Mukilteo Beacon - Your Hometown News Source

Whenever I'm in the Pacific Northwest, I try to make time to visit the Oregon coast. I never tire of the area and came to the conclusion years ago that it's truly my happy place.... — Updated 3/16/2023

When it comes to food, I'm a grazer. You know, the kind of person who likes to eat little bites throughout the day, as opposed to an actual meal. I enjoy munching every few hours as... — Updated 2/15/2023

Not everyone can say they've rubbed shoulders with a herd of reindeer Wintertime in the Pacific Northwest offers outdoor adventure galore. Take to the slopes on skis or a... — Updated 1/18/2023

Whidbey Island is a popular destination for Seattle-area residents, as well as for visitors to Washington state. They find this idyllic locale, with its mix of bucolic and coastal l... — Updated 12/22/2022

Once again, I found myself flying through the forest with the greatest of ease. Only this time, I was on the zipline course at Skamania Lodge, a well-known resort in Washington stat... — Updated 11/17/2022

Whenever possible, I seek out encounters with animals, whether it's trekking with llamas in northern New Mexico, riding a camel in Egypt, or lumbering through the jungles of... — Updated 10/26/2022

If you're looking for a unique place to soak up artistic beauty in Seattle, look no further than Chihuly Garden and Glass. This stunning venue, located at the Seattle Center, provid... — Updated 9/28/2022

Stepping off the platform, I shouted, "Forget Tarzan. Me Jane!" And then I whooped with unbridled enthusiasm as I soared among the treetops to the next stand. Though my form was... — Updated 8/24/2022

Kites always seem to evoke a childhood-like joy in people of all ages. These colorful creations soar and dance in the sky and can provide hours of low-cost recreation, whether... — Updated 7/27/2022

"Let's paddle," says our guide Barry in a relaxed tone. We obey, albeit a bit distractedly, as we're busy chatting. Then we hear that telltale roar – the one that signals some... — Updated 7/20/2022

If you stop and consider the outdoor recreation opportunities that exist around the area, it's an impressive list. You can walk, run, cycle and rollerblade along dedicated trails;... — Updated 5/25/2022

Oregon's Tualatin Valley is home to award-winning wineries and craft breweries, scenic wildlife preserves and parks, an array of outdoor recreation activities, world-class golf... — Updated 4/27/2022

I love a view, anytime, anywhere. I make it a point to seek out opportunities to soar above the landscape, whether in a hot air balloon, on a zipline, in a small sightseeing plane... — Updated 2/23/2022

If you're a movie buff, put Astoria, Ore., on your list. This Columbia River port town, where grit meets hip, has often been referred to as "Hollywood North." Though it was "The... — Updated 1/21/2022

Cacti are quirky characters with their prickly, spiny exteriors and odd, irregular shapes. You either like them or you don't. I personally find them beautiful and admirable for... — Updated 12/18/2021

Once upon a time, Woodinville was a sleepy town with probably more horses than people. Over the years, however, this idyllic locale has undergone an eye-popping transformation to... — Updated 11/23/2021

It's hard to wrap your head around the Colorado National Monument. It holds you spellbound as you look out at this famed, rugged landscape of the American West. Towering sandstone... — Updated 10/25/2021

If you're a first-time visitor to the Grand Canyon, you'll most likely go to the South Rim. With its iconic images, large viewing areas and plenty of services, this is the more... — Updated 9/20/2021

It's easy to fall in love with the Rogue Valley. This vibrant Southern Oregon locale has it all. It's a mecca for outdoor recreationists, nirvana for wine enthusiasts, paradise for... — Updated 8/25/2021

If you find yourself in Monterey or Carmel, don't hesitate to add the 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach to your must-see and do list. This scenic loop is one of the most picturesque... — Updated 7/22/2021

Diversity takes center stage at Olympic National Park. Often referred to as "three parks in one," this wonderland boasts three different ecosystems: rugged, glacier-capped peaks,... — Updated 6/17/2021

Nature can be a soothing balm, providing opportunities to rejuvenate body, mind and spirit. During challenging times, escaping to the great outdoors is even more essential to our... — Updated 5/21/2021