One of my goals this summer is to do a backpacking trip with Tyler and Stella (albeit one that's low on mileage and elevation gains). Besides working out the logistics of how we'll carry everything PLUS Stella, it means we need to get in backpacking shape. When I heard that today would be in the 60s and dry (and tomorrow not so much), I suggested a first hike of the season. We looked through our hiking books and remembered a nearby pleasant hike that's always been filled with kids and families, Twin Falls. Kid-friendly because it's only about a 30 minute drive from Seattle, 2.6 miles round trip, and not too many switchbacks, with a decent payoff view of a waterfall at the end.
It was fun getting to let Stella toddle around a bit, even if it meant trying to keep her on the path and out of the river (which she was fascinated by, even signing "water" when she saw it).
Pointing out the river to dad
Touching the cold river water. She really wanted to walk on in!
It was a nice day, a little chilly in the shade, but perfect once we got moving (especially with 20-odd pounds on our backs). I forget how green it is in the Cascades, a carpet of ferns, moss-covered trees, ferns growing off of tree branches.
Green on green on green.
An early peek at our destination.
I've done this hike a few times in the past. We tend to hike past the viewpoint for the lower falls and head up to the bridge over the upper falls:
Upper falls. Stella was mostly interested in the other hikers up there with us
The lower falls seemed especially spectacular today, with white streams of water flowing down the rock face.
All in all, a successful hike and great way to start our Saturday!
The happy hiking family!
Stella's a natural!
And we managed to get back to the car before Stella got too over-tired....
Truth be told, this was actually her nap on the way *to* the hike, but she looked the same on the way home... It cracks us up how she puts her hands behind her head like that.
Here's to lots more hikes this spring and summer!
3 comments:
Glad you guys didn't miss an opportunity to enjoy the good weather while it was here! And great you're already introducing Stella to hiking at such a young age. Here’s hoping we have lots of nice weather this summer!
Hey Emily, on our way down the trail Sarah and I realized we probably should have given you and Curtis a call to see if you wanted to join us, since we were basically in your neighborhood. Sorry about that, but maybe next hike!
This is a great post, thanks
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