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How To Visit 6 Lovely Volcanoes In The Cascades
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CAROL COLBORN
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About 700 miles long, the Cascade Volcanic Arc stretches from the southern tip of Canada’s British Columbia through Washington, Oregon, and the northern part of California. Taking its name from the Cascade Range, the arc has 18 volcanoes in all, many of them still active and the rest considered potentially activ.
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When we lived in Seattle
we were blessed with the beauty of one of them, Mount Rainier, whenever she appeared from behind the clouds. When we were RVing North America, we frequently went back to Seattle to visit my daughter and her family. From Interstate 5, either down from Canada where another of my daughters was living, or up from Phoenix, where we were snowbirds in the winter, we invariably saw Mount Baker, Mount Saint Helens, Mount Hood (and the Three Sisters), Mount Lassen, and Mount Shasta from different angles and during various seasons. Here are our tips for visiting.
Mount Baker in the Cascades.
volcanoes
1. Mount Baker
If you’re road tripping from Canada, you will encounter Mount Baker first. It rises 10,781 feet high and is the youngest (no more than 140,000 years old) in its volcanic field. In the arc, it is the second-most heavily glaciated after Mount Rainier and the second-most thermally active after Mount Saint Helens. And the volume of snow and ice on Mount Baker is greater than that of all the other Cascades volcanoes (except Rainier) combined. It is also one of the snowiest places in the world, setting the world record for snowfall in a single season at the Mount Baker Ski Area in 1999.
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My husband loved to ski there, especially because of its very good long runs. He has even taken his son’s Boy Scout troop and stayed at the Mountaineers’ Baker Lodge up on the mountain. Mount Baker has a commanding presence. As the third-highest mountain in Washington and the fifth-highest in the Cascade Range, it’s visible as you travel down across the U.S. border from Vancouver in British Columbia and even from Seattle (and, on clear days, Tacoma) in Washington. We saw this every day when we camped in Blaine, Washington, 23 miles away, and played in nearby Bellingham.
2. Mount Rainier
Mount Rainier is the Cascade Volcanic Arc’s leader in beauty and risk. An active volcano (the last eruption was in 1894), it is the most glaciated peak and most prominent mountain in the contiguous U.S. It is also the tallest in the Cascades at 14,411 feet. The area around it is so beautiful that it has been preserved as the Mount Rainier National Park. But it is also considered one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world, listed on the Decade Volcano list because of its large amount of glacial ice that could produce massive lahars that would threaten a lot of life and property, especially considering the city of Seattle is just 59 miles southeast of its peak.
There is still fun to be had here, though, and we cannot forget the wonderful experience had when we brought my oldest grandchildren to Paradise, Washington, located at an elevation of 5,400 feet, where the main visitor center for the national park is located. We went in winter and had so much fun playing in the heavy snow — one of my granddaughters even got her boot stuck in the deep. Those who want to stay overnight can check into the historic Paradise Inn, open from May to October. There are a host of trails, including the picturesque Nisqually Vista Trail, a 45-minute loop trail that affords views of Mount Rainier and the Nisqually Glacier.
In summer, you can also reach several areas by car via the one-way Paradise Valley Road, which begins at the Paradise Inn and weaves through a beautiful meadow-filled valley, providing a view of Mount Rainier’s reflection in the subalpine lakes. Paradise is located 19 miles east of the Nisqually Entrance and 12 miles east of Longmire.
Sunrise is the other Mount Ranier vantage point. It’s higher at 6,400 feet in elevation and 60 miles northeast of the Nisqually Entrance. Sunrise Road is open only in July, August, and September. There is a visitor center and a day lodge. Longmire, which is located in the southwest corner of the park, a little more than six miles east of the Nisqually Entrance, is open year-round. There, you can visit the Longmire House museum.
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3. Mount Saint Helens
Mount Saint Helens is just 50 miles northeast of Portland, Oregon, and 96 miles south of Seattle. It is the most active volcano in the Cascades Volcanic Arc, most known for its major eruption — the deadliest and most economically destructive volcanic event in U.S. history — on May 18, 1980. In fact, it reduced the elevation of the mountain’s summit by more than 1,000 feet, leaving a mile-wide horseshoe-shaped crater.
In 1983, the Mount Saint Helens National Volcanic Monument was opened to preserve the volcano and allow for the scientific study of the aftermath of the eruption. Since then, trails, viewpoints, info stations, campgrounds, and picnic areas have been built to accommodate the growing number of visitors each year. In fact, people are able to drive to Windy Ridge, which is just four miles northeast of the crater. We did. You can also reach the summit by mountain climbing, which has been allowed since 1986.
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4. Mount Hood And The Three Sisters
Mount Hood is located about 50 miles east-southeast of Portland. It is
one of the loftiest mountains in the nation, offering the only year-round
lift-served skiing in North America. Standing 11,240 feet high, it is the
highest point in Oregon and the fourth-highest in the Cascade Range. The
volcano is considered the most likely to erupt in Oregon. The odds of an
eruption in the next 30 years are estimated at between 3 and 7 percent, making
it what scientists call “potentially active.”
Mount Hood’s prominence hovered around us every day during our week with my husband’s high school friends at a nine-bedroom villa in the upscale vacation community of Sunriver, Oregon. The artsy and touristy town of Bend is only 20 minutes away. During our stay, it was the South Sister — the lowest among the Three Sisters, which are three closely spaced volcanic peaks, each one about 10,000 feet high — that we climbed. We just loved Mount Hood’s daily presence in all of our activities.
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5. Mount Shasta
We have not really seen Mount Shasta up close. Once we stayed overnight in the town of Redding, California, which is quite near it. Sadly, we did not have the time to stop and explore. But it is always such a beautiful presence whenever we pass by, with and without the glaciations, going up to or down from Seattle. It is a potentially active volcano at the southern end of the Cascade Range in northern California with an elevation of 14,179 feet, second only to Mount Rainier in height. But it is the biggest in the Cascade Volcanic Arc, with an estimated volume of 85 cubic miles.
6. Mount Lassen
Lassen Peak, commonly referred to as Mount Lassen, is the southernmost active volcano in the Cascade Range. It reaches an elevation of 10,457 feet. It is also different in that it isn’t a stratovolcano like the others but a lava dome. In fact, it is the largest lava dome in the world. On May 22, 1915, a powerful explosive eruption devastated nearby areas and a series of eruptions (that actually lasted from 1914 to 1917) spread volcanic debris 280 miles to the east. Lassen Peak and Mount Saint Helens were the only two volcanoes in the contiguous United States to erupt during the 20th century. Mount Lassen is still considered alive, just dormant, and it has a magma chamber that’s still capable of erupting.
After the eruption, the whole area was named Lassen Volcanic National Park, as with Mount Saint Helens, to preserve its 100,000 acres for observation and study, to protect the nearby volcanic features, and to prevent anyone from settling too close. The park has become popular for recreational activities and has already developed more diverse flora and fauna than Mount Saint Helens. We drove through the entire park from the north, where a visitor center stands at the entrance. We had the most fun at the southern exit, where the grounds were like a mini Yellowstone Park. Interstate 5 is nearby as you exit, and we easily found our campground for the night.
These six lovely volcanoes of the Cascades have always made our drives through the Pacific Northwest such a pleasurable experience. Having stayed around some of them, our trips on Interstate 5 have more than come to life.
CAROL COLBORN
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Carol retired as a CEO for pioneering IT companies in the Philippines. Curious about the world she missed while stressing out working, she migrated to the U.S., ended up an adjunct professor and small business counselor while babysitting her grandson during the day. That is, until she met her travel partner on the internet! After the wedding ceremony, they honeymooned for eight years in an RV to 49 states, nine Canadian provinces, and six Mexican states.
They now call Mesa, Arizona, home. From this base, they embark on great road trips to meet family at reunions in picturesque resorts around the U.S. Visits to their kids’ homes in Anchorage, Boise, and Denver (his) and in San Francisco, Calgary, and Melbourne (hers) allow for exploring the U.S., Canada, and Australia. Carol has been to 48 countries but their 3-month all-inclusive winter escapes to Mexico in Mazatlan, Cancun, or Cozumel are their best times.
Carol maintains a blog, Carolina: Cruising Past 70, and has published two travel books: Carolina: Cruising to an American Dream about her RVing years and Cruising Past Seventy: It's Not Only About Outer Journeys. It's Also about Inner Ones, is a collection of her most widely-read blog posts and articles. She has a BS in math, MBA, and DPA.
Are you like me and always on the lookout for exciting and unforgettable experiences? Look no further than zorbing — a thrilling and unique activity that is gaining popularity worldwide. If you want to try something truly extraordinary, try zorbing.
I’m always on the lookout for unique things to see and do. When I heard about zorbing at the Outdoor Gravity Park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, I knew I wanted to try it. I tell people I like a touch of luxury and adventure in every place I visit. I have to admit, zorbing is more than a touch of adventure; some may call it extreme adventure. But it was great fun, and at 63 and 76, my husband and I had a blast, and I wanted to share the experience with you.
My zorbing experience was hosted, but all opinions are my own.
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Opening a zorb at the end of a ride
Opening a zorb at the end of a ride
PHOTO CREDIT: ROBIN O’NEAL SMITH
What Is Zorbing?
Have you ever thought about rolling around inside a bubble? Zorbing is
an exhilarating activity involving rolling down a hill inside a transparent
thermoplastic polyurethane ball that can withstand high pressure and impact.
The durable water- and UV-radiation-resistant material makes it perfect for
outdoor adventures.
Inside the zorb ball, there’s a smaller ball suspended by thousands of nylon strings. This inner ball moves independently, cushioning the participant as they tumble down the hill, protecting them from bumps and bruises. With enough space inside for two people, the zorb ball picks up speed as it bounces and rolls down the hill, providing an unparalleled and unforgettable experience.
Zorbing is the perfect choice if you’re seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure that promises fun and excitement.
Zorbing at the Outdoor Gravity Park
Zorbing at the Outdoor Gravity Park
PHOTO CREDIT: ROBIN O’NEAL SMITH
Where Can You Zorb?
Zorbing originated in New Zealand and has become the latest craze in
extreme sports, captivating thrill-seekers in many countries, including the U...
While some places in the U.S. may offer a single track and seasonal zorbing activities, there is only one zorbing park in the country, located in Tennessee.
Outdoor Gravity Park in Pigeon Forge has a full zorbing park with four
zorbing lanes offering different speeds and bounces. The owners visited zorbing
parks in New Zealand before setting up this park.
You won’t need additional equipment when visiting a zorbing park like Outdoor Gravity Park in Pigeon Forge. They provide everything you need for a fantastic experience.
Robin inside a zorb ball, still smiling at the end of her ride
Robin inside a zorb ball, still smiling at the end of her ride
PHOTO CREDIT: ROBIN O’NEAL SMITH
My Zorbing Experience
Imagine the thrill of racing down a hill inside a giant bubble. It is similar to experiencing a heart-pumping roller coaster ride like no other. It is great fun, but I will be honest, it is not for the faint of heart.
When we arrived early in the morning for our zorb, I was excited and
anxious to try this unique adventure. They go over safety instructions and
provide a wristband indicating how many zorb rides you have purchased. (Trust
me when I say you want more than one ride down the hill.)
We spent time outside on the deck watching other zorbers for a while, and then we got on the shuttle to the top of the hill.
Once at the top, you select which run you desire to try. Gravity Park offers four runs to suit different preferences. Take your pick from beginner runs with fewer bumps to those with plenty of bounce spots along the way.
A zorb ball with a rider inside
A zorb ball with a rider inside
PHOTO CREDIT: ROBIN O’NEAL SMITH
Once you’ve chosen your desired run, you wait in line. As balls arrive at the top of the hill via a conveyor belt, an attendant rolls them over to the run and adds water to the interior bubble. On sunny and warm days, the water added is cool. On cooler days, they add warm water. This water layer adds an extra thrill to your ride, causing you to slide, spin, and slosh around as the ball rolls down the hill.
After the water is added, it’s time to crawl inside. The attendant rolls the ball towards you so you can crawl through the entrance. Once you’re situated inside the ball, the attendant provides the video camera — if you purchased this extra perk — for you to hold during your trip down the hill. (The camera is a small, square waterproof one that fits in the palm of your hand.) Then, they zipper both layers shut and you are off.
The attendant gives you a little push to get you started on your exhilarating adventure and down the hill you go for some slippery fun. Bouncing from side to side, the sloshing water around you adds to the excitement, making every moment unforgettable.
As your zorb ride ends, the ball is rolled around to help you exit. The opening is unzipped and most of the water is drained before you slide out.
Zorbing is a unique and thrilling adventure you won’t forget!
Rider inside zorb in the red lane
Rider inside a zorb in the red lane
PHOTO CREDIT: ROBIN O’NEAL SMITH
Tips For A Successful Zorbing Experience
Zorb With A Reputable Company
Zorbing with a company dedicated to safety and the sport of zorbing takes a lot of guesswork out of the experience. They handle all the safety precautions — checking the zorb balls for punctures, ensuring they are correctly inflated, providing warm and cool water inside, and providing an attendant to assist you in getting in and out of the zorb. They also offer a shuttle bus to the top of the hill to start your adventure and they have a conveyor system that returns the zorb balls to the top of the hill for the next rider.
When zorbing with a reputable company like Outdoor Gravity Park, they have ensured there is nothing dangerous to bounce into. The area is free from obstacles such as rocks, tree roots, or other sharp objects that could puncture the zorb or harm you. The site is set up so it ends in a controlled location and the zorbs do not roll away.
If You Have Injuries, Don’t Zorb
I don’t recommend zorbing if you have major back problems or other injuries. You get bounced and rolled around quite a bit, which could aggravate other injuries.
Prepare To Get Wet
You will get soaked and possibly dirty. Wear a swimsuit or shorts and a t-shirt. Opt for comfortable clothes that slide easily on plastic.
I recommend thin water shorts and a t-shirt. I wore a swimsuit, which didn’t slide well on the plastic as I entered and exited the ball. I spent a lot of time pulling at my suit. Remember, this isn’t the time to worry about fancy outfits or showing off your best bathing suit. The goal is to feel comfortable and have a worry-free experience.
Avoid wearing anything with belts or straps that could harm you or the zorb as you slide around inside.
Remove All Jewelry
You will be asked to remove all jewelry that could harm the zorb ball.
Skip Fancy Scandals
Whatever shoes you wear, you will be leaving them on the ground or deck at the bottom of the hill. You are required to be barefoot in the zorb ball at the gravity park.
Use Sunscreen
If you’re zorbing in sunny weather, be sure to apply sunscreen. You will be in and out of the zorb ball and in direct sunlight.
Listen To Your Body
If, at any point during your zorbing experience, you start to feel dizzy, nauseous, or otherwise unwell, take a break from zorbing before your next roll down the hill.
Follow Safety Instructions
Be sure to read and follow all safety instructions provided by staff. These instructions will include information on properly getting into and out of the zorb.
Video Inside The Zorb
You will be offered the opportunity to hold a GoPro-type camera during your ride to capture your adventure from inside the zorb. I recommend capturing this incredible experience on video for at least one ride. I suggest waiting until after your first ride to carry the video. Get a feel for what it is like and how to keep yourself situated in the zorb before you add holding a video camera into the mix. I had difficulty staying in a seated position while holding the camera.
Take A Towel
You will want to dry off after your zorbing experience. If the Sun is out, you dry quickly, but a towel is handy to wipe your face, etc.
Have Fun
Most importantly, remember to have fun! Have a great time and make fun memories. This is an experience you will always remember.
With my best wishes