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The Insider's Guide to Pacific Northwest Hiking

Judgement calls final color akteej — Image: Joseph Laney

Play Music on Trail

For Some of us need Bey and some bass to get up a mountain.
Against Uh, headphones exist. Music drowns out nature’s sweet silence.
Verdict Prohibited

Hike in Jeans

For It’s cheap, comfy, and what people did in the ’70s, before performance wear was a thing.
Against You know the saying: Cotton kills! Get those 501s wet, and you’ll be cold, miserable, and unsafe.
Verdict We’ll allow it.

Make Campfires

For Humans have burned timber for warmth, comfort, and s’mores for eons.
Against Misuse leads to wildfires, and the fine particles in woodsmoke cause respiratory problems.
Verdict We’ll allow it.*

Instagram Beautiful Spots

For A pretty view and a thoughtful pose equals all the likes.
Against It only takes a few viral pics for cherished vistas to become overrun.
Verdict We’ll allow it.

Let Dogs Off Leash

For Even labradoodles are descended from wolves, and they yearn to be free.
Against Dog fights, dogs colliding with toddlers, dogs tromping wildflowers…
Verdict Prohibited

Feed Wildlife

For The cute chipmunk is the only one that actually likes protein bars!
Against It encourages animals to beg, borrow, and steal people food—which may get them euthanized.
Verdict Prohibited

*Carefully. Where legal. (Duh!)

Backpacking, Hiking

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