4 minute read
LEARN YOUR WAY AROUND THE SOUND
Featured Windermere Waterfront Communities & Offices
Bainbridge Island
This close-knit community is only 30 minutes by ferry from the hustle and bustle of the city. From fine food and wine to outdoor recreation, this island has something for the entire family.
Camano Island
Boasting stunning sandy beaches and abundant wildlife, this is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Home to a vibrant arts community and an array of local restaurants, shops, markets and festivals.
EDMONDS & MUKILTEO
Just north of Seattle, Edmonds is a waterfront community rich in history with a charming smalltown feel. Farther north, Mukilteo is known for its outstanding farmers markets and sweeping views of the Puget Sound.
Gig Harbor
If youʼre looking for a peaceful place to settle down, look no further than the quaint maritime village of Gig Harbor. Its rich history as a fishing village combined with its active arts community make it a hub of cultural gatherings (think food, art, music, and more food).
KITSAP (Kingston, Poulsbo & Silverdale)
Directly across from the mainland, the Kitsap Peninsula has a wide range of activities, events and lodging options making it the perfect getaway weekend choice for Seattleites.
LOPEZ ISLAND
Known as the “Friendly Isle,” here you will find a quaint downtown filled with restaurants, cafes, galleries and shopping, as well as miles of beaches and hiking trails. Escape the city life and live the simple life.
Vashon Island
Just a short ferry ride from Seattle, enjoy the calm beauty of the “Heart of the Sound.” Vashon is known for its eclectic mix of restaurants and award-winning distilleries, as well as its pastoral beauty and thriving artistic community.
WESTPORT
This cozy beach town is known for its 18 miles of pristine sandy beaches. It is the areaʼs most popular surfing destination and also boasts great fishing, clamming, whale watching, and charming local shops and restaurants.
Whidbey Island
Rich in leisure and recreation, this is the perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate. 35 miles north of Seattle, accessible by car or ferry, enjoy breezy summers and mild winters on the water.
WA STATE FERRIES: Go to wsdot.wa.gov/ferries for complete sailings
To view all Windermere offices visit windermere.com
Vancouver Island
Sidney
SAN JUAN ISLAND
Victoria
Port Angeles Sequim
Anacortes
Bellingham
Aberdeen
Shelton
LOPEZ ISLAND
WHIDBEY ISLAND
Port Townsend
CAMANO ISLAND
Everett
Mukilteo
Port Ludlow
Kingston
Edmonds
Poulsbo
Silverdale
Bremerton
BAINBRIDGE
Port Orchard
Tacoma
The PACIFIC NORTHWEST is full of natural wonders. Whether it’s hiking trails, mountains, or swimming holes, there’s something to discover at every turn. Waterfalls are a special rendezvous for summer travelers, and we’re lucky to have several to choose from here in the Pacific Northwest. We’ve assembled a few of our favorites that you and your traveling companions won’t want to miss this summer, plus a few tips on how to prepare to make the most out of your day trip.
Snoqualmie Falls
Head out to Snoqualmie to see what millions of visitors feast their eyes on every year: Snoqualmie Falls. The 270-foot giant cascades endlessly as you walk around the two-acre park, gazing in awe at its natural beauty. The park’s observation deck offers an optimal viewing experience, while the Salish Lodge and Spa provides four-star accommodations encompassing dining, spa treatments, and more. As seen in the opening credits of the TV show Twin Peaks, this waterfall has built a name for itself over the years, pleasing park visitors for decades. A Discover Pass is required to take part in the Snoqualmie Falls hike.
Franklin Falls
Grab your Northwest Forest Pass, pack the family vehicle up, and drive out to Franklin Falls, a spectacular waterfall shown off by a lovely little two-mile trail just off of I-90. Over the last decade, the Washington Trail Association has made several improvements to the trail, making it an enjoyable and easy trip for hikers of all levels. Gaze out at the 70-foot waterfall as it barrels toward the earth and breathe in the fresh Pacific Northwest air.
Bridal Veil Falls
For the more experienced hikers, Bridal Veil Falls is a must-see summer destination. A 1,000-foot climb puts you right near the 100-foot rock face as the overflow from Lake Serene streams down and fills the air with refreshing mist. There’s even a staircase that runs parallel to the falls, putting you face-to-face with the power of the waterfall. Word of mouth has turned this once-secret getaway into a popular hiking destination, so it’s wise to get an early start.
Know Before You Go
F Does the waterfall include a hike?
F Do you need a Discover Pass?
F Double check the weather before you go
F Pack a snack and extra water
F Dress appropriately
F Bring an extra change of clothes
F Save a copy of the directions as data connection can be unreliable
Wallace Falls
For knowledgeable Pacific Northwest hikers, all roads eventually lead to Wallace Falls State Park. At nearly 1,400 acres, the park offers camping with shoreline on multiple lakes as well as the Wallace River. The crown jewel of the park, however, is Wallace Falls. With three lookout tiers, you’ll watch water rushing 265 feet over rock and timber into pristine pools below. The park is also the perfect summer getaway with first-come first-served tent sites and private cabin lodging.
Keekwulee Falls
The Chinook word “Keekwulee” means “to fall down,” a fitting description of the 90-foot beauty found along Denny Creek in Snoqualmie. This stunning display of nature emerges from surrounding old-growth forest that gives the area its signature natural wonder. Elsewhere in Denny Creek, you’ll find a natural water slide that has been a popular destination for locals for years. Satisfy your inner explorer by pressing on through all six miles of park trails and discover unique wildlife along the way.