24 September . 2024
Late Summer Adventures in and Around Tehaleh
The sounds of the summer have settled in and before we ring the bell to bring the colors of fall, there are plenty of late summer adventures awaiting us!
Tehaleh may be a small community, but it certainly doesn’t lack in the events department. Coming up on September 14th, the Tehaleh Northwest Fest will bring all the excitement right in your neighborhood. Magic! Rock climbing! And yes, of course the circus train will be there! Check out the amazing local food trucks, face painting, and support the community’s many local talents. You can even show off your dance moves with Buckle and Boot.
Not long after, Oktoberfest comes to town. This annual event has been a hit in the past and features a mix of local crafts, food vendors, live music, and fun activities for the entire family. Oh, and there’s one other thing: that’s right, there’s beer!
Out and about, enjoying the outdoors
For those who are yearning to break out into the great outdoors, Tehaleh offers plenty of options. With over 40 miles of trails and 15 parks, there is always something fun happening in the Neighborwoods. Allan Yorke Park is a local favorite, offering stunning views of Lake Tapps. Late summer is an ideal time to enjoy a family picnic by the lake, take a leisurely paddle in a kayak, or simply relax on the grass while the kids play on the playground. Don’t forget to bring your fishing gear—late summer is still prime time for catching trout and bass in the lake. Check out a list of awesome lake activities nearby.
If you’re looking for something a bit more active, the nearby Fennel Creek Trail is perfect for a family hike. The trail winds through lush, forested areas and along the creek, offering cool, shaded spots that are perfect for a warm summer day. Keep an eye out for local wildlife—deer and various bird species are often spotted along the way.
Make it a Puget Sound day trip!
Tehaleh’s central location makes it a perfect jumping-off point for day trips around the Puget Sound region. Just a short drive away, Tacoma offers a wealth of activities.
The Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium also hosts special late-summer events, such as outdoor movie nights, making it a great destination for a fun-filled family day and cool, evening wind back.
Just a skip away from Tacoma is Gig Harbor, known for its picturesque views and charming downtown. Take a stroll along the waterfront, where you might catch one of the summer art festivals or live music events. If your family enjoys being on the water, consider renting a paddleboard or kayak to explore the harbor from a different perspective. Or head down for one of the event focused weekends like the Gig Harbor Film Festival.
It will be tough to miss the big Washington State Fair in Puyallup as it’s a quick jump away and hosts all the family friendly atmosphere you can get. Carpool with some other Tehaleh folks to save on parking or even get a bike group together to counteract whatever the fried foods may do. This year’s state fair begins August 31st.
And of course, no day trip is complete without good food. Luckily, the Puget Sound region is home to many family-friendly eateries. In Tacoma, The Spar is a beloved local spot offering classic American fare with a view of the water. In Gig Harbor, check out Devoted Kiss Café for a casual breakfast or lunch, with plenty of kid-friendly options on the menu.
Make it scenic, drive it home
Late summer is an ideal time to enjoy the natural beauty of the Puget Sound region. For a relaxing afternoon, consider taking a scenic drive along State Route 410, which offers breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding countryside. The route is particularly beautiful as the late-summer light casts long shadows over the rolling hills and farmlands.
If your family enjoys spending time in nature, the Puget Sound area is dotted with parks and trails that are perfect for a late-summer outing. Dash Point State Park, located near Federal Way, offers both forested trails and a beautiful sandy beach along Puget Sound. It’s a great spot for a hike, followed by some beachcombing or a picnic by the water.
For wildlife enthusiasts, the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge near Olympia is a must-visit. Late summer is a great time to observe a variety of bird species as they prepare for migration. The refuge features several walking trails and an observation deck where you can take in the serene views of the wetlands.
If you’re really feeling like it you can go try your luck looking for orcas. Drive up to Port Townsend and take the ferry over to Fort Casey. You might find them along the way on the ferry or you can play it by ear, looking for giddy groups of people with binoculars at an outlook. And if you don’t catch sight of orcas, you’ll still get to see quite a bit at Fort Casey or even Fort Worden on the Port Townsend side.
Bask in the best days ahead
As the days grow shorter and the start of the school year looms, there’s no better time to get out and enjoy all that Tehaleh and the surrounding Puget Sound area have to offer. Whether you’re exploring a local festival, hiking a scenic trail, or taking a day trip to a nearby town, these late-summer activities are sure to create lasting memories for the whole family.
Grab your sunscreen, pack a picnic, and head out to make the most of these last golden days of summer. And get in touch with us to learn more about the beauties of Tehaleh and all the summer’s many amazing perks in this stunning neck of the woods.