All Posts By

Clever Neighbor

A quality stone patio will completely transform the look of your garden. It can boost your home’s curb appeal as well as market value. But laying a stone patio is no small endeavour, so it’s important to avoid costly mistakes.

Your new patio will truly complement your home only if you choose the right stone. Considering how many variables are at play, this can get difficult.

There are a few important considerations you need to be aware of before you make your choice, so let’s get you up to speed.

Manufactured vs Natural Stone

Manufactured stone, also known as veneer stone, is man-made stone that is meant to look like natural stone. Natural stone is of better quality than manufactured stone.

Natural stone is not as susceptible to moss and lichen growth as manufactured stone, and it keeps its good looks for longer. While manufactured stone slabs are more affordable than natural stone slabs, manufacturer stone is usually weaker and thinner.

Natural stone will become slightly darker over time, but many will argue that the patina it acquires is an improvement on its original appearance. The colour of manufactured stone, on the other hand, fades with age.

However, manufactured stone is easier to cut, easier to obtain, and the quality is more predictable. It also comes in a wider variety of colours.

If you are on a tight budget, good-quality veneer could be the better choice. Keep in mind that the cost of labour significantly outweighs the cost of all the materials.

Choosing Your Supplier

If you want to go with natural stone, chances are, the best natural stone for your patio is the one that is sourced locally. Why? Because it is the natural match for your geography. Mother Nature is often the best landscape designer.

Think about Irish Limestone, Pennsylvania Fieldstone, or granite from Cornwall. Stone is one of the factors that give an area distinctiveness.

Try to use the same stone you see in walls, churches, old gardens, and historic buildings around you. If that’s not an option, try to find a type of stone that mimics the geological type and colour of local stone.

On that note, if you are considering buying stone paving slabs for your patio online, consider ordering some samples first. Stones often look different in reality than they do in photos. The best way to make sure the stone you are considering buying will fit in with your own environment is to actually bring it there.

The Size and Shape of Your Patio Paver Stone

One thing is for sure—you want to get the thickest slabs you can afford. The thicker the slabs are, the less chance they will crack or lift after frost.

In order to keep things to scale, choose large slabs if you want to build a large patio. If your garden is small and you plan to build a smaller patio, smaller slabs are a better choice. They will make the area look bigger than it really is.

Cleanly cut slabs offer a more contemporary feel. Cut stone typically comes in rectangular or square shapes. Cut slabs usually have square edges and smooth faces.

If you are going for a more rustic look, flagstone is a great choice. Flagstone is any type of natural stone that comes in irregular and uneven pieces. The unforced and natural look of flagstone paving can give your patio more character.

Best Types of Natural Stone For an Outdoor Patio

Bluestone

There’s a good reason why bluestone has been a staple in patio construction for decades. It brings its surroundings closer to nature while still offering a sense of elegance and luxury.

Don’t let the name deceive you. This type of stone comes in a variety of colours, ranging from green to brown tones. Regardless of the style or cut of bluestone, the smooth blend of colouring is always astounding.

Bluestone is extremely resistant to freeze-thaw cycles, and it has a high non-slip rating. This makes it one of the best choices for poolside patios.

Bluestone comes in all shapes in sizes, from large rectangular slabs to small diamond-shaped pieces. If you want to retain the natural colours and beauty of your bluestone patio, you will have to seal it periodically.

Limestone

Subtly elegant and extremely reliable, limestone has always been a popular choice for patios. It is available in many textural options and shades. It comes in sandblasted, tumbled, or smooth finishes.

Limestone is typically cut to rectangular and square shapes and laid in running bond, herringbone, or basket weave patterns. It can also be a great choice for flagstone paving.

Limestone stays cool in the summer because its light colour deflects heat. However, it does have one drawback. Limestone doesn’t like acidic materials. Falling fruits can easily stain it and chemical cleaners may erode it.

Granite

Granite is a great choice if you want a smooth patio with a high-end finish and neat, straight edges. However, even though it’s a popular choice for sleek and modern-looking patios, it’s also a solid option if you want to go for a more traditional look.

Since it comes in all shapes, sizes, and finishes, it offers a wealth of design opportunities. Available colours include grey, white, pink, deep charcoal, and many more.

Granite is highly durable. It will withstand harsh weather and heavy traffic. It has a long life and is very low-maintenance. You only need to rinse it or pressure wash it from time to time. The only downside of granite is its costly price.

Indian Sandstone

If you are looking for a budget-friendly yet high-quality option for your outdoor patio, Indian sandstone is an excellent choice. Sandstone is naturally slip-resistant and weather-resistant. This makes it a very popular choice for wet climates.

Just like the shades of sand, colours of sandstone range from neutral to vibrant tones. You can choose from subtle beiges to dark browns, from rich reds and bright golds—and anything in between.

Sandstone is easy to maintain and it isn’t afraid of pressure washing. However, it is more prone to dents and scratches than other types of natural stone.

If you design your garden to connect outdoor and indoor living, it will be so much more than just an extension of your home. Even if you have a tiny garden, all you need is a bit of creativity to give it new life. Whether you have a bigger plot or a small space, you can turn your garden into another room of your home. If you are looking for inspiration, here are a few ideas.

Decorate a Couple of Walls

If you are looking for a simple way to create a beautiful outdoor room, consider decorating the garden walls and introducing statement lighting. Choose elements, such as mirrors and sculptures, that are either weatherproof or easy to bring in and out. You can also choose ornaments that will look good weathered.

Another option is to use outdoor ceramics and wall sculptures that are designed for this purpose. Waterproof canvases and vintage enamel signage are great solutions as well. You shouldn’t have a hard time finding table and floor lamps that are designed for outdoor use.

Enclose Beneath a Canopy

Umbrella-style canopies and sail-like structures can be a great, stylish addition to your garden. The best part about canopies is that they don’t have to be permanent fixtures. Depending on the weather, you can easily open or close them.

Build a Log Cabin

If you have a bit more extra space in your backyard, a log cabin can be a great addition to your property. Contrary to what many homeowners think, building a log cabin in the garden doesn’t have to be that big of an endeavor.

In most places, including the US, small log cabins fall under permitted development, so you won’t have to deal with any paperwork. One of the biggest benefits of log cabins is that they are great at keeping the heat in, so you will be able to use it all year round.

It doesn’t have to be expensive either. You can get a DIY log cabin kit and build one yourself. You can get an electrician to do the wiring. Wiring a log cabin is much easier than wiring a brick and mortar building, so it won’t cost you much.

If you are looking to add a versatile room to your home, a log cabin is likely the best option. You can use your log cabin as a gym, home office, summer house, meditation retreat, or even a guest room.

Create a Covered Bar

A covered bar is a bigger investment than a canopy, but you will undoubtedly enjoy the results. Outdoor seating and bars are becoming increasingly popular. You will be able to use your outdoor bar rain or shine if you build a solid roof in your garden and add splash proof furniture, stone worktops, and other water-resistant materials.

Invest in an Outdoor Kitchen

You can incorporate a simply designed area for cooking into the layout of your garden. Or, if your budget allows it, and there’s enough space in your garden, you can invest in a fully functioning outdoor kitchen.

For instance, you can include a gas-fueled grill. You can use bottled gas or the gas can run from the mains. If you decide to go with this option, make sure there’s enough space for prep and storage. You can also add an outdoor sink, fridge, and even a hotplate.

Install Bifolding Doors

If you want to enhance the connection between the outside and the inside, you can use floor-to-ceiling glazing. If you want to have the largest possible opening, you can install bifolds. This will make your patio look like a proper living space.

Whenever the weather allows it, you can transfer mealtimes to the patio. Just be sure to get indoor pieces that you can easily move outside, or you can get outdoor dining furniture.

If you want to add bifold doors, there are a few things you should consider. Utilizing flooring is a great way to create the illusion of extra space. To connect the two areas, you can run the same floor finish from outside to inside.

This way, both the garden and the living area will appear larger than they are. You can use porcelain tiles on the outside, as long as they are anti-slip and can handle the weather. Natural stone usually works best, but it should also be anti-slip.

Build a Fireplace

For those chilly autumn evenings, an outdoor fireplace is a lovely feature. If you build a fireplace, you will be able to spend much more time in your garden.

You can get a table with bioethanol- or gas-fuelled flames, or you can go with a classic wood-burning fireplace. But, be sure to consult a contractor. They can tell you what options can work in your garden.

Consider an Internal Courtyard

When it comes to outdoor living spaces, internal courtyards work brilliantly. An internal courtyard can make the space feel totally unified, provided that the floor finish is the same inside and out and that you can open up the glazing completely. If you want to use it all year round, you can even add an outdoor fire pit.

How to protect your garden furniture

There are plenty of things you can do to protect your garden furniture.Note that the amount of time and effort involved will often depend on the material from which your garden furniture is made.

Checkout our Blog to learn How to protect your garden furniture.

A Beginner’s Guide to Hiking

Hiking is such a great way to stay in shape, spend much more time outdoors and enjoy the freedom of being immersed in nature.

If you’ve never been hiking before or you have very limited experience when it comes to knowing what to expect, check out the beginner’s guide to hiking below.

Proper Gear and Clothing are a Must

Ensuring that you’re fully equipped with the correct gear and clothing is essential to the success of your hiking expedition.

You will need to invest in some quality hiking boots that will make walking as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. You don’t need to spend a fortune on new hiking boots, but you do need to make sure that they’re well-fitting and won’t rub your feet as soon as you set off.

Well-chosen clothing is also imperative when it comes to hiking. Equip yourself with suitable walking trousers, waterproof outer layers and plenty of sunscreen.

You may also want to purchase walking poles or sticks to help you on long and arduous hikes; these are especially beneficial for uphill hikes.

Training Beforehand – Is it Necessary?

Training for a hike can come in many different forms. For example, you may already be in peak physical shape but if you’ve just purchased some new hiking boots, you’ll need to break them in and get used to hiking in your new footwear.

On the other hand, if you’re already well equipped with the right gear but you haven’t exercised in a long time, you’ll need to think about getting in some training before you go hiking.

Start by working on a beginner’s workout and gradually build up your fitness levels until you feel well-prepared to embark on a long and tiring hike. Even the most expert hikers still get tired and struggle to face some hiking routes, so it’s an activity that you need to constantly work on and improve.

Choose a Suitable Hiking Route

Choosing a suitable hiking route is another important tip to bear in mind when hiking as a beginner. You may think that you’re well prepared and equipped with all the necessary gear and your fitness is in top shape but hiking can still throw unexpected curveballs at you.

It’s a good idea to start relatively small and easy when it comes to choosing a hiking route and then you can gradually build up to much more difficult and testing routes.

There’s no rush or competition when it comes to hiking so as long as you’re enjoying yourself and getting something rewarding out of the experience, don’t worry what kind of ‘hiking level’ you’re at.

Bring Plenty of Water and Snacks

As well as being equipped with the correct gear and clothing, you also need to ensure that your day pack contains plenty of water and snacks to help make your hike as easy and enjoyable as possible.

While hiking might not be as tiring as running or biking for example, you’ll still get tired so you need to keep yourself hydrated and energized at all times.

If you’ll be embarking on a long hike, you will also need to replenish your food supplies so always have snacks such as energy bars, protein shakes or nuts and seeds on you in case you need an energy boost.

Enjoy Every Moment

Hiking doesn’t have to be a monotonous, unenjoyable activity, on the contrary; it should be fun and interactive, as well as enjoyable, and you should only ever do it if and when you want to.

In order to do that, you need to ensure that you enjoy every moment and capture as many things as you can on camera so that you never forget your experiences.

While, of course, your main priority should be the hike itself, it doesn’t mean that you can’t occasionally stop and look around. Consider bringing a camera, or at least just your phone so that you can take pictures of any wildlife you may encounter as well as to take those inevitable celebratory selfies when you hit a particular milestone!

Conclusion – a Beginner’s Guide to Hiking

Hiking is such a fun and enjoyable hobby to be into. Whether you’re hiking for fun on weekends around your local park, or you want to push your limits a bit more and take part in a more strenuous hike along the Camino de Santiago for example, you still need to bear a few things in mind.

Ensure you’re well equipped, have proper clothing such as boots, waterproof wear and walking poles. Always bring plenty of water and snacks to keep your energy levels up when you’re embarking on long hiking routes.

——

Kevin has gone through an extensive home renovation with his son, which he has both thoroughly enjoyed, and dreaded every morning. He is now the proud owner of half his dream house (the other half has been waiting for spring). You can read more of Kevin’s work on PlainHelp.

Tacoma, known as the city of destiny, is home to world-renowned museums, vibrant artists and beautiful natural landscapes. There are also a ton of fun and free things to do in Tacoma.

Read on for a list of 8 free things to do in Tacoma.

With a knack for true hospitality, Anne Smith is a beacon of progress and light for businesses trying to keep afloat during COVID. Read more here.

Spokane is well known for its laid-back attitude and expansive outdoor lifestyle. But, what goes on once the sun goes down doesn’t get nearly enough credit.

No matter your style for evening fun, you’ll find what you’re looking for right here in Spokane. From upbeat dance clubs to music festivals set in the mountains to daily live entertainment, Spokane is your go-to for nighttime fun.

Whether you’re a life-long resident, a college kid, or in town for a visit, you won’t want to miss these destinations. Here’s where to go to experience the Spokane nightlife.

Zola

This trendy bar and lounge offer more live entertainment than most in town. You can find a new act here 7 nights a week while enjoying decadent craft cocktails and a great selections of beer.

Zola is great for those special occasions like a graduation, birthday, or proposal. It’s a spot for those who want to do more than just talk over beers. Instead, residents typically come here to get down on its expansive dance floor. Great spot for friends and a fun night out.

nYne Bar and Bistro

Few establishments excel at bringing together such a diverse group of people as nYne. This downtown spot calls itself an “equality bar” as it attracts just about anyone who wants to dance, including the occasional drag queen show.

You can find a mix of both house bands and in-house DJs here on the weekends. Fuel up here before a big night out with their lively venue serving pub grub and burgers.

The Unforgiven Lounge

This swanky lounge/bar is just as well known for its fun food menu as it is its nightlife scene. Their bar boasts a lot of classic martini favorites, that can be sipped on inside or on the outdoor patio. The BBQ ribs and baked potato were a hit with our group!

The Unforgiven Lounge is in eastern Washington, but it feels like it belongs on the Las Vegas strip. From the liquor tower to the Chrome decor and colorful lighting, we guarantee you’ll have fun. This is a great place for dancing and partying with friends!

Volstead Act

Craft cocktail lovers, rejoice. Volstead Act is heaven for anyone who appreciates a modern spin on the prohibition era style.

This lounge offers a daily happy hour that runs from 3 pm-7 pm and 12 am-2 am Monday through Saturday. But, its all-day-long Sunday happy hour makes it the perfect place to get your Sunday Funday on.

The Viking

If you’re in need of a no-frills, cozy night, look no further than The Viking in downtown Spokane. This timeless dive has been a local hangout for over 2 decades.

The Viking recently underwent a major renovation, leaving it with more elevated indoor seating and an outdoor patio. Its beer list is quite extensive, so whether you’re a Budweiser type of guy/girl or a craft lover, you’re covered.

More on Spokane Nightlife

This city is far more than just its outdoors scene. Spokane nightlife gives you a taste of what else we have to offer.

Looking for things to do in Spokane? Look no further! The Clever Neighbor has all your needs covered for a visit to the Lilac City. And, while you’re here, check out some other cities to visit as well!

They say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. While some recent findings contradict that popular idea, it does remain that breakfast is probably the most varied meal of the day, especially when you’re picking one of these breakfast restaurants in Ocean Shores.

After all, when else can you devour a stack of pancakes while one of your friends tucks into bacon and eggs and the other nibbles on avocado toast? It’s this kind of variety that makes going out for breakfast such a delicious treat, especially in Ocean Shores.

If you’re in the area looking for ‘breakfast restaurants near me’, look no further. Read on to find out the top five breakfast restaurants in Ocean Shores!

1. Linda’s Bakery Cafe

Ocean Shores has a great selection of quality places to eat, but you’ll find one of the best breakfast restaurant options in Ocean Shores at Linda’s Bakery Cafe.

For those with a sweet tooth, the pies and pastries are all made from scratch with real butter and quality ingredients. If savory’s more your style, the ham and cheese croissant, and full breakfast are popular options you won’t want to miss.

As well as great food, this spot has a great reputation for friendly servers who will always go the extra mile. So, even if you’re only in Ocean Shores for a short stay, you’re sure to come back to Linda’s! And don’t forget to try their espresso.

2. Ocean Beach Roasters & Bistro

Ocean Beach Roasters & Bistro is great for lunch and dinner, but it’s also perfect for breakfast, which is served from 9 am until 1 pm.

Highlights on the breakfast menu include crab cake Benedict, sausage apple hash and marionberry pancakes. They also do a range of omelets and the classic biscuits and gravy too. They have a case full of fresh pastries and nearly any coffee creation you desire. This style is modern and welcoming, with smiles by every employee and we all commented, these guys just do things right. The owner is friendly and often serves you the food. Highly recommend coming back for lunch as well. Their sandwiches were awesome! #yum

3. Our Place

With large portions and a varied breakfast menu, Our Place definitely deserves a place on our list of the best Ocean Shores local breakfast restaurants.

Highlights include the eggs Benedict omelet, biscuits and gravy with sausage, and tasty homemade pies and pastries.

This is a no-frills joint where you serve yourself coffee and get your own cutlery. But when the food’s this good and the prices are fair, you won’t hear any complaints from us. Locals would also agree, Our Place restaurant is probably the top spot in Ocean Shores for breakfast.

4. Sunny Beach Cafe

Ocean Shore’s Sunny Beach Cafe is another great place to head a delicious breakfast. Open Wed – Sun, Sunny Beach Cafe really brings out the sun on those cold rainy days. This mom and pop style restaurant is welcoming and enjoyable. Say hi to a local, their all pleasant and love chatting about their town.

With a range of breakfast options, including Belgian waffles, omelets, oatmeal, and bacon and eggs, there’s something for all tastes. The freshly baked bread is also a big hit with everyone who comes here.

5. RipTide Coffee Co.

For laid-back, cozy beach vibes and a wide range of delicious coffees, RipTide Coffee Co. is a great breakfast spot near the Oyhut Wildlife Area. Oyhut is on the far side of town, but worth the scenic drive if you’ve not been to the south end of the penninsula.

As well as teas and coffees, it serves freshly baked muffins, pastries, and sandwiches. There might not be as many options as other local breakfast restaurants, but the food is top-notch and homemade. Plus, the friendly staff and great decor make it a popular place for locals and tourists alike.

BONUS: Homeport Restaurant

This list would not be complete without mentioning Homeport Restaurant. Open all winter long with friendly staff and even friendlier portions, Homeport had a great selection that fits a families needs for warm breakfast at a reasonable cost. Don’t let the older decor persuade you otherwise, it’s a great spot for a very good breakfast. Try the omelette. We thought about returning on day 2 for another! #yummybreakfast

Ocean Shores Breakfast Restaurants

Once you’ve filled up at one of these Ocean Shores breakfast restaurants, you’ll be more than ready to enjoy another beautiful day along the Washington coast.

Remember, whether you’re a local or you’re planning to visit Ocean Shores, you’re in the right place.

Here at Clever Neighbor, we’ve got all the information you need to make the most of your time in Ocean Shores. From the best hotels to exciting local activities, we’re here to guide you!

If you’re visiting Portland, you should know that this is a city that’s home to some of the best breweries in the entire country. With a population of only 652,000, Portland still takes the prize from some of the biggest cities in terms of microbreweries and local watering holes.

Among the many fun things to do during your stay in Portland, a guide to the best Portland breweries is necessary. There are so many breweries to visit, it might just require you to extend your trip (or at least rely on your Lyft/Uber app to get you around).

In no particular order, here are some of the best breweries to visit in Portland.

Ex Novo

Ex Novo makes the list after opening in 2014 because of what it stands for. Not only do their beers rotate often and flow liberally, but they also give back to local charities. In fact, 100% of the profits made from their tasty libations get poured into (pun intended) local charities.

Their motto is ‘Drink Beer. Do Good’. What can get better than that? Sounds like a worthwhile activity to complete whilst in Portland, if you ask us.

Deschutes

Deschutes beer has been around for over thirty years, making it one of the oldest and most popular breweries in Portland. With the recent emergence of microbreweries across the USA, you’d think that might make it hard for an older brewery to keep up–but it’s been the exact opposite.

Deschutes likes to experiment, which keeps them hip and their flavors new. Their Portland location has twenty taps and regular tastings of new creations that are (or could be) coming out soon. Of the breweries in Portland, Deschutes is probably the most well known and also one of the best places to visit.

We really like their unique take on pub grub, as they focus primarily on food made from scratch and local produce.

Occidental Brewing Company

In terms of the best breweries in Portland, Occidental Brewing offers another specific type of drinking experience that you wouldn’t expect to find in the Pacific Northwest. Instead of your typical IPA’s, you’ll feel liked you’ve stepped into a Gaststube (pub) in Germany, home of their many German-style ales and lagers, and even an array of bratwursts. From German style Kolsch to Hefeweizen, Dunkel, Pilsner and more.

Occidental has a fantastic patio that makes drinking and eating during the summertime even more fun with friends.

Ground Breaker (Gluten Free)

For the gluten intolerant crowd, and there are more and more of us now, you might think breweries are out of reach or that your brewery map is small or nonexistent.

Well, think again, because Ground Breaker offers an array of drinks that are 100% gluten-free. When you come to Portland, you’ll be welcomed to a place that has won many awards for making beer that tastes just like (or better than) traditional beers. No need to just drink ciders anymore! #ohhappyday

In fact, the owner has won many awards for creating such tasty beer, that they started their commercial brewery and now serve gluten-free pub food as well. It’s a gluten free party! #glutenisbad 🙂

Portland Breweries: Wrap-Up

Portland breweries are a dream come true for most beer drinkers. IPA’s flow like the Columbia River in this riverfront town. When you get here, there are plenty of places you can sit down and have a drink. Whether you’re gluten-free, looking to visit a German beer hall, or want to help local charities, you can achieve nearly any drinking goal in Portland.

Join us for more updates on things to do around Portland. Enjoy your trip!

While 81% of the forests in the eastern US are privately owned, over 70% of forestland in the west is open to the public.

What does this mean for you, the savvy traveler? If you’re seeking true natural beauty and some of the best hiking in the US, there’s only one area to go. The Pacific Northwest.

Pacific Northwest hiking is not only the best in the country–some would argue it’s among the best in the world. Once you’ve sampled all the great things to do in Seattle, it’s time to explore the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest (PNW).

So dust off your hiking boots, grab your gear, and get ready to discover the 8 best day hikes around Washington and Oregon. Let’s dive in!

1. Paradise Park Loop (Mt. Hood, OR)

For epic views of Mount Hood, Oregon’s tallest peak, take the 12-mile Paradise Park Loop that begins at Timberline Lodge.

This moderately difficult day hike offers jaw-dropping views of Mount Hood, fields full of lupine and other wildflowers, and a chance to explore the appropriately named Zigzag Canyon.

If you don’t have much time and would like to experience a little bit of everything, this is the day hike for you. Located just a little over an hour east of Portland, it’s also very easy to get to.

2. Naches Peak Loop Trail (Mt. Rainier, WA)

If you want to experience some great views on a shorter, moderately-easy hike, head for this 4.5-mile trail on the outskirts of Mount Rainier National Park.

This short scenic trail connects with the famous Pacific Crest Trail (and is a great alternative to the longer jaunt). Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and plenty of wildflowers in bloom in the spring.

You’ll find the trailhead along State Road 410, about 2 hours southeast of Seattle.

3. Trail of Ten Falls (Silver Falls State Park, OR)

Are you a waterfall aficionado? If so, you’ve got to hike the Trail of Ten Falls between Silverton and Sublimity, Oregon.

Located in the aptly named Silver Fall State Park, this moderately difficult 10-mile loop takes you past an impressive 10 waterfalls. A few of the falls cascade well over 100 feet!

Even cooler? You have the chance to climb behind four of the waterfalls, offering a truly unique hiking experience (and great photo ops). #waterfallbeauty

You’ll enter the park and locate the trailhead about an hour and a half south of Portland.

4. Hoh River Trail (Olympic National Park, WA)

Want to try an easy hike through a temperate rainforest? Yep, this is an actual rainforest and beware, it’s amazing. Head west to Olympic National Park (about 4.5 hours’ drive from Seattle) and hike part of the 17-mile long Hoh River Trail. Our suggestion for a low-budget accommodations along the way is to stop in the scenic Ocean Shores.

This gorgeous park receives over 14 feet of rain every year, blanketing the region with mossy trees and lush green ferns. It’s also home to the quietest place in all of America, known as One Square Inch of Silence.

While the trail ends at the foot of Mount Olympus, you don’t have to take it all the way to the end. A day hike of 5-8 miles will still give you a great overview of the coastal rainforest.

5. Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor (Oregon)

At the far southern end of Oregon, just before you cross into California, you’ll find a 12-mile stretch of coastline teeming with trails to explore.

Jagged rock formations and craggy islands make up this spectacular stretch of the ocean’s shore. The short loop out to Natural Bridges Cove is easy to hike and offers great views of stone arches and blowholes.

For a more challenging hike, try the Cape Sebastian Trail or the Secret Beach Trail which (you guessed it) leads to a secret beach.

Expert tip: Be sure to bring a good rain jacket, as the weather is wildly unpredictable in this region!

6. Rattlesnake Ledge Trail (Washington)

Just 40 miles east of Seattle lies one of the most popular day hikes in the PNW–and for good reason!

Rattlesnake Ledge sits high above Rattlesnake Lake is well worth the 4-mile round-trip hike to the top. You’ll gain 1,100 vertical feet in 2 miles, so you may have to stop for a few breaks along the way. #bringwater

The trail is well-maintained and popular on weekends, especially for hikers with dogs. If you’re craving some solitude, try visiting midweek for thinner crowds.

7. Mount Storm King (Olympic National Park, WA)

If you’re up for a serious challenge, this 4.5-mile hike in Olympic National Park will deliver.

In just over 2 miles, you’ll ascend a staggering 2,100 vertical feet. This means the trail is steep and difficult and full of switchbacks. In some places, there are even climbing ropes to help you keep your balance.

Is the effort worth it? Absolutely! When you get to the top, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted views of Lake Crescent and, across the Strait of Juan de Fuca, a glimpse into Canada.

The trailhead starts and ends at Storm King Ranger Station just past Port Angeles.

8. Oregon Badlands Wilderness, Oregon

Just east of Bend, Oregon, you’ll find a unique landscape seemingly untouched by time.

These badlands feature unusual cracked ridges formed by underground pressure from the nearby Badlands Volcano. More than 50 miles of trails wind through the region, providing the chance to see antelope, falcons, and yellow-bellied marmots.

A climb to the top of Badlands Rock Trail will reward you with 360-degree views of the area and is so worth it.

The Best PNW Day Hikes: Now You Know

So, which of these amazing day hikes will you try first?

Whichever one you choose, don’t forget your camera and tag @cleverneighbor on Instagram! You’re sure to snag a few epic photos to frame on your wall at home.

Are you lucky enough to visit the Pacific Northwest during the autumn months? Click here to discover the best areas for fall colors. Happy hiking!

Washington state is a place of wonder. Just search #pnwonder on Instagram and you’ll see more beautiful photos of Washington that you could possibly look at in a day! It’s not just because it has some of the country’s tallest peaks, or for its diversity on both sides of the mountains, but for the diversity of cities that across the state as well.

Among the eastern side of the state is one of the state’s metropolitan jewels, the city of Spokane.

Spokane is mainly known for the natural beauty that surrounds and winds through the city. Whether you are visiting to hike in Riverside State Park or climb Mt. Spokane, you should make some time to see and do as the locals do.

Scroll down and learn about seven little-known activities you have to try in Spokane.

1. Spend Your Downtime with Friends From Beyond the Grave: Greenwood Cemetery

Though spending time in a cemetery sounds a bit creepy, this tip should be saved for those with a need for the curiosities. The Greenwood Cemetery in Spokane is nicknamed as the home of “the staircase of 1,000 steps.” This name comes from a stairway in the graveyard that may be haunted. Legends say that no one can make it to the top without having to run in fear the other way.

These stairs, along with the rest of the cemetery, are supposedly home to hundreds of ghosts of all ages. And according to local legend, these ghosts shriek and howl in the night.

Whether you are a believer or not, and you’ve got the stomach for it, make some time to swing by this ancient hollow ground. Greenwood Cemetery is also home to beautiful landscapes on par with some of the best valleys in Spokane and centuries worth of history.

2. Go Green with the Garbage Eating Goat

If littering really gets your goat, you should visit Riverfront Park. Riverfront Park is the home to a goat sculpture that eats garbage. Literally.

This favorite Spokane, Washington point of interest was created in 1974 when the city hosted the World’s Fair. The statue is made of metal and has a vacuum inside it that permits the goat to “eat” anything small enough to fit in its mouth.

If you find yourself downtown, make sure to fit this goat into your schedule. He may be 44. But, he still spends all his days cleaning up the city and the kids will love it!

3. Hitch Your Wagon to the City of Spokane, Instagram worthy find!

Let the city of Spokane take you on a trip back to your childhood. Not too far from the garbage eating goat, you will find yourself the world’s largest Radio Flyer wagon. This statue, officially named, “The Childhood Express” was given to the city in 1990.

The artist, Ken Speiring, made the statue not only in homage to his childhood but for children of all ages to play with. This twelve-foot sculpture is meant for climbing, jumping, and yes, you can even sit in it!

Whether you are four or forty, the Radio Flyer wagon in Riverfront Park is a must see thing to do in Spokane, WA.

4. Rock and Scroll: Indian Painted Rocks

Almost three centuries ago, the Spokane Tribe lived on the land around the Little Spokane River. They would paint figures of red onto the porous rocks found near the riverbeds. The rocks absorbed the paint, and the drawings can still be seen today.

It is still up for debate what these drawings of horses, crosses, and other drawings are meant to tell the looker. But what is not up for argument is the rocks’ importance to the city. These rocks have been a Nationally Registered Historic Place for almost fifty years.

These paintings can be found by Little Spokane River Natural Area.

5. See the Bisons on the Bridge

The Monroe Street Bridge was built in 1909 to replace a wooden one that burned down. The bridge was decorated with an array of things. This list of things just happened to include the skulls of bison.

These bison skulls in a concrete cast are supposedly inspired by a once famous and local politician. Patrick C. Shine found one on a trip to Alberta, and he was so proud and fascinated by it, that he hung it in the garage for his family and the town to enjoy.

It is believed that the skull mysteriously vanished. However, its spirit stays with locals and tourists alike via the Monroe Street Bridge.

6. Let’s Hear it for the Boys: the Home of Father’s Day

Fun fact, Father’s Day was invented in Spokane. The city is the birthplace of Sonora Smart Dodd, who is known as, “The Mother of Father’s Day”.

After hearing a sermon on Mother’s Day in 1909, Dodd came up with the idea for a Father’s Day. She and her five brothers were raised by her widower father. Thirteen months later, the city of Spokane honored fathers at a local YMCA, making it the first Father’s Day in the country.

Dodd continued to campaign for a Father’s Day in the US throughout her life. It was signed into fruition in 1972 by President Richard Nixon, just six years prior to Dodd’s death.

Her home is just off of Arthur street and is easily recognizable from the enormous plaque in front.

7. A Night on the Town: Riverside Place

If you are spending your night out, whether on a romantic date with your significant other or just dinner with friends, you should check out Riverside Place. It is a great place to catch concerts, theatrical performances, and other amazing local artists.

However, this aesthetically pleasing building also comes with its own interesting past. Before it was purchased and made into a venue, it was originally a secret Masonic temple.

Add Riverside Place to your list of things to in Spokane. You will be able to catch a show and walk around a century-old building filled with both history and mystery.

Spokane: a City to Add to Your Bucket List

Just 100 miles away from the Canadian border, Spokane offers nature as far as the eye can see. But as you can tell from this short list, Spokane is a city of wonder and fun on its own. Not to mention the world’s largest outdoor basketball tournament every summer on the streets of downtown Spokane.

If you are coming to the city of Spokane, leave some wiggle room in your day-to-day itinerary for some unique and fun sights. Yes, you may come for hiking and mountain climbing. But chances are, you will stay longer than expected to enrich yourself in this city filled with arts and history.

Have questions or comments about anything and everything Spokane, Washington? Please feel free to join our e-community!

Older Posts

Newer Posts