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Saturday June 4, 2016

By Abby Hutmacher

Travel

Weed vacations are all the rage, inspiring thousands to flock to 420-friendly states throughout the nation. Though marijuana tourism has been great for local economies, pot’s popularity has made it difficult for those who just want to toke, chill and get away from it all.

Fortunately, there are a few hidden gems around the good ol’ U.S. of A. that prove that you don’t have to avoid marijuana territory to find a peaceful vacation destination. Here are a few of our favorite places to sneak away for a toke while on vacation.

Fisher Flour Mill, Harbor Island, WA

Fisher Flower Mill

There is something intriguing about abandoned property that pulls curious explorers out of the woodworks and the old Fisher Flour Mill certainly proves it. Though flour production stopped at the mill in the early 2000’s, the 13-story building still attracts a crowd (specifically, artists, photographers, skateboarders, bums and marijuana consumers) as evident by the graffiti-covered walls and remnants of past visitors.

The building is located on private property on the southeast corner of Harbor Island so technically all visitors are trespassing (you’ll have to switch into stealth mode for this adventure), but local law enforcement seems to refrain from harassing people as long as they aren’t tearing up the place.

For those planning a trip to Fisher Flower Mill, we recommend bringing some Super Lemon Haze for its uplifting, creative high to compliment this inspiring location.

The Wallowa Mountains, OR

The Wallowa Mountains

The Wallowa Mountains have been named one of the Seven Wonders of Oregon thanks to their breath-taking views, colorful scenery and amazing trails. Because it is so far from populated areas of Oregon, the Wallowa Mountains rarely receive visitors outside of tourist season so it’s a good bet for a private get-away.

Visitors to the North Eastern region of the state can take a day hike to Bonnie Lakes where the clear glacier water and the pale blue sky pair well with a Blue Dream high, or take a few days to backpack up Eagle Cap Summit (we suggest a little Blackberry Kush to wind down each night). Of course, there is also a tramway for those who would prefer not to exercise while high. Either way, fields of flowers, wildlife sightings and all the wonders of the Wallowa Mountains make for a great marijuana-friendly vacay.

Catalina Island, CA

Catalina is one of California’s Channel Islands and a great tourist destination year-round. It’s located about an hour southeast of Los Angeles via ferry ride and boasts a number of tourist attractions like snorkeling, submarine tours, sightseeing and gift shops… so, many, gift shops. But it isn’t the classic tourist activities that have us loving Catalina Island, it’s the low-key activity of the off-season.

Catalina attracts tourists, film makers, adventurers and wedding parties primarily during the summer months (foliage is blooming, climate is comfortable and the kids are out of school) so there is a need for extra help on the island during this time. Temporary employees stay in cabins on Catalina Island located only a short drive away from Two Harbors (the primary tourist destination on the island) where they have beds, closets, refrigerators and a community kitchen. During the off-season, these cabins are significantly discounted for tourists (sometimes as low as $40/night) while providing all of the same amenities.

Purchases on the island tend to be pricy, though, so bring your own food, drinks and some SFV OG Kush to really help you appreciate the beauty of the island. As always, be sure to discreetly consume.

Valley View Hot Springs, CO

Tourists can experience Valley View Hot Springs au natural in this historic, clothing-optional hot springs village. The space is part of 2,200 acres of protected land and features a number of soaking ponds; spring-fed showers and swimming pools; geothermally and hydro electrically heated cabins, hot tubs and saunas; campgrounds and basic accommodations (plus a ton of wildlife sightings). The area is family-friendly (including dogs in some areas) and offers free educational tours for everyone.

Smoking (both cigarettes and weed) is restricted to cars and designated smoking areas in order to protect the integrity of the space. An ideal strain for this experience might be Afgooey for those who want to relax in the springs, or 303 Kush for those who would rather be active, sociable and enlightened.


Eventually, marijuana will be legal across the states (hopefully the world), but in the meantime, those who want to toke legally are forced to visit only a small number of states to do so. This, unfortunately, makes it difficult to vacation away from crowds unless, of course, you’re in the know.

What’s your favorite toke spot?

Photo Credit: unsplash.com (license)


Author

Abby Hutmacher Abby Hutmacher

Abby is a writer and founder of Cannabis Content, a marketplace designed to connect cannabis writers and creatives with businesses in the industry. She has been a professional cannabis writer since 2014 and regularly contributes to publications such as PotGuide and M&F Talent. She is also the Content Director at Fortuna Hemp, America’s leading feminized hemp seed bank. Follow Abby on Facebook, Twitter, and Linkedin.

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