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You know those people who make you laugh a little louder, smile a little bigger, and live just a little bit better? Well, I’m lucky to say, my good friend, Camrin, is one of those people.
Last Saturday, Camrin graced me with her presence as I took a little road trip out to the peninsula. We had originally planned on hiking Lake Serene, but with all the smoke from the wildfires in British Columbia, we were worried the haze would cloud our view. So instead, we decided to grab some starbucks and take a little drive!
Staircase is one of my favorite places to visit on the Olympic Peninsula. It has a sort of tranquility about it that I find incredibly relaxing. It’s a beautiful drive along the banks of Lake Cushman, leading up to the entrance of the Olympic National Forrest. It’s where I first learned to fly fish, and the same place I got chased by the most aggressive flying bug I have ever seen in my life. Which I suppose I should follow up by saying, it might be wise to bring bug spray if you plan on visiting.
Cam had never been to Staircase, let alone Lake Cushman, which made me all the more excited to bring her along with me. She and I can geek out all day over plants and gorgeous scenery, so I knew she’d fall in love with the crystal blue water and dreamy foliage.
There is a $25 entrance fee to enter to park, but it’s well worth the cost. And if you decide you’d rather spend your money on a new pair of shoes, you can just pull over before the entrance and spend the day swimming in Lake Cushman, or hiking the notorious Mt. Rose. Your options are endless! Cam and I spent most of our day roaming around the forest, but made sure to stop by the lake on our way out.
If you’re looking for a low-intensity, family-friendly trek, Staircase Rapids Loop will be your bread and butter. With only a 200 ft. elevation gain, the trail winds you through the North Fork Skokomish River Valley and crosses a sturdy cable bride that overlooks the rapids (which happens to be my favorite part). It’s only a 2-mile hike, round-trip, painted with a vast sanctuary of Douglas-firs that consume the forests. You can find a generic map of the premises, and information regarding facilities, picnic areas, camping, and regulations on the park’s brochure.
By the time Cam and I left the park grounds, we were covered in a thick layer of dust. I’m about 95% positive that if we would have brought our bathing suits we would have hopped right into lake Cushman to cool off. I’d say 100%, but there was about 5% of me that really wanted a sandwich. My love for the wild is strong… but so if my love for a BLT.
I’m sliiiightly obsessed with my ‘Margaritas Made Me Do It’ tank. Target is my go to for my summer tanks. Okay, let’s be real, Target is my go to for everything!
Cam’s is also from Target… #twins! You can purchase her’s here!