Posts by Samantha Panzera
Spring Backpacking the Enchantments: Snow Lakes Trail to the Core
If you’re planning an early season Enchantments backpacking trip, this post shares real trail conditions and trip details from our hike in mid-May. Includes Snow Lakes Trail mileage, elevation gain, snow and ice conditions, key landmarks, mountain goat sightings, gear used, and what the Core Zone looked like in spring near Leavenworth, Washington.
Read MoreMoose Lake and Moose Peak | Backpacking in Olympic National Park
If you’re looking for a stunning backcountry adventure in Olympic National Park, the Moose Lake & Moose Peak backpacking loop should be at the top of your list. This trail blends scenic ridgeline walks, fun rock scrambles, and striking turquoise alpine lakes—so unbelievably gorgeous that your friends might think your photos are AI-generated. Along the…
Read MoreRoyal Basin & Royal Lake Backpacking In Olympic National Park
If you’re dreaming of an alpine backpacking trip filled with turquoise lakes, wildflower meadows, and jaw-dropping mountain views, the Royal Basin Trail in Olympic National Park deserves a top spot on your list. This incredible route winds through lush old-growth forest, past cascading waterfalls, and leads you deep into one of the most breathtaking alpine…
Read MoreSeattle Terrors Ghost Tour Review: Sinister Sins, Scandal & Shadows
Love history and looking for a spooky, fun night out in Seattle? The Seattle Terrors Ghost Tour by US Ghost Adventures combines chilling stories, haunted history, and a nighttime walk through the city’s darker past. Recently, the Adventure Hike Travel team (that’s me, Samantha, along with my brothers Robert and Jason!) was invited to experience…
Read MoreMelakwa Lake, WA | One of the Best Hikes Near Snoqualmie Pass
If you’re looking for an unforgettable day hike that is a bit of a challenge near Snoqualmie Pass, look no further than Melakwa Lake. Tucked away in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, this trail delivers a little bit of everything: lush vegetation, sweeping views of the valley below, forests, gorgeous rivers and waterfalls, a natural rock…
Read MoreWashington Hikes with Lakes: Don’t Miss Heather Lake
If you’re looking for a short but rewarding hike with lush forest vibes, giant trees, and a peaceful alpine lake at the end, Heather Lake is an awesome choice. Tucked into the slopes of Mount Pilchuck off the Mountain Loop Highway, this 4.7-mile round-trip trail delivers a little bit of everything: waterfalls, wildflowers, old-growth trees,…
Read MoreWhy I Love The Jones Dream Catcher Splitboard For Backcountry Adventures
If you’re looking for a versatile, fun, and dependable splitboard for your next backcountry trip, let me introduce you to one of my all-time favorite setups: the Jones Dream Catcher Splitboard. This board has been with me through deep powder days, icy early mornings, and everything in between—and it continues to impress me season after…
Read MoreWhy Patagonia’s Insulated Snowbelle Snowboarding Pants Are the Best I’ve Tested
I’m no pro snowboarder, but as an avid rider who often spends 18+ days on the slopes each winter, I’ve had my fair share of experiences in every condition imaginable — from pouring down rain to -14°F days on the mountain and deep powder. Over the years, I’ve learned that the right gear can make…
Read MoreWhy Tulip Town Is a Must-See Stop During the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
If you’re planning a springtime getaway to Washington State, Tulip Town in Skagit Valley should be at the top of your list. Renowned for its stunning displays of vibrant tulips, this farm is one of the standout attractions of the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, which takes place every April. Whether you’re a flower enthusiast, a…
Read MoreBackcountry Touring at Hurricane Ridge: Sunrise & Maggie’s Splitboard Adventure
Interested in skiing or splitboarding the Sunrise and Maggie’s runs at Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park? In this post, I’ve got all the key trail details from our adventure on February 16, 2025. I’ll share the mistakes our group made (and how you can avoid them), along with tips to help make your backcountry…
Read MoreEverything You Need to Know About the KAILAS Hurricane Hiking Backpack
When it comes to outdoor adventures, choosing the right backpack can make or break your experience. Whether you’re heading out for a short day hike, or need a good backpack to take with you to the airport on your next adventure, comfort, durability, and organization are key factors to consider. That’s why I decided to…
Read MoreAdventure Gear Spotlight: Kailas Women’s Full-Zip Hooded Fleece Jacket Review
The perfect fleece jacket for every adventure? The Kailas Women’s Full-Zip Hooded Fleece might just be it. I’ve put it to the test, and I’m sharing all the details—fit, performance, and why it’s my new favorite. 🏔️ #OutdoorGearReview #AdventureReadyJacket #HikingLife
Read MoreChristine Falls: A Quick, Stunning Must-See Stop at Mount Rainier
If you’re planning a trip to Mount Rainier National Park, there’s a hidden gem you can’t miss—Christine Falls. This quick, scenic stop offers a perfect glimpse of the beauty the park has to offer, all without having to embark on a lengthy hike. Whether you’re just passing through or making a day out of exploring…
Read MoreMount Rainier in One Day: Best Hikes and Scenic Stops for a Day Trip
Mount Rainier National Park is absolutely stunning with its many breathtaking views, spectacular waterfalls, beautiful meadows of wildflowers, and awe-inspiring glaciers. This gem in the Pacific Northwest has so much to offer residents and visitors alike. This magnificent place can be visited over and over again and explore new trails each time. But if you are planning a one-day trip and see the best sites that you can in a limited window I have created a one-day itinerary to make it easy to have an amazing day packed with many of the must-see spots and hikes.
Read MoreHonu Hotspots: Where to Find Sea Turtles in Oahu, Hawaii
Discover the best beaches to spot Hawaiian green sea turtles on Oahu! From Laniakea Beach to Kailua Beach, these honu hotspots offer incredible opportunities to see these majestic creatures up close. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and beach lovers alike, don’t miss out on these must-visit locations. Grab your reef-safe sunscreen and snorkeling gear, and dive into the adventure! #Oahu #SeaTurtles #Honu #Hawaii #TravelTips #Wildlife
Read MoreSummer Sun Solution: Elegear Beach Tent Sun Shelter Gear Review
Stay cool this summer with the Elegear Beach Tent! Perfect for beach trips, park picnics, and more. Easy setup and UV protection make it a must-have. #BeachDay #SummerGear #SunProtection #OutdoorFun #BeachEssentials #SunTent #FamilyPicnic
Read MoreElegear Collapsible Wagon: The Must-Have for Your Next Beach Trip
Struggling to haul beach gear? Meet the Elegear Collapsible Wagon—lightweight, compact, and incredibly sturdy. Perfect for all your summer adventures. Dive into my review to see why it’s a beach trip must-have!
Read MoreTrail Tested: Kailas Women’s Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoe Review
Hey there, outdoor adventurers! Today, I’m thrilled to spotlight the KAILAS Women’s Fuga EX2 Trail Running Shoes with an in-depth gear review. I’ve taken them on several hikes through Olympic National Park and the Buckhorn Wilderness, and have been using them daily on the trails behind my house for the past several weeks. Now, I can’t wait to share my thoughts on all the fantastic features packed into these cushy trail runners with you!
Read MoreLake 22: Great Early Season Hiking In Washington State
Looking to experience the beauty of Lake 22 without the crowds? For a quieter trek, consider exploring Lake 22 early in the season. Although you won’t have the trail entirely to yourself, an off-season hike is a fantastic way to enjoy its beauty. April and May are ideal times, as the trail is less crowded compared to peak summer months. Covering 5.4 miles roundtrip with a moderate elevation gain of 1,350 feet, this hike is perfect to explore before the busiest season hits.
Read MoreAdventure Essentials: KÜHL Women’s THE ONE™ SHELL Jacket Review
Hey there, outdoor adventurers! Today, I’m excited to introduce you to the KÜHL Women’s THE ONE™ SHELL Jacket through a detailed gear review. Huge thanks to the amazing team at KÜHL for providing me with this waterproof jacket to put to the test on my adventures. Whether I was snowboarding, hiking, or snowshoeing in the beautiful landscapes of Washington State, this jacket has been by my side through it all, from snowy peaks to lush forests. After thoroughly testing it out, I’m eager to share my insights and adventures with all of you.
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