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THIS DOMAIN IS FOR SALE

Please contact weitnauer (at) gmail . com for details.

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[thepnw]

GO BACKCOUNTRY BOARDING

Do yourself a favor and go check out this blog post on Splitboard.com by Zach Clanton and add this to your to-do list. Mad props, Zach. That article is breathtaking.

[thepnw]

ESCAPE TO THE COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE

On the banks of the Columbia River Gorge there exists a little slice of heaven on earth for those who need a getaway and it's called Cave B Winery. Enjoy a cliff side villa or reserve a yurt if you're more of the "glamping" type. Excellent wines and terrific views will make this trip unforgettable. Plan your stay around a show at the Gorge Amphitheater for a once in a lifetime rock and roll weekend.

[thepnw]

IT'S ALL ABOUT THE SHOES

The PNW Recommends: Solomon Men's Speedcross 3 Trail Runners

Beastly in the mountains. Fast, grippy, light and quick-drying.

Women's version here. Bought a pair for a backpacking trip in China and they've been my go-to for all hikes, runs, river crossings and crossfit workouts. You really can't beat the zip ties. Laced up and ready to rock in mayyybe 5 seconds.

[thepnw]

GET A RAIN JACKET

Don't skimp on this critical piece of gear. Lightweight and completely waterproof are the key elements for this purchase. Don't forget that if you're in a city like Seattle, you'll be wearing this puppy a lot so spend that extra dough to get something that you really feel good in. ArcTerYX makes impermeable shells that have great fit and that classic "high quality gear" feel that only impeccable design and great colors can provide.

The PNW Recommends: The Beta AR Jacket by ARCTERYX

Men's version here. Check out those colors.

This shell will cover all of your outdoor adventures - Rain, Sleet, Wind, Snow, Waterfall.

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CLIMB MT RAINIER

ThePNW recommends Alpine Ascents in Seattle to guide your trip to the top of Mt. Rainier. They provide the best gear available and have only the most knowledgeable guides leading their Rainier treks. Throw that one on the life goals list!

Not quite ready for ice picks and glacier traverses? There is a whole world of adventure available at the base of Mt. Rainier. Try any part of the 93 mile Wonderland trail that circles the mountain base for a 1-5 day hike or backpacking trip.

[thepnw]

GET SOME WINTER BOOTS

Face it. It's messy around here. Rain, mud, waterfalls, puddles, snow - we've got it all. During those winter months, you better have appropriate footgear. We're talking snazzy in the city when you're walking the dog and grabbing that artfully executed latte and practical when you're piling out of the car for first chair on a powder day. Stylish and waterproof are the key elements here. ThePNE loves these women's boots released in 2011. Helly Hansen Women's W Skuld Winter Boot

Update: These adorable boots are available for 50% off at the Helly Hansen Outlet in Centralia, WA right now!

Also available in White and Black

[thepnw]

HEAD OUT TO THE EXITS AND

PICK A HIKE

If you're in or around the Seattle area, you've probably heard of "The Exits". Basically you can drive East on I-90 past Issaquah, play "exit roulette" and the odds are that you'll probably find an epic day hike with mountain vistas all around and tons of riverside camping. Plan ahead in the summer months if you want to car camp because the sites fill up fast at these easy access getaway destinations. The PNW recommends Annette Lake for a great 3-5 hour challenging hike. Bring a tent and some food for an overnight next to a gorgeous little alpine lake.

[thepnw]

GO WINE TASTING

If you know the Northwest, you probably know how insane the wine is that comes from this region. Instead of dedicating an entire website to the wine of Washington, we're just going to say GO! GO NOW! Pick a list of 10 wineries and start checking them off. We love Cathedral Ridge Winery in Hood River, OR as a lovely little side trek from Portland or the hikes in the surrounding area. Wine Press Northwest calls it "One of the Top Ten Wine Country Picnic Spots in the Northwest".  The views can't be beat!

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GO WHITEWATER RAFTING

ThePNW recommends Alpine Adventures in Gold Bar, WA for Seattle residents to try out Whitewater rafting on the Skykomish River. Take on Boulder Drop, an aggressive class IV-V  rapid. The rivers are best from April – July so make your plans.

Alpine Adventures

Gold Bar, WA

1-800-RAFT-FUN

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HUG A TREE

Give it a squeeze. You know you want to.

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EXPLORE MT BAKER/ MT SHUKSAN

Take 5 North to Mt Baker HWY 542 and head East to hundreds of adventures. ThePNW recommends Mt Baker Ski Area.

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Today's Hike of the Week

Silver Star Mountain