Myths of the Pacific Trillium

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

Of Mice and Men—and Douglas-fir Trees

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

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.

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.

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.

Lost Among the Trees

Deep in the Sandy River Delta, Maya Lin’s bird blind connects past and present through the animals found all around us.

Growing Among the Mushrooms

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

American-made Design

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Gordon House is the architect’s only project in Oregon.

What Is the Pacific Northwest?

A blurring of boundaries, personal and political.

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.

The Art of Tea and Conversation

At Tea Zen Teahouse in southeast Portland, Fengxia Liu provides a traditional Chinese tea ceremony steeped in history, culture, and connection.

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.

PNW Hike: Camassia Nature Preserve

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