I’ve recently started hiking more on local trails. The Snow Mountain Ranch Trail, which is in the Cowiche Conservancy 12 miles west of Yakima, covers 14 miles of trails. It has a maximum elevation gain of 1,140 feet, with the summit of Cowiche Mountain reaching 2,970 feet.

The trails are great for anyone seeking glimpses of wildlife, beautiful mountain views and gorgeous meadows. Seasonally, you can see fall foliage and springtime wildflowers. The ranch is home to about 200 different species of plants, and more than 100 types of birds and wildlife.

Hiking this trail during summer is an adventure that is worth every picture and moment. • Liam Tran is an incoming junior at Highland High School..