Pacific Northwest Backroad Adventures

Here is another article on what you should do (and not do) to survive when you get lost in the wilderness. The article was written by Dan A. Nelson of Puyallup and appeared in the Seattle Times. Even though the article’s focus is for the hiker, the principles apply to remote vehicular travel also. Winter is upon us and it’s even more critical to be prepared.

Read the article at How to Be Found When You’re Lost.

On a related topic, Dan wrote another article of interest titled High-tech Solutions to Getting Found where he discusses high-tech gadgets that may help you in a rescue situation.

Yesterday (Saturday, 11.03.07), knowing very well that the falls was already dried up, I made the two mile hike to Snoquera Falls (Trail #1167) near Camp Shepherd off State Route 410 (east of Greenwater, Washington). I wasn’t concerned about the views, I just needed to get some exercise (plus its cheaper than driving around at $3.00 a gallon).

The hike climbed steadily through the forest from the trailhead near Camp Shepherd. No great views of the surrounding country side, mostly old growth forest with some deciduous trees mixed in (note there would be some great fall colors within the forest in late September).
(more…)

Summer in Western Washington usually doesn’t start officially (at least weather wise) until July 5 of each year. Today (06.24.07) was no exception. The forecast for the day was for rain and a snow level of 5000 feet.

Since I worked the night before and my wife’s nephew was coming over for dinner, I had to keep the day’s adventure somewhat local from my home. Flipping through the book Washington Byways, I found Tour 49 - High Rock Lookout Loop and it fit perfectly into the day’s time restraints. I loaded up the dog in the Land Cruiser and headed towards the Cascades in hopes of finding some sun above the low hanging clouds.

(more…)

Last Sunday (June 24, 2007), I ventured into the High Rock area near Mt. Rainier. The weather was overcast and rain most of the day meaning in no great views of Mt. Rainier. These are the photos I shot on this adventure. Most are taken from the inside of my Toyota Land Cruiser.

High Rock Loop Photos

The complete story of this adventure will be coming soon.

After the floods in the Fall of 2006, many of your favorite Washington state backcountry roads and hiking trails have some amount of damage. Before you head out you may want to find out if you can even reach your intended destination.

Even though many of you do not agree with their agenda, the Washington Trails Association has kindly provided a database and map of damages hiking trails and backcountry roads throughout Washington state that will be kept up to date as conditions change (and as the snow in the high country melts).

Just launched is a new forum at http://www.pnwoutdoors.net for all of you to discuss and share your favorite Pacific Northwest outdoor activities.

Discuss and plan trips. Discuss outdoor activities including wheeling, camping, hiking, snowboarding, skiing, mountain biking and more. I’ll be adding more categories as the forum takes shape.

Registration is simple and free. Join today and introduce yourself on the forum. Share your passion for the Northwest outdoors.

If you’re like me, you enjoy enjoy exploring and playing in the Pacific Northwest outdoors. You have your adventure vehicle (sometimes a four wheel drive, sometimes not) that takes you to your destination to enjoy your favorite activities (camping, hiking, exploring, climbing, mountain biking, fishing, hunting, rock hounding, prospecting, water sports, snow sports, etc.).

As time goes by, this site will evolve into a member inspired site where you, the member, has input on the direction this site takes.

Thank you for joining me on this journey.

Steve B, Webmaster
pnwadventures