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Adventure 7 Scenic Winter Hikes to Get Everyone Outside Visit Poulsbo: This Charming Town Is Even Better in Winter Curious Roadside Attractions to See on Your Winter Road Trip Enchanting Trolls Lumber Into Town
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C ONTENTS
Family Adventure
Winter 2023/24
7 Scenic Winter Hikes to Get Everyone Outside All-season, lowland trails that are closer than you think
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Visit Poulsbo: This Charming Town Is Even Better in Winter 13 The “Viking City” shines bright during the holiday season
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Brake for It: Road Trip Pit Stops 19 Quirky attractions and natural wonders that prove sometimes it really is all about the journey Enchanting Nordic Trolls Lumber Into Town The Fremont Troll finally has some friends
Photo courtesy of Visit Poulsbo
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19 Photo by Allison Sutcliffe
7 Ignite your wanderlust as you meander past towering oldgrowth trees, babbling brooks and rushing waterfalls.
25 Photo by Kathryn Mueller
EDITORIAL MANAGING EDITOR Allison Sutcliffe OUT + ABOUT EDITOR Nancy Chaney FAMILY ADVENTURE WINTER 2023/24
PUBLISHER
Alayne Sulkin
TRENDS AND ENGAGEMENT EDITOR Madison Miller ASSOCIATE EDITOR Kari Hanson CALENDAR EDITOR Julie Dodobara
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COPY EDITOR Sunny Parsons
Photo by Allison Sutcliffe
CONTRIBUTORS Jennifer Johnson, Kate Missine, Kathryn Mueller, Leighton Thomas
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ART + PRODUCTION SENIOR DESIGNER Amy Chinn
ADMINISTRATION BUSINESS MANAGER Carolyn Brendel OPERATIONS ASSISTANT Erika Widjaja
DIGITAL ADVERTISING + MARKETING SPECIALIST Taryn Weiner
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7 Scenic Winter Hikes to Get Everyone Outside Though these trails feel like they’re far from the city, they’re closer to home than you think Story and photos by Kathryn Mueller The skies are gray. The days are short. But adventures abound year-round in the Pacific Northwest. In fact, winter is the perfect time for families to bundle up, go outside and take a hike. Just a stone’s throw from Seattle — and a bridge or two away — the Eastside offers great hikes for all ages and skill levels. Whether you are looking for meandering trails through towering old-growth trees, babbling brooks and rushing waterfalls, or sprawling meadows and wetlands, the easy trails featured on this list are guaranteed to ignite your wanderlust. Each is low in elevation gain and miles, but none are short on fun. All it takes is the right gear and a can-do attitude to get the kids out to explore these places.
1/ Evans Creek Preserve Located in Redmond, Evans Creek Preserve is a wonderful place for toddlers because the routes are tame and the views are beautiful. The 213-acre park is vast, both in size and habitats to explore. With miles of walkable trails, hikers can weave their way through meadows, trudge across the boardwalks and bridges over wetlands, and hike up wooded hillsides. One of my favorite things about the park is the wayfinding signs posted throughout the preserve, reminiscent of a treasure map. They help hikers choose viewpoints and looping trails that are just the right distance, while unlocking imaginative play for kids.
Evans Creek Preserve
Visitors can either embark on an adventure that starts with switchbacks descending through thick forests and ferns, or begin with a more mellow grade through winding meadow trails, depending on where they park.
Twin Falls
Don’t let the signs posted at the trailheads scare you off. The preserve is teeming with wildlife, including black bears. It’s always good to have a plan and know what to do in the event you encounter a wild animal. Details: 4.2-mile loop with 325-foot elevation gain. Restrooms at the trailhead. Getting there: The upper parking area is located off Sahalee Way. The lower lot is located on 224th Avenue N.E. and is best for lower-elevation wanderers.
2/ Redmond Watershed Preserve The Redmond Watershed Preserve offers well-maintained, multiuse trails great for all ages. The 4.5 miles of looping trails are perfect for families with small children. To see as much of the preserve’s second-growth forest as possible, begin the loop at the parking lot trailhead. The elevation gain is minimal, with a gentle grade along the winding trails. Details: 4.5-mile hike with 400-foot elevation gain. Restrooms with running water at the trailhead. Getting there: The parking lot is located off Novelty Hill Road. Look for the sign across from 218th Avenue N.E.
3/ Coal Creek Trail Let your child’s imagination take flight while exploring this unique trail. Coal Creek Trail is home to historical artifacts that will bring to life the railroad and coal mining activities that once took place along the route. Make the trip memorable by bringing a headlamp, so that the kids can pretend to be coal miners from the past. FA M I LY A D V E N T U R E / 5
S C EN IC W I N T ER HI KES continued from page 5
WONDER ABOUNDS AT THE RESERVE December 2–31 Enjoy a wintry walk through the gardens and pause at the Residence to enjoy festive decorations, photo opportunities, and community-oriented activities.
Hikers can break up the daunting 6-mile hike into smaller, more manageable pieces, which makes this a favorite for families with little ones in tow. The trail is steady, with minimal elevation gain. The popular out-and-back hike takes visitors through lush forests and foliage, and the creek’s rushing water makes for calming company along the trail. Some of the most beautiful vantage points on the hike are at the waterfalls and wooden bridges. Details: 6-mile hike with 500-foot elevation gain. Restrooms at the trailhead. Getting there: The trail can be accessed from the east at the Red Town trailhead parking lot or from the west at the Coal Creek Parkway parking lot. A map is recommended when navigating the intricate trails. For a quick jaunt to North Fork Falls, start at the Cinder Mine trailhead.
4/ Soaring Eagle Regional Park Timed tickets are required for admission Open Tuesday–Sunday, rain or shine | bloedelreserve.org
Known by trail runners as a place to earn some miles, this sprawling preserve is crisscrossed with more than 12 miles of trails for hiking, biking and wandering. It’s home to towering trees, wetlands and wildlife, and is considered a scenic destination for families looking to stretch their legs and meander along wide trails or walk through dense forests. Bring strollers or other wheels and head out along the Pipeline Trail in search of black-tailed deer and more than 40 species of birds; some even stick around for the winter. Details: 12 miles of trails. No restrooms available. Getting there: There are many entry points, so plan ahead. If you use Google Maps, you’ll be guided to the main entrance on East Main Drive in Sammamish. There is plenty of parking.
5/ Bellevue Botanical Garden The Bellevue Botanical Garden is one of my favorite places to go with my kids, even when its flowers aren’t in bloom. It is open year-round, and the grounds in the wintertime are perfect for little ones looking for a short hike with lots of adventure. The garden’s main attraction — the Ravine Experience — is a 150-foot suspension bridge that stretches over a ravine, hence the name. If your kids like bridges, put this destination on your list. The Ravine Experience and Bird Loop are only a quarter-mile long, but visitors can rack up some steps by weaving through the garden and exploring other areas of interest, such as 6 / PA R E N T M A P. C O M
the Rock Garden or the Yao Garden. But even without the added mileage, taking part in the Find It Challenge or the children’s selfguided tour is enough to motivate even the most skeptical toddler when getting out of the house is a priority for the day. Details: Restrooms are located near the entrance, adjacent to the store; dogs are not allowed. Getting there: Near bustling downtown Bellevue, the botanical garden has a large parking lot and is located at 12001 Main St. The garden is open from dawn until dusk. Admission is free.
6/ Grand Ridge Park When exploring the many miles of trails in Grand Ridge Park, it’s easy to forget just how close to the city you are. With more than 1,100 acres of forest to explore and considerably more elevation gain than other hikes we’ve included, this one is best reserved for when you’ve got the time and energy to tackle it as a family. Once out on the trails, hikers will immediately be engulfed in the serenity of towering trees and lush ferns, and will most likely encounter a few mountain
bikers or horses along the multiuse trails. The out-and-back trail features a 600-foot boardwalk across the marsh and a 40-foot bridge. It is also home to a vast array of wildlife, including owls and cougars. Like many of the hikes listed here, it can be accessed from many directions. Remember that the trail is not a loop, so plan a reasonable halfway point to turn around or you’ll be carrying the kids back to the car. Details: 12 miles of trails. Restrooms are located near Duthie Hill Park and Central Park entrances. Getting there: When we hiked Grand Ridge Park, we accessed the trails by parking at Duthie Hill Park, but the park can also be accessed from the East Fork trailhead.
7/ Twin Falls This hike is the farthest east, but still only about an hour away from Seattle. Just east of North Bend, Twin Falls is a great hike for families with small kids. The trail is only 2.6 miles, and the views are stupendous. We love hikes with payoffs, and
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Arrive curious. Leave inspired.
S C EN IC W I N T ER HI KES continued from page 7
this one has just that — a large, rushing waterfall that will enthrall your kiddos. Follow the trail along the riverbank and gradually gain elevation by following a series of switchbacks to get views of the falls. You can stop Redmond Watershed Preserve at a number of viewpoints along the way; don’t worry if you don’t complete the trail. Once you get to the falls, you can take the steps down to the lower falls (watch your footing) or keep ascending to the wooden bridge suspended just above the falls. As you may have guessed by the name, there are multiple waterfalls to enjoy. My kids love taking a break for food at the bridge, and throwing rocks into the river is a must when we trek on this trail. Dress accordingly, though; you will need sturdy shoes (the wood on the bridge and stairs is slippery) and layers for cold days. Details: There are restrooms at the trailhead. A Discovery Pass is required. Getting there: Take Interstate 90 toward North Bend to exit 34. Take 468th Avenue Southeast to 159th Street and look for signs for Twin Falls Trail. The parking lot fills up quickly, so arrive early.
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Across from Seattle Center 440 5th Ave. N. Seattle, WA 98109 Wednesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Always free | Tours @ 2 p.m. discovergates.org @discovergates 8 / PA R E N T M A P. C O M
Important note: Hiking in the winter can come with some hazards. Check trail reports before you venture out and always pack the 10 essentials in your pack. Washington Trails Association offers ample resources for hikers at every level.
Kathryn Mueller is a mom of three, a transplant who fell in love with the splendor of Washington and now calls Shoreline home. She enjoys exploring Pacific Northwest trails with her children and toddling around the city for good eats and adventures.
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Bellevue Downtown Park
November 17 thru January 15 Tickets sell out often—recommend buying ahead
bellevueicerink.com
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Buy Tickets Online. We’ve moved to online ticket sales to limit wait times, control capacity and help you plan ahead. We cannot gurantee walk-up tickets.
WEEKDAYS Monday - Thursday*
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General admission WEEKENDS Friday - Sunday,$20 Holidays*
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includes skate rental
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*Not to include Dec. 15 - Jan. 1
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Ice Rink Season Pass $149 Enjoy unlimited ice skating! including skate rental. Passes are non-transferable and limited to one per person. Season Pass are available for purchase online.
Location
Free Skate Lessons
The Ice Rink is located at the Bellevue Downtown Park, near Inspiration Playground. Free parking available at two Downtown Park Lots.
Enjoy free evening skate lessons from a pro this holiday season, compliments of Microsoft. Visit bellevueicerink.com for specific dates and times.
reserve your spot in advance at
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Visit Poulsbo: This Charming Town Is Even Better in Winter
By Leighton Thomas
Velkommen til Poulsbo! Nestled right on Liberty Bay, equidistant from the Bainbridge Island and Kingston ferries, lies the historic town of Poulsbo, Washington. Often referred to as “Little Norway” or the “Viking City,” this charming town’s rich Norwegian heritage is evident as you wander downtown and explore the surrounding area. Fill a day or a weekend with wonderful local shopping, kid-friendly breweries and several notable museums. In December, witness Vikings deliver a solstice proclamation, pay a visit to a Nordic Father Christmas and enjoy holiday light displays adorning the downtown. I live here, yet still find myself “playing tourist” as Poulsbo has much to offer. Unique seasonal events make it even more of a worthwhile destination in winter. Explore Front Street for public art, shopping and treats If you are like me and prefer to begin exploring a new town with a warm beverage in hand, Poulsbohemian Coffeehouse is a great spot to start for its panoramic waterfront views, or walk down the hill to visit Vineland
Photo courtesy of Visit Poulsbo
Marketplace for a cup of local Viking Brew coffee. This stroller-friendly cafe and gift shop has an extensive offering of gluten-free and vegan foods and treats, including the Kitsap Peninsula’s famous Dude’s Donuts. For a quintessential Poulsbo experience, enjoy your hot drink while you wait in line (there is usually a line) for a pastry from Sluys’ Poulsbo Bakery.
For a sit-down meal, downtown Poulsbo offers many kid-friendly eateries. Paella Bar and Burrata Bistro share a coveted outdoor heated patio, and Juicy J’s Smoked Burgers is popular for its 100-percent plant-based burgers. You can order just a slice or a full pie at Poulsbo Woodfired Pizza, or choose from the extensive “Little Amigos” menu at Casa Luna.
As you make your way down Front Street, kids may enjoy picking out a gift for a friend at The Curious Child or trying on Viking helmets outside Cat’s Meow. Indigo Plum has shoes for everyone in the family. A trip to Poulsbo isn’t complete without a stop at Nordiska for beautiful Nordic-inspired housewares, gifts, children’s clothing and toys. For book lovers, Poulsbo’s downtown boasts two independent bookstores, Away with Words and Liberty Bay Books; both are worth visiting for their curated children’s selections.
As you wander, take note of the Viking ship adornment on street benches and count the many Viking-themed murals all over town. Don’t miss posing in front of the red phone booth at the corner of Front Street and Jensen Way. Stroll to a nearby playground If your in-town wandering leaves your legs wanting more of a stretch, stroll along the Muriel Iverson Williams Waterfront Park to take in the gorgeous views of Liberty Bay. Head north, along the boardwalk and a short path, to FA M I LY A D V E N T U R E / 1 3
V I S I T P O UL S B O continued from page 13
American Legion Park to find a small playground structure and greenspace where kids can run. The larger Lions Park playground is less than 1 mile from downtown and makes for a lovely 15-minute walk along the water to the south.
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Visit a museum For a small town, Poulsbo, together with the area surrounding it, offers an impressive collection of high-quality museums, most with free admission. Winter is a particularly great time to visit these indoor spaces, where your kids can captain a boat, touch sea stars, visit the gravesite of Seattle’s namesake or pretend to drive a submarine.
at Burlington Plaza
• Indoor & Outdoor activities • Enchanting Events Characters • Climbing Wall • Polar Plunge slide
• NW Glacier Cruisers • Bouncy Houses • Face Painting • Reindeer all 3 days! • Arts, crafts, snow science & more
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As you take in the sights and sounds downtown, be sure to stop by: • SEA Discovery Center. The center offers kids a hands-on experience and a chance to learn about Salish Sea marine life. Open Fridays and Saturdays, by donation. • Poulsbo Heritage Museum. The museum displays cultural artifacts with a focus on inclusive history and encourages (gentle) hands-on exploration. Open daily, by donation. • Maritime Museum. Next door to the Heritage Museum, this museum has a small children’s room, a scavenger hunt game and a play boat in its “boatyard” that my kids love. Open daily, by donation. If you’re up for a short drive, find your way to: • U.S. Naval Undersea Museum. Visitors have the chance to step inside a real submarine control room and learn about the Navy’s undersea history and technology. Open Wednesday– Monday, free admission. • Suquamish Museum. The museum displays artifacts and shares the history of the Indigenous people of this region. Walk across the street to visit Chief Seattle’s gravesite and let your little ones stretch their legs at the Suquamish Shores Natural Play Area. Open Wednesday–Sunday, $3–$5 fee.
Combine kid-friendly hiking with Legos and the best breakfast sandwich in the Northwest Poulsbo’s Fish Park boasts a 3-mile network of flat, easy trails that wind through forest, wetlands and over several boardwalks. It’s a perfect spot to let the kids get a walk in and possibly spot wildlife. Following the trails under the bridge to the south will take you to a small nature play area and playground structure at Nelson Park. Two of my favorite places in Poulsbo are a short distance from Fish Park. My kids love to build a minifig and shop the new and used Lego collection at Viking City Bricks (housed with Rockin’ Ruby’s Records). It’s also an easy walk or drive
to Oxalis Kitchen for a coffee, housemade pastry or other scrumptious, locally sourced breakfast fare. It serves lunch, too. Relax at a local family-friendly brewery or cidery Poulsbo has an extensive network of local breweries with two kid-friendly standouts. Slippery Pig Brewery, located downtown, offers a back room containing more than 10 arcade games; the brewery also has a lengthy menu of sandwiches, salads and tacos. Bushel & Barrel Cidery, located a few miles north of downtown, is great for the whole family, even in the cooler months. Kids can pet and feed the goats, alpaca, sheep, miniature donkeys
and a Scottish Highland cow. You’ll find heated tables outside along with cornhole and disc golf, weather permitting. In the cozy indoor space, you can play board games and munch on bottomless buckets of popcorn. Attend a seasonal holiday event There are few more charming places to visit than Poulsbo during the December holidays. Each weekend, beginning the weekend following Thanksgiving through
Winter Fun at All That Dance A modified version of the seasonal classic for all ages. December 17, 60 min shows from 1-5 PM
Winter Break Day Camps
Family Friendly Winter Break Nutcracker Day Camps
Join us for one-day dance camps with wintry themes! December 18 - 23
Our Spring session of dance classes begins February 5 and runs until June 9. Registration opens January 16.
Winter Spring Break Dance DayClasses Camps
Learn More & Sign Up: www.allthatdanceseattle.com FA M I LY A D V E N T U R E / 1 5
V I SI T P O UL SB O continued from page 15
Christmas, children can greet a Nordic Father Christmas and pose for a photo inside his cozy cottage. On these same weekends, you are likely to hear local carolers filling the air with holiday music throughout the day. If you enjoy festive lights, join the town to watch the waterfront park alight on Friday, Nov. 24 at 5 p.m. at the annual tree lighting, or sip hot cider and watch the boats cruise through Liberty Bay during the Lighted Ships Parade in early December. Just north of town, for a small entrance fee, you can take a walk to see over 65,000 lights on display at Christmas in Big Valley. In the opposite direction, Clearwater Casino Resort has a beautiful display of waterside lights to enjoy. For a most memorable day, visit Poulsbo during its annual JuleFest. On Saturday, Dec. 2 from 10 a.m. to dusk, kids will love to see Vikings in full regalia all around town. They may enjoy tasting lefse (a thin potato pancake) dusted with cinnamon and sugar, and noshing on småkaker (cookies). Shop at the Nordic Market and plan to stay into the evening to
marvel as the Lucia bride is escorted into town by boat to the giant solstice bonfire, where the Viking king delivers a solstice proclamation. Photos with Santa and Vikings often follow. If you go ... Getting there: Poulsbo can be reached via car from the Seattle area by taking either the Edmonds/Kingston ferry (10 miles), the Bainbridge Island ferry (12 miles), or a 50–60 minute drive from Tacoma. Where to stay: Hotel Scandi is a nine-room boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Poulsbo. Each room offers a kitchenette and can sleep from two to four guests. Poulsbo Inn & Suites is a short walk from downtown. Looking for an indoor pool? Fairfield Inn & Suites has one open year-round.
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Leighton Thomas is a Kitsap-based mom of two. When she’s not homeschooling and adventuring with her kids, Leighton is a part-time education consultant and outdoor enthusiast.
A QUARIUM O PEN! AQUARIUM OPEN! FRIDAY & SATURDAY 11AM-4PM
DOWNTOWN POULSBO WATERFRONT
18743 FRONT STREET NE, POULSBO, WA 98370 98730 | WWW.SEA.WWU.EDU | ADMISSION BY DONATION 1 6 / PA R E N T M A P. C O M
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This winter, join us for
O S U F L U U N B A ! F Dinner and Dancing
Candy Connections
Learn about the history of candies from around the world, construct with candy toys, and more! MON, NOV 13, 2023 – SUN, JAN 7, 2024 9:30am–5pm
Gingerbread Workshops
Gather family and friends and head to the Hyatt Regency Bellevue for our annual Gingerbread Workshop event! Fill your candy box and create your gingerbread masterpiece while KidsQuest cleans up the mess! FRI, NOV 24, 2023: 1–3pm & 5–7pm SAT, NOV 25, 2023: 10am–Noon & 2–4pm
Pirouette with dancers from Flight Feathers Ballet for the opening of Nutcracker season! FRI, DEC 1, 2023: 6–8pm
Gin and Gingerbread
Bring friends and build your own gingerbread house at this educator-led, 21+ event. Sip on seasonal adult beverages as you create. FRI, DEC 8, 2023: 5–7pm
Candy Science Workshop
Join our museum educators as we learn to use polymers to create taffy-like peppermint sticks, engineer structures from goofy gumdrops, and create candied stained-glass windows. FRI, DEC 8, 2023: 5–7pm
New Year’s Eve Countdown!
Join us for an all-day celebration as we ring in the new year! Our famous bubble wrap stomp runs at 10am, Noon, 2pm, and 4pm. SUN, DEC 31, 2023: 9:30am–5pm
We take play seriously. 1116 108th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98004 425.637.8100 | info@kidsquestmuseum.org
For more info and to purchase tickets, please visit:
KidsQuestMuseum.org
FA M I LY A D V E N T U R E / 17
Exhibit included with General Admission
A museum-wide, community-focused celebration exhibiting artwork in all mediums, plus music, special events and plenty of family activities. Create your own FLATstronaut or have fun with the Make Your Own Art Gallery magnet activity in the Art+Flight Zone. Plus, a NEW immersive digital art projection, by artist Jessica Dolence, creates a fantastical atmosphere.
Check it out before it’s gone! Open through January 7, 2024.
1 8 / PA R E N T M A P. C O M
Visit artandflight.museumofflight.org
‘The Childhood Express’ red wagon. Photo by Allison Sutcliffe
Curious Roadside Attractions to See on Your Winter Road Trip These pit stops prove sometimes it’s all about the journey By Kate Missine
Summer may be the prime season for road trips, but the adventures don’t need to stop there. In fact, Pacific Northwest winters bring plenty of opportunities to hop into the car and explore the seasonal wonders the region has to offer, at your own pace, and without the hassle and expense of air travel. Whether you’re looking to hit the ski slopes or wander around quaint holiday-festooned towns, one of the best parts of a family road trip is the journey itself — and the impromptu detours and oddities to be experienced along the way. (Not to mention a chance for kids to stretch their legs.) From a garbage-eating goat to awe-inspiring waterfalls, these quirky and curious roadside attractions will make for fun-filled pit stops, with plenty of photo ops and laughs on your way to the region’s most popular winter destinations. FA M I LY A D V E N T U R E / 1 9
R OAD S I DE AT T RACT IONS continued from page 19
Heading east? Check out these stops along the way Heading east of the Cascades is a yearround routine for Seattleites seeking sun and snow play. Popular pastimes include visiting the Bavarian town of Leavenworth, which turns into a magical Christmas village for the holidays, and skiing or snowshoeing along the surrounding trails of Wenatchee; staying at Suncadia resort, which is rife with activities, from ice skating to tubing and pool time; and spending time at Lake Chelan — a busy summertime spot that turns quiet and restful during the low season. Driving a few hours more lands you in Idaho, where winter fun can be found at Silver Mountain Resort or in Coeur d’Alene.
Garbage-eating goat and ‘The Childhood Express’ red wagon Spokane Just steps from each other, these two whimsical public art pieces are found in the sprawling Riverfront Park in downtown Spokane, a city that makes a great stopover on the way to Idaho. The gigantic 12-foot-high red Radio Flyer wagon was built in 1989 for the Centennial Celebration of Children, and its handle doubles as a slide. Nearby, the friendly metal “Garbage Goat” will gobble up any piece of trash you proffer, thanks to a vacuum hidden inside. Be ready for the kids to keep asking for more bits to feed this hungry critter. In addition to these intriguing works,
Granger dinosaurs
Riverfront Park features a roller rink, a gondola ride, fantastic playgrounds and a children’s museum. Granger dinosaurs Granger Dino lovers will be in heaven with a stop at Granger, just south of Yakima
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off Interstate 82. The small town boasts a whopping 33 cement dinosaur statues roaming its parks. The majority are concentrated in downtown’s Hisey Park and available for climbing. There’s even a prehistoric volcano that hides the public restrooms. Wild Horses Monument Vantage The drive down I-90 in the Columbia River basin offers vast views of rolling hills and valleys, and few signs of civilization. This seeming desolation makes it even more of an otherworldly experience when you glance up at a mountain ridge to see a herd of 15 wild horses galloping in the wind. These life-size steel sculptures are the work of artist David Govedare. Take the short hike up to stretch your legs and see the beasts up close. Perfect pit stops for northbound destinations Seattle’s favorite northern destination is, of course, our friendly neighbor Canada. An easy three-hour drive takes you over the border to Vancouver, where a plethora of sights and eats awaits. Looking for snow play? Maneuver the stunning Sea-to-Sky Highway to the world-class ski resort of Whistler, or ride the gondola up to Grouse Mountain. Another option? Book the ferry and head over to Vancouver Island to visit its charming capital of Victoria or settle in for some storm watching at Tofino. Cedardale Orchards Mount Vernon There may not be much to see at this roadside attraction, but everyone knows refreshments are an essential part of any road trip. And what better way to refuel than at a funky roadside pit stop? Warm up on your way to Canada with a steaming mug of freshly squeezed apple cider at Cedardale Orchards cider shop, just off I-5 near the town of Mount Vernon. You can’t miss the bright red barn with its oversize “Cider” sign. Rumor has it that there are mini doughnuts available on the weekends; payment is based on the honor system, so be sure to have cash on hand. FA M I LY A D V E N T U R E / 2 1
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Overgrown ship hull Anacortes What happens to a ship when it becomes abandoned in a boatyard for decades? You can find out when you see this early-20th-century vessel, La Merced, which once carried petroleum products. Since being sidelined in 1966, it has been taken over by nature, with trees and shrubs growing over the shell like something out of a storybook. See the ship from the road or walk up to the parking lot, but be respectful as it is located in a working boatyard. Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre Squamish, British Columbia The First Nations peoples are a crucial part of Canadian heritage. So, if you’re heading up to Whistler, stop by the tourist-friendly town of Squamish to learn about these important communities. This beautifully designed, family-friendly cultural center invites visitors to explore the histories and cultures Squamish and Lil’wat nations
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‘Bacon and eggs’ skatepark
through tours and exhibits. Also worth noting: the Indigenous-themed cafe, gift shop and gallery. Shannon Falls Squamish, British Columbia This magnificent landmark along the Sea-to-Sky Highway is the creation of nature, not humans. An easy 10-minute hike through the woods of the Shannon Falls Provincial Park takes you to the main event: the base of a roaring 1,000foot waterfall tumbling down a rocky cliff. Fun fact for the older kids: Water from the falls was once used for making beer. Westward-bound travelers should stop to see these sights West of Puget Sound is the state’s beautiful and rugged Olympic Peninsula, and the unique charm of the Pacific coast. Whether you’re checking out Ruby Beach, Forks or the quaint town of Port Townsend, or heading for a relaxing stay at Seabrook, these westbound winter journeys offer everything from beachcombing and storm-watching to winter hikes, museums and more.
International Mermaid Museum Between Aberdeen and Westport Mermaid fans everywhere will go gaga at the prospect of dropping in at this funky spot, located between the coastal towns of Aberdeen and Westport. Nestled on the grounds of Westport Winery Garden Resort, this small but curiosity-packed museum is dedicated to teaching ocean ecology and marine education through the lens of mythical mermaid lore. Magical exhibits, artifacts and, of course, plenty of mermaids await. Spend time at these places when you travel south Head south and drive through Olympia, the state’s capital, and down into neighboring Oregon, where destinations such as the big, bustling city of Portland and stunning Cannon Beach beckon. On the Washington side of the state line, Cape Disappointment State Park presents sweeping beaches and an intriguing lighthouse, while Great Wolf Lodge, the definition of kid heaven, makes for a fun-filled overnight stop.
‘Bacon and eggs’ skatepark Wilkeson Whether or not you have a rising skate star in your household, a stop at this delightfully playful, breakfastthemed skate park is a must if you’re in the area. Located in the town of Wilkeson, about 50 miles south of Seattle, this fully functional skatepark doubles as an urban art piece: a giant skillet holding two sunny-side up eggs and a bacon-shaped ramp. The park, the creation of renowned local artist John Hillding, can be accessed from a nearby Rails-to-Trails path — another great spot for road-weary kids to get those wiggles out. ‘Nutty Narrows’ squirrel bridges Longview The concept for this adorable structure in Longview, just north of the Oregon border, was born when a resident kept seeing the squirrels outside his office attempt to cross the street to find food. To help keep them safe, he built “Nutty Narrows,” a tiny bridge designed to help the critters safely cross 60 feet above the street. The cute construction has received the titles of the “World’s Narrowest Bridge” and the “World’s Narrowest Animal Crossing.” Since the construction of the original bridge, 23 others have been built in Longview. World’s largest egg Winlock Where do you find the world’s largest egg? Apparently, right here in our state in the town of Winlock, just off southbound I-5. The enormous egg was first built in the 1920s to commemorate the town’s egg industry. It was designated the world’s largest egg by Ripley’s Believe It or Not! in 1989 and has undergone several changes in construction material before its current cement version. Wreck of the Peter Iredale Hammond, Oregon Another nautical attraction, this famous shipwreck, on the shore of Oregon’s Fort Stevens State Park, is an intriguing sight. The massive, rusted steel skeleton is all that remains of the Peter Iredale, a four-masted ship that ran ashore in 1906. Combine your visit with a beachcombing walk at low tide so you can get up close and examine the mysterious wreckage.
NEW EXHIBITION
Prior to colonization, the area now known as Washington State had multiple language groups uniquely spoken by various separate tribes and bands. This exhibit will explore six of those language groups that surround the Salish Sea: Klallam, Twana, Nooksack, Northern Straits, Northern Lushootseed, and Southern Lushootseed. Through narration and interactive displays, you will learn the history of traditional local languages as well as the complex story of the revitalization tribal nations are undergoing to this day.
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Kate Missine is a lifestyle writer, food lover and lives in beautiful Sammamish with her family. FA M I LY A D V E N T U R E / 2 3
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Visit Your Friendly Neighborhood Troll Six of the giant Nordic creatures have awakened in the Pacific Northwest By Jennifer Johnson
Pia the Peacemaker. Photo by Jennifer Johnson
A magical new adventure has unfolded around the Pacific Northwest, and families are going to want to take part in it. One by one, giant troll sculptures have sneaked into our region. As each troll has been built and its secret location revealed, local families have flocked to see them. Now that all six Pacific Northwest trolls have awakened, take a trip to find one — or all — on an unusual outing. These charming giants combine art, nature and environmentalism into an interactive public art form. This public art exhibition, titled “Northwest Trolls: Way of the Bird King,” is the work of Thomas Dambo, a Danish artist and storyteller. Dambo and his crew took a road trip across the United States this past summer, stopping in various places to create troll sculptures in parks and natural spaces. The last leg of Dambo’s road trip brought him to the Pacific Northwest, where he and his team have constructed six unique new trolls right in our neck of the woods!
Pacific Northwest trolls Our first Pacific Northwest troll moved in at Portland’s Nordic Northwest, a museum and cultural center. This troll’s name is Ole Bolle, and he has his own little red playhouse. Kids are welcome to go inside. Do stop in if you’re in the Portland area.
The second regional troll made her debut on Bainbridge Island. At the reveal — or “awakening” — of this troll, we learned that her name is Pia the Peacemaker. Pia and the other trolls are created from recycled materials, as well as items from local forests, meadows, mountains, farms and the sea. Among them are fir branches, driftwood, moss, shells, cedar and apple branches. Pia holds her hands in such a way that visitors can climb into them, imagining they are puppets that the troll is manipulating. Kids will love clambering on her sturdy arms and legs. The next troll to pop up was at West Seattle’s Lincoln Park. Her name is Bruun Idun and from her spot in the trees, she sings to the orcas of the Salish Sea.
Jakob Two Trees Photo by Julie Dodobara
After Bruun Idun’s arrival in West Seattle, another troll awoke in the Issaquah forest. His name is Jakob Two FA M I LY A D V E N T U R E / 2 5
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Trees, and he’s taken up residence next to the Rainier Trail near the Issaquah Community Center. Because Jakob Two Trees lives right in town (though up in the trees), he’s become very popular since his debut. The fifth troll of Dambo’s project was unveiled on Vashon Island. This grand troll is the namesake of the entire Pacific Northwest project: Oscar the Bird King. Find Oscar at Point Robinson, where you will want to closely inspect Oscar’s incredible crown and beard.
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The final troll, in Ballard, made his debut in front of a crowd of adoring fans on a sunny September afternoon. His name is Frankie Feetsplinters. Unlike some of the other trolls, Frankie is not hiding in the woods. He’s 2 6 / PA R E N T M A P. C O M
FIND THE TROLLS: • Portland’s troll, Ole Bolle, lives at Nordic Northwest. • Pia the Peacemaker keeps the peace at Sakai Park on Bainbridge Island. • Bruun Idun, West Seattle’s troll, is stationed near the Colman Pool in Lincoln Park. • Issaquah’s troll, Jakob Two Trees, stands next to the Rainier Trail near the Issaquah Community Center. • Oscar the Bird King, the troll enthroned on Vashon Island, reigns over Point Robinson. • Ballard’s troll, Frankie Feetsplinters, stands sentinel at the entrance to the National Nordic Museum.
keeping watch at the entrance to the National Nordic Museum right on Market Street. Secret troll locations The precise location of each troll was kept secret until the day it awoke. Using clues from the artist’s Instagram feed and YouTube channel, together with the somewhat vague online Troll Map, families tried to figure out where to find each troll. Now that all the “Way of the Bird King” trolls have been revealed, troll hunters can go on a quest to visit them all. Our local troop of trolls adds to the more than 100 already in place around the world. Each troll has a clever name as well as a delightful backstory that connects to a theme. Dambo uses recycled materials, mostly discarded pallets, to build the trolls. For each one, he weaves themes of honoring the land and protecting nature into its story. Locally, he and his team worked with area tribes, as well as parks departments, museums, funding agencies and volunteers. With trolls scattered across the world, some troll superfans have traveled to other countries to find FA M I LY A D V E N T U R E / 2 7
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N E IGH B OR HO OD T R OLL S
continued from page 27
Dambo’s creatures, and in the process, formed an international community. Previously awakened trolls include Benny the Beard Fisher, fishing with a long beard in a river in Michigan; and Rita the Rock Planter, who fills human-made holes by planting rocks in them on a mountainside in Colorado. Through his art, Dambo hopes to encourage everyone to be curious, to get outside and explore, while also prompting us to think about protecting the nature around us. He invites families curious about the trolls to think carefully about our planet’s shortage of resources and abundance of garbage. Through his work, he seeks to highlight that trash
can truly become treasure. TIPS FOR FAMILIES
“I want people to know that trash has value. My trolls do that, and also help me tell stories, like the legends I grew up with,” Dambo said in a press release. “In nature, there is no landfill. Nature is circular, everything has a meaning and everything is recycled.” In the Pacific Northwest, the Scan Design Foundation managed this ambitious project, with funding from the Paul G. Allen Foundation and many other local donors. How long will the trolls be around? Trolls remain installed for three years and may stay in their locations longer, if the host organization so chooses.
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It’s free to visit the trolls, but keep in mind that locations can get busy. Pack your patience and come back later if a troll is overrun with fans. (Access to a troll in Vermont had to be closed down because of crowds.) Of course, be respectful of the public art as well as the facilities hosting the trolls.
Jennifer Johnson tries to create time in nature whenever she can, no matter the weather. Usually her two kids are with her, and together they explore the Pacific Northwest.
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WINTERFEST 2023
A weekend full of fun events for everyone to enjoy! Christmas Crawl and Karaoke Party Gingerbread House Party • Igloo Village Santa Breakfast • Ice Sculpting Contest Holiday Wine Walk Window Display Contest Live Entertainment and more
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