Tidepooling in Cannon Beach

Low tides and volunteers offer a chance to learn more about all the life teeming beneath the waves.

What the Camas Flower Teaches

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

Start with Curiosity

For Julie Pham, author of Their War and CEO of CuriosityBased, home is about the people, and being curious is an essential part of understanding them—and yourself.

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.

Of Mice and Men—and Douglas-fir Trees

A legend found in the tree’s cone provides lessons in shelter and community.

7 Prettiest Tulips at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival

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

Along the Water’s Edge

Maya Lin’s Confluence Project traces cultures, history, and ecology across the Columbia River basin in Washington and Oregon. Here’s what it taught me about homeland, heritage, and waterways.

What Is the Pacific Northwest?

A blurring of boundaries, personal and political.

Best PNW Hikes: Catherine Creek

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

Best PNW Hikes: The Thumb via The Knoll

The hike to God’s Thumb winds through a residential neighborhood, a UNESCO Biosphere Region, and a national forest—and offers one of the most stunning views of the Oregon coast.

Best PNW Hikes: Camassia Nature Preserve

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

Best PNW Hikes: Trail of Ten Falls

Silver Falls State Park boasts a popular 7.2-mile loop trail past 10 waterfalls, behind four, and through a lush forested canyon.

The Gathering Place

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