Places

Not too far from Seattle, Steven's pass has several different ski runs and cross-country areas.

Faraid Head is a point in Durness up from Balnakeil Beach that's known for puffin viewing at the right time of year.

Note: as I didn't get out there, unfortunately, the featured photo here is from Angewi on Flickr under a CC license.

Small island is about five miles off the west coast of Whidbey Island. Smith Island is a protected aquatic reserve. boats must keep a certain distance from shore to protect the wildlife there.

Notable species found here are tufted puffins, rhinocerous auklets, rockfish and bull kelp. But you might also see harbor seals and sea lions on shore, cormorants, and glaucous wing gulls.

Turtleback Mountain is a great place to hike and bird watch. The South trail is pedestrian-only. Take the hike up from here to Ship's Peak for a great view -- and great views on the way as well. Be prepared to stop and enjoy.

"This hatchery raises and releases hundreds of thousands of salmon per year," per the WSU website.