Washington is notable for it’s beauty all across the state. With so many different places to explore like forests, waterfalls, mountains, and lakes. It’s no doubt that you can find a breath taking view from just your backyard. Hiking is one of the most popular activities among residents here in Washington State, and taking just one hike will explain to you why. If you are looking into some hikes to do with friends and family this summer, Maple Valley is one of the best places to be as there are tons of hikes of all difficulties within 30 minutes. Sarah Russell, a well rounded hiker, that is also a teacher for the Outdoor Academy class here at Tahoma, wants to help out those who are looking for hikes. Some hikes that are pretty close by to Maple Valley that Russell enjoys are, “Mount Peak in Enumclaw. It’s short and really accessible for a quick morning hike. PooPoo Point is a great hike, it’s in the Issaquah area.” Both of those hikes are probably about a 20 minute drive or less from here in Maple Valley. Mount Peak offers a small structure at the top that you can enjoy a meal with or even some pictures after you have made it to the top. Washington offers hikes for those with all different experience levels, some more difficult hikes include “Mailbox Peak, that’s an intense hike. As well as Mt. Rainier and the North Cascades.” Mt. Rainier offers so many different hiking trails you can take starting from just some ground level paths to those who would want to summit the mountain. During the summer, Mt. Rainier also offers extravagant wildflower fields that will take your breath away as you walk near. If you’re looking for views, and don’t mind some difficulty, “Mailbox Peak on a clear day offers one of the best views in this area, from 360 degrees you can see Mt Rainier, Mt. Baker, and you can see Mt. Saint Helens.” I am sure most people who have taken some steps up above into the mountains can fully agree that this state of Washington offers some pretty rewarding and breath taking views that you would want to experience again and again. This summer, grab some friends, water, and put on your hiking shoes to go explore and experience this beautiful nature around us.