Walking off the Turkey

A hallmark of Thanksgiving dinner is over-eating. And that is just the beginning of a holiday season known for its savory meals, appetizer-rich parties and piles of sugary goodies.

Consider forgoing the football games on TV, and take your family outside this long Thanksgiving weekend for a hike. We've come up with ten hikes near population centers all across Washington. Visiting family in Bellingham - we've got a hike for you! Welcoming friends from Seattle to your home in Wenatchee - good choices abound.

Here are some selections to consider for short hikes - most low enough to be snow-free - with links to WTA's Hiking Guide or other sources for more information. Happy Hiking!

Bellingham:  Fragrance Lake - one of many enjoyable hikes along Chuckanut Drive.

Everett:  Spencer Island - easy hiking for the whole family along the boardwalks, just east of town.

Seattle:  Twin Falls - a WTA favorite. The falls should be roaring with all of the rain we've recently had.

Kitsap Peninsula:  Mary E. Theler Wetlands Nature Preserve - delightful tidal wetlands in this privately-owned 135-acre preserve.

Tacoma:  Greenwater Lakes - it's only a gentle 1.5 miles to the first lake, and along the way enjoy the old growth forest.

Olympia:  McLane Creek - an easy walk through wetlands that everyone can enjoy

Vancouver:  Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge - a little known gem, just west of I-5 near La Center. A great choice to stretch the legs to and from Oregon.

Wenatchee:  Horan Natural Area - a lovely loop trail right along the Wenatchee River.

Spokane:  Dishman Hills NRCA - lots of connecting trails provide numerous hiking opportunities in this rich and biologically diverse area near Spokane.

Tri-Cities/Walla Walla:  Twin Sisters Rock - stunning basalt formations and views of the Columbia River. Read the Trip Report for inspiration!