Goodbye Washington (Until We Meet Again)

Travel and the opportunity to explore new areas is one of the best perks of my job. Over the summer I was able to work in Washington state. When my assignment was over, I had 3 weeks off which I utilized to the fullest.

I was somewhat sad to leave the beautiful area (see above) where I had spent the last two summers, but at the same time glad to explore new regions. Between jobs, I had a spectacular road trip traveling one last time (for now) through some of Washington's scenic highlights. The first day I drove over the North Cascades highway stopping to take in the view at Lake Diablo (see below) before continuing on to my campground by the rushing Skagit River.
The lake has a peculiar green color derived from glacial melt water, and the fragrance of pines wafting across its surface should be bottled and sold with a name like "Pure Bliss." Only the reality of needing to set up camp before dark could pull me away. Then I realized I had my headlights to help assist... consequently, the tent was pitched by flashlight.
The next day found me at Mount Rainier National Park (see above). At 14,000+ feet it seems twice as high as all surrounding mountains. Fortunately, it was a gorgeous day with unobstructed views to nearly 100 miles away. Wild flower meadows + vast forests + glacier clad massive peak = compulsive psalm like heavenward utterances.
Then I drove down to Mount St. Helens (see above). Last year when I visited, it had still been dormant. This year the volcano smoked like a large chimney. The destruction it caused when it blew in 1980 is still evident and awe inspiring. Note how desolate it still appears even though this is on the wet (rain forest) side of the Cascades.

That night, I camped along the mighty Columbia River. The next day would find me leaving Washington behind and moving on to Oregon...