I am not sure how one can argue with this... absolutely beautiful!!
I enjoyed reading this immensely and the pictures reminded of 20 years ago when I was exploring that same neck of the woods... no pun intended!
I have enjoyed many of areas in the upper northwest. My journeys out that way really started around Ukiah, Ca and worked north all the way up. It is some of the most beautiful country I have ever seen. It ranks right up there with the Big Island. I know you said that was a big name trip and I understand that but I had the privilege of calling it my home for 4+ years and I must say it is truly magical as well. There is magic and energy in all nature and nature is very abundant in both of these places. I hope you do have the chance to visit the Big Island someday if you have never been. It has a way of becoming precious to a person.
I wish you the best and really enjoyed your post.
Peace,
The Last Sage