I came across this lovely open forest late last July while backpacking up to Marmot Lake next to Section J of the Pacific Crest Trail. The path weaved between tall trees and across a creek coming down from the lake. These photo are taken with 35mm film in the morning as sunlight began to hit the forest floor. 

What was your July like? Looking forward to any nature walks next summer?

Everything is cold, which means it's time to go outside and embrace the extreme weather. I journeyed up Icicle Ridge in the snow for some hot chocolate and fabulous views over Leavenworth last December. This winter, I went up to Skyline Lake. I've also got plans to find and explore new spots (taking recommendations).

Here's a few of my favorite places to snow hike.

Icicle Ridge Trail:

• Bring: Microspikes/Yaktrax
• Location: Leavenworth
• What to expect: A fabulous view, switchbacks, snow up top

Skyline Lake Trail:

• Bring: Snowshoes
• Location: Stevens Pass
• What to expect: Deep snow, a nice frozen lake, cold weather

Iron Goat Trail:

• Bring: Sense of adventure
• Location: Just west of Stevens Pass
• What to expect: Switchbacks under trees, a big train tunnel, snowy overlook

December through March is generally the time I go through unedited photos I have collected throughout the summer (there's a lot). Most recently, I have been going through images from trips I took while in the woods last October. Here's a panorama I put together by combining four photos taken up at Larch Lakes during a cold morning.