WESTPORT -- A strong southwest wind is howling along the beach at Westhaven State Park, pestering a sparse collection of beachcombers with blasts of sand and spray. The beach is a seemingly endless, arrow-straight strip of beige that separates the green of the shore pines from the gray of the Pacific.
The sea is a gnashing, pitching mass of lead-colored surf. Endless sets of outsized waves break far offshore, adding bass-heavy thunderclaps that harmonize with the shrieking wind. You must shout to be heard.
By Nick Horton | June 30, 2005
When summer finally arrives in the Northwest, the place to be is outdoors, soaking in the verdant beauty that sustains us through our long, gray winters.
Some of the most rejuvenating scenery lies a ferry ride west of Seattle, on Bainbridge Island and nearby Kingston, where a series of magnificent gardens will lower your blood pressure and elevate your spirits.
By Cecelia Goodnow | June 30, 2005
Hike of the Week
Kacey Dupuis was almost the youngest person on our hike to Esmeralda Basin. Luckily for her, her parents and the rest of our group, Kacey waited 12 hours to be born.
Eighteen hikers signed up for this experience sponsored by Washington Trails Association, according to Lace Thornberg, development coordinator for WTA.
We were anticipating the wildflowers for which the region is known, but the WTA also wants its outings to emphasize the importance of protecting wild places, especially those that are not within designated wilderness areas.
By Karen Sykes | June 30, 2005
