Yellowstone Trail: Seattle to Boston -- Red Brick Road Redmond, WA

    Not long ago, we were talking with one of our neighbors about the adventures we've gone on for our blog. His excitement level began to rise as the conversation continued because he hadn't heard of many of the places we had blogged about. After saying, "Thanks for the tips," he started wracking his brain to think of cool places that he's heard of in our area, but has never checked out during his 40 years of living in the Washington State.
   The destination he thought of sounded more like a myth than something that could have actually existed. "The Yellowstone Trail," he said, "I think it's out in Duvall somewhere, but I've never gone. Supposedly back in the early 1900's the road went all the way from here to Yellowstone National Park." Our eyes lit up, but with some skepticism. How could, and why would, there be a trail going from Seattle to Yellowstone Park at that point in history? We were determined to find answers, and thus began our Yellowstone Trail journey.

Map of the Yellowstone Trail, credited to the Yellowstone Trail Association

The History of the Route

    Through the wonders of the internet, we learned that the Yellowstone Trail was indeed real, and not only did it go from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park, but all the way to Boston Massachusetts. It was the first automobile road in the northern part of the United States that went from coast to coast. The trail was formed in 1913 and was active until about 1930. The Yellowstone Trail was made possible by a grassroots organization, called the Yellowstone Trail Association, which was made up a group of mid-westerners who were tired of not having good, all-weather government roads to use. Together, they pressured the government to create better roads as cars became more popular. Decision-makers came to the conclusion that having a national route that took drivers through the scenic Yellowstone National Park made the most sense. (Learn more from the active members of the Yellowstone Trail Association.)  

The one-mile authentic remnant of the Yellowstone Trail in Redmond, WA

The Yellowstone Trail Today

    We set out on a cloudy wet winter morning to the historical trail with our jackets and chocolate lab. Google Maps and Bing informed us that we were looking for Red Brick Road (196th NE Ave.) in Redmond, just off of Redmond/Fall City Rd--does Red Brick Rd. remind you of The Wizard of Oz? Yeah, it did for us too. As we came into the valley after driving through downtown Redmond, we knew we had almost arrived when we spotted an old farm house we'd seen in a photo online taken in 1975 of the trail--the same farm house still remains today.

    We chose to drive the authentic Red Brick Road first, as it's only a mile long at this point. While bumping along we imagined what it would have been like to be on this exact route in a Model T nearly 100 years ago. The road still maintains the same speed limit as it did back in 1913--25 mph, and we have to tell you, even in today's cars, on a brick road, 25 mph seems pretty fast! We enjoyed the countryside: the horses, donkeys, Great Blue Heron, miniature horses, wetlands, and farm houses. It really is scenic. The rest of the Yellowstone Trail technically still exists, but the majority of the other portions have been repaved and turned into highways and residential streets. 

The Red Brick Rd. really is quite picturesque as you drive along--that's golden grass in a nature preserve in the background

    When you arrive, breath in the country-fresh air and wrap your mind around the history. This was the only way to travel from Seattle to the East Coast nearly a century ago. 

The only identifying sign you'll find at the Yellowstone Trail landmark in Redmond

It Was Worth It
    After driving the trail, we jogged it with our dog, who decided that this was an extra-specially good idea. We enjoyed taking the Yellowstone Trail at a slower pace and thoroughly appreciating the scenery around us. When the road turned back into asphalt, we have to admit, we weren't ready for it. You just can't find brick roads around here, and certainly not with this kind of history. The Yellowstone Trail marks an important time in the development of our country's highway system and it's just outside the city. You don't always have to go far to find something new and different.

Our chocolate lab after our jog, loving the trail and loving the exercise

Things To Know:

• To find the Yellowstone Trail: Turn left off of Redmond Way (Highway 202) going toward Fall City onto NE 196 NE Ave. (or Red Brick Rd.) the trail will connect you to NE Union Hill Rd.
• There is one small historical landmark sign that you might miss if you aren't looking for it, right after the road turns into a brick road
• You can drive, ride your bike, walk, or jog on the trail
• The brick road portion of the trail is one-mile long

Bring your dog and go enjoy the historic Yellowstone Trail

Not many people know the Yellowstone Trail exists--go make it your own!

Head on out Around Puget Sound...and Beyond

Hiking -- Mt. Pilchuck -- Snoqualmie National Forest

    Back in third grade, a friend told me that she had climbed to the top of Mount Pilchuck. At first I thought she was joking because I hadn't grown up going on any hikes that were longer than a really good walk--I didn't even realize that you could hike to the top of a mountain. While driving north one day with my parents, I remember asking them which mountain was Mount Pilchuck. They pointed out a mountain in the Cascade chain--that's when I really didn't believe my friend.
    My husband and I have continued to eye Mount Pilchuck over the years. Finally we made the decision to hike it after some coaxing from one of our good friends.

    The mountain itself is beautiful: tall, with a prominent peak, and rounded slopes--it looks a young child's  drawing of a mountain. There's typically some amount of snow on top. According to the ranger we chatted with before our hike, there's snow on the mountain almost every month of the year except late July, August, and the early part of September (if you're lucky). The bottom line is, if you're planning to hike the mountain, be prepared. You'll be going to the mountain's top, which is 5324 feet above sea level with snow, so good waterproof hiking boots are a must.

The forest on Mount Pilchuck covered in snow with views of the Cascade Mountain Range in the background

    You'll find the hike off of the Mountain Loop Highway just past the little town of Robe, WA. The road up to the trail is twisty, mostly gravel and climbs quite a bit in elevation as you go. You'll get a few pocket views through the trees on your way up, but the awesome panoramas won't start until you're on the trail.
    We hiked in early November and the trailhead was already a bit icy and snowy. On the trail, you'll start off by walking through the forest, jumping over streams, and climbing up hills and dirt stairs. It doesn't take long before the views begin. When you're able to look out and see Everett in the distance, you'll realize just how high up you've already come.
    Then, you'll step into Winter Wonderland--truly. The snow will probably be completely covering the trail, the trees, and the rocks. It's like walking into Christmas. We kept climbing and found a good portion of the hike where you follow the trail over boulders. If you have a dog with you like we did, make sure their paws don't slip down between the cracks, one of our biggest concerns. Turned out our chocolate lab did just great navigating his own way.

It was a sunny day when we hiked--here you can see one of the steepest parts of the trail

    Next, you'll round the side of the mountain and be greeted with views of the Cascade Mountains to the north. Peaks and valleys, snow and trees, we hadn't ever seen vistas like these. As you go higher, the snow will keep getting deeper. Watch your step because there are portions of the trail that are right next to the cliff and many spots that are quite slippery. A little past the halfway point we could hardly keep up a good pace because the scenery was so amazing. We wanted to stop awhile and take it all in, but it was pretty chilly, so we kept going.

Views looking toward Puget Sound, the islands, and Everett

    (For easier hiking bring a dog with you: we found that our lab literally pulled us up the mountain. It's nice to have a built-in escalator system for inclines like this.)

Yup, that's the trail--make sure you are well prepared for the steep inclines before hiking Mount Pilchuck

    When you reach the top, the panorama is jaw dropping. You'll feel like you must be in an airplane because you'll have a view of Mount Rainier, Puget Sound, Seattle, and the top of Mount Baker. But, oddly enough, you'll realize, you're still on the ground. It's an unearthly sensation.
    If it isn't too slippery, scramble up the boulders and ladder to the lookout tower. You can actually climb down into the building. We were hoping there might be a restaurant or Starbucks in there, but there wasn't.

 The white look-out tower beyond the trees at the top of Mount Pilchuck--it's cold up there, but the views are worth it

    There are two trails at the top, that goes one to the lookout tower and one to the top of another rock. We took them both to see as much as possible. We felt as though we were at the top of Dr. Suess' "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" mountain with sheer cliffs on all sides of us and giant jaggedy rocks on all sides of the Mount Pilchuck's peak.

The Dr. Seuss mountain peak in the background, lichen growing on the rock on the left, and Cascade views in the background

    We had imagined there being a good place at the top to eat our lunch. The look-out tower is probably your best bet because frankly, with all the snow, there aren't many places to sit down. 

    One of our favorite parts of reaching the top of the mountain, looking out and seeing seven eagles flying at the same elevation as we were standing. It's the closest we've ever come to getting a bird's-eye view. Probably one of the best moments of our lives.

    We had a lot of fun--carefully--sliding back down the steep mountain in the snow. We all fell several times but mostly on the snow powder. Do be careful, watch your footing, and stop to enjoy the views on the way back down.

This artful slice of the cliff landed here, who knows when

Things To Know:

• The round-trip hike to the peak of Mount Pilchuck and back is 5.4 miles
• The elevation gain is 2200 feet
• Make sure you are prepared for this hike before you attempt it: waterproof hiking boots, enough layers, food, water and plenty of daylight
• It's a good idea to chat with the ranger at the Ranger Station that's on the way to the turn-off to the hike
• You'll need a Northwest Forest Pass to park at the trailhead (this is different than the Discover Pass) you can buy it at the Ranger Station
• Dogs are allowed on leash
• This is not a hike to go on if it's snowing, raining, or if the conditions are at all chancy
• For current conditions on the trail visit: http://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/mount-pilchuck

Our chocolate lab enjoying the hike--as soon as we reached the bottom it was as if he was saying "Are you ready to do it again?!"

This is a phenomenal trail to enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Northwest!

Head on out Around Puget Sound...and Beyond

Hiking -- Twin Falls -- North Bend, WA

    If your looking for a hike for this weekend that isn't too far from the city, Twin Falls is the hike for you. The waterfalls will knock your socks off...no joke...

    The trail begins next to the Snoqualmie River as it winds along the river's path. Giant boulders are fixtures in the rushing water as you travel along. The first 1/2 mile of the hike is flat and easy-going. After that, you'll begin to climb up a tall bank in the forest only to find that you're walking back down on the other side. Be on the look- out for the old growth Douglas fir tree that you'll soon find beside the trail. The tree must be a few hundred years old (if not older) and is truly a spectacular sight. Take Note: This hike is great at any time of the year, but Autumn allows you to enjoy the fall colors of the maple trees in this mostly evergreen forest.

The hike begins along the Snoqulamie River, where you'll have several chances to get down by the riverside

    After another hill climb (where you'll be right next to I-90 for a short stretch), you'll have the opportunity to take a set of wooden stairs down toward a look-out perch to see the falls or continue along the higher ground to another vantage point. We suggest going down the stairs first to get to the jaw-dropping view of the main falls. When we reached the platform at the bottom, our friend, that we were hiking with remarked, "Well, this is definitely more than I was expecting!" And it's true, it's difficult to capture Twin Falls with a camera. This is a must see in-person kind of place.

The view of the 150ft Twin Falls from the platform that stands high above the river

    The water comes cascading down the rocks and plunges into the river pool at the bottom. There you'll see a cave filled with water that should only be appreciated at a distance (this is some icy water). It's amazing to look down from the platform at the river and realize just how high up you actually are.

The main falls is so large that you can't quite capture it all in one shot--it's a stunning drop

    Head back up the wooden stairs and along the upper trail. There you'll reach a bridge where you'll get to see the river water just before it plummets down the waterfall. You'll also see two smaller falls higher up. The atmosphere here is so relaxing--rushing waterfalls, cool mountain air, and inspiring sights...it doesn't get much better than this...and only 1/2 hour from Seattle!

Things To Know:

• You need a Discover Pass to park in the lot or $5.00 for a day pass at the trailhead (checks accepted)
• The hike is 2.7 miles round-trip
• This is a great hike for any time of the year
• We saw a bunch of kids on this hike from toddler age up
• As long as your dog is on a leash, you're good
• The pay-off is incredible!

Directions:

    Take I-90 East toward Spokane

    Take exit 34 and turn right onto 468th Ave. S.E.

    Drive for 1/2 mile and turn left just before the bridge

    Continue on S.E. 159th St. for 1/2 mile until you reach the end of the road 

    The trailhead will be right there

The extra prizes you'll find if you walk above the main falls: more waterfalls!

Enjoy the falls!

Head on out Around Puget Sound...and Beyond

Hiking -- Redmond's Watershed Preserve Trails -- Redmond, WA

    The Watershed Preserve trails are nestled on the outskirts of Redmond's downtown area; here you'll find dozens of trails to hike, mountain bike and trail ride. The park is over 800 acres and gives a person a secluded "out of the city" feel by traveling less than a quarter of a mile into the woods.
 
    The main trail from the parking lot allows hiking, biking, and trail riding, but do be aware that many of the narrower trails are aimed just for hikers--just watch the signs. The grade of the trails is surprisingly level and the scenery is very relaxing; you'll be surrounded by trees and pockets of meadow as you journey along. There are also several ponds and streams throughout the park, if you're lucky you might find a Great Blue Heron fishing.

One of the many ponds in the park

    This park is a great place to spend a couple of hours or all day exploring the trails. We were surprised to find how much we felt we were at a park in the mountains without traveling far out of the city at all. This is definitely one of the best kept secrets in the Seattle area.

Lovely picnic area right next to the parking lot surrounded by trees

Things To Know:

• Parking is free!
• There are miles of park to explore here
• Great accommodation for horses: huge trailer parking lot (separate from main parking lot), hitching post, mounting block
• No dogs allowed 
• Perfect place to explore on a sunny or drizzly day
• Restrooms located at the main entrance 

Directions:
      Take 520 East
      Continue onto Avondale Rd.
      Veer right onto Novelty Hill Rd.
      Continue up hill, look for "Redmond Watershed Preserve" sign
      Park entrance will be on the left

The Watershed's glowing forest on a sunny day

Have a great time on the trails!

Head on out Around Puget Sound...and Beyond

Hiking and Kids' Playground -- St. Edward's Park -- Kenmore, WA

    St. Edward's Park is the site of a beautiful seemingly ancient brick Catholic seminary that was in operation between 1930 and 1976, and still stands today. There are huge grassy spaces that surround the seminary; encompassing it all, is the forest. This would be the perfect place to make a movie, if you ever get the urge.

The seminary building at St. Edward's Park in the summer's evening sunlight

    The park is over 360 acres and filled with dozens of trails to explore. Some of our favorites are less than a mile long down the hillside that take you to Lake Washington. There's a small "designated" swimming area off from the end of 'main trail' to the water (this trail runs perpendicular to the backside of the seminary). Once you've reached the water be sure to explore the trails that run along the lake. As you walk, be on the look-out for rope swings and other good places to swim--you're sure to find some.
     Back at the top, you'll find the extravagant playground located southwest of the seminary. Your kids are bound to have fun here for hours: swinging on the tire swing, climbing on the climbing wall, or captaining a ship--your kids will love it. You can bring along a picnic as well, if the weather permits.
     If you're hungry but didn't bring a basket full of your own or if it's a rainy day, never fear. Bastyr University is less than a mile away and their cafeteria is filled with great natural food and open to the public. Lunch is served from 11:30am to 2pm daily. The cafeteria is chock-full of healthy "green" options and is very reasonably priced. Here, you get to buy your meal by the pound, so you get to decide how much you want.

This is only the beginning of the playground at St. Edward's Park...

A Semi-Secret Place to Explore:
    Before leaving the park, we suggest taking the couple of extra minutes to find the "Fern Grotto". It's the kind of place that you'd miss it if you didn't know it was there, yet it evokes a feeling of wonder and fantasy. The stone cave alter was created by a Boy Scout years ago. Weddings are sometimes held here, first kisses have been know to happen here, as well as child make-believe stories. On countless occasions we've brought kids to this place and immediately they begin making up imaginary stories that take place in Narnia or a Disney movie scene that they get to pretend in at the Fern Grotto. The kids are right, it feels like you've been transported someplace else...
     To find it, walk west (toward the lake) from the playground toward the forest. Then stroll along the forest until the trees end and the field begins. At this point, round the end of the trees, pass the trail that begins on your left and walk toward the lake again. Before long, you'll find a wooden rail fence on your left. Go through the walkway in the fence and keep going...that's when you'll see the top of the Fern Grotto made of stone. You can approach the grotto from either side; walk down the stairs and you'll be there.

Things to Know:

• Take note that parking is $10 per day or $30 for an annual pass (to avoid the parking fee you can park on Juanita Drive before you enter the park)
• There's a giant "castle-like" kids' playground for toddlers to kids-at-heart to enjoy
• There are several hikes to choose from to reach Lake Washington
• Mountain biking is permitted on the "main trail" to the water that runs perpendicular to the backside of seminary as well as closer to Juanita Drive, but not on other trails to the water
• Restrooms are located at the top in the gym, located north of the seminary and also in at the bottom of the "main trail" to the water (outhouse style)

Have fun at the park!
Head on out Around Puget Sound...and Beyond

Hiking -- Rattlesnake Ledge -- Snoqualmie, WA

    Rattlesnake Ledge is a two mile up, two mile back downhill hike that gives you that "on top of the world" feeling. The way up is quite steep, but still would be classified as moderate; be sure to bring plenty of water though. You'll find peek-a-boo views of Rattlesnake Lake and foothills as you travel up. We've spotted hawks and eagles flying over the lake from the trail.
    You'll most likely pass quite a few other hikers regardless of the day of the week or the season, many of them with dogs. We've seen some dogs with doggie backpacks so the owner doesn't have to carry as much (smart!).
    After spending most of your time in the forest you'll climb the last few step-like boulders and be greeted with a breath-taking view. Don't forget to bring your lunch along to enjoy at the top, or some trail mix if you'd prefer. Just be aware of the little chipmunks and tiny ground squirrels that may bat their lashes at you for a treat. These little guys have an amazing ability to run all over the rocks and cliffs as if there wasn't a 900 ft drop in front of them. Be sure to snap lots of pictures of the panoramic view because it truly is captivating--from the vistas of the mountains, to the view of Big Si and Little Si to the perspective on Issaquah--this is a hike to return to again and again.

One of the little scampering chipmunks at the top of the hike

Things to Know:

• Parking is free
• Dogs are allowed on leash
• Port-a-Potties are available before the trek at the base of the mountain
• Breath-taking views are available at the top!

Directions:
   From I-90 take exit 32 and turn right toward the John Wayne Trail
   Pass the golf course and twist along the road for about 4 miles
   Then you'll see a sign for the Rattlesnake Lake parking area
   Park here and begin walking toward the tall mountain West of the lake
   It's about a 1/4 mile flat walk to the trail head from the parking area

The view from Rattlesnake Ledge: Overlooking Rattlesnake Lake and the foothills in the Snoqualmie National Forest

Enjoy!
Head on out Around Puget Sound...and Beyond

Hiking -- Meadowdale Beach Park -- Edmonds, WA

    This is a great place to go to escape the beautiful, yet often overly-crowded beaches closer to Seattle. This hike provides a serene walk through the forest that opens up to a one-of-a-kind Puget Sound beach. Located in Edmonds, nearly Mukilteo, Meadowdale Beach Park is the perfect place for a Summer picnic, hike, or beach volleyball game. The park is made up of acres of trees, filled with babbling brooks and berries. When we were there in mid-July the salmonberries were just ripening; by this point the small sweet n' tart huckleberries should be in season. Meadowdale sits up against a well established suburban neighborhood, although, as you drive to the park it doesn't look at all like you're about to enter into an area THIS secluded...usually we have to drive to the mountains to find an area that's this 'woodsy'!
    There's a small play-structure at the top for kids before you start the 1 1/4 mile hike down to the Puget Sound. Feel free to bring your dog, you're bound to see many more the trail. The hike starts off easy and gets steeper as you go, then levels out again for the last 1/2 mile to the beach. The woods are amazingly quiet, considering how close you are to the city. This is one of our favorite relaxing hikes to go on--it's short, beautiful, and the payoff is stupendous.
    When you reach the bottom you'll find a ranger house, a large grassy area with a beach volleyball net, and a picnic shelter with tables. This area feels so magical to us. The sun shines through the maple trees in such a way that it looks like you've arrived in Shire from Lord of the Rings, or some other serene landscape.

The beach and the view toward Seattle from Meadowdale Beach Park

    If you walk just a bit further you'll reach the beach--the true reward for the trek. It's like having your own private Sound-front home on a cloudier day when not too many people are out. Even with change in tide, there's plenty of space to build sand castles, check out the sea life, or admire the view. Looking out at the water, you'll see the southern tip of Whidbey Island and just north of Kingston on the peninsula. It's the perfect romantic spot...family spot...basically, this beach can be anything you make it to be. We've had a good time using this area for small photo shoots; hopefully you'll find something fun to make it your own too.   

Things to Know:

• The park is open year round and offers a variety of scenery during every season
• Dogs are allowed on leash
• There's free parking
• The hike is about 1 1/4 miles each way
• Port-a-Potties at beginning of hike and when you reach the water

The leap over a babbling brook on the beach with a view of Whidbey Island in the background

Have fun hiking!
Head on out Around Puget Sound...and Beyond