At this Whistler fitness retreat, tough workouts and deep relaxation go hand-in-hand.

Stillness surrounds you as you soak in the hot tub and stare out at the fog rolling in over the snow-capped Coast Mountains of Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort. It’s completely quiet — except for your loud, throbbing muscles, still screaming at you after six hours of exercise in a single day.

Our local expert recommends some challenging (and rewarding) hiking spots.

Summertime is a great time to improve your health and get in shape. In Seattle, it also means that, occasionally, the rain quits long enough for us to step outside and enjoy the natural world. So, for the first installment of this four-part column, we will look at some hiking trails around the Northwest that should get your feet moving.