luxehikinggear

The first cold weather period is always an exciting time in the mountains. It's a major landmark which signifies the nearing of the winter season. There is nothing more exciting to wake up in a tent, zip open the door and find the whole area in a blanket of white frost and ice. Put your shoes on and step out the door, taking your first breaths of that cold, crisp fresh air. This makes you feel more alive than all the money and coffee in the world. Not to say that you can't add a cup of hot coffee on top of the experience tho.

The cool mornings start to fall over the forest. This is a reprieve from the hot dry months in the Pacific Northwest. The end of September is a transitioning period towards the wet season. Forest foliage starts to change color, before dropping to the ground. Elk start heading into their rutting season, when bugling can be heard echoing through the valley. The next few weeks are my favorite of the whole year!

There is something about being in the forest on a hot summer day. Old growth trees provide a great deal of natural shade. Call them natures sun umbrellas. If you plan your cards right, one can spend the heat of the day near a nice cool creek or river. When water naturally falls down terrain, if forms a nice soft cool breeze in the area. I often like to stare at the rapid, and spot the never ending patterns in moving water. Perfect way to beat the summer heat!

Car camping in Washington State has a lot of different opportunities. A family can load up all their gear in a vehicle and go explore remote roads in the region. The best example of this is on National Forest Land and take advantage of dispersed camping rules. These rules allow you to camp in the same location for up to 16 days (free) in most areas. Talk about a cheap and fun family adventure!