Happy Earth Day! All over Seattle, the flowers are blooming, the birds are singing, the sun is peeking out from behind the clouds – spring is finally here! What better time to get out on the trails and explore the beautiful landscapes of the Pacific Northwest? Whether you are a seasoned hiker or novice, there are plenty of resources to help you find the perfect destination for an hour, a day, or a weekend.
One of my favorite guides is 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles: Seattle by Andrew Weber and Bryce Stevens. Featuring not only well-known hikes, such as Mt. Si and Wallace Falls State Park, but also lesser-known destinations such as O. O. Denny County Park Loop and the Heybrook Lookout Trail, 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles includes maps, driving directions, and trail descriptions highlighting points of interest.
If you have children, then check out Best Hikes with Kids: Western Washington and the Cascades by Joan Burton. Featuring nearly 200 hikes and tips on gear, safety, wildlife and camping with children, this guide will help you identify child-friendly trails to explore with the whole family.
For more hiking resources available at The Seattle Public Library, try searching the Catalog for subject keywords such as “hiking Seattle” or “Washington hiking.” And don’t forget to check out online resources, such as the Seattle Mountaineers Hiking Page (where you can sign up for hiking seminars, learn how to choose a hike, and learn what gear is essential to pack for any hike) and the Washington Trails Association (which features a “hike of the week” and a trail guide wiki).
Happy trails!
~ Sarah
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