Touring with the National Forest Service

I was excited to find that the National Forest Service hosts donation based, guided snowshoe walks at most of the major passes in WA.  When you sign up, there is a suggested donation amount, but it's pay what you can to participate.  What a great way to get out and explore.

I went on a photography focused tour in the Commonwealth Basin area at Snoqualmie Pass.  Along the way, the ranger gave us specific assignments to explore lighting, composition, aperture, shutter speed, and the various presets on our cameras.  He took us off the beaten path so we could capture the mountains, waterfalls, and interesting forest flora in the area.  In addition to learning a lot about photographic techniques, we also got a short course in avalanche awareness and local wildlife.

These tours are highly recommended for anyone who wants to get out and explore.