We had some beautiful weather on Wednesday when we spent some time in Olympic National Park and at Lake Cushman! A short 1.5 hour drive from Bremerton is the perfect distance for a day trip with the kids. It is just short enough that they are still entertained by their toys and books. It is just long enough that they are more than ready to get out and explore when we get there.

 

We arrived at Olympic National Park in the morning and started our hike! We did the Staircase Rapids Loop Trail. It was an easy 2.1 mile hike along the Skokomish River. We carried Aspen in the pack but Odin hiked the entire trail himself! It was exciting to see him recognize that he could do the more challenging parts without help. I love watching his confidence grow! He has come a long way within the last few months.

 

We were joined by our friends Carly and Greg! Carly is a travel nurse who I work with at the hospital. Her and her husband have spent the last year traveling the west coast. They are in the Washington area for a few months before they head back home to North Carolina. We have had fun getting to know them and explore parts of Washington together!

 

It was so relaxing hiking along the Staircase Rapids. The trail was beautiful with mossy rocks and trees and the turquoise water views did not disappoint!

 

 

We got to check out a Western Red Cedar that was 14 feet in diameter! It was crazy big!

The road had gotten washed out during the winter and finally re-opened about 2 weeks ago. The Staircase Rapids campground is still closed. Parts of the trail were still flooded too, so we had to use rocks and logs to get creative crossing the water!

 

Thankfully the main bridge was just fine!

 

 We took a slow, easy pace and just enjoyed being outdoors. It is amazing what a few hours outdoors, unplugged from technology can do for you!

 

After our hike we drove along Lake Cushman (about 7 miles) and stopped for lunch on the beach. After eating we played in the water to help burn some energy before the car ride home. Odin enjoyed some fishing and Aspen loved splashing in the water. Good thing I packed lots of extra clothes! We also got the kite up for a bit too…I think the adults had more fun flying it than the kids did!

 

So thankful for a relaxing day to recharge!! We have been busy with a lot work for the new house. It was a nice break from that.

 

On to the next adventure…