Hiking Fragrance Lake // SBL 2k17

Hey there friends,

If you've read my summer bucket list post (which you obvisouly should go do if you haven't), then you'd know my number 1 thing was to hike Fragrance Lake. A couple day ago, my dear friend Chloe and I did just that. After a six mile roundtrip hike full of switchbacks, sweat, and satisfying views, I had completed my first activity on my to do list, and then ate a well deserved burger. Of course, did you really go on a hike if you didn't take photos? Chloe and I say no, so here are a few of my favorites.

After 1000 feet in elevation in a little over 2.5 miles, we made it to the top where there laid a beautiful lake. It was just another mile of a relatively flat path around the lake, which of course had many trails down to the water where we waded and got attacked by the mosquitos. Note to self: bring bug spray next time. As always, Chloe and I were ill prepared, and we didn't bring swimsuits either, but we watched a few people swim and some dogs enjoy the water. But boy let me tell you, how I would have loved to jump in that water and cool down. 1000 feet really killed me.

Lucky for us, the trails were mostly shaded by the tall trees. There's something so unbelievably peaceful about walking in the woods and listening to the sounds of nature. Something so simple always reminds me of just how non-simple and completely breathtaking our Lord is. I think we often forget just how beautiful this world is, and who made it that way. I can't stress enough how important it is to leave your home and explore the world, appreciating the beauty our amazing Lord created that surrounds us. 

For an extra .2 miles, there was an opportunity to walk over to a lookout before continuing to the lake. Obviously I wasn't going to turn down a beautiful view for .2 miles, so Chloe and I both enjoyed the breathtaking site of the water and taking pictures near the edge. I just adore how in Washington, you can be hiking in the woods, exploring hidden lakes, while also seeing beautiful views of the water and mountains. Maybe I'm biased, but I sure do think Washington has it all ;) If you ever need a passionate tour guide, hit me up!

What summer adventures have you been on lately? Where do you find God's peace and appreciate his beauty? Don't forget to use this summer to explore new places, laugh a lot, and catch up with friends, okay? It's already a month into summer, so don't let it go to waste.

Have a beautiful, wonderful rest of your day,

Elizabeth