The delicate and smooth taste of the Wonderland Blend perfectly emanates the stillness and tranquility of the Pacific Northwest mountains in the winter. Brown sugar, black tea, and earthy tasting notes follow you after your morning cup is long gone.
"I’m not going to sugarcoat this for you. It’s a hard trek during winter. We felt breathless as we snowshoed four miles to one of the highest points in Tahoma State Forest. When the trail finally flattened, we were surrounded by 360-degree views. Despite our exhaustion, smiles crept into the corners of our mouths growing broadly until we were gaping at the mountain.” - The Mountaineers
It is no secret that Washington state is home to many of the best hiking and skiing trails in the country. With the magnificence of the cascades, thousands of visitors and locals alike venture into the snowy mountains every year in search of panoramic views and unforgettable memories. Some of these adventure-seekers camp out in tents, but others utilize the various huts that are made available to help them gain protection from the elements. Over the years, mountain travelers have returned with stories of their overnight trips, often recalling incidents that seem unbelievable.
Those familiar with Pacific Northwest history have heard the silly stories of sasquatch; many twisting them into a way to entertain children and the most gullible adults. What many aren’t aware of are the very real people who claim to have come face-to-face with the big-footed legend at the base of Mt. St. Helens. After a too-close interaction with the 7-foot, 400 lb creature that ended with gunfire, Fred Beck and his team of miners retreated to their cabin in the hills. Later that night, they awoke to boulders destroying their hut and could only conclude that the sasquatch had returned for revenge. Barely escaping early the next morning, the terrified men were quick to spread the tale and as the rumors spread, the U.S. Forest Service had no choice but to investigate. Skeptical to believe in the existence of such a creature, rangers J.H. Huffman and William Welch returned to the scene only to conclude that Beck and his team had fabricated the whole incident. Despite the closing of this case many chose to believe this tale and other reports that seemed to align with Fred Beck’s description of the sasquatch continued for years. The location of this incredible event still bears the name Ape Canyon, and stories of the mysterious creature continue to invoke both fear and intrigue in those who choose to pass through the mountains.
It is easy to imagine the mystical feeling that comes with spending a night amidst the complete darkness of the night and the perfect silence of the snow. Those who seek the joy and thrill of an experience like this may hike to Snow Bowl Hut or one of the other huts around Mt. Rainier and discover what other secrets are being kept within the cascades. Built in the 1990s, these huts are 100% volunteer-run, and enable hikers of all ability levels to enjoy their time in the mountains by giving them peace of mind and providing all overnight necessities. Said to be some of Washington’s best kept secrets, The High Hut, Snow Bowl Hut, and The Yurt hold decades of incredible memories and continue to inspire more for all who stop there. Don’t let the unpaved road and steep trek discourage you from the potential adventure of a lifetime; or from possibly seeing the unthinkable.
For the absolute best chance of spotting a Sasquatch, head to Washington state. With a whopping 2,032 sightings and counting, this is the world’s most active region. - Travel Channel
