Welcome to the Good
Grah Life
Check out our favorite places
The Backpackers Gift Guide –– 50 Best Gifts in 2024
Browse posts by topic
Arizona | California | Oregon | Utah | Washington
Arches | Canyonlands | Crater Lake | Mount Rainier | North Cascades | Olympic | Redwoods
Hikes | Backpacking | Hiking Gear | Permits
Search Posts
40 Best Hiking Trails near Bend Oregon
Multiple wilderness areas and national forests full of hiking trails surround Bend, Oregon. You don’t have to wander far from town to find great views of mountains, forests, lakes, and unusual landscapes. With over 150 trails to choose from nearby, we’ve narrowed this blog down to the top 40.
Best Hikes in Moab, Utah (30+ Stunning Trails)
If you’re visiting Moab, hiking should be on the list of must-do's. There is a trail here for everyone, with varying landscapes that include streams, waterfalls, canyons, and the most incredible natural rock arches and formations.
What You Need to Know About Larch Hikes in Washington
In late summer, you’ll begin to hear whispers of the “larch march” among outdoor communities in Washington. This march, also known as larch madness, is any hike that features our beloved larch trees.
2-5 Day Moab Itinerary (Overlanding, Hikes, and More)
Located in southeastern Utah on the Colorado Plateau, Moab is a small town known for its outdoor activities. While it’s home to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, off-roading, rafting, biking, and climbing are just a few popular activities in the surrounding area.
Mount Baker Road Trip (Sights, Hikes, and Activities)
The Mount Baker Scenic Byway SR 542 starts in Bellingham, Washington, and goes up 5,100 feet of elevation ending at Artist Point. It is one of the most stunning highways in Washington – comparable to driving through Mount Rainier National Park. It’s a fantastic alternative, or addition to, visiting the North Cascades National Park, and is an ideal destination for hikers of all abilities.
All You Need to Know About the Goldmyer Hot Springs
Goldmyer Hot Springs was everything we hoped for and more. It’s a natural geothermal hot spring cared for by the Northwest Wilderness Programs, a nonprofit organization established in 1976 to protect this area. The hot springs are so idyllic that soaking there felt like a dream. Move this activity to the top of your Pacific Northwest bucket list!
Best Hikes in the Redwoods
Did you know that redwood trees can get to be taller than 30-floor skyscrapers!? That’s more than 320 feet high, with trunks that can grow more than 27 feet wide. Walking through these 2,000-year-old giants is awe-inspiring. Hike early to beat the crowds and get those beautiful sun rays shining through the trees.
Crater Lake National Park — Everything You Need to Know
Crater Lake is a geological marvel. Not only is it the deepest lake in the United States, but it’s also the cleanest and clearest large body of water in the world. The vibrant color and clarity of the water are like nothing you’ll see anywhere else. Visit to learn about the lake’s mysterious natural phenomena and Native American legends about Mount Mazama forming Crater Lake.
While you’re in the area, you’ll also have the chance to see countless waterfalls, beautiful viewpoints, and rivers. Most people rush through the park in one day, but we recommend staying up to four days if you have the time.
Washington State Backpacking Permits Explained
Permits have never meant to be a barrier to entry, but we know first-hand that they can be confusing and difficult to secure. We can’t help how quickly permits sell out, but we hope this blog clears up details making backpacking more accessible to all.
How to Backpack the Enchantments in Washington
Backpacking in the Enchantments is a highly coveted privilege. It’s full of some of Washington’s best scenery, including alpine lakes, beautiful waterfalls, rugged peaks, and larches. To help preserve the environment, there is a permit lottery to backpack, and the area is regularly patrolled by rangers.
What to Know About Havasupai Falls’ Five Waterfalls
With limited permits and accessibility, seeing the waterfalls at Havasupai Falls is a bucket list item. The waters are a stunning turquoise blue, made even more magnificent by the surrounding red rocks of the Grand Canyon. There are five waterfalls in total, each unique, and a few come with their own challenges.
The Complete Guide to Visiting Havasupai Falls in 2025
Hiking to Havasupai Falls is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You’ll get to trek through the Grand Canyon, swim in turquoise waters, and see five incredible waterfalls. That is if you can get a permit.
25 Stunning Hikes on the Oregon Coast
There are so many beautiful hikes along the Oregon coast. Wander inland and you’ll find towering waterfalls and summits or stick to the coastline for the best seaside views.
1-6 Days in Sedona: a Well Rounded Itinerary
Known for the scenic red rocks surrounding the town, vortexes, incredible hikes, and natural swimming areas, Sedona is the perfect place for any sun lover to vacation.
How to Hike in the Rain
Ready to embrace the rainy season? Say goodbye to crowded trails and fair-weather hikers! Hiking in the rain may take a bit more effort, and often motivation, than in dry weather, but it’s so rewarding.
21 Spooky Hikes in Washington
From ghost towns and historic military forts to Sasquatch and ghost sightings, Washington has plenty of spooky trails to keep you on your toes this fall.
Day Hiking Packing List: Our Favorite Gear
After nearly a decade of hiking, this list has our favorite gear from the must haves to the extra conveniences. It has everything you’ll need for incredible sunrise hikes to rainy days and everything in between.
Olympic National Park: Best Hikes, Itinerary, and Sights
Covering 922,641 acres, the Olympic National Park is so large and diverse! The park has seven distinct ecosystems, including glaciated mountains, rainforest, and the coast. There is something for everyone to enjoy here, and there is so much to see. We recommend staying between two and seven days near the park.
How to Backpack to Stehekin
When we returned from backpacking the Chelan Lakeshore Trail to Stehekin and claimed it was our favorite place we’ve ever been in Washington, it raised eyebrows — it’s a bold statement coming from us!
Mount Rainier National Park Itinerary (From Locals)
At 14,410 feet above sea level, Mount Rainier stands far above the surrounding Cascade Mountains. It’s so distinct that locals refer to it as “the mountain” and have an unofficial motto: “Live like the mountain is out.” We recommend spending between one and five days near the park and suggest erring on the side of more time if you enjoy hiking and scenic drives.
