Outdoors

Weekend Getaway: Mount St. Helens Silver Lake Visitor Center

Dead Rainier climbing ranger was 'desensitized to the hazards'

A pervasive level of comfort working in dangerous conditions among climbing rangers on Mount Rainier was a factor in the death of Nick Hall almost a year ago, a National Park Service board of review said Tuesday.

On the Road: Strawberry Festival

One of the oldest continuing festivals in the state, the 82nd edition of the festival will feature a grand parade, fireworks show, arts-and-crafts Market in the Park, vendor booths, carnival, kiddie parade and entertainment stage.

Hiking the Wonderland Trail: 15 tips to minimize the impact of your trip

Whether you’re looking for a challenge, long-lasting memories or unmatched views, Mount Rainier National Park’s Wonderland Trail will take care of you. All it, or any trail for that matter, really asks in return is that you take care of it.

Cape Disappointment hosts lighthouse celebration, concert series kick off

A Saturday celebration will mark the 115th anniversary of the North Head Lighthouse at Cape Disappointment State Park in Ilwaco. The event is sponsored by Washington State Parka and Keepers of the North Head Lighthouse.

Piecing together the ancient art of mosaics

RAVENNA, Italy — The Italian mosaic master sat poised behind her small, wooden work stand, a log placed on end and embedded with a small, sharp steel tool.

Time to get your hands dirty at an area park

Volunteers will take part in more than 2,000 events nationwide Saturday during the 21st annual National Trails Day. Sponsored by the American Hiking Society, the day is a celebration of the nation’s network of trails that wind through national, state and local parks.

Hiking the Wonderland Trail: Being cautious around animals

From black bears to mice, it’s almost a certainty Wonderland Trail hikers will encounter wildlife during their 93-mile hike around Mount Rainier. Depending on how prepared you are, these animals can either spoil your trip or make it a little more memorable.

Hiking the Wonderland Trail: Fueling up for the long haul

By our fifth day on the trail, I thought I’d grown accustomed to the exotic eating habits of Matt Misterek. But as I peeled the wrapper off of a protein bar, the same lunch I’d had the previous four days, I couldn’t help but laugh.

Brilliant blooms at the Desert Museum

For the past decade, I’ve headed to Arizona in midwinter to visit family and catch a respite from cold weather. Each year, as I leave its warm, dry air to return to my snowy home, I’m told, “You really should come when the desert is in bloom. It’s spectacular.”