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Outdoor Summer Fun: Hikes, Parks, Adventures, and More!

July 30, 2015
During the summer months, we like to get out an explore all that our lovely communities have to offer, and that's to your benefit because we've compiled this list of our favorites!

ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS

COUGAR MOUNTAIN ZOO
: Just the right size for little legs, Cougar Mountain Zoo makes for a wonderful outing. Wednesdays through Sundays you can stop by to see tigers, cougars, lemurs, and an impressive collection of macaws!  Admission prices range from $9 for kids to $12.50 for adults; two years and younger are free.

FOX HOLLOW FARMThis local farm has a lot to offer kids of all ages. Admission includes (weather permitting) unlimited access to the Farm Village, all animal interactions, corn bin, miniature vehicles, creek area, sport court, picnicking areas, and more.  Farm Days are offered Wednesday through Sunday with two sessions: 10am-1pm and 2pm-5pm

FAMILY-FRIENDLY HIKES

Evans Creek Preserve This mostly flat, incredibly beautiful oasis just outside the city of Sammamish is a great place to take a leisurely walk. {Unfortunately, the gnomes have been removed.}

Franklin Falls - Along Denny Creek, this is a popular family-friendly hike with a big pay-off at the end.

Pretzel Tree Trail - Hiking.  While reading.  In search of a tree named after a snack. Pretzel Tree Trail is a great family-friendly LOCAL hike!

Swamp Monster Trail - What I would classify as the one of the best kid-friendly hikes in our area because it's easy and entertaining!

Talus Rocks on Tiger Mountain - A definite crowd-pleaser when it comes to young hikers.  You can climb on and walk between giant, moss-covered boulders.  You can peer into caves and find trees growing right into and around the rocks.

KID-APPROVED ADVENTURES

CEDAR RIVER WATERSHED
 - Located on the south shore of Rattlesnake Lake; this is a great place to explore! 


FARMERS MARKETS - Strolling around with reusable bag in hand, sampling new foods, hand-picking the most beautiful seasonal produce, and chatting it up with friendly vendors...grocery shopping at its finest!

GEOCACHING
 - a modern day, high-tech treasure hunt that has been fascinating kids and adults for over a decade. With over 1.6 million geocaches placed all over the globe, it's easy to drive, hike, bike or even walk to a cache. 

JUMPING OFF LOGS - explore ways to raise confident kids!

LETTERBOXING - It's an excuse to take a walk ... with a big ol' twist of adventure. It's part treasure hunt, part stamp collecting, and a whole lot of fun!

PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS - We are lucky enough to live in an area with TONS, and I mean TONS, of parks!  Whether you want to find a play structure for your kids, have a family picnic or enjoy some of the breathtaking views, you won't have to go very far!
 
UPCOMING RACES & WALKS - Whether you're looking to support worthy causes or hoping to get some family-friendly exercise, Macaroni Kid has your list of local races and walks.

WORTH THE DRIVE & NEARBY BEACHES

We know when the sun shines and the temperatures climb local families look for water for splashing and cooling off!  Macaroni Kid is working to bring you a guide to the best local beaches!

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Macaroni Kid Snoqualmie Valley - Issaquah is your best source for kid activities and family fun in Issaquah, Sammamish, Preston, Fall City, Snoqualmie, and North Bend. Be sure to check the CALENDAR for a complete list of local events - guaranteed to entertain, educate & exhaust your kids & family. 

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