Frankling Ghost Town Hike + Free LIGO laser tour

### LIGO Public Tour & Hike to Franklin Ghost Town, WA

Discover the Wonders of the Universe & Unearth History’s Secrets
LIGO Public Tour:
Step into the world of cutting-edge science with a visit to the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO). This is your chance to experience firsthand the groundbreaking research that’s opening our eyes to the universe in ways we never thought possible. Located in the quiet hills of southeastern Washington, LIGO is one of only a handful of facilities worldwide capable of detecting the faintest ripples in spacetime caused by cosmic events—gravitational waves.
On this fascinating, free public tour, expert scientists and engineers will guide you through the complex machinery that makes LIGO one of the world’s most sensitive scientific instruments. Walk through interactive exhibits that break down the mind-bending science of black holes, neutron stars, and the birth of the universe itself. Witness the impressive facilities that house the twin interferometers, and if you’re lucky, learn about recent discoveries that have sent shockwaves through the scientific community. It’s a rare chance to glimpse the universe’s most mysterious phenomena—no astrophysics degree required!
Hike to Franklin Ghost Town:
After your journey through the stars, take a step back in time with a scenic hike to the Franklin Ghost Town. Just a short drive from LIGO, this historic site offers a thrilling contrast to the modern wonders of science. Once a bustling coal mining town, Franklin was home to hundreds of miners and their families in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Now, only a few ruins remain—crumbling stone foundations, rusted mining equipment, and ghostly remnants of a bygone era.
The hike itself is a moderate, 3-mile round-trip trail that winds through rugged hills and lush forest. As you climb, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the Columbia River Gorge, the surrounding Cascade Range, and the remnants of the abandoned town. It’s a perfect opportunity for photography, history buffs, and nature lovers alike. At the ghost town, take a moment to explore the forgotten structures and imagine what life was like when the coal mines were in full swing. As you stand among the ruins, you’ll feel the whispers of history calling out from the past.

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Whether you’re intrigued by the mysteries of space or captivated by the secrets of the past, this day trip offers a unique blend of science, history, and nature—a perfect adventure for curious minds and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Itinerary
6:30 AM Meet at Green Lake Park & Ride to carpool
10:15 AM LIGO Tour(get there 15 minutes early)
12:00 AM Eat Lunch
1:00 PM Drive to Franklin Mining Town
4:30 PM Begin Franklin Mining Town Ghost Hike
6:00 PM Eat Dinner
7:00 PM Go back to Green Lake Park and Ride

Free LIGO Tour Ticket
https://www.ligo.caltech.edu/page/lho-public-tours