Why I Started Electric Cascades: From Leaf to Mountain Peaks

I've been driving electric for 12 years, and honestly, I can't imagine going back. When I press the accelerator in a gas car now, it feels like minutes go by before anything happens. But this blog isn't about converting you to electric driving through environmental arguments or politics. It's about something much simpler: EVs are more fun, more affordable, and more spontaneous.

My Electric Journey Started with a Leap of Faith

Back in 2013, I leased a Nissan Leaf when they first offered decent lease programs. Several of my coworkers had already taken the plunge and couldn't stop talking about them. As a software developer, I loved nerding out over the energy consumption data and trying to maximize efficiency. Even that early Leaf, which seems primitive compared to today's EVs, was peppier than any gas car I'd owned.

We used the Leaf as our around-town car - perfect for errands and my daily commute. But here's the thing: I moved to the Pacific Northwest specifically to ski regularly, and that 80-mile range meant the mountains were completely out of reach. For years, I had this amazing electric driving experience in town while still burning gas (and money) every weekend to reach the slopes.

The Game Changer: Going Electric to the Mountains

Fast forward to getting my Ioniq 5 AWD. After test driving pretty much every AWD electric vehicle available, the Ioniq 5 hit the sweet spot of price, comfort, and features. But that first mountain trip? I was nervous. Years of Leaf ownership had trained me to obsess over every percentage point of battery.

I charged to 100% the night before, stopped to fast charge to 100% on the way up, plugged in at the resort, and fast charged again on the way home. Complete overkill, as it turned out. With three times the battery capacity of my old Leaf, I quickly realized I could leave home with 80% charge and make the round trip without any charging stops.

The Mental Shift That Changed Everything

Here's what really surprised me: the biggest change wasn't the technology - it was psychological. When every trip to Mt. Hood Meadows costs $20 in gas, you start weighing the weather forecast against your wallet. "Is today really going to be good enough to justify the cost?"

Now, with electricity costing less than a third of gas for the same trip, I just go. If I can make it to the mountain, I go. Most days end up being great, and even the "pretty good" days are worth it when you're not doing mental math about fuel costs. I estimate I'm getting 40% more days on the mountain simply because the economics changed.

More Than Just Cheap "Fuel"

The benefits go beyond cost savings. That instant torque makes navigating snowy mountain roads feel more controlled and confident. The V2L (vehicle-to-load) capability means I can plug in a boot dryer in the backseat during lunch on wet days. My kids discovered they can run an electric blanket for the cozy ride home after a long day in the cold.

These aren't life-changing features, but they're the kind of small improvements that make you think, "Why would I ever go back?"

Why This Blog, Why Now?

After 12 years of electric driving and countless mountain adventures in my Ioniq 5, I keep meeting people who are curious but hesitant. They've heard EVs can't handle cold weather, can't make it to ski resorts, require lifestyle sacrifices. Meanwhile, I'm over here going to the mountain more than ever, spending less money, and having more fun.

The EV conversation has become unnecessarily complicated and politicized. Set aside the climate debates for a moment - these are simply better vehicles for most people. They're more fun to drive, cheaper to operate, and packed with features that enhance outdoor adventures rather than limit them.

What You'll Find Here

This blog focuses on the practical side of electric adventure in the Pacific Northwest. I'll share:

• Real data from actual trips (energy usage, costs, charging stops)
• Honest assessments of different conditions and routes
• Creative uses for EV features in outdoor settings
• Comparisons that help you understand if an EV fits your adventure style

I'm not here to preach about the environment or pretend EVs are perfect for everyone. But for the vast majority of drivers in the PNW, an electric vehicle could enhance your adventures while saving money. That's a story worth telling.

Looking Ahead

My goal is simple: help more people discover that going electric doesn't mean giving up adventure - it means affording more of them. Whether you're EV-curious, already electric and looking for inspiration, or somewhere in between, I hope you'll find practical, honest information here that helps you get outside more often.

Because really, that's what it's all about. Not the technology, not the politics, just more days in the mountains, on the trails, and exploring this incredible region we call home.

Have questions about taking an EV on your outdoor adventures? Drop me a line or check out my upcoming articles on winter driving, charging strategies, and real-world range in the mountains.