Hot list

JETTY ISLAND

Starting July 5, a free ferry will run between Everett's 10th Street Boat Launch and the island that sits just off the city's waterfront. It's 2 miles long, man-made and has lots of sandy beaches.

WALLACE FALLS

One of the county's most majestic waterfalls is pretty easy to get to. The parking area is just a mile or so northeast of Gold Bar, and the trail winds through lush, mossy forest. The photo ops are spectacular.

MOUNTAIN LOOP HIGHWAY

Winter storm damage closed part of the loop between Monte Cristo and Darrington — it may reopen next year — but it's still a great drive high into the Cascades and away from the cities. Big Four Mountain is in the background.

164th STREET

ARTESIAN WATER

The well has been attracting people for at least 50 years. They come to the almost invisible spot on 164th Street Southwest in Lynnwood with empty containers and leave with full ones. And it's all free. But as it becomes better known, there's sometimes a line.

EVERGREEN ARBORETUM

On those occasions when you need to get away for a little while and soothe your soul, or you want to learn more about some of the plants that thrive in this area, a good place to start is the Arboretum, generally considered the county's finest public garden.

EVERETT AQUASOX GAME

The Mariners' Class A minor-league team opened its season Tuesday. There are no guarantees any of these kids will make the majors, but there is still the possibility you could be seeing a future Hall of Famer getting started.