Waterfalls. There’s something tranquil about the way the water flows down from a hill or a crevice in the side of the mountain. The tumbling of the water into the stream or river at the bottom is satisfying. It fulfills the source of those white noise speakers for sleeping. One of my favorite hikes surrounds a waterfall, the entire path containing the echo of the rushing water in the stream below. It’s so peaceful as during the summer, if you go early enough, the only sounds that you can hear are birds chirping and the water.

I just get happier and happier as summer approaches in pacific northwest (PNW). Every time the sun shines or the breeze blows through my hair, I reminisce and get reminded that hiking season is about to begin. Over the years, my parents and I came across a new family hobby, something that satisfies all our choices when we go outside. For me, it’s the rush of the trail and the view at the top.