Visiting Washington Cascades

The Cascade Mountain range traverses Washington dividing Puget Sounds lush and moist evergreen cities on the west from more arid eastern cities like Yakima and Wenatchee. Mount Baker is the highest peak in the North Cascades. However, Mount Rainier in the central cascades is the tallest in the entire range. Washington's cascades include Mount St. Helens, well-known for its dramatic eruption in 1980. The cascades location close to the Pacific Ocean results in substantial precipitation particularly snowfall. Spring and summer travel is spectacular along the range as melting snow sends water cascading down the creeks and crevices – hence the name Cascades.

Runners can get a jump on summer May 22nd in Mt Vernon. 2010 is the First Annual Have a Heart Run featuring a 10K and 2 mile run. Join this inaugural event and bring the family, the course is safe for all and fairly flat. Skagit County hosts the event which will benefit its community action programs. Delightful in spring, the Best Western College Way Inn or the Best Western Cotton Tree Inn are ideal for travelers. Conveniently located off Interstate 5, you can stay a few days and visit North Cascade National Park before or after the Have a Heart Run.

Plan now for the 2010 Omak Stampede (Rodeo) August 12th through the 15th. A community tradition, this is the summer to enjoy a rodeo with family and friends. The stampede begins with the world famous suicide race where riders race down suicide hill, across the Okanogan River to the rodeo arena. The race celebrates its 75th Anniversary this year. With all the traditional events and entertainment of a rodeo, visitors also enjoy roman riding and trick riding performances.

If you're traveling with a collector, be sure to get the local Stampede Charm Trial Bracelet. Starter bracelets are available at four area trailheads and charms are found at local merchants and shops. Hint: The Best Western Peppertree Inn in Omak is not only a convenient place to stay, the new suitcase charm can be purchased here. Enjoy a nice hike and get to know the area as you search for your favorite charms.

Cashmere, between Wenatchee and Leavenworth, on the eastern slopes of the Cascades, host the Wenatchee River Bluegrass Festival. An entertaining summer event, the 2010 festival is June 18th through the 20th. Catch the top local and regional acoustic bands and performers on stage. Or, bring your instrument for workshops, jams and the band scramble. Great food and beverages will be available at the festival to keep you going. Both the Best Western Icicle Inn in Leavenworth and the Best Western Chieftain Inn in Wenatchee are close-by and convenient. With affordable rates, stay a night or two longer to enjoy summer in the Cascades.