Summer Fun in the PNW

Mckenna Murphy, Staff Writer

A  goal every summer is to make it better than the last. This is no easy feat especially if money is a limiting factor, but for those living in the PNW an inexpensive and memorable summer is easier than you think. From hiking, to walking around in the city, abandoned buildings and outdoor movies, there are endless things to do. This article is a short little list of things to do if you happen to run out of ideas and you’re restricted by money.

Top 3 hikes in Washington:

Rattle snake Ledge is a 2.2 mile hike round trip that elevates up to 3,481 feet above sea level. This hike is really short, but a bit ridged and uphill. It has an amazing view of the mountains and afterwards you can take a dip in the lake at the bottom. (North Bend, Washington)

http://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/rattle-snake-ledge

Franklin Falls is a bigger hike, at 2 miles round trip it takes around an hour and a half to complete. The falls is gorgeous and great for pictures. (South Fork Snoqualmie River)

http://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/franklin-falls

Heybrook Lookout is a short yet steep hike at 2 miles, with an elevation of 2,023 feet above sea level. This hike is a perfect spot to see a gorgeous sunrise or sunset. (Snohomish, Washington)

http://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/heybrook-lookout

Top 2 City stops:

Every few weeks the Seattle Art Museum http://www.seattleartmuseum.org/  hosts a new exhibit, so there is always something new to see. Student admission is $12.95 and if you park in their lot before 11 a.m. its $8 for the whole day.

Pike Place http://pikeplacemarket.org/ stretches across 9 acres, holds 240 small businesses and about 70 restaurants/takeout stalls. Pike Place is perfect for walking around and taking pictures or finding unique and different knick-knacks all around. Odds are you’ll find at least one store you will love and possible pick up a flower or two.

The great thing about living in Washington are all the possibilities are endless. You could hike one day and get all dressed up and go out to the city the next night.