Feel That?! It's Cozy Outdoor Fireplace Season

Feel That?! It’s Cozy Outdoor Fireplace Season

As summer fades and the crisp autumn air rolls in, there's no better way to enjoy the outdoors in the Pacific Northwest than with an outdoor fire. Whether you’re gathered with family, enjoying a peaceful evening with a good book, or entertaining guests, an outdoor fire creates a warm, cozy ambiance that turns any backyard into an inviting retreat. The cooler temps and early setting sun is a great way to maximize time spent outdoors.

Scenic Tehaleh makes outdoor fires an ideal way to extend the outdoor season. Whether you have a built-in fireplace or opt for a portable fire pit, the charm and warmth of a crackling fire provide a perfect excuse to gather ‘round: share stories, or simply unwind under the stars*

*there are definitely stars past that grey ceiling, we promise.

Living the Built-in Fireplace Life

If you’re lucky enough to have a built-in outdoor fireplace, you already have a major advantage. These permanent fixtures not only increase the value of your home, but they also provide a beautiful focal point for your outdoor space. Whether your fireplace is made of brick, stone, or metal, the ambiance it creates is hard to beat.

Be the host with the most! Having a built-in fireplace allows for an easy, efficient way to host outdoor gatherings. The beauty of these fireplaces is that they tend to be larger and more powerful, providing a longer-lasting, more consistent heat source. They can also be more elaborate, with additional features such as attached seating areas, wood storage, and even outdoor kitchens for grilling.

Create a Lounge Space: Set up cozy seating, like weather-resistant cushions or Adirondack chairs, around the fireplace to create an inviting area where family and friends can gather. Set up your own outdoor TV for Sunday football and movie nights!

Outdoor Lighting: Incorporate string lights or lanterns to enhance the cozy atmosphere as the sun sets earlier.

Fire-Friendly Snacks: Keep marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers on hand for easy s'mores, or try roasting hotdogs or skewered veggies for a fun, casual meal.

The natural setting will make you feel like you’re glamping at home, and Tehaleh’s towering evergreens adds to the allure of your outdoor fireplace. Take the time to enjoy this peaceful backdrop as you cozy up with a warm blanket and a hot drink.

Keep It Flexible With Portable Fire Pits

For those without a built-in fireplace, portable fire pits are an excellent option that can still create the same sense of warmth. Portable fire pits come in many different styles, from sleek metal bowls to rustic chimeneas or stone-lined fire rings, and can be easily moved around your yard or stored when not in use. They are perfect for homes where flexibility and space might be a consideration, especially if you want the option to create different outdoor seating areas depending on the season.

Some benefits of portable fire pits:

Versatility: Portable fire pits allow you to move the fire to where it suits you best, whether that’s closer to the house on a cold night or in the middle of the yard for a larger gathering. Plus, they’re easy to clean!

Easy Storage: When not in use, portable fire pits can be tucked away in a shed or garage, making them a more practical option if space is limited.

Affordability: Portable fire pits can range from very affordable to high-end, so there’s an option for every budget.

To make the most of your portable fire pit, consider these tips:

Fire-Friendly Setup: Arrange chairs in a semi-circle around the fire, leaving enough space for people to get in and out comfortably without getting too close to the flames.

Keep Warm Blankets Nearby: Even with a fire, the Pacific Northwest evenings can get chilly in the fall. Have some soft, cozy blankets available for extra warmth. If you have any old comforters or blankets that you don’t mind getting a little smoky, they’re great to have on hand for these nights.

Ambient Music: If the crackling fire isn’t enough, play soft background music to set the mood for a chilled out campfire night.

Make it Safe! First, Last, and Always.

While outdoor fires are a great way to enjoy the cooler fall evenings, it’s essential to prioritize safety. Washington’s unique climate—characterized by wet winters and dry summers—means that fire hazards (even wind) can be present despite the weather appearing mild. Before lighting your fire, always check the weather and if any burn bans are in effect.

Check Local Fire Regulations: Always ensure you are adhering to Pierce County, East Pierce County & Tehaleh burn restrictions and permitting laws. We all love cozy fires, but when there’s a burn ban in place, it’s there for a reason. It might be a bummer at first, but once that restriction is lifted, you can enjoy all the s’mores in the world.

Place Fire Pits on Non-Flammable Surfaces: Whether using a built-in fireplace or a portable fire pit, ensure it's placed on a non-flammable surface like concrete, stone, brick, or gravel. Avoid positioning it too close to dry brush, wooden decks & fencing, trees, your home, and branches.

Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep outdoor furniture, blankets, and other flammable items at least 10 feet away from the fire. Embers are pesky travelers and have been known to ruin perfectly good camping chairs.

Never Leave a Fire Unattended: Even when smoldering! Always have eyes nearby to monitor the fire until it is fully extinguished. Water the plants around your patio or sweep the area of any hazards while you’re waiting till it’s safe and sound.

Keep Water or a Fire Extinguisher Nearby: Having a hose, bucket of water, or fire extinguisher on hand ensures you’re ready to put out any unexpected flare-ups.

Dispose of Ashes Safely: After the fire has burned out, allow the ashes to cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container. This will keep the fireplace clean for the next fire and you’ll thank yourself for being so proactive!

Supervise Children and Pets: As always, keep an eye on children and pets to ensure they stay a safe distance from the fire. And keep an eye on yourself too. When you set a good example, you’re showing that fire is to be respected, not played with.

The Outdoor Season Never Ends

In Tehaleh, you’ll find it hard to stay away from all the beauty each season generates. Having an outdoor fireplace can be a gamechanger and will encourage you to get outside more than you would without one. Invite your friends over, be safe, and enjoy the experience of living in the best corner of the PNW.

Have questions about Tehaleh? We’d love to hear from you! Click here to set up an appointment at our Welcome Center.