Happy trails to you!
