If you are in the mood for a Wild West relic, head to Wilkeson for the day. Just 15 miles beyond Orting, this picturesque mining town boasts the state's oldest operational elementary school and the sandstone quarry that provided all the stone for our state's capital building. Lunch is great at the Pick n' Shovel and don't forget to drive 4 miles beyond town to see the state's highest bridge, an impressive, arched structure over an even more impressive wooded canyon. Stop by city hall to pick up the map that provides a walking tour of the nine historic buildings in town. City hall also has some ghosts so its worth getting permission to check out the creepy basement. Just tell them you'd like to see the old firetruck that is parked down there. Don't miss Wilkeson Days on July 21 featuring handcar races on the railroad tracks.
