The countdown is over, and summer is here — a season brimming with sunshine, outdoor adventures, and ice cream treats. In Seattle, warmth filled the air earlier than usual this year with record temperatures in mid-May. With warmer weather and more personal time, I am motivated to refocus on my physical well-being by engaging in outdoor activities. I also look forward to soaking in the sun as the serotonin boost increases my happiness and betters my mood, restoring my mental health. Additionally, exploring new environments increases my understanding of Pacific Northwest ecosystems and wildlife. Engaging with the surroundings I live in allows me to follow my curiosities, gain a greater appreciation for the area, and strengthen my sense of belonging. If you’re a newer Seattlelite, like me, you may be seeking activities to make the most of this beautiful time here, so continue reading for suggestions.

Embark on a Molt Search Hunt

Washington Sea Grant has teamed up with Washington State University Extension to launch Molt Search. This is a European green crab early detection program that calls on beach walkers to look for the exoskeletons that crabs shed, which wash up on Washington’s shorelines. European green crabs are known to be ecologically destructive invaders as they disrupt the habitats and lives of other culturally, ecologically, and economically vital marine invertebrates. With over 2,000 miles of Washington shoreline along the Salish Sea, engaging citizen scientists is vital for maximizing data collection and spreading awareness. If you want to practice your crab identification and help stop the spread of invasive green crabs, check the protocol to get started here. There are upcoming training sessions on Thursday, June 8th and Sunday, June 11th.

Handpick the Juiciest Strawberries of the Season

What’s your favorite way to have a strawberry? Eat them fresh, use them to make jam, or blend them in a smoothie? However you like your strawberries, you likely want the best quality. June and July is u-pick strawberry season in Washington. Harvest your own strawberries at their ripest moment and support a local farm such as Swans Trail Farms, which hosts a Baby Animals & Berries Festival on the second, third, and fourth weekend in June. 

Celebrate and Honor the Southern Resident Orcas

June is Orca Awareness Month and this year marks the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act. It is a perfect time to celebrate the Southern Resident orcas, an endangered species who are an integral part of Washington’s natural heritage and marine ecosystem. Take time to attend an advocacy, educational, and or volunteer event to show your appreciation for these magnificent marine mammals. Explore the full schedule of events that the Orca Salmon Alliance hosts with local partners here. 

Indulge in Seafood Delights

The Ballard SeafoodFest started in 1974 to promote Ballard’s seafood offerings and celebrate the neighborhood’s maritime and Scandinavian roots. Over the years, it has become an annual tradition with a salmon BBQ and other offerings from local restaurants and food vendors. You can support local artists and businesses or simply enjoy the lively and festive atmosphere created by live music performances. Join the Seattle community for this year’s SeafoodFest on July 14th, 15th, or 16th.

Journey into the Fascinating Realm of Intertidal Life

Did you know that barnacles stand on their head and eat with their feet? Have you ever seen the largest chiton in the world, the gumboot chiton, that can grow up to 13 inches? What about moon snail egg cases that look like gray toilet plungers? Summer is a great time to explore Washington’s local beaches as low tides occur during the day, presenting a great opportunity to observe intertidal life. This June, July, and August, beach naturalists from the Seattle Aquarium are at nearby beaches during low tide to help you carefully explore and answer questions. If you are interested, check the schedule here for more information.

Admire Vibrant Wildflowers

Wildflowers of all colors fill the alpine meadows from now to August, depending on elevation. This summer is a great time to be on the lookout for purple lupines, white avalanche lilies, red paintbrushes, and more natural gems in bloom. With over 275 miles of maintained trails at Mount Rainier National Park, there is a lot to explore. If you are hoping to enjoy the wildflowers, be sure to stop at the Henry M Jackson Memorial Visitor Center at Paradise and hike along the 5.5 mile Skyline Trail for stunning views. Peak bloom times vary year to year, so be sure to check the Mount Rainier National Park website for up-to-date information on the wildflower status here.

Pedal Along the Scenic Burke-Gilman Trail

The Burke-Gilman Trail was once a railroad that was intended to connect Seattle and Canada. While it did not quite get there, the rail ran north toward Sumas, WA, and east to North Bend, WA increasing the economic opportunities for communities along the line. When the railway was decommissioned, residents lobbied for a recreational trail to be built over the old railroad. Seattle businessmen, Judge Thomas Burke and Daniel Gilman, helped secure funding for the rail and are honored by the trail’s name.

Bike through different Seattle neighborhoods, starting in Ballard and heading towards Kenmore, while taking in the sparkling Lake Washington views. If you are looking to rent bikes, check out UWild’s Gear Garage Rental Center for great student discounts.

Expand Your Palate with Plant-Based Ice Cream

It’s not summer without ice cream. With so many warm days, it is the perfect time to indulge in ice cream of all kinds and flavors. If you have not already been to Frankie & Jo’s in Ballard, Capitol Hill, or University Village, give their plant-based ice cream a try. Like many other local favorites, Frankie & Jo’s rolls out monthly seasonal flavors, so be on the lookout. All flavors are vegan, gluten-free, gum-free, stabilizer-free, and soy free. When I first had their ice cream, I was impressed by how creamy it was was despite not containing cow milk. Support a women-owned local business and try Frankie & Jo’s — you might just find yourself longing for more plant magic.  

Whether you’re newer or a seasoned Seattleite, there are numerous activities and adventures for you to explore this summer in the city and throughout Washington State. From participating in Molt Search to handpicking the juiciest strawberries of the season, celebrating orcas, soaking in the lively atmosphere at SeafoodFest, exploring Washington’s intertidal zone, immersing yourself in nature’s beauty, cycling around, and trying various ice cream flavors, summer in Washington offers a myriad of experiences to suit every interest. Whatever you do, get outside and embrace the sunshine.