What the Camas Flower Teaches

The Pacific Northwest native wildflower appearing every spring carries thousands of years of ecological and cultural history in its tiny bulb.

The Gathering Place

Located near the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia rivers, the Vancouver Land Bridge merges rivers, land, people, and trade.

In Search of Big Cats

For Gary Koehler, a big-cat expert and retired wildlife researcher from Wenatchee, home means learning to share the land with all of its enigmatic critters.

Myths of the Pacific Trillium

The understory forest dweller and popular PNW native has inspired many tales—tall and otherwise.

Ponder the Trees

Forest bathing is a Japanese concept that boasts mental, physical, and spiritual benefits—as well as a good excuse to return to a childlike curiosity about the world around you.

7 Prettiest Tulips at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival

Highlights from the annual tulip festival held in Woodburn, Oregon.

Hearing The Earth

For Michael Mason, a longtime attorney and lobbyist for Pacific Northwest tribes, home is deeply rooted in the land, history, and songs of this region.

PNW Hike: Memaloose Hills

This dog-friendly hike near Mosier in the Columbia River Gorge is best in the spring, when wildflowers cover the hills.

A Confluence of Peregrinations and Prayers

At Cape Disappointment near the mouth of the Columbia River, Maya Lin’s walkway and boardwalk present juxtaposing journeys of discovery.

PNW Hike: Catherine Creek

Catherine Creek Recreation Area features several hikes that provide sweeping views of the Columbia River Gorge — and wildflowers.

Changing Course

The story circles at Sacajawea Historical State Park hint at all that is, was, and could be lost—or saved—by altering a river’s path.

Song of Stone and Sky

At Chief Timothy Park in far eastern Washington, basalt benches set amid expansive earth blend pasts and possibilities.

Growing Among the Mushrooms

Mushroom foraging with a guide taught me something about chanterelles—and myself.