38.8697° N, 106.9878° W A QUICK BREAKDOWN OF THE MOST IMPORTANT SKI GEAR YOU SHOULD HAVE. PLUS, MY OWN SKI GEAR CHECKLIST. Figuring out what to wear skiing is actually much tougher than you think. You have to take into account a number of things: the temperature, the wind speed, the likelihood of precipitation (snow, sleet or rain), and comfort (and maybe cuteness). While I grew up skiing in Colorado - where the ski conditions don't really change thaaaat much - now that I live in the Pacific Northwest, I find my ski gear choices to be long and challenging. Below is a breakdown of the main pieces of ski gear you should have in your arsenal. I have added in my own helpful tips (mostly things that I have learned from dressing for many, many types of ski conditions) and recommendations on items that I personally love. As always, if you have any questions or comments please reach out here. MY COMPREHENSIVE DOWNHILL SKI GEAR GUIDE BASELAYER TOP / Smartwool Merino Baselayer / Stoic Lightweight Baselayer I wear my Smartwool merino wool baselayer top probably 90% of the times I go skiing (both downhill and backcountry). The shirt is fitted to be tight against the body while still being comfortable, the wool wicks sweat and is breathable and it somehow doesn't smell as bad as other tops even after a long day of skiing. 💬 INSIDER TIP: it took me a while to jump on the wool baselayer train, but now that I have, I find myself staying much warmer out on the slopes even in adverse conditions. While the price tag can be high, this is one piece of gear I would suggest investing in. BASELAYER BOTTOM / Smartwool Midweight Bottoms / Stoic Lightweight Bottoms You will also want a set of baselayer bottoms that wick moisture and keep your legs nice and warm. I actually two pairs: a lighter pair for relatively nice snow days (similar to the Smartwool ones above) and a thicker, fleece-lined pair for when it gets really cold out. When backcountry skiing, I wear the thinner pair. MID-LAYER JACKET / Mountain Hardwear Polartec Hooded Jacket / Fjallraven Fleece Jacket (this one is very similar to the Mammut jacket I thrifted for $6) Layers are your best friend for skiing. But making the right decision can be tough. I tend to go with my Smartwool baselayer top, a thinner mid-layer jacket (usually of some fleece-like material, like the Fjallraven one above) and then finish with my top shell/waterproof jacket. 💬INSIDER TIP: on really cold days, I may also add another long sleeve wicking top (one that is not too bulky) between my baselayer and mid-layer jacket. If you can, try to find a top that has the thumb holes. This will help make sure no skin shows between your jacket and gloves. TOP SHELL JACKET / Backcountry Last Chair Insulated Anorak / Burton Prowess Jacket / Helly Hanson Powchaser Jacket TOP SHELL BOTTOMS / Backcountry Last Chair Insulated Pants / Helly Hanson Legendary Pants / Halfdays Bib Pants You will want your top shell layers to be both waterproof and large enough to fit multiple layers underneath. I use both the Helly Hanson Powchaser jacket (a huge perk of working at a ski resort) and a much thinner Cotapaxi jacket (I love it even if it isn't a "quintessential" ski jacket). Both jackets have their perks, but I think investing in a good outer shell is key if you are someone looking to ski in all conditions (that Helly Hanson jacket is a godsend when it is blizzarding). EXPLORE MORE | EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SPRING SKIING MITTENS/GLOVES / Hestra Fall Line Mitten / Black Diamond Spark Mitten (love my Black Diamond mittens - both for skiing and other winter activities, like trail running) / Icebreaker Glove (liner) I am a mitten girl through and through. I started out skiing in gloves and quickly realized my fingers got so much colder, so much faster. Now I only use thick mittens and sometimes a glove liner if the temperatures are really cold. The only downside to mittens that I have found is the struggle to use your fingers to do such menial things like zip your jacket up or take a photo. But I guess you can't win them all. STOCKING CAP / Patagonia Fishermans Beanie / Fjallraven Classic Knit Beanie Stocking caps or beanies are great for those days when the temperature is just absolutely freezing or when you want to look cute in the ski lodge. I have a sweet burnt yellow one for both occasions. HEADBAND / Smartwool Intraknit Headband / Skida Alpine Headband I typically wear a headband under my helmet when skiing unless the temperatures are relatively balmy (then it is just the helmet and maybe a buff protecting my ears). Either way, this is a good piece of gear to have because headbands are nice and warm without being too bulky. BUFF/GAITER / Smartwool Reversible Gaiter (this one is super comfortable and breathable) / Stoic Polar Fleece Gaiter / Stoic Polar Fleece Balaclava I swear by buffs/gaiters (is there an actual difference?). I wear one during most adventures no matter the season. The thinner fabric is breathable and not very constricting, while the protection against the elements (sun, snow, wind) is top-notch. I have two options that I rotate through because they can get gross quickly. LEARN MORE | THE BEST SKI RESORTS IN COLORADO FOR EVERY TYPE OF SKIER HELMET / Smith Method Helmet / Salomon Mountain Lab Helmet Safety first. Always. GOGGLES / Oakley Flight Deck Goggles / Smith ChromaPop Goggles My newest ski gear addition are these cool Smith ChromaPop goggles (I won them in a lottery) and I absolutely love them. They are great in many different types of lighting and weather environments, plus they fit my face well, don't get fogged up easily and match my helmet. SKIS / Black Crows Camox Birdie Skis / Salomon QST Skis / Atomic Maven Skis SKI POLES / Salomon Arctic Ski Poles / Atomic Ski Poles I use standard Atomic ski poles for both downhill and uphill skiing. They are simple, straightforward and comfortable. BACKPACK / Osprey Glade 51 Backpack / Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Backpack Unless I am heading into the backcountry, I don't tend to wear a backpack (it can be kind of a hazard on chairlifts). But when I do need one, I like to have one that fits my body snuggly, has lots of pockets and can carry plenty of important gear (like avalanche safety gear). Ski gear and ski layering can be a tough thing to figure out - especially when you are exploring a volatile environment where the weather can change quickly (i.e. the PNW). Add on the fact that ski gear isn't exactly cheap and you will likely find yourself feeling a bit out of your depth. But here is some (hopefully) good advice: don't stress about having the most top-notch gear, especially when starting out. While it would be great to buy all of the primo ski gear out there, it isn't necessary. You can very likely get by with gear that won't break the bank (for example, I wear a thrifted mid-layer jacket a lot of the time, my skis are from an end of season sale at a demo shop (aka used), and my goggles for the longest time were also from a used gear shop). Don't let the fear of not wearing the best ski gear hold you back from actually skiing. Okay, stepping off my soapbox now. Hopefully, this ski gear guide helps you figure out what items you should have when you plan your own epic ski adventure. As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out or leave a comment below. EXPLORE MORE GEAR GUIDES WHAT'S IN MY BACKPACK: ULTIMATE MOUNTAINEERING GEAR GUIDE | A Comprehensive List of What I Bring for Epic Mountaineering Adventures SPRING TRAIL RUNNING GEAR GUIDE | What I Make Sure to Have For Those In-Between Runs FALL ADVENTURE GEAR GUIDE | A Comprehensive List of the Adventure Gear I Use When the Season Starts to Cool Down

45.7089° N, 121.5123° W FINDING THE RIGHT PARK PASS FOR EXPLORING THE PNW CAN BE TOUGH. LUCKILY, I HAVE BROKEN IT DOWN INTO AN EASY TO FOLLOW GUIDE. EXPLORE IT BELOW. The Pacific Northwest (PNW) is full of so many amazing adventure destinations. From the jagged peaks of North Cascades National Park to the rugged beaches of the Oregon coast to the hundreds of lakes and waterfalls dotted around the dense, mossy forests, there is so much to explore. But one thing you quickly realize is that many of the more well-known destinations require a pass of some sort. The only issue? There are so many to choose from that it can sometimes be overwhelming to know which one you actually need. I dealt with this issue numerous times and heard many similar grumbles of confusion from my outdoor-loving friends. Which is where the idea of this little guide came about. Below you will find a breakdown of all of the major park passes offered throughout the PNW, including how much each costs, where to buy one and what the major requirements and perks of each one are. Let's get exploring! \\ State Park Passes OREGON 💸COST: 12 months for $30, 24 months for $50 (permit is transferable between cars) ➳ Learn more about the Oregon State Park Pass here. If you live in or are planning a trip around the beautiful and diverse state of Oregon, then you may want to invest in its state park pass - especially if you are looking to visit some of the more popular spots, like Rooster Rock SP (located near Portland). One important thing to note about this pass - and Oregon state parks in general - is that only 25 of the 371 state parks require a parking or entry fee. So, if you plan accordingly you can likely get away with not needing this pass at all. If you are looking to buy the pass (which costs $30 for a year or $5 per day) you can do so at each individual state park, online, or at numerous shops around Oregon. ❔GOOD TO KNOW: there is also an Oregon Pacific Coast Passport, which specifically covers the entry or day use fees at dozens of federally-run fee sites. This includes destinations overseen by the Forest Service, National Parks Service, and the Bureau of Land Management) as well as Oregon State Park sites situated along Highway 101. This passport costs $35 per year or $10 for 5 days. Learn more here. EXPLORE MORE | MOUNTAINEERING MIDDLE SISTER MOUNTAIN NEAR BEND, OREGON WASHINGTON 💸COST: $30 per year or $10 per day ➳ Learn more about the Washington State Park Pass/Discover Pass here. Washington is home to 140 state parks (SPs), including such well-known places as Cape Disappointment SP and Fort Townsend Historical SP. In order to visit these scenic destinations you will need a Washington state park pass, also known as the Discover Pass. The pass, which can be used for multiple cars (just not at one time) costs either $30 per year or $10 a day. Do note that a park pass is not needed if you are staying the night at one of the state parks (there is another fee for this) and it does NOT work at Sno-Parks (learn more about that specific pass below). READ MORE | MY IN-DEPTH GUIDE TO SUMMITING MOUNT SAINT HELENS \\ Northwest Forest Pass 💸COST: $30 per year ➳ Learn more about the Northwest Forest Pass here. Okay not to be confusing or anything, but besides the two state park passes above (one for each state) there is also a super handy pass called the Northwest Forest Pass. This pass covers dozens of sites spread across the 19 national forests that are dotted around both Washington and Oregon. This includes popular destinations in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest (i.e. the Enchantments), the Gifford Pinchot National Forest (home to tons of waterfalls and lakes) and the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest (which is chock full of hiking trails). This pass is also interchangeable between vehicles and does NOT cover Sno-Parks. 💬INSIDER TIP: I would say that if there was one pass to purchase for exploring the PNW this one would be it. I found that a majority of the places I explored accepted this pass. Plus, it is not very expensive and it is easy to buy (in person and online). \\ America the Beautiful Pass (aka the National Parks Pass) 💸COST: $80 per year ➳ Learn more about the America the Beautiful Pass here. This annual pass is not just good to have for exploring the Pacific Northwest, but also if you are someone looking to plan adventures across the whole United States. Covering entrance fees at all lands managed by the National Park Service (as well as sites overseen by the US Fish & Wildlife Service, US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and US Army Corps of Engineers), the America the Beautiful Pass is super handy to have if you are looking to check out numerous national parks, national monuments and/or national historic sites (there are 400+ options). In the PNW this pass gives you entry into such stunning destinations as Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, North Cascades National Park, and Crater Lake National Park. You can buy the America the Beautiful Pass online (here) or at any national park. EXPLORE MORE | THE ULTIMATE OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK ADVENTURE GUIDE \\ Sno-Park Passes One key thing to remember is that if you are planning to do some winter adventuring in either Oregon or Washington, you will likely need to purchase a sno-park pass ahead of time. A sno-park is just a cleared parking area in close proximity to prime winter adventures, including cross country ski trails, backcountry ski trails, snowmobiling and dog sledding routes and even sledding hills. There are dozens of awesome sno-parks spread around both states, including many near such popular towns as Bend and Hood River in Oregon and Leavenworth and Winthrop in Washington. OREGON 💸COST: $25 per year, $9 for 3 days, and $4 for 1 day ➳ Learn more about the Oregon Sno-Park pass, including how to buy one, here. Planning to explore some of Oregon's numerous landscapes during the winter time? Then you will very likely need to purchase an Oregon Sno-Park Pass (all other passes mentioned above do NOT give you access). This pass/permit is required between November 1st and April 30th. One cool thing about this pass is that it can also be used for all sno-parks in California and Idaho (and vice-versa), but not in Washington (bummmmer). Find a map of all Oregon sno-parks and what each offers here. WASHINGTON 💸COST: $25 per day, $50 annual ➳ Learn more about the Washington Sno-Park Pass here. Similar to the Oregon Sno-Park pass, the Washington Sno-Park pass grants you access to over 120 winter recreation sites across the state and is needed between November 1st and April 30th. This pass can be transferred between vehicles but can NOT be used in Oregon (or California or Idaho). This is a great pass to have if you are planning to do a lot of cross country or backcountry skiing, snowmobiling or sledding. Buy your annual sno-park pass here. \\ Day Passes Besides the passes outlined above, and sometimes in conjunction with them, there is also the possibility of needing a specific day pass - especially for more popular outdoor destinations like The Enchantments in Washington and the Three Sisters area in Oregon. Most day passes can be found and reserved/bought at recreation.gov. I would highly suggest looking into whether you need a specific day pass for an adventure well ahead of time for some of the really popular places do fill up fast. Likewise, you can also make reservations for things like fire tower rentals or state park tours at the aforementioned website. EXPLORE MORE | MY GUIDE TO THRU-HIKING THE ENCHANTMENTS IN WASHINGTON The Pacific Northwest is full of truly astounding scenery and epic adventures. But for many destinations (especially the more well-known and popular ones) you may find that you need to do a bit of planning to make sure you are showing up with the right park pass (or otherwise be prepared to get a ticket). Hopefully, this guide to all the major PNW passes helps you figure out which ones you need for your next adventure! WANT TO SAVE THIS HELPFUL TRAVEL GUIDE FOR LATER? CONSIDER PINNING IT! EXPLORE MORE OUTDOOR TIPS AND TRICKS ADVENTURING IN BEAR COUNTRY | How to Stay Safe While Hiking, Backpacking and Trail Running BE A RESPONSIBLE EXPLORER | A Quick Guide to the 7 Leave No Trace Principles HIKING ETIQUETTE | Helpful Tips to Know While Out on the Trail

48.3093° N, 120.6565° W LOOKING FOR A FUN MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE WITH A HEARTY DOSE OF HISTORY (AND DELICIOUS BAKED GOODS)? THEN MAKE SURE TO ADD THIS CUTE TOWN TO YOUR WANT-TO-VISIT LIST. THIS STEHEKIN TRAVEL GUIDE TELLS YOU EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW. I first heard of Stehekin from a friend who had done the PCT (twice). She casually mentioned during one of her longer diatribes about the adventure a cute, little mountain town set along the bank of a massive lake that was home to one of the best bakeries she had ever been to. Nature, remote location, baked goods - I was interested. Stehekin was officially on my want-to-visit list. Somehow it would take me two years and a weird set of circumstances to finally see the town for myself. But upon landing at the small ferry dock (after a five hour drive that began at 2AM and ended with my third round of coffee), I quickly realized that my friend was 100% right: Stehekin was one cool place to visit (and yes, the bakery was damn good). So what makes Stehekin worth seeing? Well, besides the fact that it is located in a beautiful section of Washington state (smack dab within the center of the large North Cascades complex), the town also has a lot of interesting history, some great hiking and backpacking trails, and the aforementioned bakery. It is also unreachable via road/car - which in my opinion gives it a fun remote vibe. Below you will find my in-depth Stehekin travel guide that covers pretty much everything you need to know about visiting this cute mountain town for yourself. STEHEKIN FACTS | Location: northern Washington state, within the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, and on the bank of Lake Chelan (find it). | Population: 112, though most are not year-round residents | Naming: in the Salishan language Stehekin means "the way through" | Best Things to Do: hiking, backpacking, boating/fishing ► JUMP TO STEHEKIN ADVENTURE ITINERARIES INTERACTIVE MAP OF STEHEKIN \\ Stehekin Weather | The Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Stehekin is during the warmer summer and fall months - namely June, July, August, and September. During this time of year, you can expect sunny days, comfortable temperatures, and easy access to the nearby hiking trails. Similarly, if you are hoping to swim in Lake Chelan (which Stehekin sits on the bank of), then plan your adventure to coincide with the hottest part of the year (namely July and August). EXPLORE MORE | THE 8 BEST NATIONAL PARKS TO VISIT IN SUMMER \\ What to Bring With You to Stehekin Obviously, what gear you bring to Stehekin will highly depend on what time of year you are visiting and what adventures you are planning to do while there (hiking, boating, backpacking, etc.). Below are a few key things to remember if you are thinking of visiting for a few days during the warm summer months (like I did): | Bug spray: the mosquitos can be absolutely horrible, especially during the early morning and dusk hours. Make sure to bring a bottle with you even if you are not planning to do any major hikes or mountain adventures. | Sunscreen: never leave home without sunscreen, especially if you are planning to spend a decent amount of time out on the water or at higher elevations (like in the mountains surrounding Stehekin). I absolutely love this natural sunscreen from MadHippie. | Cash: try to bring at least a bit of cash with you when heading to Stehekin for there is no ATM available in town. While cash is not highly used, it is nice to have in order to tip your bus drivers or other service personnel. Also, some places only take cash (like The Garden). | Comfortable shoes to hike or walk in: one of the best things about Stehekin is its close proximity to numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty. Therefore it is important to make sure you pack at least one pair of comfortable shoes that you can wear while tromping around in the woods. This pair by Salomon is a great option. | Swimsuit: Stehekin is located right on the banks of Lake Chelan - a stunning narrow mountain lake that measures just over 50 miles in length. If planning to visit in the summer, make sure to bring at least one swimsuit along so you can cool off in the water after a long day of exploring. | Warm jacket: but also, while summer days can be quite hot, due to the elevation and the surrounding mountains, the mornings and evenings can get quite chilly. Make sure to bring at least one cozy jacket for those times. Check out my top choice. LEARN MORE | ULTIMATE GEAR GUIDE FOR FALL ADVENTURES \\ How to Get to Stehekin Because Stehekin cannot be reached via car, it will take a bit more effort to make it into town. Luckily, there are 3 ways to do it: by boat, by foot or by plane. By far the most common way to reach town is via one of the ferry boats that cross Lake Chelan throughout the day. The closest major town to Stehekin is Chelan, Washington, which also sits on the banks of the lake (see map below). It is relatively easy to reach the town of Chelan from the major Pacific Northwest cities of Seattle, Washington and Portland, Oregon, as well as from the nearby city of Wenatchee, Washington (a bigger town where you can find lots of major box stores for last-minute supplies as well as lodging). See driving times to each location below. WENATCHEE, WA --> CHELAN || 50 minutes, 38 miles SEATTLE, WA --> CHELAN || 3 hours, 180 miles PORTLAND, OR --> CHELAN || 5.5 hours, 323 miles Besides taking a ferry up to Stehekin - which is quite scenic and fun - you can also choose to hike in along one of the major hiking trails that cross the surrounding mountains (including the Pacific Crest Trail/PCT) or if you are lucky and/or know the right people, you also have the option to fly in and land on the small dirt runway on the outskirts of town. Learn more about how to reach Stehekin below. TAKING THE FERRY TO STEHEKIN There are two ferry companies that run the route between Chelan and Stehekin: Lake Chelan Boat Company and Stehekin Ferry. It is best to book your ticket(s) online ahead of time (especially during the busy summer season). | Lake Chelan Boat Company This boat company offers 3 types of ferries, each offering different speeds and levels of comfort. | The Liberty: the fastest at 1.5 hours one-way, most expensive, not always running. | The Lady Express: takes 2.5 hours one-way, stops at numerous points along the lake and runs daily (during the busy season). | Lady of the Lake: the slowest boat at 4 hours one-way, also the most comfortable and cheapest option. BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW | Stehekin Ferry There is only one boat option through this company, a larger vessel that only offers indoor seating. Unlike the above ferries, this route runs from Fields Point (just up the road from Chelan) to Stehekin instead of from Chelan. The boat trip takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes one-way. BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW Besides running between the towns of Chelan and Stehekin, other possible stops include Fields Landing (where the Stehekin Ferry begins), Prince Creek, Lucerne/Holden, and Moore Point. Similarly, if you are looking to stop at a more remote point on the lake (for example, if you want to begin your hike there or just camp in a quiet spot), then you will need to let the ferry company know ahead of time so they can put you on the correct boat. BACKPACKING TO STEHEKIN If you don't want to take a ferry into Stehekin then really your only other option is to hike in. Luckily, there are a number of beautiful hiking trails that lead into town. Some of the most popular options include starting at Cascade Pass or Rainy Pass in North Cascades National Park or hiking along the flat Lake Trail (which as the name applies, meanders right alongside Lake Chelan). | Cascade Pass to Stehekin 20.6 miles one-way, 6,601 ft. elevation gain || Start at Johannesburg Camp (Cascade Pass/Sahale Arm TH) in North Cascades NP, hike out on the Cascade Pass Trail to the Upper Stehekin Valley Trail and then jump onto the PCT, ends at High Bridge Campground (where a bus can take you into Stehekin). | Rainy Pass to Stehekin 18.9 miles one-way, 4,812 ft. elevation gain || Start on Highway 20 in North Cascades NP, take the PCT all the way to High Bridge Campground (where a bus can take you into Stehekin). | Lakeshore Trail Perfect early season backpacking trip (usually snow free by May 1st), starts/ends at Prince Creek (16.9 miles from the Stehekin Landing/boat dock), relatively flat with very little climbing. You will need a ferry or private boat to pick you up or drop you off for the trail doesn't go all the way to the town of Chelan. FLYING INTO STEHEKIN You can technically fly into the small town of Stehekin. But you will need to have your own small plane and be skilled in flying through the mountains and landing on a dirt runway. The airport is located on the outskirts of town roughly 3 miles from the bakery and 5 miles from the ferry dock/visitor center. Just some food for thought: the Stehekin Airport is noted by the Washington State Department of Transportation as being one of the state's most challenging. \\ How to Get Around Stehekin While the town of Stehekin is not very large, it is rather spread out. Really the town is made up of two areas: the ferry dock, where you can find the North Cascades Visitor Center, some campgrounds and lodging, and the general store, and the neighborhood zone, which is where the famous bakery and garden are located, as well as most of the homes of year-round residents. The two areas are roughly 2 miles apart - though it is very easy to either walk, bike or take the bus to get to either. FERRY DOCK --> NORTH CASCADES VISITOR CENTER || 0.3 miles FERRY DOCK --> THE BAKERY || 1.9 miles FERRY DOCK --> RAINBOW FALLS TRAILHEAD || 3.5 miles FERRY DOCK --> STEHEKIN VALLEY RANCH || 8.5 miles WALKING The most straightforward way to explore Stehekin and the surrounding area is by foot. But do note that while the town of Stehekin is pretty small, some of the main attractions are relatively far away. This includes the popular Rainbow Falls, some of the main trailheads for hiking into neighboring North Cascades National Park, and the popular Stehekin Valley Ranch (where you can find lodging and food). 💬INSDIER TIP: because Stehekin cannot be reached via car, walking along the road is quite safe for there is very little traffic (only a few buses and cars that have been shipped in). BIKE OR ATV RENTALS If you want to get around the valley on your own terms but don't feel like walking, then your best bet is to either rent a bicycle or a Can-Am (a raised, heavy duty enclosed ATV that costs $65 per hour). It is recommended to book both ahead of time, especially during the busy season. ❔GOOD TO KNOW: from the Stehekin Landing ferry dock, it is an easy 5-minute walk to the Discovery Bike shop where you will be able to pick up both bikes and Can-Ams. The shop is open from 8AM to 5PM starting in mid-May. BUS SERVICES There are various bus companies that run between the main tourist points in Stehekin, including from the main landing/ferry dock, the bakery, the Garden, Rainbow Falls and then all the way up to High Bridge Campground (the main trailhead for many of the most popular hiking trails, including the PCT). Look for buses from Stehekin Valley Adventure (a ride costs $10 per adult if going from the ferry landing all the way to High Bridge or $5 per adult if just going to the bakery). ❔GOOD TO KNOW: buses run during the busy season, usually June to October. If visiting outside of this time, I would suggest trying to contact the bus companies ahead of time or make other transportation arrangements. \\ Where to Stay in Stehekin There are a few Stehekin lodging options to choose from, including the more upscale Stehekin Valley Ranch, various privately owned cabins, and park-run campgrounds. Below is a breakdown of the main lodging options in and around Stehekin. LODGING | Stehekin Valley Ranch If you are looking for a more luxurious stay up in Stehekin, then this family-owned ranch located on the outskirts of town is the perfect fit. Accommodations include tent cabins, ranch cabins, wagons and a ranch house (great for larger groups). All reservations also include a meal plan. Learn more about staying at Stehekin Valley Ranch, including the various activities they offer, here. | North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin Another option is to book a room at the North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin, which is a bit more rustic and centrally located (it is right next to the ferry dock). There is also a restaurant and store on the premises. Learn more about the lodge and its amenities here. RENTAL HOMES There are a few homes you can rent in and around Stehekin if you are needing a bit more space and amenities (like a kitchen). Most rental options are cabins of varying ages and sizes. A few options include this cabin located right on the lake (can accommodate up to 4 guests), this retro cabin that sits on the bank of the lake and includes a personal vehicle to help you get around the valley, and a creekside cabin that offers 2 rooms and easy access to the bakery and Rainbow Falls. 💬INSIDER TIP: do note that because there are very few options available (the town is not very large) the cabins often get fully booked up early in the year (aka plan your trip well in advance). Similarly, most rental options are NOT found on Airbnb - be prepared to contact the owners directly or go through various local rental services. CAMPGROUNDS There are a few campgrounds dotted around the Stehekin area, including two that are right in town near the ferry dock and one that is just on the edge of town along the road that leads into the national park. The three campgrounds below are first-come (non-reservable) outside of the peak season and reservable during the summer (highly recommend trying to make a reservation in advance). Learn more about each campground and make your reservations at recreation.gov. | Purple Point Campground Located right next to the boat dock and lodge/general store, this campground includes food storage lockers, picnic tables, boat rentals and is pet friendly. It costs $20 per night during peak season (May 20th - September 8th). // LEARN MORE | Lakeview Campground Located just above the national park visitor center and within easy walking distance of the boat dock, the Lakeview Campground offers similar amenities as the campground above and costs the same amount ($20 per night during peak season). // LEARN MORE | Harlequin Campground Located a bit farther outside of town but still within walking distance (and definitely reachable by bus), the Harlequin Campground is a bit more rugged than the two in town (above). Picnic tables, pit toilets and food storage lockers are available, but running water is not (the Stehekin River does run nearby though). It costs $20 per night during peak season. // LEARN MORE BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING If you are planning to camp in the backcountry that surrounds Stehekin, then you will need to first secure a backcountry camping permit (which can be picked up at the visitor center in town). Learn more about what each campground offers, what you will need to bring and other helpful information at the North Cascades National Park Wilderness Trip Planner. The closest backcountry campsites to Stehekin include Bridge Creek Campground, North Fork Campground, Heaton Campground, Rainbow Bridge Campground, and Rainbow Lake Campground. \\ Food in Stehekin I really only knew two things about Stehekin before visiting: it was located on a lake in North Cascades National Park and it had a kickass bakery. So you can imagine how fast I walked (ran) to see the bakery for myself on morning one of my visit. Besides the famous bakery, you can also find food at the Stehekin Valley Ranch (supposedly quite pricy but tasty), the restaurant at the lodge, and at the small general store located right next to the ferry dock. STEHEKIN PASTRY COMPANY (AKA THE BAKERY) 🕝HOURS: 7:30AM - 5PM, sometimes opens earlier during peak season 💸PRICE: medium priced, expect to pay between $2 and $10 for a baked good or breakfast plate No trip up to Stehekin would be complete without a stop at the famous bakery. Head there in the morning for a freshly baked croissant or roll (the mushroom pesto option is fire), a cup of coffee and a cozy mountain atmosphere. Other things on offer include day-old baked goods that are the perfect snack for hiking adventures, refreshing ice cream, and lots of indoor and outdoor seating. GENERAL STORE Located near the ferry and national park visitor center, this small store has a somewhat standard array of snacks and camping goods to choose from. You can also pay to use their showers and laundry as well as Wi-Fi ($5 a day as of summer 2023). STEHEKIN VALLEY RANCH 🕝HOURS: open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, reservations are required for dinner if not staying at one of their facilities 💸PRICE: meals are included if you book a stay at the ranch, otherwise expect to pay between $26 and $32 per plate If you want to combine rugged natural adventure with fine dining then head to the luxurious Stehekin Valley Ranch for dinner. Located roughly 9 miles from town, this historic ranch is surrounded by Cascade mountains and offers stunning vistas and lots of outdoor opportunities. Do note that reservations for dinner are required if not staying on the ranch itself (see above for information on lodging), alcohol is not served but you can bring your own, and transportation to and from the ranch is available ($10 per adult and $5 per child). THE LODGE AT STEHEKIN RESTAURANT 🕝HOURS: open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, check website for seasonal hours and closures 💸PRICE: moderately priced, expect to pay between $18 and $22 for a regular entree Head to this centrally located restaurant for standard American fare, including hamburgers, sandwiches and tacos. Located right next to the ferry terminal and just a short walk from the visitor center, the Lodge at Stehekin Restaurant is a good spot to grab a bite before heading back down the lake. \\ Top Things to Do in Stehekin Due to its location within the North Cascades National Park complex, the main activities in Stehekin include hiking, backpacking, and boating/swimming/fishing. Below is a breakdown of some of the best things to do and the top places to head to during your visit: HIKING This might be a bit of a controversial take, but hear me out: there really is not much of a point in visiting Stehekin unless you are looking to hike (even if it is just a short one up to Rainbow Falls or along one of the in-town nature trails). Besides the bakery and the few historic buildings, the town doesn't have much to offer the non-hiker. But, with that being said, thanks to the town's central location within various natural areas (the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, North Cascades National Park, the Glacier Peak Wilderness Area), there is a huge array of hiking opportunities to choose from. Below are a few great options: | Rainbow Falls: a very short hike up to a large waterfall || This is one of the most popular things to do in Stehekin so try to beat the crowds by arriving early in the morning or later in the day. The waterfall - which measures 312 feet in height - is pretty no matter the time of year, but expect wildflowers in late spring and fall colors beginning in late September. | Rainbow Loop Trail: 8.7 miles, 2,293 ft. gain || This hike can be made into a fun loop if you are okay with walking along the road (don't worry, there are very few cars. It offers good views of Lake Chelan, the Stehekin River and Buckner Orchard as well as the surrounding mountains. // LEARN MORE | McGregor Mountain Trail: 10.7 miles, 4,524 ft. gain || A tough out and back route that includes a long gradual climb up to the peak. Do note that this trail does require some route finding and scrambling skills - especially in the last 1,000 feet. Hike starts at the High Bridge Campground. // LEARN MORE | Boulder Creek Trail: 18.9 mile loop, 8,908 ft. gain || This longer hike starts at the Rainbow Loop Trailhead and heads up the Boulder Creek trail. Eventually it loops back around and ends at the national park visitor center. The trail offers a more remote hiking experience as well as nice views of the surrounding mountains and water features. | Rainbow Lake: 18.9 miles, 7,185 ft. gain || This very scenic and less popular trail starts at the Rainbow Loop Trailhead near town before heading up the Rainbow Creek Trail. Eventually the route splits off and heads out along the Rainbow Lake Trail. This remote trail ends at the very scenic Rainbow Lake (stunning!) and offers numerous backcountry camping options. One important thing to keep in mind when hiking around Stehekin is to always stay wildlife-aware. Bears, mountain lions, wolves and various rodents and birds all call the region home. Be a good steward of the land by giving wildlife plenty of space if you come upon them, not feeding any animal you may meet along the way (including those cute chipmunks), and always paying attention to your surroundings while out in remote areas (look for fresh skat or tracks). ➳ Check out AllTrails to find even more hiking trails and routes in and around Stehekin. LEARN MORE | HOW TO STAY SAFE IN BEAR COUNTRY BACKPACKING Stehekin is a great place to either start or end a backpacking adventure. Some of the most popular areas to backpack from Stehekin include starting from High Bridge Campground (via a short bus ride) and then backpacking up either the PCT, the Upper Stehekin Valley Trail, or the Rainbow Creek Trail. I highly recommend looking at either AllTrails or Gaia GPS when planning your trip to Stehekin for this is a great way to understand the numerous trail options that crisscross the mountains in and around the valley. When I visited Stehekin, I decided to take on a larger loop that started at the Rainbow Creek Trailhead, headed up to Rainbow Lake and over an unnamed pass before dropping down to the PCT and then back out to Bridge Creek Campground. In total, this loop covered 27 miles, climbed just over 9,000 feet and gave me access to some stunning mountain scenery - including lakes, dense forests and flower-filled alpine meadows (check it out). While my route/trip did not include the last bit of road that was required to make it back to Stehekin proper (I luckily was able to catch a ride back before it got too dark out), if you are planning to do the loop yourself, then make sure to catch the last bus of the day or plan on spending the night at the Bridge Creek Campground. ❔GOOD TO KNOW: due to Stehekin being right on the edge of North Cascades National Park you will need to make a backcountry camping reservation ahead of time on the park website (and then don't forget to grab your backcountry permit from the visitor center before setting out on the trail). EXPLORE MORE | ULTIMATE NORTH CASCADES NATIONAL PARK ADVENTURE GUIDE BOATING AND WATER SPORTS A trip to Stehekin is not complete without at least one swim session in Lake Chelan. While the water is frigid, it feels absolutely amazing on a hot summer day. While swimming is easy and free, another option includes heading out on either kayaks or paddleboards (both of which will need to be brought with you or rented at one of the outfitters/lodges). Boating and fishing are also great options, though these will require either having a friend with a boat, or renting one for the day. If exploring the lake isn't really what you are looking for, then you also have the option to kayak on the nearby Stehekin River. A great way to do this is to book a day tour through Stehekin Valley Ranch ($65 /adult). This trip includes a run down the river, a visit to the town's old hotel (now underwater) as well as a quick trip out onto the lake to see some nearby native pictographs. Other adventure opportunities include biking around town and up into parts of the park, mountaineering on some of the nearby peaks, and stargazing at night (the night sky is beautiful as there is very little light pollution). STEHEKIN TRAVEL ITINERARIES 1 DAY If you only have one day to check out Stehekin, then I suggest reserving a Lady Liberty round-trip ferry ticket. This option means leaving the town of Chelan at 8AM, docking in Stehekin for 6 hours and then returning to Chelan at 5PM. During your 6 hour layover in town, you should first head to the bakery for a freshly baked pastry and coffee, and then make your way up to Rainbow Falls (a short but pretty hike to a large waterfall). Then if you have more time, consider biking up the road to take in views of the surrounding mountains and the Stehekin River, wandering around the National Park visitor center or hopping in the lake for a quick swim. 💬INSIDER TIP: if you only have a day in Stehekin, I would highly recommend renting a bike in order to make the most of your time. 2 DAYS To start your Stehekin adventure, take the early ferry up the lake from Chelan (the Express leaves at 8:30AM and takes 2.5 hours to reach Stehekin), then spend the day hiking around the surrounding area (see suggested hikes above), grab dinner at one of the restaurants or eat the food you packed in with you. On Day 2, head to the bakery first thing in the morning and then either check out Rainbow Falls, stop in at the visitor center, or swim in the lake before taking either the Express ferry back down to Chelan (2.5 hour ride that leaves Stehekin at 12:30PM) or the Lady of the Lake ferry (4 hour ride, leaves town at 2PM). 3 DAYS If you are lucky enough to be able to spend 3 days in Stehekin, then I highly recommend spending one night of your trip camping in the backcountry. There are lots of backcountry campsites available within a relatively short hike from town (see above for more information and/or visit the national park website). On Day 1, try to catch the earliest ferry up to Stehekin from Chelan (8AM). Once docked, head to the national park visitor center to learn a bit about the area and pick up your wilderness camping permit. Then start making your way to whatever trail and campsite you have chosen to explore. 💬 INSIDER TIP: highly recommend stopping off at the bakery to pick up some freshly baked goods or a few day-olds, both of which make for a tasty hiking snack. Day 2 will likely consist of you packing up camp and heading back down to Stehekin from whichever epic campsite you chose to spend the night at. Depending on where you camped, this could take up all of your day. But if you do have some extra time, consider visiting some of the historic sites located around town (including the old school or Buckner Orchard) or just relaxing along the bank of Lake Chelan. End the day with dinner at The Lodge at Stehekin Restaurant. For your final day, try to wake up nice and early to beat the crowds at the popular Rainbow Falls. Then grab a coffee and breakfast sandwich at the bakery, visit The Garden, and make one last stop at the general store or visitor center before hopping on the ferry and heading back to Chelan. Stehekin is a wonderful place to visit if you are looking to explore a different side of North Cascades National Park, spend a few days in the woods (with very little service or amenities) or if you are just someone who likes to ride ferries (guilty). The pretty lakeside town had been on my long list of places to visit ever since I heard that it was a) one of the few towns that you couldn't reach via car, b) had a kickass bakery and c) was close to some epic hiking opportunities. And after spending one long summer weekend there, I am already planning a trip back that will hopefully include even more outdoor adventuring. WANT TO SAVE THIS STEHEKIN GUIDE FOR LATER? CONSIDER PINNING IT! EXPLORE MORE OUTDOOR ADVENTURE TRAVEL GUIDES ULTIMATE GUIDE TO NORTH CASCADES NATIONAL PARK MY EXPERIENCE BACKPACKING IN NORTH CASCADES NATIONAL PARK (HELPFUL TIPS!) TOP 5 BACKPACKING TRAILS TO EXPLORE IN NORTH CASCADES NATIONAL PARK MORE ESSENTIALS FOR ADVENTURING | Reusable water bottle: I absolutely love my LARQ water bottle. I have brought it on so many adventures and really find it to be extremely useful, especially in the backcountry. If you don't know what a LARQ water bottle is, it's a self-cleaning water bottle with a rechargeable UV filter inside that kills almost all contaminants. | Eco-friendly sunscreen: I always use MadHippie sunscreen because it’s cruelty-free, vegan, broad spectrum, and reef safe. It also doesn't feel heavy and gross on my face (even after sweating). Plus, they donate $1 for every purchase to conservation efforts. | Allbirds shoes: comfortable shoes can make or break an adventure or travel day, these eco-conscious and cozy shoes from Allbirds have been my favorite for years. ► Find my full sustainable travel packing list here.

colombia Colors. Coffee. Coasts. Oh, Colombia. A land of plenty: plenty of people, plenty of cultures, plenty of wildlife and of course, plenty of exciting adventures. From snorkeling along the Caribean Coast to wandering around historic colonial ports to trekking in a place that reminded me strongly of Mars to exploring forests of the largest palm trees in the world. Colombia is the type of place you could spend years exploring and still feel like you only scratched the surface. Luckily, it is a great place to slow down and stay a while. Explore my in-depth Colombian adventure travel guides below. best time to visit The weather doesn't fluctuate very much, but holidays - especially Christmas and New Year's - are very busy. top adventures Hiking in the Andes, exploring some of the major cities like Medellin and Cartagena, and visiting the very quiet Pacific Coast. ​ number of national parks 59 time needed to explore 3 - 4 weeks should be enough to quickly see the major sites. pre-trip planning for colombia Everything Travelers Need to Know About Entering Colombia 11 Things to Know About Traveling in Colombia How to Take Buses in Colombia colombia adventure travel guides Slow Travel in Colombia: 6 Things We Learned A Complete Adventure Guide to Hiking in Colombia The Ultimate Colombia Travel Guide A Comprehensive Food Guide to Salento, Colombia The Perfect 6 Day El Valle, Colombia Travel Itinerary Your Guide to Hiking El Tigre Waterfall: A True Jungle Adventure in Choco, Colombia Exploring Colombia’s Pacific Coast: Everything Travelers Need to Know Everything Travelers Need to Know About Entering Colombia Exploring Colombia’s Wine Country | La Union, Valle del Cauca 1 2 3 4 5

gear & packing Knowing what to bring with you on a trip or outdoor adventure can really lead to some unwanted stress. Seriously - having the right gear can really impact how an adventure goes: from being one epic, can't-stop-smiling-trip to I-might-actually die sort of horror sh*tshow. Explore my comprehensive gear guides as well as in-depth packing lists for both short and long adventures and travels below. adventure gear guides What's in the Backpack: My Mountaineering Gear Guide My Complete Trail Running Gear Guide Our Favorite Sustainable Gear for Eco-Friendly Travel A Complete Gear Guide for Your Fall Adventures 5 Must-Have Items for Slow Traveling in Colombia let's get packing Minimalist Packing Guide: How I Fit 2.5 Weeks of Stuff into a Personal Bag

trip reports everything is better outside Explore our adventure guides on all things the Great Outdoors; including, hiking and backpacking trails, mountain biking routes and of course, plenty of travel guides on off-the-beaten-path outdoor destinations around the world. ​ You can get even more adventure inspiration by checking out our real-time, offline outdoor adventure maps on Gaia GPS. Explore them here . let's get exploring THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO HIKING IN THE DESERT THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO HIKING A 14ER THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CANYONEERING trail beta and adventure guides A Complete Guide to Climbing Mount Saint Helens How to Be a Respectful Adventurer: 7 Trail Etiquette Tips to Know What to Know About Summiting Mount Hood: My Experience The Complete Guide to Mountaineering Middle Sister in Oregon The Ultimate Guide to Hiking Acatenango Volcano in Guatemala The Top 8 Hikes in Pucón, Chile A Complete Hiking Guide to Nevados de Sollipulli in Chile Hiking in Chile | Exploring the El Cañi Sanctuary Near Pucón A Complete Hiking Guide to the Kendall Katwalk in Washington 1 2 3 4 HIT THE TRAILS FASTER Download our FREE HIKING GEAR CHECKLIST so you know exactly what to bring with you while out adventuring! Our Hiking Gear Checklist includes all of the essential items you will need while out exploring the Great Outdoors. Subscribe to Backroad Packers to get yours today! subscribe + download Thanks for submitting!