The Great Pacific Northwest: Exploring My Backyard

My city in early morning glory.. Sunrise!

My city in early morning glory.. Sunrise!

Although I enjoy traveling to places far away with unique cultures to explore, some of the coolest adventures I have been on lately were right in my backyard.

My home of West Seattle, Washington is in a prime location. We have Mount Rainer on our right and the Puget Sound, which is the Pacific Ocean, on our left, tamed through miles of waterways and islands, like the local San Juans.

Parks scatter around the city, and where luscicous dark evergreens meet the dusty colored sand, we have the best of all worlds! Forests, beaches, parks, mountains, rivers and lakes and even the great ocean a few hours drive away. Washington state is a perfect getaway without having to go too far.

Taking the Bremerton Ferry to the sticks!

Taking the Bremerton Ferry to the sticks!

Just an hour ferry ride away lies some pristine nature ready to be explored! My good friend Meaghan, grew up in the forest of Tahuya, a small town near Bremerton and Belfair, although most Washingtonians have never heard of this gloriously green destination.

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If you haven’t taken a ferry, you are in for a treat! I hadn’t stepped on one in years, and it was a joy ride as if I was ten again. The wind blowing around you, seagulls gliding above and beautiful trees and islands pass you by on either side, as the ferry propels towards its target. I recommend choosing a ride during daytime hours so you can take in all the sights.

Sticks, fog and greenery for daysssss

Sticks, fog and greenery for daysssss

Upon arrival at the Bremerton Ferry Terminal, I felt like I was in different world compared to metropolis Seattle. It had that small town vibe; plaid shirts, junky cars and a refreshing feeling that you can’t always get in the city. The calm.

Love my PNW

Love my PNW

Tahuya, WA is the kind of place where everyone knows their neighbors, and you can always borrow a cup of sugar. Between the sunsets, a quiet you can’t always get anywhere else, and the wet smells of moss and evergreens, this was the zen getaway I needed, followed by a hippy birthday party for my friend’s daughter.

Baby Alice and Mama Bear Meaghan

Baby Alice and Mama Bear Meaghan

This was the reminder I needed. Though I love to travel lengths to see the unknown,  sometimes exploring nearby can be just as fulfilling, maybe even more, because the surprises will amaze and remind you to appreciate even the little things.. like morning dew.

Alice's Hippy Birthday Party

Alice’s Hippy Birthday Party

Whats the coolest places you have visited near you that surprised you with its beauty? Let me know!