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Snoqualmie Falls – Take in the Beauty All Year Round
Snoqualmie Falls is one of Washington most popular scenic attractions. Located 30 minutes Bellevue this site boosts over 1.5 million visitors annually. The 270’ waterfall has spectacular views from the observation deck as well as other nearby locations. The 1.6 mile trail to the base of the falls is good for all hiker types, but make sure to get an early start to avoid the peak traffic. The falls can be viewed year-round, but in the spring when the Cascade snowpack is melting or after heavy rainfall is when the fall’s picturesque beauty is best. While at the falls check out the Salish Lodge and Spa to get some of its great food to go (due to COVID19), or consider booking a staycation for a night or weekend.
Is it Summer Yet?
With the darkest day of the year approaching (December 21st) it’s also the time of year Allison and I start thinking about our place on Lake Chelan (technically our summer home is located in Manson – 7 miles “uplake” from the town of Chelan).
While the Chelan Chamber of Commerce boosts an average of “300 days of sunshine”, it’s May through September when warm to hot days ranging from 75-95 degrees are common. Lake Chelan is the third deepest freshwater lake in the U.S. at 1,486 feet deep and compared to the “west” side of the Washington state lakes, visibility can be as much as 40′.
Driving to Lake Chelan from the Greater Eastside is easy with multiple routes that wind through Snoqualmie and Blewitt or Stevens Pass. No matter which route you take you can be in this bit of paradise in less than three hours.
Thinking about making a move to a little bit more laid back lifestyle? Lake Chelan is a great location with plenty of opportunities for a summer home or vacation property. To learn more about Lake Chelan living email aaron.bernstein@windermere.com.
Snowshoeing to Kendall Peak Lakes
Allison and I tried snowshoeing for the first time on the Kendall Peak Lake Trail this weekend. The start of the trail was only 5 minutes past the primary ski area at Snoqualmie Summit (50 minutes east of Bellevue). With an elevation gain of just over 2,100 feet (making the peak of the climb close to 4,600 feet), we couldn’t have asked for a better day. Sun, a light breeze and temperatures ranging from 30-45 degrees. The 8.5 mile round trip had multiple “Kodak Moments”, no step inclines, lots of resting spots and only a modest number on trail. Dogs on leashes and children on sleds are okay too. A $20 Snowpark Pass is required.
This trail will be equally beautiful in the summer when there is no snow and we have already added it to our list for next year.
This winter wonderful is just another reason Allison and I love living in the Northwest.
Hiking Mt Si. – Before the heavy snow falls
Allison and I set out late this morning for what was supposed to be a nearby, not too long hike. We ended up in North Bend (20+ minutes east of Bellevue) in the parking lot of Mt Si. The 8 mile round trip, 3,389ft elevation gain was worth the haul as we came out of the shade of trees to see sun, blue skies and miles of visibility. Mt Rainier can be seen in the background. The Mt. Si hike is clearly marked and well maintained so it’s a great hike year round.
