Washington state is home to breathtaking mountains with stunning views and endless hiking opportunities. We had the opportunity to explore and enjoy the Pacific Northwest while my husband was stationed at Naval Base Kitsap. Just a few months after our daughter was born, we took her on her first military family hike to explore Mount Rainier. We loved it so much that we went back two weeks later to take another Mt. Rainier trip before a Permanent Change of Station (military PCS) the following month. While we were there, we were blown away by colorful wildflowers, awe-inspiring wildlife, remarkable waterfalls, and majestic snow in July!

Nature’s Power to Heal

Being part of a military family can often feel isolating. The world had shut down thanks to a pandemic, and I was caring for a newborn again after many years. I feel like the isolation hit harder with giving birth at the height of COVID. All the social events one associates with having a baby were cancelled, and my village couldn’t support us. I’ve always loved the outdoors and have regularly gone hiking to improve my physical and mental health. That Mt. Rainier hike was just what was needed to cure the baby blues and renew the spirit.

Streaming a documentary about nature can’t compare to up-close and personal views of black bears! The sounds of the impressive waterfalls were instantly relaxing and gorgeous to hike next to. My spouse, our 8-week-old baby, and I decided to drive up the mountain for snowy views from the cozy warmth of our vehicle. At our highest elevation, we even observed a rare Cascade red fox with a silver coat.

This trip was resplendent and just what was needed to de-stress and reset. The memories made were everlasting. The Pacific Northwest leaves a lasting impression, leaving its visitors yearning for more. It was truly one of the most unforgettable family-friendly hikes in Washington state.

America the Beautiful

One of the best perks of military family travel is the free entrance to our national parks. Before we were married, my sailor and I loved to go hiking. Our first time traveling together was hiking to a waterfall at the Shenandoah National Park. During our first military PCS as an active-duty family, we relocated from Virginia to Washington. We planned a slight detour to visit Yellowstone National Park, crossing that destination off our bucket list. We’ve made it a goal to visit at least one national park near each duty station and at least one for each military PCS.

We’ve explored the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the Olympic National Park, the Redwood National Park, Joshua Tree National Park, and the Grand Canyon. Each adventure offered extraordinary views, varied terrain, and exceptional biodiversity, leaving one in awe and amazement. With the military PCS season on the horizon, I’m excited to learn which park we will visit next year.

Know Before You Go

• Plan your military family hike: Check your destination’s “Plan Your Visit” page for vital info on your national park visit. Some entrances and portions of parks close for parts of the year.
• Know your trail: Choose a trail with a difficulty level and round-trip length suitable for all ages and abilities within your party. No one wants to hear “I’m tired” for 10 miles or carry a 5-year-old for that distance.
• Safety first: Share the details! Be sure to let someone know of your military family travel plans, including what trail(s) you will be on in case of emergencies. Pack a first aid kit.
• Stay on the trail: If an emergency should occur, you will be easier to locate on the trail.
• Pets: For the safety of pets (who can become prey), other visitors, wildlife, and the ecosystem, most national parks prohibit pets on trails. Keep them at home or find a nearby kennel. Pets are allowed on scenic drives through the parks.
• Snacks & Water: Pack plenty of water for each hiker; wearable hydration bladders are the best! Water purification tablets are a must for extended family hikes. Nutrient-dense, high-calorie snacks will help keep you satisfied and take up less space.

Get Outdoorsy with the ASYMCA

Frequent deployments, reintegration, and military PCS negatively impact stress levels within families. Research has shown that time spent in nature can bolster cognitive health, improve mood, and mental health. Even just a few minutes in nature can be beneficial. The Armed Services YMCA (ASYMCA) is committed to supporting our heroes and their families in many ways.. Where there are kids

and the ASYMCA, there will be some amazing playgrounds worth checking out! Check out the following opportunities to get outdoorsy with the ASYMCA:

Alaska – Explore Alaskan winters on a kicksled at the Fairbanks branch or participate in the Mother-Son Adventure at the Anchorage and Fairbanks locations for summer fun at Chugach National Forest and Denali National Park, respectively. ·

California – Tucked away in the Cuyamaca Mountains, the Horse of the Sun Ranch of the San Diego ASYMCA offers equestrian adventures, homeschool programs, and ranch days. From first-hand experience, the family ranch days are so much fun and a must-do when stationed in Southern California!

Hampton Roads – Check out the Hearts for Heroes Fishing Trip in Virginia Beach for therapeutic respite on the Chesapeake Bay!

Military Family Giveaway: Heroes in the Great Outdoors

Military families are the unsung heroes behind every service member’s success. Through frequent military PCS moves, long periods of separation, and the emotional challenges of service life, theycontinue to show resilience. Often living on one income, planning a summer camp or a memorable national park visit can feel out of reach.

That’s why the Armed Services YMCA, in partnership with the National Park Service, is celebrating their sacrifice with a special opportunity to reconnect and unwind in the great outdoors.

The Heroes in the Great Outdoors: Military Family Giveaway invites all active duty junior-enlisted U.S. military families (E-6 and below) to share what makes the outdoors meaningful to them. Whether it’s a love for the quiet beauty of a family hike or the awe of a national park visit during military family travel, this is a chance to win big. Submit a family photo and a story — one inspiring family will receive an all-expense paid trip to Grand Teton National Park! Nominate your family or someone you know today.

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