If you're the type that spikes your coffee with Red Bull, takes a zip line to work, and drives a stock car to the corner supermarket, you're always on the lookout for more extreme sports and activities in the Seattle area. You're not alone. Adrenaline addiction is on the rise, and there's a simple cure — more adrenaline!

Mountain Biking

Off-roading in a vehicle is for sellouts. Instead, hop on a mountain bike and take to the great outdoors without the stinky exhaust, riotous noises, and restrictive seatbelts. Duthie Hill is the place to go for this awesome activity, regardless of your skill level or how souped-up your bike is. Duthie Hill is 120 acres of pure biking bliss that stays in shape all year long, unlike other rain-sodden spots in the area. All trails at Duthie Hill have unique names and characteristics. You can choose from beginner tracks to expert courses. A variety of obstacles from ladders to log rides to jumps are threaded into each course, and signs indicate which obstacles are mandatory to clear the track (since most can be avoided if you're not up to them). There's a huge practice area to train, warm up, or show off to the newbies. Don't forget your helmet and other protective gear! Serious mountain biking is serious business.

Mountain Climbing

Right in our backyard is majestic Mount Rainier. Coming in at over 14,000 feet tall, it overlooks just about anywhere in the state and is the perfect place to get the rush of your life, uniquely combined with meditative serenity. There are much more challenging climbs in the area but none quite so awe-inspiring as Rainier. If you've never tried mountain climbing but are physically fit and steeped with courage (or as some call it, "foolishness"), there are several companies that provide professional instruction and guided climbs to the summit. After a full day of mountaineering boot camp, you can make the climb in as little as three days. From full-pack glacier climbs to those with supplies stored along the way, there's a climb for every skill level.

Zip Lining

Despite the introductory paragraph, zip lining isn't just for commuting anymore. Some folks do it purely for fun. It's a delightful way to experience the sights and sounds of nature as you rip silently through the forest canopies. It's also quite a rush, and relatively risk-free (if you're into safety, that is). Canopy Tours NW is open year-round and offers daily tours. Rates are $65 for kids 12 and under, and $95 for everyone else. Some of the zip lines measure well over 600 feet — nearly the length of two football fields! There are six total courses, a log bridge, and a forest tour in a historic Unimog forest vehicle. Pro tip: tuck your legs in at the knees to achieve top speed. It's been said that it's wiser to spend your money on experiences, not things. Experiences like these don't get any better. Try one of them and see!