n2traveling: On to Seattle and the Olympic Peninsula

Our next foray was into Seattle to see the sights. We had seen pictures of Pike's Market and took this opportunity to experience it in person. Pike Place Fish Market was our first stop and we got to see first hand the throwing of the fish - it was crazy! We then strolled the Market to see what the vendors had to offer and stopped at the Italian Deli to have a quick expresso and pick up cheese and salami to snack on later.

Throwing of the fish at Pike Place Fish Market

Next we headed to another famous Seattle attraction - the Space Needle. We decided to have lunch at the restaurant at the top of the needle so we could enjoy the skyline while we ate. We had a wonderful meal and were treated to a fantastic view.

Space Needle

Lunch at the Space Needle

Seattle Skyline

At the top of the Space Needle

Our final destination for the day was the Tides Inn at Port Townsend on the Olympic Peninsula. To reach it, we had to take the ferry from Edmunds to Kingston. Once there we learned that their claim to fame was that the love scene from "Officer and a Gentleman" was filmed there. It was a very quaint hotel and we enjoyed a good nights rest.

Edmunds Ferry

Enjoying the Ferry ride

Tides Inn where the love scene from "Officer and a Gentleman" was filmed

The next morning, with fog covering the area, we began our day with a trip to the Point Wilson Lighthouse which was first activated in 1879.

Point Wilson Lighthouse

Our main destination was Hurricane Ridge in the Olympic National Park where we planned to take the 1.6 mile hike to the top of the ridge. Once reaching the top we would have a 360 degree view of the area. For those of us used to living at close to sea level, the hike took a bit more time! We thought we'd never make it to the top but we persevered and were treated to unbelievable views and a variety of wildlife.

We're on the right track to Hurricane Ridge

The roads we gorgeous and twisty - we just wished we had the bike!

One of the views from the Park Visitor Center - Awesome!

Our first wildlife encounter was in the parking lot before we even started on the trail!

This little doe came out of the woods and took a stroll through the parked cars!

Our next encounter on the trail was this little chipmunk.

He had no fear and to prove it he ran over Tim's shoe!

I can't believe we're not even half way yet!

The scenery was unbelievable!

We finally made it to the top of Hurricane Ridge - it was definitely time for a rest!

Tim surveying the mountains from the top of Hurricane Ridge

When we finally made it to the top, we were pleased & surprised to find a young doe and buck who gladly let us spend some time watching and photographing them.