Washington State is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting some of the best hiking trails in the Pacific Northwest. From the sandy beaches of the coast to the rugged, glacier-carved peaks of the Cascade and Olympic mountains, Washington National Parks and Washington Hikes offer an unparalleled variety of landscapes.
Whether you're looking to explore the lush forests of Eastern Washington, the scenic trails of southern Washington, or the iconic vistas throughout the state, there's something on your hiking bucket list waiting for you here.
Whether you're seeking solitude on a secluded sandy beach or the thrill of conquering some of the best hiking trails in Washington State, preparing properly can ensure an unforgettable adventure in the great outdoors.
Before lacing up your hiking boots and hitting the trails, it's essential to note that access to many of these pristine recreation sites in Washington and Oregon may require a National Park pass or the $30 annual Northwest Forest Pass for day use. For updated information, always check the Washington Trails Association for trail reports.
For those venturing into multiple federal lands across the country, more information on the America the Beautiful Pass can be found here.
Enchanting Trails for Adventure Seekers
For the adventure-hungry hiker, Washington State is replete with trails that promise a challenge alongside breathtaking views.
Meandering through old-growth forests, scrambling up rocky switchbacks, and traversing alpine meadows are the beginning of the state’s high-adrenaline hikes.
Hiking Duration: Varies greatly, ranging from several weeks to months for the Washington section
Difficulty: Challenging
Trail Type: Point to point
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a remarkable testament to the rugged beauty that Washington State offers, within the state alone. This trail forms a part of the "Triple Crown" of US hiking, standing as a beacon for those seeking the ultimate adventure amid nature's grandeur.
The northern terminus of the PCT, which marks the end (or the beginning, depending on your perspective) of an extensive backcountry expedition, promises hikers an unparalleled connection with the natural world.
Traversing the PCT in Washington guides you through some of the most captivating landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. You'll encounter sections like Kendall Katwalk (location), a long, narrow pathway with a steeply sloped granite rock face on the north ridge of Kendall Peak, approximately 6 miles (9.6 km) northeast of Snoqualmie Pass, and Goat Rocks Wilderness (location), both renowned for their breathtaking panoramic views of cascading mountains and deep valleys.
Section J of the PCT takes you from Snoqualmie Pass to Stevens Pass through the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, highlighting the trail's diversity and beauty. This segment, in particular, showcases a variety of terrain, from rocky ridges to lush forests, making it a must-experience for any serious hiker.
Total Length of Hiking Trails: More than 370 miles (595 km)
Mount Rainier National Park is a jewel in the crown of Washington’s natural landscapes. It is distinguished by its awe-inspiring Mount Rainier, massive glaciers, and vibrant subalpine meadows. Renowned loop trails like the Naches Peak Loop provide hikers with the unique opportunity to traverse dense forests and open meadows, offering breathtaking views of Rainier's glaciated peak.
The park is also a prime spot for overnight backpacking trips, allowing adventurers to immerse themselves in its pristine wilderness. Hikers might encounter mountain goats among the craggy peaks and fields of wildflowers. Each trail, from easy walks to strenuous treks, offers a unique perspective of the park's diverse ecosystem.
Here are three popular trails within the park:
The Wonderland Trail
Location: Washington State, USA
Distance: 93 miles (150 km)
Hiking Duration: 10-12 days
Difficulty: Challenging
Trail Type: Loop
The Wonderland Trail is an iconic pathway encircling Mount Rainier, presenting a formidable challenge with its substantial elevation gain of approximately 21,400 feet (731 meters).
This trek is suited for those equipped with resilience and reliable hiking boots, initiating an unforgettable adventure. The trail’s diverse landscape, characterized by its alpine lakes, vibrant wildflower meadows, and rugged valleys, makes it a significant undertaking for any hiker, offering a comprehensive experience of Mount Rainier's natural beauty.
Circumnavigating the glaciated peak of Mount Rainier, the trail showcases the Pacific Northwest's splendor through its varied terrain. Adventurers on this path are rewarded daily with breathtaking views, from expansive, flower-laden meadows to valleys shaped by the relentless work of glaciers.
This immersive experience provides an up-close exploration of the park's ecosystems, presenting a chance to witness the rich biodiversity and geologic wonders that define Mount Rainier National Park.
Northern Loop Trail
Location: Washington State, USA
Distance: approximately 40 miles (64 km)
Hiking Duration: 3-4 days
Difficulty: Challenging
Trail Type: Loop
The Northern Loop Trail offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for those looking to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of Mount Rainier’s northern side. This loop trails through some of the park's most rugged and untouched wilderness areas, providing hikers with unforgettable encounters with icy crevasses, pristine alpine tundra, and expansive summer snow fields. The trail demands resilience and preparedness from its adventurers, promising a truly immersive outdoor experience.
Traversing this trail, hikers will find themselves fording glacial rivers and navigating through landscapes that showcase Mount Rainier's varying moods and dramatic scenery.
From the lush greenery of ancient forests to the stark beauty of high-alpine environments, this hike presents a whirlwind tour of the mountain's north side. All these elements combined make the Northern Loop Trail a must-do for serious hikers seeking to explore the depths of the park’s natural wonders.
Skyline Trail
Location: Washington State, USA
Distance: 5.5 miles (8.8 km)
Hiking Duration: 4-6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Trail Type: Loop
The Skyline Trail is a premier loop hike in Mount Rainier National Park, renowned for its breathtaking views and challenging terrain. Recommended to hike counterclockwise, this trail offers a dynamic experience, with sections that traverse ridgelines leading to iconic spots such as Panorama Point. From here, hikers are rewarded with expansive vistas of Mount Rainier and the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect location for photography and restful breaks.
This moderately strenuous loop takes hikers through diverse environments, from subalpine meadows blooming with wildflowers to stark glacial vistas. Key viewpoints along the route include Frozen Lake, Peepsock, and Sourdough Gap, each providing unique perspectives of the park’s rugged beauty.
Mount St. Helens, nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, offers an unparalleled adventure experience amidst its dramatic landscape. Located 52 miles (84 km) northeast of Portland, Oregon, and 98 miles (158 km) south of Seattle, Washington, this active volcano serves as a prime destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and scientists alike.
The area is renowned for its geological features, from the stark, lava-sculpted plains to the rolling hills and vibrant ecosystems recovering from its 1980 eruption.
Visitors to Mount St. Helens can explore several trails that cater to all levels of hikers. From the windswept ridges overlooking Spirit Lake to the serene beauty of Lake Ingalls, each path offers a unique perspective of the mountain's mighty power and the resilient nature of its surrounding landscapes.
The Johnston Ridge Observatory (location) provides panoramic views of the crater, making it a must-see for first-time visitors.
Total Length of Hiking Trails: Over 500 miles (804 km)
The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is a breathtaking river canyon that stretches 80 miles (129 km) long and dives up to 4,000 feet (1,219 meters) deep. This natural marvel, nestled between southern Washington and northern Oregon, captivates with its majestic cliffs, towering spires, and rugged ridges, offering a visual feast for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Covering an area that spans portions of three Oregon and three Washington counties, the Gorge provides an extensive network of trails that promise more than just scenic views.
Hikers looking for a challenge will find the steep trails around Cape Horn especially rewarding as they negotiate the demanding ascents and descents along the rocky slopes. Get more information about other popular trails within the wilderness here.
Hiking Dog Mountain
Location: Columbia River Gorge, Washington, USA
Distance: 6.0 miles (9.6 km) roundtrip
Hiking Duration: 6-8 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Trail Type: Out and Back
The Dog Mountain Trail, positioned within the stunning backdrop of the Columbia River Gorge, offers a challenging yet rewarding hike. Recognized as the premier hike for experiencing the vibrant display of wildflowers, this trail commands attention every spring.
During peak wildflower season, from April 27 to June 16, and on Memorial Day, hikers should obtain a permit to access the Dog Mountain Trailhead parking lot on weekends. This measure ensures the preservation of the natural environment and a quality experience for all visitors.
Permits can be secured through Recreation.gov, ensuring hikers are well-prepared for this majestic exploration of nature's artistry at Dog Mountain.
Total Length of Hiking Trails: Over 400 miles (640 km)
North Cascades National Park, set within the breathtaking expanse of the North Cascades mountain range, spans thousands of acres in Washington State. This natural sanctuary, flanked by the Ross Lake National Recreation Area and the Stephen Mather Wilderness, presents a rugged landscape marked by craggy peaks and over 300 glaciers, making it one of the most pristine wilderness areas in the United States.
Visitors to the park can experience the profound beauty of the Cascade Mountains through an extensive network of trails leading to panoramic views of iconic peaks and glaciers, especially in the renowned Cascade Pass. The park's diverse ecosystems and untouched wilderness offer endless exploration opportunities for hikers, nature lovers, and adventurers.
Here are two of the most popular day hikes in the park: Nonetheless, you can explore more about this untouched natural beauty here.
Heather - Maple Pass Loop
Location: North Cascades National Park, Washington, USA
Distance: 7.2 miles (11.9 km)
Hiking Duration: 5-6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Trail Type: Loop
The Heather - Maple Pass Loop, nestled within the North Cascades National Park, is a loop trail renowned for its captivating beauty. Commencing from the parking lot near the North Cascades Highway, the trail invites hikers into the heart of the park's wilderness. A counter-clockwise direction is commonly preferred, allowing a gradual ascent through dense forests toward the awe-inspiring vistas above Lake Ann (location). This approach gradually unveils the striking beauty of Black Peak, drawing hikers deeper into the natural splendor of the region.
This moderately challenging trek is distinguishable by its diverse landscapes, ranging from serene alpine meadows adorned with wildflowers to rugged mountainous terrain. Hikers are treated to panoramic views of Lake Ann and the encompassing North Cascades, making each step a rewarding endeavor.
The trail's highlights include close encounters with the pristine wilderness, enchanting waterfalls, and the iconic Washington Pass Overlook.
Desolation Peak Trail
Location: North Cascades National Park, Washington, USA
Distance: 6.8 miles (11 km) roundtrip
Hiking Duration: 8-10 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Trail Type: Out and Back
The Desolation Peak Trail invites the adventurous at heart to a hiking experience that's as rigorous as it is rewarding. Starting near Ross Lake, this challenging back trail is best reserved for seasoned hikers seeking to conquer its steep ascents for unparalleled rewards at the summit. Engaging in this trek, participants earn sweeping vistas of Ross Lake, the Picket Range, and even the formidable Mount Terror.
The trail's stark elevation gain tests endurance, but the panorama from Desolation Peak is the ultimate gratification, presenting a breathtaking snapshot of the North Cascades' wild heart.
Hikers can also explore a shorter route to Lightning Creek, a 2-mile (3.3 km) less strenuous option, or continue the challenging but scenic 4.8-mile (7.7 km) trek from Lightning Creek to reach the summit.
The Blue Lake Trail within the Cascades Park Complex offers a memorable excursion into the heart of Washington's rugged wilderness. This moderately-rated popular hike features a gentle ascent that makes it accessible to a broad range of hiking enthusiasts. Setting out from the North Cascades Hwy. (location, travelers are immediately enveloped in the enchantment of ancient old-growth forests, which serve as a prelude to the trail's climax.
The voyage culminates at the pristine Blue Lake (location, a serene alpine gem encased by the stark grandeur of the towering peaks. This spot presents an ideal setting for reflection and nature appreciation, inviting hikers to spend time in tranquil contemplation or partake in photography to capture the scenic beauty.
The Snow Lake Trek represents the epitome of accessible wilderness beauty in Washington. This trek is renowned for being the most heavily trafficked trail within a wilderness area in the state, offering a relatively easy and fulfilling outdoor experience.
The journey begins at the north end of the main parking lot at the Alpental Ski Area, paving the way through varied landscapes that captivate the senses.
Serving as a gateway to the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, the Snow Lake Trek delights hikers with its stunning alpine scenery, crystal-clear waters, and sweeping mountain views. Although considered easy to moderate in difficulty, the trail presents an enjoyable challenge for beginners while still appealing to seasoned hikers looking for a tranquil day hike.
Gem Lake via Snow Lake and High Lakes Trail
Location: Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest, Washington, USA
Distance: 9.7 miles (15.6 km)
Hiking Duration: 6–8 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Trail Type: Out and Back
The Gem Lake via Snow Lake and High Lakes Trail (direction) offers a demanding yet rewarding hike within the Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest. This trail, starting from Alpental, is deemed challenging due to its considerable elevation gain and the rocky terrain it traverses. It is a popular route for those seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness.
Gem Lake, a remarkable alpine lake, sits at the foot of Wright Mountain, a compelling destination approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) past the trail junction with the Rock Creek trail. This location promises serene beauty and a sense of seclusion, framed by the rugged backdrop of the surrounding peaks. Along the way, hikers can marvel at the expanse of Snow Lake, offering breathtaking views and photogenic landscapes.
This hike tests the boundaries of one's physical endurance and offers a tranquil retreat at Gem Lake, where one can enjoy the undisturbed ambiance of the wilderness.
Park Butte Lookout Trail
Location: Mount Baker Wilderness, Washington, USA
Distance: 7.5 miles (12 km) roundtrip
Hiking Duration: approximately 6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Out and Back
Park Butte Lookout Trail (location) is a popular hike in the Mount Baker Wilderness, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. This moderately challenging hike is mostly out and back, with a small loop at the end that offers additional views.
The highlight of this hike is the historic fire lookout built in 1932, which provides unobstructed panoramic views of Mount Baker and other peaks in the area. Along the trail, hikers can enjoy sweeping views of glaciers and alpine meadows, and spot wildlife such as marmots and mountain goats.
Park Butte is also a popular camping spot, with campsites near the lookout offering a unique overnight experience surrounded by stunning scenery. For those looking to extend their hike, additional trails branch off from Park Butte, providing even more opportunities to explore the wilderness.
Also, the hike starts at Artist Point, a scenic area with views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan, making it a great spot for photos before or after the trek. Here is a guide to give you more details about this trek.
Family-Friendly Trails to Share with Kids
Sharing the love for the outdoors with the family can be immensely rewarding. Fortunately, Washington State is home to numerous trails that are not only easy on the legs but also engaging for children of all ages.
These trails lead to beautiful waterfalls, enchanting forests, and open meadows. Perfect for a weekend outing, these routes ensure that the youngest hikers among us are having just as much fun as the adults.
Located a short drive from Seattle, Rattlesnake Ledge is a popular hike that is among the most accessible adventures one can find in the area. A moderate trail with a well-maintained path, it offers splendid views of the Rattlesnake Lake and the Cedar River Watershed.
This 4-mile round trip certainly packs a punch with its panoramic pay-off but is a manageable venture for families with older children.
Olympic National Park., sprawling across the Olympic Peninsula, is a true testament to the diverse beauty of nature. This vast reserve offers numerous ecosystems, from lush rainforests to alpine ridges. The park is renowned for its extensive network of trails, which cater to hikers of all skill levels, from out and back difficulty trails to wilderness hikes.
Hiking in Olympic National Park is a venture into the wilderness and an opportunity to explore the majestic Olympic Mountains.
For those looking to extend their stay under the stars, designated camping spots dot the landscape, including beach areas where a permit is necessary.
Here are three other popular routes within the park:
Hoh River trail in the Hoh Rainforest
Location: Hoh Rain Forest, Olympic National Park, Washington, USA
Distance: 17.4 miles (28 km) roundtrip
Hiking Duration: Variable, up to 12 hours for a round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Out and Back
The Hoh River Trail is a jewel within Olympic National Park, weaving through the mesmerizing Hoh Rain Forest. Renowned for its enchanting beauty, this trail captivates hikers with its lush landscape, making it the most popular rainforest trail. Tourists gather here, especially during the spring, summer, and fall seasons, drawn by its accessible yet immersive wilderness experience. The Hoh Rain Forest, known for its dense green canopy and abundant moss, offers a unique phenomenon that encapsulates the essence of a temperate rainforest. You can make a campsite reservation at Recreation.gov.
Adjacent to this magical trail, the Hall of Mosses Trail presents a more succinct adventure. Short at just under a mile, this trail delivers an astounding introduction to the rainforest's ecosystem. Families and casual hikers find this segment particularly inviting due to its easy walkability and the awe-inspiring views of trees and moss in various shades of green.
Hiking Rialto Beach and Hole-in-the-Wall
Location: Rialto Beach, Olympic National Park, Washington, USA
Distance: 3.3 miles (5.3 km) roundtrip
Hiking Duration: 2–3 hours
Difficulty: Easy-to-Moderate
Trail Type: Out and Back
Rialto Beach grants visitors a unique hiking experience that melds the rugged beauty of the Pacific coastline with accessible exploration.
This hike starts at the Rialto Beach parking lot, weaving through an enchanting landscape that culminates in the famous hole-in-the-wall. The trail is renowned for its stunning ocean views, towering sea stacks, and the chance to explore tide pools teeming with marine life at low tide. The dramatic scenery and the crash of the waves provide a tranquil backdrop, making it a favorite among nature lovers.
For more detailed information about this hike and how to plan your visit, please refer to this guide.
Enchanted Valley via East Fork Quinault River Trail
The Enchanted Valley via the East Fork Quinault River Trail is a pathway that takes adventurers deep into the heart of Olympic Park's southern expanse. The trail commences at the Graves Creek Trailhead, offering a round-trip journey that typically spans over two days.
The Enchanted Valley itself is a testament to the breathtaking beauty of Olympic Park, showcasing a steep and moss-covered peak. Along the way, hikers can expect to cross crystal-clear streams, meander through dense old-growth forests, and possibly catch a glimpse of the valley's famous inhabitants: elk, black bears, and bald eagles.
Recognized for its challenging yet rewarding terrain, this trail offers an unparalleled opportunity for wildlife spotting, introducing hikers to the park's diverse ecosystem.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
For those who crave solitude and the joys of discovery, Washington has a treasure trove of lesser-known trails that promise seclusion and untrammeled natural beauty.
These hikes, often found in the nooks and crannies of the state, offer the chance to witness wilderness in its purest form without the crowds.
Total Length of Hiking Trails: Varies, with significant trails like the Lakes Basin Trail being an 18-mile (29 km) round trip
The Alpine Lakes Wilderness is a substantial wilderness area within the Central Cascades of Washington state. It's home to over 700 alpine lakes and ponds, nestled amidst the vast peaks of the Cashmere Crags, celebrated for their premier rock-climbing experiences.
Among these, Colchuck Lake (location) stands out as one of Washington's most breathtaking alpine lakes, drawing visitors from near and far.
The Enchantments, part of this wilderness, offers a series of crystal-clear alpine lakes and jagged peaks that epitomize the wilderness's magnetic charm. Despite a permit system limiting access to its core zones, adventurers can explore routes like the Lakes Basin Trail from the Snow Lakes Trailhead to immerse themselves in its beauty. This 18-mile round-trip hike showcases the splendor of the region, from enchanting vistas to serene lakes, making it a haven for backpackers and photographers alike.
Colchuck Lake Trail via Colchuck Lake and Stuart Lake
Location: Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, Washington, USA
Distance: 8.7 miles (14.0 km) out & back
Hiking Duration: approximately 5 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Trail Type: Out and Back
The Colchuck Lake Trail, a part of Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, unfolds as a stunning out-and-back hike. This trail is perceived as challenging yet rewarding, showcasing the scenic splendor of Colchuck Lake (location), positioned beneath the imposing Dragontail and Colchuck Peaks. Known for its crystalline waters rivaling the hues of the sky, the lake serves as a focal point for many adventurers.
This path is celebrated for its seamless blend of natural marvels, from towering peaks that inspire awe to serene lakeside spots perfect for contemplation. The trail is a haven for those passionate about backpacking, hiking, and snowshoeing. Its popularity means hikers share this experience with others, especially during peak seasons, making it a bustling hub for outdoor enthusiasts.
The hike to Goat Lake presents itself as a hidden gem, less known to the masses yet bursting with natural splendor. This trek meanders through dense, lush evergreen forests, gradually unfolding into breathtaking expanses. At its culmination, hikers are greeted by the serenity of Goat Lake and its tranquil waters mirroring the surrounding peaks that pierce the sky. The path to the lake, while steep and presenting a bit of a scramble, rewards adventurers with seclusion and panoramic vistas rarely found in more frequented locales.
The trail's difficulty does little to deter those looking for untouched beauty, offering a peaceful retreat into nature. Along the way, the verdant landscape, dotted with vibrant wildflowers during the right season, and glimpses of wildlife contribute to an enriching hiking experience.
Chain Lakes Loop
Location: Near Mount Baker, Washington, USA
Distance: 6.5 miles (10.5 km)
Hiking Duration: 4–6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Trail Type: Loop
The Chain Lakes Loop starts at Artist Point, offering an exquisite day hike or an adventurous overnight backpacking trip. This trail presents moderate to challenging terrain, rewarding hikers with panoramic vistas of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. The path winds through picturesque meadows cloaked in vibrant wildflowers and past pristine alpine lakes, perfect for a refreshing swim.
Starting from the Chain Lakes Trailhead, the loop indulges visitors with its natural beauty, allowing hikers to explore the volcanic landscape of Table Mountain. The well-maintained trail is dotted with designated camping sites, marked by posts with tent symbols, ensuring that overnight backpackers have a memorable stay amidst the wilderness.
Note that camping is permitted only at marked sites, with posts displaying tent symbols. Get more information here.
For the Speedsters: Trail Running and Cycling Routes
While hiking and backpacking are the backbone of outdoor adventures, they aren't the only ways to experience Washington's wilderness.
Trail runners and mountain bikers will find a network of paths that cater to their needs, ranging from smooth singletracks through the woods to technical descents that will challenge even the most skilled riders.
Tiger Mountain and the Issaquah Alps
Location: Near Issaquah, Washington, USA
Distance: Varies depending on the route
Activity Duration: Approximately 1–3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Just a stone's throw away from Seattle’s urban bustle, Tiger Mountain and the surrounding Issaquah Alps offer a mix of well-maintained loops suitable for running and cycling.
With varying difficulty levels, these trails provide a close-to-home training ground with spectacular views of the Cascades and beyond. The Northwest Timber Trail is a popular choice for those seeking a more intermediate challenge, while the easygoing Silent Swamp Loop offers a tranquil environment for a leisurely run or ride.
Total Length of Hiking Trails: over 6 miles (9.6 km) cross country, nearly 2 miles (3.2 km) freeride trail
An absolute haven for mountain bikers, Duthie Hill Mountain Bike Park near Issaquah boasts a few miles of thrilling trails and features. With carefully constructed trails that cater to all skill levels, including beginners, and a vibrant community scene, Duthie Hill is the perfect place to hone your craft.
The park’s wood features and technical trail sections make it a standout for anyone looking to improve their mountain biking skills or have a blast on two wheels.
Conclusion
With its diverse landscapes and trail types, Washington State stands as a testament to the endless opportunities for outdoor exploration.
From the craggy coastline and temperate rainforests of Olympic National Park to the stunning peaks and alpine lakes of the North Cascades, hiking in Washington is an experience that continually surprises and delights. Whether you're looking for a challenge, a family-friendly day out, a solitary escape, or a spirited run or ride, the Evergreen State has a trail tailored for you.
With such a vast tapestry of adventures, it's no wonder that hikers flock to Washington to immerse themselves in its natural grandeur.
