Discovering New Adventures in Washington’s North Cascades | Sierra Rec Now

After nearly two decades of Sierra Nevada adventures, my family has officially moved north — to Mount Vernon, Washington. In this week’s episode, I’m reflecting on what it’s like trading Tahoe blue for glacial green, sunny granite trails for fern-covered rainforest slopes, and snowshoe days in Hope Valley for soggy boots in the Mount Baker foothills.

From a hilariously wet Christmas tree hunt in the Mountain Baker Recreation Area to discovering the emerald waters of Diablo Lake and the intense passion Washingtonians have for their public lands — it’s already been a month full of surprises.

Join me as I compare:

• Sierra vs. Pacific Northwest winter recreation

• Snowpack, trail access, and seasonal differences

• New mountain culture in the Cascades and Salish Sea region

• What I really miss about hiking and exploring the Sierra

• Why Mt. Baker and North Cascades National Park are becoming my new backyard

Whether you hike, fish, ski, or just love hearing how outdoor life shapes our stories, this episode is for you.

And don’t worry — Sierra adventures continue. We’re expanding the journey, not replacing it.

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Pacific Northwest Outdoors, Mount Vernon WA, North Cascades, Mt Baker, Sierra Nevada, Christmas Tree Hunting, Outdoor Lifestyle, Hiking Washington, Tahoe to Cascades

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