ParentMap Insiders’ Guide 2025 by ParentMap

One City, All Ages: Best Local Attractions to See 15/ Puget Sound Bites With a View 23/ Family Backpacking Adventures in the Northwest

Insiders Guide 2025

The Crab Pot.

Photo by Kathryn Mueller

Some news

A couple of months ago, ParentMap’s longtime copy editor let me know that our annual Insiders Guide would be her final issue. She was taking a break from the exacting world of copyediting to try something new.

Now, I know what you’re thinking — what does a copy editor even do? Glad you asked.

They’re invisible magicians, expert wordsmiths, Strunk and White’s “The Elements of Style” in human form. And our copy editor, Sunny, is one of the best.

For more than 16 years, she has corrected our typos, fixed our mistakes and kept our grammar in check; she’s standardized our style, removed countless Oxford commas, and skillfully reworked thousands of our sentences; she’s unearthed answers to our obscure style questions and offered elegant suggestions for improvement in every article. And if I’ve missed a few of her accomplishments, it’s only because I don’t have Sunny’s knowledgeable eye watching over my copy.

But when you pull back the lens, what she really did was make all of the writers and editors who have come through ParentMap’s doors over the years shine a little brighter. She raised the bar and held us all to the highest standards.

We should all be so lucky to have someone like Sunny in our corner.

Without further ado, I invite you to enjoy our annual Insiders Guide, or as I like to think of it, Sunny’s final bow. The issue is a hodgepodge of quintessential Puget Sound stories starting with writer Tiffany Doerr Guerzon’s article on the coolest attractions around the Sound (p. 6). It’s an ages-and-stages guide to outstanding places families can prioritize play and togetherness. Our waterfront dining guide is a tagteam effort (p. 15). No matter where you want to eat along the I-5 corridor, you’ll find a fantastic recommendation for families in this article. Finally, outdoor enthusiast, avid hiker and mom of three, Kathryn Mueller, tackles the topic of backpacking with kids (p. 22). Not only does she share tips from her own recent experience (her family’s first adventure was last month!), she’s peppered in advice from an REI camping specialist (and local dad) that will ensure a successful trip.

— Allison Sutcliffe, managing editor

PUBLISHER

Alayne Sulkin

EDITORIAL

MANAGING EDITOR

Allison Sutcliffe

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Kari Hanson

FAMILY FUN EDITOR

Meredith Charaba

CALENDAR EDITOR

Julie Dodobara

COPY EDITOR

Sunny Parsons

CONTRIBUTORS

Carly Burkhman, Tiffany Doerr Guerzon, Kate Missine, Kathryn Mueller

DIGITAL MARKETING

MARKETING DIRECTOR

Lindsey Carter

MARKETING DESIGN SPECIALIST

Angela Goodwin

EMAIL MARKETING SPECIALIST

Devon Hammer

SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST

Brooke Collins

ADVERTISING SALES + PARTNERSHIPS

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY

PARTNERSHIPS + ADVERTISING SALES

Jessica Collet

SENIOR ADVERTISING AND PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER

Ida Wicklund

EVENTS + COMMUNITY

PARTNERSHIPS SPECIALIST

Brenna McCown

ADVERTISING CLIENT SERVICES MANAGER

Mallory Dehbod

DIGITAL ADVERTISING + MARKETING SPECIALIST

Taryn Weiner

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Tamryn Nell

ART + PRODUCTION

SENIOR DESIGNER

Amy Chinn

ADMINISTRATION

BUSINESS MANAGER

Carolyn Brendel

OPERATIONS ASSISTANT

Erika Widjaja

PARENTMAP EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Benjamin Danielson, M.D. CLINICAL PROFESSOR, UW SCHOOL OF MEDICINE PRACTICING PHYSICIAN, UW MEDICINE

Joan Duffell

RETIRED EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, COMMITTEE FOR CHILDREN

John Gottman, Ph.D. THE GOTTMAN INSTITUTE

PROFESSOR EMERITUS, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON

Laura Kastner, Ph.D.

PSYCHIATRY + BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES, UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON

Bea Kelleigh

VICE PRESIDENT, DOVETAILING, LLC

Yaffa Maritz, M.A.

FOUNDER, LISTENING MOTHERS + COMMUNITY OF MINDFUL PARENTING

Daniel J. Siegel, M.D.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MINDSIGHT INSTITUTE

What is your family’s favorite summer activity? boating

hanging out at the pool

Whidbey Island beach day

cabin time in Port Townsend

CONTACT

INFORMATION

Advertising information 206-709-9026 or advertising@parentmap.com Fax 206-709-9031

Calendar submissions calendar@parentmap.com

Editorial submissions editor@parentmap.com

Distribution distribution@parentmap.com

Subscriptions subscriptions@parentmap.com

Administration 206-709-9026, parentmap.com

Subscription rates 1 year: $12

INSIDERS GUIDE 2025

Star Attractions

Puget Sound–area spots that are sure to get a kid’s attention

By Tiffany Doerr Guerzon

We live in a beautiful place and are surrounded by world-class attractions that draw families from around the globe. Even if you’ve lived here for ages, it is fun to play tourist in your own town and introduce your kids to the attractions you loved growing up (some of them, anyway). No matter what the season or the age of your kids, you can count on keeping them entertained at

these standout spots around the Puget Sound region.

Best bets for babies and toddlers

Bellevue Botanical Garden

This free garden is a breath of fresh air for all ages. It is very walkable, even for toddlers, but the paths are also strollerfriendly. There is much to see in the various sections of the garden, all of

Attractions

which feature Pacific Northwest plants and trees. Walk across a 150-foot suspension bridge, check out interactive sculptures, and watch the ducks.

Hiram M. Chittenden Locks

The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks (locally known as the Ballard Locks) is a mustsee for families. Not only is it free, but there is something for everyone. Watch boats enter the locks (20 feet above

sea level) and see the water rise or fall to the same level as the section of canal that the vessels are entering; then watch as the lock gates open and the boats continue on their cruise. Take a free guided tour, then peer through windows in the Salmon Viewing Center to spot salmon swimming up the fish ladder. Top off your visit by having a picnic or getting the wiggles out in the 7 acres of botanical gardens.

Lake Wilderness Arboretum

This natural space in Maple Valley is located just off the Cedar River Trail and near Lake Wilderness. There is plenty to explore, so bring your walking shoes. Check out the Tribal Life Trail, with its examples of plants used by Native tribes as medicine and clothing; find the two Little Free Libraries; stroll through the Legacy Garden; and keep a sharp eye out for painted rocks — this is a hot spot for finding rocks. The StoryWalk is another fun trail, as you walk and read a children’s book, its pages posted along the way. A large grass area offers space to picnic or turn a cartwheel. Check the website for fun games to play as you explore. If

your family enjoys disc golf, Gaffney’s Grove Disc Golf course is right next to the arboretum. It’s free to play, but bring your own discs.

Gas Works Park

This unique park is built on the site of an old gasification plant. Kids love the big hill (colloquially known as “Kite Hill”) with its giant sundial and everpresent breeze for kite flying. Parents will love the views of Lake Union and the Seattle skyline, as well as the relaxed vibe. The parts of the old plant that are still standing give the park an industrial, steampunk feel. There always seems to be a yoga class or other gathering in progress, along with people jogging and picnicking. A circus group called Levity Arts holds a free “acro jam” once a month in the summer, when you can see some amazing circus acts accompanied by a DJ. Remember that swimming and wading is prohibited because of contaminants in the water. And don’t forget your kite!

Dune Peninsula at Point Defiance Park

The area that inspired the book “Dune” is a waterfront park with lots to offer. There are stairs and slides (known as the chutes and ladders) that go from the Wilson Bay Bridge to the ferry landing, and lots of paved paths and open areas for play and picnics. Enjoy water views and the nods to “Dune,” such as metal sculptures of “sandtrouts” emerging from the soil, just like the book’s fictional beasts, and quotes from the book along the paths. Younger kids will especially love the Chutes and Ladders–like slides.

Bainbridge Island ferry ride

My family loves a good ferry ride. There is something relaxing about being out on the water and feeling the salt spray on my face. One time, we even saw a seal swimming alongside us! You can walk onto the Seattle-to-Bainbridge Island ferry and take a beautiful 30-minute ride. When you get to

Bellevue Botanical Garden. Photo by Devon Hammer

continued from page 7

Bainbridge Island, you can stroll around the town of Winslow (walking distance from the ferry dock) or turn around and take the ferry back. Kids younger than 18 are free, and the current adult walk-on ticket price is $10.25. Be sure to visit the concessions for a snack and look in the water as you ride. Some lucky people have even seen orcas.

Picks for preschoolers and grade-school-age kids

Cougar Mountain Zoo

This small zoo in Issaquah focuses on animal conservation and education. Not only does it have lemurs and wallabies, but its smaller footprint makes it perfect for little legs and shorter attention spans. Animal talks are offered frequently throughout the day from Wednesday through Sunday, and reviewers say plenty of staff and docents are available to answer questions. Kids will enjoy feeding some of the animals with purchased animal snacks, and adults will enjoy the views from the zoo and the relaxed atmosphere. You can also book “close encounter” experiences with some of the animals.

Pacific Science Center

The Pacific Science Center is chock-full of handson activities to entice kids of any age. For toddlers, there is an enclosed play area just for them, plus a fun touch tank for checking out marine life. Older kids will love the animatronic dinosaurs and bug exhibits, and you might even talk a teen into a planetarium show or a movie at the IMAX

Bainbridge Isand ferry

courtesy of kidsquestmuseum.org

Theater. For my family, the Tropical Butterfly House is always the showstopper! Wander in a warm, humid room full of tropical plants and watch the butterflies flutter and feed on fruit up close. Exhibits change over time, but the newest is the “Brainy Bodies” exhibit, presented in both English and Spanish.

Snoqualmie Falls

This 270-foot waterfall attracts 1.5 million visitors a year, and for good reason; it is a breathtaking sight. When you hear the roar of the falls and feel the rising mist on your face, you can understand why the Snoqualmie Tribe considers these falls sacred. The upper observation deck (best for photo ops) is only 200 feet from the parking lot, paved and ADA accessible, making this a great waterfall to see if you don’t want to hike. If you are able, taking the path to the bottom of the falls is highly recommended; it is worth seeing the falls from both vantage points. Check out the gift shop and bring a picnic to eat at one of the tables in the 2-acre park. Observation decks are free and open year-round.

Note: Although the hike down and back up is paved, it is very steep, so keep that in mind if you have mobility issues or younger kids. You can park in the lower lot if getting back up the hill is a concern.

KidsQuest Children’s Museum

This gem is tucked away in downtown Bellevue and is meant for kids ages 0–10 and their caregivers.

Photo

continued from page 9

With 25 exhibits, it is jam-packed with interactive activities, from climbing and jumping to making art and tinkering. Its relatively small size (compared to Seattle Children’s Museum) makes it easier to navigate and keep an eye on siblings. KidsQuest also offers lots of classes and programs throughout the year. There is even an outside space for building and playing music.

Northwest Trek

For the price of admission, you can walk through the park to see the animals or hop aboard a tram to rest little legs while gazing at the animals — such as moose, elk, bison, mountain goats and more — in the 435-acre free-roaming area. The park is also home to bears, wolves, birds and reptiles. The Cheney Discovery Center houses the smallest resident creatures (amphibians, reptiles, gastropods!), and kids can explore and ask questions of the docents there. Top off your visit by playing on the Kids’ Trek playground. Great for any animal- or nature-loving kids.

Kandle Pool

On hot days, cool off in the pool at Kandle Park. The pool is only 5 feet deep and offers a gradual beach-like entry. However, it’s a wild and fun wave pool during most of the open hours. There is a separate tot pool and spray park area for younger kids. If you prefer to stay dry, there is also a fun playground and a skate park for older kids.

Plan to bring some type of sunshade or sun tent if you plan to stay a while, because the space is open, without much shade.

Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park

This park offers activities both on land and water along its 57 acres of south-

east Lake Washington shoreline. There is a sandy beach for swimming that is staffed seasonally with lifeguards, a playground, lots of walkways and plenty of animal sightings — from turtles to ducks, geese and eagles. Kidd Valley and Ivar’s are both great places to get lunch, and there are picnic tables and plenty of grass, so families can spread out and eat their summer feast.

Where to bring older kids and tweens

Pike Place Market

Summer is a great time to visit Pike Place Market, but it can get crowded with tourists. Going earlier in the morning or on a weekday will be quieter. Once you get a view of the iconic Market sign, pet Rachel the Pig

Kandle Pool. Photo courtesy of parkstacoma.gov

and slip some change into her piggy bank. These donations support local causes, including Market vendors who need financial help when sick or injured. Pause by the fish stand right near the entrance and watch the fish fly. Next, shop! Wander around to see the beautiful flowers, artisan crafts and my kids’ fave — the food samples. Don’t forget to check out the downstairs for funky stores. After you’ve wandered, be sure to stop by Lower Post Alley to see the Gum Wall and add to it or take a selfie.

Seattle Center

The Artists at Play playground, located in the plaza between the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) and Seattle Center Armory, is a unique and fun playground for all ages. Once the kids work up a sweat, head over to the International Fountain to play in the biggest free spray park in town. Pick

up snacks at one of the many outdoor food vendors and lounge on the lawn around the fountain while you dry off. There are almost always street musicians playing throughout the center, making for a great atmosphere. You can also go into the Armory and get a bite in the food court or catch one of the monthly Festál cultural events.

Space Needle

A clear summer day is perfect for a Space Needle visit. And if you haven’t been since 2014, you are in for a treat. Renovations have made the experience more thrilling than just a beautiful view. Kids will love the 43-second trip up the elevator to the top observation deck. Once you’ve arrived, you can go outside to see the panoramic views with tilted glass walls and glass benches called Skyrisers, which allow the brave to lean back and take in the view. (Or you can stay inside, where

there’s still plenty to see.) The next level features a rotating glass floor for views from 500 feet up. Then, check out the Oculus, a 19- by 11-foot piece of glass at the base of the stairs. Be sure to scan your tickets for pictures, which you can get on the website later. The tickets are pricey, so check the website for the day’s weather forecast before booking; you won’t see much through fog.

Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

With its year-round 15 percent discount for Washington state residents, this museum is well worth a visit. From the iconic guitar gallery to the many changing exhibits, you can easily spend a whole day here. Tweens and teens will love the exhibits, which currently include “Scared to Death: The Thrill of Horror Films,” “Asian Comics: Evolution of an Art Form,” “Indie Game Revolution,” “Fantasy Worlds of Myth

W here healthier futures begin

Bothell • Bridle Trails • Factoria • Issaquah Highlands Redmond • Redmond Ridge • Sammamish • Totem Lake (425) 827-4600 | AllegroPediatrics.com

STAR ATTRACTIONS

continued from page 11 and Magic” and others. Kids in elementary school and higher will love recording their own music, being a DJ, sound mixing, and shredding on guitars in the soundproof rooms of the Sound Lab.

The Museum of Flight

This museum highlights all types of aircraft, from planes to spaceships, with artifacts and interactive exhibits. Observe how aircraft have evolved over time, take an immersive 3D tour of the inside of an aircraft, take a ride on a flight simulator or catch a movie. (“Space: The New Frontier,” narrated by Chris Pine, is currently showing.)

Although much of the museum appeals to older kids, younger kids can enjoy the Kids Flight Zone, where they can pretend to pilot a plane, color on coloring pages and learn how engines work. Younger kids can push plush planes on a soft floor mural. Plus, admission for kids younger than 4 is free, as is parking.

Burke Museum

The Burke Museum is a must for dino-loving kids. The Burke’s goal is to turn the museum inside out, with 60 percent of the museum open and available for the public to see. With exhibits dedicated to archeology, arts and culture, and paleontology, there is something to interest everyone. Not only can you see a T. rex skull and many other fossils, but there are 12 labs with glass windows through which visitors can watch scientists work. There are plenty of interactive activities for kids, and the Native-owned Off the Rez Café offers great food, including Indian tacos. ■

Tiffany Doerr Guerzon is a freelance writer and the thrifty mom of three children. She is the author of “Save Money on Groceries Without Losing Your Mind: 15 Strategies Anyone Can Use.”

Burke Museum. Photo courtesy of burkemuseum.org

Incredible Waterfront Restaurants in Seattle, the Eastside, Tacoma and the South Sound

Soak up the summer sun at these local spots that offer waterfront dining for families

By Carly Brukhman and Kate Missine

The sun is shining, you’ve spent a full day outside with the littles, and now it’s time to eat. Lucky for us, there is no shortage of fabulous local dining options right at the water’s edge. And while some of the swankier venues are best saved for a date night, there are lots of laid-back options to choose from, complete with kids menus and wiggle room.

From the freshest seafood to comfort

diner classics, these kid-tested waterfront dining destinations are great for the whole family.

Seattle and the Eastside Ivar’s Salmon House

This beloved restaurant (one of three waterfront locations) has become a Seattle landmark for good reason. Designed by a local architect, the cedar-lined Salmon House is set right on the edge of Lake Union. It was

Little Water Cantina. Photo courtesy of littlewatercantina.com

The Crab Pot. Photo courtesy of thecrabpotbellevue.com

Boathouse 19 Bar & Grill. Photo courtesy of theboathouseonnorthbay.com

INCREDIBLE WATERFRONT RESTAURANTS

continued from page 15

designed to look like a Northwest Native American longhouse, complete with a traditional open-pit barbecue.

Look out on the sweeping views of the lake and city skyline through the wall-to-wall windows and take in the cool Native art and historical photos decking out the interior. Its legendary clam chowder is a must for starting the meal.

Location: 401 N.E. Northlake Way, Seattle

Little Water Cantina

This homey family-owned spot in Seattle’s Eastlake neighborhood will make you feel like you’ve just landed south of the border. Putting a slight Pacific Northwest twist on authentic Mexican cooking, this place is where you want to go when you’re in the mood for juicy, heaping plates of tacos (try the wild boar if you’re feeling brave), loaded nachos and — for the adults — top-notch margaritas (try the Picante with a kick of serrano). A huge patio, twinkling with string lights, is enclosed and heated when temps drop, so you can gaze out on Lake Union all year around.

Location: 2865 Eastlake Ave. E., Seattle

The Crab Pot

Let’s face it, most meals with young ones are spent trying not to make a huge mess. But what if the mess was actually the point? That’s right, if you want to embrace the chaos, head on over to The Crab Pot, with waterfront locations in Seattle’s Miner Landing; and in Bellevue, where the restaurant floats over a small local lake. The highlight? A massive seafood feast dumped from giant steaming buckets right on the table in front

Little Water Cantina. Photo courtesy of littlewatercantina.com

INCREDIBLE WATERFRONT RESTAURANTS

Kids Co., where kids grow!

Offering year-round, play-based culturally inclusive *preschool for children ages 3-5 years’ old, plus school-age after school and school break care, and summer day camps for children ages 5-12 years’ old.

continued from page 16

of you. Roll up your sleeves, tie on a bib and dig into piles of crab, clams, shrimp, corn and more. Seattle location: 1301 Alaskan Way, Pier 57, Seattle Bellevue location: 2 Lake Bellevue Dr., Bellevue

Marination Ma Kai

*Graham Hill location only

Accepts subsidies and tuition assistance is available.

Bright orange umbrellas and aqua-blue tables signal the sunny waterside locale and bright flavors you can expect at this fun West Seattle eatery. Originally started as a food truck, Marination is now available at four different locations, offering a unique fusion of Hawaiian-Korean cuisine to the Pacific Northwest. Marination Ma Kai, just off Alki Beach, is our pick for quick counter service to refuel after a beachfront walk. Savor your meal on the cheery patio as you gaze out on the water. Wash it all down with a Hawaiian fruit drink or a tropical cocktail for the grown-ups. (Psst: Stop by on a Monday for the all-day happy hour!)

Location: 1660 Harbor Ave. S.W., Seattle

BeachHouse Bar + Grill

It’s not often that you find the perfect summer trifecta: a swimming beach, a great playground and a good spot to grab a bite, all within a few steps of one another. But Kirkland’s Houghton Beach does indeed have it all! Take a dip in the lake or play a game of volleyball on the sandy beach, sunbathe while the kids explore the awesome pirate-meets-jungle play structure steps from the water, and finish up with lunch or dinner at the BeachHouse, a chill spot that serves fresh twists on bar and grill fare along with gorgeous sunsets.

Location: 6023 Lake Washington Blvd. N.E., Kirkland

Tacoma and South Sound

Anthony’s at Point Defiance

When my family can’t get on the ferry, the next best thing is parking ourselves somewhere to get close-up views while we stay in town. Perched right on the sound, near the Point Defiance ferry terminal, is Anthony’s, a mainstay for classic Northwest fare as well as great water views.

On a recent visit, the waitstaff was ready for families with booster seats, high chairs, kids cups and menus with crayons. This made our impromptu trip (sans activity bag) totally doable. We snagged a booth in the back corner, but all tables appeared to be set up to optimize for views. There is

an outdoor patio, but no umbrellas for shade, so bring sunscreen if you plan to eat outside. As a bonus, you can walk to Anthony’s from Owen Beach. Copy our itinerary by playing in the water in the morning, then strolling over for lunch.

Location: 5910 N. Waterfront Dr., Tacoma

Duke’s Seafood

There is no shortage of restaurants along Ruston Way, but lots of them need to be reserved for a parents’ day out. Luckily, Duke’s delivers with family-friendly vibes and sweeping views of Commencement Bay. We love to hitch the bikes up to the trailer and then ride them on the path along the bay. Afterward, we grab seats on Duke’s spacious outdoor patio. High chairs and crayons are available, and the kids menu has more than your standard three options. If, like us, you need some playtime after the meal, the playground at Old Town Park is just up the hill.

Location: 3327 Ruston Way, Tacoma

Boathouse 19 Bar & Grill

Tucked away in the Tacoma Narrows Marina, Boathouse 19 is a casual spot for a family meal. We enjoy taking in views of the Narrows Bridge, and the kids love talking about all the different boats they can see up close. High chairs and

boosters are available, but somehow both kids ended up on my lap — you win some, you lose some. Titlow Park is nearby, so there’s easy access to its playground and beach before or after your visit.

Location: 9001 S. 19th St., Tacoma

Netshed No.9

Outdoor dining at Netshed No.9 is open year-round, but it’s especially nice in the summer. You can roll straight from

Netshed No.9. Photo courtesy of netshed9.com

INCREDIBLE WATERFRONT RESTAURANTS

Color your summer

continued from page 19 its ramp down to the deck with a stroller, so you don’t even need to make a pit stop to unload. With Netshed situated between two docks, we feel like we’re on vacation, sipping coffee while boats putter along in the distance. This is primarily a brunch and lunch spot, but it has special evening hours on Fridays and Saturdays until Labor Day, so take advantage of sunset dining while you can!

Location: 3313 Harborview Dr., Gig Harbor

Hama Hama Oyster Saloon

If you’re ready for an adventure that’s farther afield, try the Hama Hama Oyster Saloon, an incredible waterfront dining experience on Hood Canal. Because this place is open Friday–Sunday only, some advanced planning is recommended for this excursion. Reservations open on Monday at 9 a.m. for the upcoming weekend, and if you can secure a slot, you’ll be rewarded with two dozen oysters and a picnic table under a wooden A-frame. You can risk it as a walk-in, but we haven’t been brave enough to make the drive without a guarantee. There’s no indoor option, so come prepared to embrace nature. But that’s actually a bonus, since the whole family feels better when the kids can use outdoor voices.

Location: 35846 N. U.S. Highway 101, Suite B, Lilliwaup ■

Kate Missine is a lifestyle writer, food lover and a girly girl raising two little boys. She lived up and down the West Coast before settling in beautiful Sammamish with her family.

Carly Brukhman is a mom of two toddlers who found her way to Washington by way of New York City. She supports local kids as a pediatric speech-language pathologist in Tacoma.

Hama Hama Oyster Saloon. Photo courtesy of hamahamaoysters.com

AtMioposto,webelievepizzabringspeople together—fordatenightsandbeyond.

Whetheryou'regatheringthefamilyforanearly dinner,celebratingyourlittleone'sbigwin, catchingupwithfriendsoverhappyhour,or enjoyingaromanticevening,ourtablesare readyforalloflife'smoments.

family-ownedinseattleandmercerisland

Mt.Baker•Ravenna•Admiral•MercerIsland NEWEastlakelocationopeningmid-summer2025!

miopostopizza.com|@mioposto notjustdatenight

Play with PURPOSE

Keep learning alive this summer.

When school’s out, visit KidsQuest in Bellevue for hands-on discovery. Open every day in the summer!

Explore over 25 innovative exhibits, including a real semi-truck, a 2.5-story climber, and playful outdoor spaces.

• Water Week: JUL 21-25

• Mud Week: AUG 25-29

• Art & Science Carts: Free & discounted tickets available

& EASTSIDE LOCATIONS FOR AGES 6 - 18 DAY, OVERNIGHT EXPEDITIONS and

The sweetest memories are made far away from any screen. With 40 years of experience, Wilderness Awareness School offers innovative avenues to connection. Games, skills, storytelling, and activities facilitated by highly trained mentors offer a new way to experience the natural world.

A Beginner’s Guide to Backpacking With Kids

Tips from local experts — where to go, what to pack and much more

Story and photos by Kathryn Mueller

When I first moved to Washington state, I was awestruck by the Pacific Northwest. Towering mountain peaks, meandering trails, lush forests and pristine alpine lakes ignited a sense of wanderlust. I couldn’t explore enough.

When I had kids, our adventures didn’t stop; they just looked a little different. With the littles in tow, we trekked around the state in search of wondrous trails. From Mount Rainier’s sprawling meadows to the rugged, mountainous

terrain of the North Cascades, we have been to some incredible places.

Now that hiking has become a mainstay of our family’s weekend plans, we have decided to take the next step. We are gearing up (figuratively and literally) to set out on our first backpacking trip, a fully immersive experience during which we will hike to a campsite tucked into the wilderness and sleep beneath the stars.

But then, when I started to think about

where we should go, what we should pack and best practices for backpacking with kids, I came up short. So I sat down with a few local backpacking experts to get their top tips and tricks and am sharing their collective wisdom here.

Start off on the right foot

Andrew Koehn is a camping specialist at REI. He’s also an Eagle Scout and leads his child’s Boy Scout troop den. He grew up hiking and backpacking with his family and now enjoys adventuring with his kids. He says one of the most important things to remember as you begin to backpack is simply to have fun.

“Make sure you have a good time,” he advises. “Watch the weather but also pay attention to attitudes. If it’s not fun, it’s okay to call it. The whole point is to go out and have a good experience.”

When you first begin backpacking as a family, Koehn recommends picking locations that are close to home and aren’t too strenuous, especially for little wanderers.

“When you’re just getting your kids out for the first time, you want to be able to go back to the car,” he says.

If you’re 8 miles out into the wilderness when things take a turn for the worse, it’s going to be difficult to bail out, so

BACKPACKING WITH KIDS

continued from page 23

Koehn suggests keeping trips to a distance of around 3 miles for beginners.

“You’re giving your children exposure early on, and that will make them want to come back,” he continues.

Though Koehn’s next comment seems to contradict that point, he says it’s important to recognize that not every single moment is going to be fun. You are, in fact, carrying a pack on your back and hiking into the forest. Backpacking can be hard at times, but difficult things are often worth doing.

“It’s okay to not like part of a trail,” says Koehn. But positive reinforcement is a great way to keep kids excited about what’s ahead.

“Around this next corner or after this ridge, it’s going to be super awesome,” he says, offering a sample pep talk. Looking forward to those things can help.

Plan for the best, prepare for the worst

The Pacific Northwest has incredible backpacking options for families, but there are factors to consider before choosing a location. Many highelevation campsites won’t be accessible until late summer, so for early in the season, pick a backpacking destination at lower elevation (unless you want to camp on snow).

Dreaming about camping by an alpine lake?

Remember that snow tends to hang around until July in some areas. Check weather reports. Depending on the weather, you’ll need specific gear. Lastly, read recent trip reports from other hikers and backpackers about conditions they’ve

encountered so that you can pack accordingly.

Robyn Denson loves backpacking, and it’s a passion she passed along to her two kids. They first started backpacking as a family when her kids were in elementary school, and she’s picked up a few tricks over the years.

Denson and Koehn both advise backpackers to check the Washington Trail Association (WTA) website before leaving for a trip.

“When planning your trip, look at the recent trip reviews for that particular hike,” says Denson. “You’ll learn things like whether it is super buggy, or if there is still snow or if the water source is drying up.”

What to pack

Whether you’re hiking or backpacking, the Ten Essentials, developed by The Mountaineers, are just that — essential. They include:

1. Navigation, such as a map, compass or GPS device

2. Headlamp (extra batteries are important, too)

3. Sun protection

4. First aid

5. Knife

6. Fire (lighter or stovetop)

7. Shelter

8. Extra food

9. Extra water

10. Extra clothes

For backpacking, you’ll also want a light-weight tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad.

When backpacking, a bear canister to keep curious forest animals away is also recommended. Be sure to put food and anything that has an odor in the bear canister. Koehn recommends placing the canister at least 100 feet away from your campsite before you lay down for the night.

BACKPACKING WITH KIDS

continued from page 25

“Look where you put the canister,” he says. “If you look at it and think to yourself, ‘If that were a bear, would I be comfortable being this far away?’ If the answer is no, move it further from camp.”

Denson says packing good food is a great idea as well. Again, fun is the goal, and what is more fun than enjoying delicious food in the woods? She says her favorite treats are Oreos and s’mores. Denson also recommends packing snacks for the hike. A good way to keep little feet moving forward while you’re hiking to your destination is to give kids treats along the way.

While Denson’s pack always contains the Ten Essentials, there are also a couple of items she splurges on. Families should also consider packing these little luxuries:

• Solar-powered lantern to put in the tent

• Lightweight camping chair

• Jetboil or similar system for cooking hot meals

Don’t forget entertainment. Playing cards, fishing rods, games and walkie-talkies are a few items that can add some fun to your trip.

Koehn and Denson agree that the challenge is finding a balance when packing. Remember, what you pack goes on your back.

Koehn says when he’s backpacking with his kids, they usually carry their sleeping bags and sleeping pads in their packs along with food. The good thing about letting kids carry food is that the weight will get lighter as they snack along the trail. And having them carry backpacks gives them a sense of responsibility.

Beginner backpacking destinations

There are many great backpacking locations around the Pacific Northwest, but here are a few that stand above the rest as good beginner options:

Ancient Lakes

Located in eastern Washington, the Lower Lake Trail at Ancient Lakes is an easy hike with minimal

elevation gain. The scenery is breathtaking, with sweeping desert views, waterfalls and lakes that dot the barren landscape. There are plenty of campsites available, and it’s a good location for an early spring backpacking trip. The weather isn’t hot yet, and hopefully, the rattlesnakes will not be out and about. A Discover Pass is required at this location.

Distance: Less than 5 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain (less than 500 feet)

Insider tip: Pack extra water. You can’t drink from the lakes, even with a filter, so plan accordingly. It’ll mean more weight to carry, but there isn’t water available near the campsites.

Snow Lake

Snow Lake is a moderate trail for kids, but it’s close to Seattle. Located near Snoqualmie Pass, it’s an accessible and popular hike. Only about an hour’s drive from the city, Snow Lake is busy for good reason, both for hikers and campers alike. It’s a more strenuous option for kids, but getting to the lake will make the effort worthwhile. Enjoy beautiful mountain views, a pristine, crystal clear lake and established campsites. A Northwest Forest Pass is required. Distance: 7.2 miles round trip, with 1,800 feet of elevation gain Parking: Available at the trailhead

Another great option for backpacking near Seattle is Barclay Lake. This short and easy hike has a big payoff. Trek only 2.2 miles through beautiful forests and you’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous lake, and with Baring Mountain looming imposingly just above. It’s a breathtaking sight. Campsites are located around the lake. There are plenty of photo opportunities at the lake, so pack your camera. A Northwest Forest Pass is

At Primrose Schools® Summer Adventure Club, your child will discover new things every day—and they’ll have a great time doing it. They’ll explore hands-on activities—like sports, robotics and more—that encourage them to think with creativity, compassion and resourcefulness. School may be out for the summer, but learning is still in.

Where learning meets fun.

Barclay Lake

Where the world is your classroom

BACKPACKING WITH KIDS

continued from page 27

required.

Distance: 4.4 miles round trip with about 500 feet of elevation gain

Mirror Lake

Mirror and Cottonwood lakes are aptly named. Mirror Lake is nestled in a basin surrounded by mountains, offering beautiful reflective views on the water’s surface. The hike to the lake is only

about 1.2 miles. It’s an easy out-and-back trail with very little elevation gain. It’s great for little hikers. There are campsites along the lake’s edge, but they do go quickly, so arrive early. A Northwest Forest Pass is required.

Distance: 2.4 miles round trip with about 650 feet of elevation gain

Insider tip: Be aware that the road up to the trailhead can be a bit bumpy. I recommend checking conditions by reading trip reports before heading up.

Rialto Beach

The Olympic Peninsula offers incredible camping right on the beach. Although you need a permit to camp here, you can obtain one by going to recreation.gov and booking a spot at the location you want. Iconic sweeping ocean views, tide pools, sandy beaches and rock formations that jut up from the churning depths are reasons to make a trip here. It’s great for kids because there is so much to see and do — no need to provide entertainment. Search for shells, walk along the sandy shores and build sandcastles.

Insider tip: Fires are permitted in established fire rings. Tides can be dangerous. Camp far from the beach and ensure your campsite is higher than the high tide line.

Finding success on your first time out Koehn says backpacking with his kids has been magical.

“You get to see everything through a new lens, as if you’re seeing it for the first time. It makes it feel new again,” he says.

He encourages families that are interested in backpacking to start slowly and notes there will

be some trial and error. After every trip, Koehn says, his family looks back and takes inventory. What worked well? Is there something they wish they had done and hadn’t done?

“I’d love to save people some pain points,” says Koehn. “I want people to feel good about backpacking right off the bat. It’s one of the reasons I work at REI.”

Denson and Koehn say backpacking can also be more fun with friends, so invite others to come along.

They also recommend practicing before heading outdoors with all your gear. Camp in the backyard to get the lay of the land before heading to the backcountry.

“I think practicing in the yard is a great idea. You might discover things you need — or as important, things you don’t need,” says Denson. ■

Kathryn Mueller is a mom of three, a transplant who fell in love with the splendor of Washington and now calls Shoreline home. She enjoys exploring Pacific Northwest trails with her children and toddling around the city for good eats and adventures.