Washington

The Gathering Place

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

What Is the Pacific Northwest?

A blurring of boundaries, personal and political.

What the Camas Flower Teaches

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

7 Things To Do in Leavenworth this Summer

A Bavarian-style village nestled in Washington's Cascade Mountains, Leavenworth is known for its German fare, Christmas village—and outdoor adventures.

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.

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.

Growing Among the Mushrooms

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

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.

Best PNW Hikes: Catherine Creek

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

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.

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.