What do you get when you mix October with Washington? Rain. Lots and lots of rain. Still better than being at work? Dumb question. Seriously though, fall is a great time to visit. The leaves are turning, making for some beautiful drives. Plus, it’s harvest time, and that means autumn festivals, farmers markets with tons of fresh produce, and roadside stands with apples, apples and more apples.

We chose this first spot because it’s on the way to some other places we wanted to stay, but it’s turned out to be a really great taking off point for some things around the area. Mt. St. Helens, for one- a place neither us had seen up close since the eruption in ‘82.

We took a drive up to see the mountain our second day on the road. Unfortunately, because of the October weather, we weren’t able to see much. The scenic vistas we were hoping for were replaced by walls of white fog (see the picture). The wind blew through often, though, so we did get a brief peak here and there. It was enough to make us say we’re definitely coming back in sunnier weather.

Other things worth coming back for- Ike Kinswa State Park, on Mayfield Lake. This looks like a really fun place to stay in the summer. Great campsites right on the lake, and lots of places to launch a little raft.

All this talk of things to do in better weather might give the wrong impression- might make you think we’re wishing for sunnier skies. That’s not the case. A walk in the rain is soothing to the soul. Staying inside wrapped up in a cozy blanket, with a hot cup of cocoa is heaven. Actually, we’re very happy with the rain.