After a long, rainy winter,

the Pacific Northwest is finally expecting some decent weather.

As a Seattle-based firm, we know the importance of savoring the summer months and seizing any day when the sun decides to show itself. We plan to spend our upcoming, good-weather days outdoors at Coughlin Porter Lundeen soccer and softball league games, team golf outings, our annual company picnic, Mariner and Sounders games, and the like.

We also plan to take advantage of all the PNW has to offer, venturing beyond the city for some backpacking adventures and hikes. To help with your planning, we’ve rounded up a few of our team’s favorite hikes.

See you on the trails!

Rattlesnake Ledge

Recommended By: Aaron Fjelstad, P.E., LEED AP, Civil Project Engineer
Distance: 4 miles roundtrip
Area: Snoqualmie, North Bend
Difficulty Level / Elevation Gain: Easy / 1,160 ft.

Why I Love It: Rattlesnake is a quick hike close to Seattle, perfect for an after work adventure. It’s relatively easy, but the payout is big: great views of the lake and surrounding valley from the top. Plus, there’s the added bonus of a post-hike swim!

Tip: Northwest Trail Runs hosts a race (5mi and half marathon here each spring.

WTA Write-up

Chain Lakes Loop

Recommended By: Walt Busch, P.E., Structural Engineer
Distance: 8 miles roundtrip
Area: North Cascades, Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
Difficulty Level / Elevation Gain: Moderate / 1,700 ft.

Why I love it: This is a great intro hike to the Mt. Baker area boasting big views of Shuksan, Baker, and the North Cascades. The drive is a little further from the city center, but that distance eliminates many of the I-90 crowds. The alpine lakes are perfect for swimming and fly fishing.

Tip: Beginning at Bagley Lakes, hike the loop counter-clockwise to get the elevation gain out of the way while your legs are fresh. Take advantage of the many backcountry campsites, and use your sleeping pad to float and relax on the lakes!

WTA Write-up

Bandera Mountain

Recommended By: Laura Grignon, P.E., Civil Senior Project Manager
Distance: 8 miles roundtrip
Area: North side of I-90
Difficulty Level / Elevation Gain:Moderate / 3,400 ft

Why I Love It: Located off of the Ira Spring Trail, this is a great day hike with easy access from the city. It’s perfect for when you want a good workout and fabulous views without driving long distances from Seattle.

Tip: If you’re feeling particularly energetic, continue on to the more remote Mount Defiance, which has even better views, more chances for flowers.

WTA Write-up