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Jessica Wick

Jessica Wick is a Washington State-based writer and travel enthusiast who has spent years personally exploring Big Sky Country and every corner of the Pacific Northwest. For Only In Your State, she covers Washington's hidden destinations and local character with the firsthand familiarity of someone who is always out there looking. Jessica's genuine love for the region and its people comes through in every piece she writes.

Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

This Popular Swimming Hole In Washington Will Make You Feel Like A Kid On Summer Vacation

Big Eddy swimming hole in Washington offers a refreshing escape during the summer with its cold, turquoise waters.

by Jessica Wick
on Jan 29
A serene river scene with clear water, rocky banks, and lush green trees lining the shore under a blue sky.
Stays

Best Cabins In Montana: 13 Cozy Rentals For Every Budget

Discover the best cabins in Montana, from luxury retreats to cozy getaways. Find the perfect stay for your next mountain escape.

by Jessica Wick
on Apr 23
A secluded cabin in Montana with a fire pit at sunset.
Nature
Hiking

Follow This Abandoned Railroad Trail For One Of The Most Unique Hikes In Washington

The Iron Goat Trail in Washington offers a historical hiking experience with remnants of an old railroad and scenic views.

by Jessica Wick
on Jul 17
An abandoned stone tunnel entrance surrounded by greenery, leading into darkness.
Nature
Hiking

The Natural Swimming Hole In Montana That Will Take You Back To The Good Ole Days

Plan a trip to Devils Glen in Montana for a family-friendly hike and natural swimming experience.

by Jessica Wick
on Jul 16
A serene river flows through a lush green landscape, with mountains in the background and people sitting by the water.
Trips & Routes
Day Trips

12 Unforgettable Montana Day Trips, One for Each Month of the Year

Discover the best day trips in Montana, with unique destinations and activities for each month of the year.

by Jessica Wick
on Jan 6
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State Pride
History

According To FBI Statistics, These Are The 10 Most Dangerous Cities In Washington

Washington has some cities with high crime rates, but overall, it remains a safe place to live.

by Jessica Wick
on Jul 11
Aerial view of a city skyline featuring tall buildings, greenery, and a waterfront under a cloudy sky.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

Most People Have No Idea This Underwater City In Washington Even Exists

Kosmos, an underwater ghost town in Washington, lies submerged under Riffe Lake, a reservoir created by Mossyrock Dam.

by Jessica Wick
on Jul 12
A serene river scene with autumn foliage, surrounded by trees and distant mountains under a clear sky.
Nature

The One Spot In Montana That’s Basically Heaven On Earth

Yaak Valley in Montana offers a unique, tranquil escape with lush forests, diverse wildlife, and year-round outdoor activities.

by Jessica Wick
on Jul 8
A serene river flows through a forested landscape, with rocks scattered across the water and mountains in the background.
State Pride

These 8 Songs About Montana Will Touch Your Soul Today

Montana has inspired numerous songs by various artists, reflecting its unique spirit and beauty.

by Jessica Wick
on Jul 5
A man and woman sing together on stage, with colorful lights and a band in the background.
Nature
Mountains

These 13 Epic Mountains In Montana Will Drop Your Jaw

Montana's diverse and scenic mountain ranges offer unique beauty and numerous outdoor activities.

by Jessica Wick
on Jul 7
A stunning mountain landscape with a vibrant lake, surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic clouds at sunset.
Nature
Hiking

9 Totally Kid-Friendly Hikes In Montana That Are 1 Mile And Under

Discover the best hiking trails in Montana, offering stunning views and diverse experiences for all levels of hikers.

by Jessica Wick
on Jul 7
A waterfall cascading over rocky cliffs into a turquoise pool, surrounded by lush greenery and clear blue skies.
Experiences

The Tiny Town In Montana With A Terribly Creepy Past

Saint Marie, Montana is an eerie, mostly-abandoned town with a history of military presence and recent anti-government activity.

by Jessica Wick
on Jul 5
A green field with a sign pointing to "St Marie" and a distant view of a small town under a cloudy sky.
Experiences
Events
Festivals

These 12 Unique Festivals In Montana Are Something Everyone Should Experience Once

Montana hosts a variety of unique and exciting festivals that celebrate its culture, history, and seasons.

by Jessica Wick
on Jul 5
A wooden crate filled with fresh, ripe cherries at a market.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

You’ll Love Digging For Crystals At This Unique Montana Park

Crystal Park in Montana offers a unique, family-friendly experience of digging for quartz crystals in a scenic, accessible setting.

by Jessica Wick
on Jul 6
Two children digging in a sandy area, one bent over a hole and the other standing with a bucket.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

These 12 Amazing Spots In Montana Are Perfect To Go Fishing

Montana offers numerous prime fishing spots with beautiful scenery and abundant trout.

by Jessica Wick
on Jul 5
A serene lake reflects a vibrant sunset, surrounded by mountains and lush forests under a colorful sky.
Trips & Routes
Day Trips

The 12 Montana Day Trips You’ll Want To Take This Year

Discover some of the best day trips in Montana, featuring historic towns, state parks, and scenic spots.

by Jessica Wick
on Jul 2
A serene river surrounded by steep cliffs and lush greenery under a clear blue sky. Reflections shimmer on the water.
Food

11 Restaurants You Have To Visit In Montana Before You Die

Discover the top 11 must-visit restaurants in Montana for a memorable dining experience.

by Jessica Wick
on Jul 6
Red building with large white letters reading "Polebridge Mercantile" against a blue sky with fluffy clouds.
Nature
Mountains

These 13 Jaw Dropping Views Of Montana Will Take Your Breath Away

Explore 13 breathtaking locations in Montana known for their stunning scenic views and hiking trails.

by Jessica Wick
on Jul 2
A serene lake surrounded by mountains and lush trees under a clear blue sky. Snow-capped peaks in the distance.
Trips & Routes
Day Trips

10 Out Of This World Summer Day Trips To Take In Washington

Explore the best summer day trips in Washington, from charming towns to scenic hikes.

by Jessica Wick
on Jul 2
Charming alpine-style buildings line a street with mountains in the background under a blue sky with wispy clouds.
Nature
Waterfalls

Enjoy Crystal-Clear Water At Yaak River Falls, A Gorgeous Swimming Hole Tucked Away In Montana

Yaak Falls in Montana offers a refreshing and scenic swimming experience in a remote, unpolluted area.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 30
A shirtless person stands on rocky terrain by a river, surrounded by trees and steep cliffs.
State Pride
Meet the Locals

This Is The Most Hippie Town In Montana And You Need To Visit

Missoula, Montana is a vibrant town known for its creative community, excellent food, and numerous outdoor activities.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 30
Aerial view of a city at sunset, with mountains in the background and a river winding through green parks and buildings.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

Here Are 10 Perfect Spots To Float The River In Montana

Discover the best spots for river tubing in Montana, offering peaceful and scenic float trips for all skill levels.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 30
A serene river flows through a landscape of trees and mountains under a partly cloudy sky.
Experiences

Here Are The 13 Weirdest Places You Can Possibly Go In Montana

Discover unique and bizarre attractions in Montana, from gravitational anomalies to historic brothels and hay sculpting contests.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 30
A two-story brick building with a red facade, featuring multiple windows and a small porch. Blue sky in the background.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

7 Swimming Spots With the Clearest, Most Pristine Water in Washington

Discover seven of Washington's finest swimming holes known for their clean and refreshing water.

by Jessica Wick
on Mar 5
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Stays
Camping

9 Spectacular Spots In Washington Where You Can Camp Right On The Beach

Discover some of the best beach camping spots in Washington, offering stunning views and unique experiences.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 28
Two camping tents set up on grassy shore, with a view of the ocean and distant mountains under a clear blue sky.
State Pride
History

This Orphanage In Montana Has A Dark History That Will Never Be Forgotten

The Montana State Orphanage, established in 1894, was a self-sustaining community that provided life skills to children but also had a dark history of harsh discipline and emotional neglect.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 27
Historic building with multiple towers, large windows, and a porch, surrounded by trees and a grassy area.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

This Little Known Lake In Montana Will Be Your New Favorite Summer Destination

Fairy Lake in Montana offers scenic views, swimming, hiking, and camping opportunities, making it a must-visit destination.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 24
A serene lake surrounded by mountains and dense forests, reflecting the landscape in calm waters.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

Montana’s Most Colorful Lakeshore Is Stunning And You Need To See It

Glacier National Park's Lake McDonald offers breathtaking views and unique colorful rocks, making it a perfect getaway.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 20
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Nature
Hiking

Take An Easy Loop Trail Around This Clark County Lake In Washington For A Peaceful Adventure

Round Lake Loop in Lacamas Park, Washington, offers a scenic and easy hiking trail suitable for beginners and families.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 21
A serene lake reflecting fluffy clouds and lush green trees under a bright blue sky.
Trips & Routes
Day Trips

A Day Trip To This Pristine Washington Lake Will Make Your Summer Complete

Diablo Lake in Washington offers a peaceful retreat with stunning turquoise waters and scenic hiking trails.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 23
A panoramic view of a turquoise lake surrounded by lush green forests and mountains under a bright blue sky.
Trips & Routes
Day Trips

5 Incredible Washington Day Trips You Can Take By Train

Explore unique and scenic day train trips in Washington State, offering beautiful views and convenient travel options.

by Jessica Wick
on May 17
A train approaches a station, with tracks and platforms visible, under a bright sky and urban backdrop.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

This One Lake Has The Absolute Bluest Water In Montana

Grinnell Lake in Glacier National Park, Montana, is renowned for its stunning turquoise color caused by rock flour from the Grinnell Glacier.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 22
A scenic view of a turquoise lake surrounded by mountains and lush greenery, with colorful wildflowers in the foreground.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

Washington Is Home To A Bottomless Lake And You’ll Want To See It For Yourself

Lake Crescent in Washington's Olympic National Park is a mysterious and beautiful lake rumored to be bottomless.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 16
A serene lake surrounded by lush green trees and mountains, reflecting clouds and foliage on the calm water surface.
Experiences

The Hitchhiker Of Black Horse Lake Is One Of Montana’s Most Mysterious Urban Legends

Black Horse Lake in Montana is known for the urban legend of a phantom hitchhiker who mysteriously disappears after appearing to be struck by cars.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 15
Green road sign for Cascade County beside a highway, surrounded by trees and open land.
Nature
National & State Parks

You’ll Want To Visit This Lake For The Most Beautiful Colored Pebbles In Montana

Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park, Montana, is renowned for its clear waters and colorful pebbles, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 15
A serene lake at sunset, with clear water revealing colorful pebbles beneath and mountains in the background.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The Clearest Lake In Montana Is Almost Too Beautiful To Be Real

Flathead Lake in Montana is one of the clearest and largest freshwater lakes in the world, making it a top vacation destination.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 18
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Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

9 Underrated Washington Lakes Perfect For A Summer Day

Discover lesser-known lakes in Washington for summer relaxation and fun.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 15
A serene landscape featuring a calm lake surrounded by lush greenery and distant mountains under a cloudy sky.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

These 6 Rhode Island Lakes Are Perfect For A Day Of Fun In The Sun

Explore Rhode Island's beautiful lakes for summer activities like fishing, boating, and swimming.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 14
A serene lake surrounded by lush green trees under a partly cloudy sky, reflecting the landscape on the water's surface.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

This Lake Has The Absolute Bluest Water In Washington

Colchuck Lake in Washington offers stunning views and a challenging hike, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 16
A serene lake reflects mountains and a clear blue sky, surrounded by evergreen trees.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

The Most Scenic Lake In Montana Is Perfect For A Year-Round Vacation

Whitefish Lake in Montana is a year-round destination offering a variety of outdoor activities and stunning scenery.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 16
A calm lake with a floating rope barrier, surrounded by mountains under a cloudy sky.
Nature
Beaches, Lakes & Rivers

There’s Something Magical About These 11 Washington Lakes In The Summer

Washington state offers numerous lakes perfect for summer activities, with 11 standout destinations for making new memories.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 15
A serene lake surrounded by green trees and rocky terrain, with a small cabin visible in the distance.
Trips & Routes
Day Trips

The 12 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Washington

Discover the best day trips in Washington, from charming small towns to scenic natural wonders.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 8
A snowy street scene with festive lights, charming buildings, and mountains in the background at dusk.
Stays
Hotels & Resorts

This Resort RV Park In Washington Was Recently Named One Of The Most Beautiful In The Country

Salt Creek Recreation Area is a stunning RV campground on the Olympic Peninsula, perfect for nature lovers and tide-pooling enthusiasts.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 9
A serene beach scene with gentle waves, rocky outcrops, and trees under a clear blue sky.
Trips & Routes
Day Trips

12 Unforgettable Washington Day Trips, One For Each Month Of The Year

Discover 12 of the best day trips in Washington, one for each month, showcasing unique events and attractions.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 8
A serene lake reflects a mountain, surrounded by lush greenery and wildflowers under a clear blue sky.
Trips & Routes
Road Trips

The Hidden Beaches Road Trip That Will Show You Washington Like Never Before

Discover lesser-known, secluded beaches in Washington state perfect for a peaceful getaway.

by Jessica Wick
on Jun 2
Map showing a route from McCurdy Point Road to Meadowdale Beach Park, estimated travel time 4 hours 40 minutes.