I am coming back from a weekend getaway with my family, and starting my new job tomorrow, so while I have lots to share, I am keeping this post a little short.
Yesterday and today, I went on nice long hikes around Lake Crescent. Chris and I went on a power walk from the Lodge to Marymere Falls. It was a wonderful way to experience nature while getting our heart rate up.
Today we went on a long walk up the Spruce Railroad Trail to the Devil’s Punchbowl, which was a nice stroll with the family. We even got to experience some poetry along the way. 
Lake Crescent was a great weekend, offering tons of ways to get outside and connect to the earth in healthy ways. From recreational water activities like kayaking and paddle-boarding to hikes, biking, and nature walks, there was something for everyone at any level.
Hiking is one of the easiest and cost efficient ways to get out and experience nature. All you need are a good pair of hiking boots and a water bottle, and you are good to go. If you want to prepare more for your hike, you can borrow a trail book from the library, or visit a welcome center to pick up maps of the area. Some places do charge a small fee for parking or using their facilities. State parks in Washington charge $10 a day for a pass or $30 a year for a Discover Pass. If you think hiking is your calling, I can’t recommend the Discover Pass enough. It covers all state parks in the state, including Deception Pass, Mount Si, and Cape Disappointment.
Lake Crescent is in another park service which I adore, the National Park Service. Washington has its fair share of National parks- Rainier, the North Cascades, Mount Saint Helens, and the Olympic National park, which is where Lake Crescent is located. Also in the Olympics is Hurricane Ridge, the Hoh Rainforest, and Kalaloch Lodge, with access to Ruby beach, a fantastic area to look for tide pool creatures. Looking for adventure? Check out what nature has to offer in our National Parks.
I was able to spend some quality time with my whole family today while broadening my appreciation for the outdoors and preserving what I love.
What can nature do for you? Take a hike, and find out!