I will always remember my first glimpse of the Pacific Northwest. Driving for hours through a whole lot of nothing, we went through a pass in the mountains and suddenly this world of green exploded before my eyes. It was like another world.
Having grown up in Utah, I had never seen anything like it. I was 17 years old and had never been outside of the state. This was a time of great change as my family moved from the desert area of my home state to the lush, evergreen forests of Washington.
That was decades ago and here I am, still living in Washington state and still loving the immense natural beauty of this area.
The question is, why do I love it here? What is it about Washington state and the great Pacific Northwest that keeps me here and keeps me excited?
The Top 3 Reasons I love the Pacific Northwest
Natural Beauty
There is just no escaping the incredible natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Living here is like being loved and embraced by Mother Nature. She continually has her arms around you and reminding you of how we are all connected.
Now, I know that is a bit mushy, but I am a bit of a mushy person. I love nature and feel the greatest connection to the universe, to spirit, and to myself when I am out breathing in the fresh air and soaking in the wonder of nature.
Here in the PNW, we are surrounded by a variety of trees, flowers, streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, mountains, animals and the Pacific Ocean. There is no lack of astounding natural beauty to enjoy here.
Adventure
There is nothing I love more than to get in my car and head out to somewhere new. Now, I have been doing this for many years and I still find somewhere new to explore. Whether it is a new trail to hike, a new little town to walk through, or a new restaurant to try out, there is always an adventure to be had.
I can drive a half hour away and walk on a beach with the most amazing view of Mt. Rainier, or I can drive a couple of hours and hike amongst the gorgeous wildflowers at the base of Mt. Rainier.
A 2 hour drive in the other direction will take me to the Pacific Ocean to walk along the beach and collect seashells, or to stay the night cliffside and watch the storms pass.
There are a variety of hiking trails that range from a simple walk around a lake to a strenuous trek up a mountain peak. All of them with a variety of breathtaking views.
To go along with your hiking, you can find a wide variety of places to camp, whether it is backpack camping, tent camping, RV camping, living that van life, or renting a Yurt or cabin at one of the state parks, you will find it here.
There is certainly no lack of adventures to be had in the Pacific Northwest.
Amazing Food
I mean, what would life be without amazing food?
The Pacific Northwest has a variety of delightful delicacies, especially if you love seafood as I do. Crab, shrimp, scallops and fresh oysters...oh, life is good!
There is nothing like going to a little fishing town and having fresh oysters while watching herons and eagles along the waterfront.
You may like to enjoy fresh, locally grown food at a quaint farm to table place, surrounded by farms and fields. Maybe you would prefer the hustle and bustle of the big city, amidst the city lights, meeting new people, trying out the local craft brews, and discussing why the Seahawks are (or are not) the best football team.
Whether it's a dim lit steak house, an energized pub, an Oceanview oyster bar, or an out of the way fish and chips stand, there is always an incredible food experience to be had here in the Pacific Northwest.
Explore The PNW
Natural beauty, adventure and amazing food. Now, there are so many other reasons to love the Pacific Northwest, but those are my top 3 reasons.
My wish is for all of you to get out and explore and come up with your own reasons to love this beautiful area I call home.