Washington State Hikes
Ever thought about hiking in Washington State? Now is the time to go! This gorgeous corner of the United States is one of the best places in the world for hiking, offering tremendous diversity and thrilling trails. From the green temperate rainforests of the Olympic Peninsula, to the soaring peaks of the Cascades National Park, there’s something here for all adventure travelers.
Hiking in Washington State is a real treat for keen trekkers. The Cascades National Park makes a stunning backdrop for some of the most thrilling hikes and ridge walks in the country, where you’ll find yourself looking over a panorama of craggy peaks, wildflower meadows and emerald lakes. The old growth forests around Mount Baker are a wonderful place for a ramble, with trails that look over glacier-covered mountains and daringly high passes. Finally, the Olympic Peninsula offers something completely different – bracing coastal walks, unusual wildlife, and moss-covered gorges, deep in the heart of ancient forests.
What are you waiting for? Start planning your hiking trip to Washington State today. We’ve put together all the information that you’ll need, from trail recommendations for all hiking levels, to weather and travel advice. Now is the time to enjoy everything this wonderful state has to offer.
Types Of Hiking In Washington State
Washington State is known for the diversity of its landscapes, meaning that there’s a trail here to suit everyone. In the west, the Olympic National Park occupies a large peninsula with some incredible scenery, ranging from coastal trails to lush, temperate rainforest. Kids will love the easy, low level trails here, winding through magical ancient forests covered in a vibrant coat of moss. You’ll also find some easy, accessible hikes in the North Cascades National Park, where woodland and wildflower trails are perfectly offset by the surrounding vista of tall, craggy peaks.
If you’re an adventure hiker looking for a challenge, there’s plenty in Washington State to keep you occupied. Some of the toughest trails can be found near Mount Baker and in the North Cascades National park, where the climbs are steep and the route are long. However, the reward for your exertions is pretty phenomenal – you’ll be right in the heart of some of Washington State’s greatest wildernesses, with mind-blowing views, colorful trails, and some of the region’s most fascinating wildlife.
Easy Hikes In Washington State
Hole in the Wall Hike: This magnificent trek is one of our favorite easy hikes in Washington State. The trail takes you from the edge of the Pacific Ocean to a collection of impressive boulders and rock formations further along the coast. As you walk along the beach you’ll feel the crashing power of the ocean to your left, before you finally reach a steep ridge that offers beautiful views over the coastline.
Washington Pass Overlook Hike: If you’re in the North Cascades National Park, don’t miss this enjoyable easy hike. At just under half a kilometer, it’s a great place to stretch your legs on the drive between eastern and western Washington State. It may be a short route, but you’ll get a fantastic view of Liberty Bell Mountain and Silver Star Mountain.
Family Hikes In Washington State
Blue Lake Hike: If you’re looking for a family-friendly trail in the North Cascades National Park, this hike to Blue Lake is an excellent option. Surrounded by the dramatic Liberty Bell Mountain spires, Blue Lake is simply gorgeous, and at its best when the leaves start to turn in autumn. This trail, which snakes through woodland, and wildflower fields past a rocky lakeside, is perfect for children, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife-spotting along the way.
Marymere Falls Hike: Bring your family to the beautiful Marymere Falls and you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a magical world! The trail winds its way through shady temperate rainforest and up a steep track to the falls. The beautiful old growth forest has a character all of its own, and kids will love the mossy ravine, dressed in bright green ferns.
Day Hikes In Washington State
High Divide Loop Hike: This challenging route in the Olympic National Park is one of the best day hikes in Washington State. The trail passes along a beautiful ridge above the tree line, offering incredible views over Mount Olympus. Take the route clockwise for the most impressive vista, and look out for a glimpse of the enormous Blue Glacier. This day trek is a long hike, but it’s a rewarding challenge for those looking for something extra special in the Olympic National Park.
Cutthroat Pass Hike: This route along the Pacific Crest Trail is one of the best day hikes in Washington State, and a must for all keen hikers! The path to the top rises moderately through a dense forest, crossing over Porcupine Creek, and rising to a series of switchbacks that will take you to the top of the pass. The views from the top are stunning, with a 360 degree vista over the peaks of North Cascades National Park.
Challenging Hikes In Washington State
Ptarmigan Ridge Hike: Want to get away from it all? This hike along Ptarmigan Ridge is the best place to come if you’re looking for solitude and a challenging hike. You’ll cross permanent snowfields, wander through flower-filled meadows and scramble over boulders, all that while enjoying the fabulous Mount Baker. Look out for mountain goats and marmots, and enjoy the majestic beauty of this remarkable landscape.
Hannegan Pass and Peak Hike: This hike up Hannegan Pass and Hannegan Peak is a steep climb, but it’s well worth the effort! The trail winds in and out of lush forests, across wide, open meadows, and over gurgling mountain streams. The views all the way along the route are simply magnificent, dominated by the snow-capped Ruth Mountain. The 360-degree panorama over Cascade Mountain at the top will certainly make you forget your aching legs!
Best Hikes In Washington State
Chain Lakes Loop: This classic circular hike is a wonderful summer trek, and an excellent way to experience the region around Mount Baker. The route begins at the Heather Meadows Visitor Center, and climbs from Artist Point up to the Ptarmigan Ridge Trail. You’ll experience fabulous mountain and lake views, and enjoy the wildflower fields and berry-lined trails to their full advantage.
Yellow Aster Butte Trail: This challenging ascent is one of the best hikes in Washington State, and one of our favorites in the region around Mount Baker. You’ll pass dense woodland, lively mountain streams, and peaceful tarns, before finally summiting Yellow Aster Butte. This scenic peak offers some of the most spectacular views in the region, and is at its best in autumn, when the turning leaves light up the forest in a blaze of crimson and orange.
Royal Basin Hike: For a challenging hike where you can escape the crowds, head to the Olympic National Forest, where this wonderful trail begins. The climb is a little difficult as you ascend a steep trail alongside Royal Creek, but the rewards at the top are simply fabulous. Enjoy the views over Greywolf Mountain and the serene waters of the gorgeous Royal Lake.
Ladder Creek Falls Hike: Looking for a family-friendly hike with plenty of entertainment for younger kids? This short trek to Ladder Creek Falls could be the solution! The trail crosses the river and passes through a rich forest, before emerging at the falls just in time for the evening light show. This innovative performance is a great way to experience the falls themselves, and kids are sure to love it.
Table Mountain Hike: A trip to Washington State wouldn’t be complete without a Table Mountain hike, and this trail offers some of the best views you’ll find over Mount Baker. You’ll need a head for heights, as this trail is somewhat exposed, but the rewards are incomparable. You’ll get a 360-degree panorama over Mount Shuksan and Mount Baker, and a vista that will take your breath away.
Lake Ann Hike: This moderate hike is an excellent way to experience the best of the Mount Baker region without too much exertion. The trail runs alongside Swift Creek, before ascending the slopes above the treeline. The summit near Lake Ann is a fabulous place for a picnic, and you’ll be able to enjoy views of Mount Shuksan and its thunderous waterfalls.
Klahhane Ridge Hike: Looking for a spectacular ridge hike that won’t require too much energy? Try this route over Klahhane Ridge, one of the best hikes in Washington State. The trail begins at the high viewpoint of Hurricane Ridge, meaning that you won’t need to climb up a steep hill to experience fantastic views over the Olympic National Park. Once you’ve summited the pass near Mount Angeles you’ll have an even more impressive vista, taking in Mount Olympus, Mount Angeles and Second Top.
Maple Pass Loop Hike: This hike is one of the finest in the North Cascades National Park, and a must for all adventure travelers! Make sure you arrive in the right season, and the trail is only accessible during the summer months. However, if you time it right, you’ll experience some stunning views and a deeply satisfying, varied hike. You’ll find ridges littered with wild flowers and a beautiful alpine lake – what more could you ask for?
Hoh River Trail Hike: This beautiful trail passes through the dense, temperate rainforest that Washington State is famous for. This magical, otherworldly landscape will transport you to a time of myth and legend, as you pass through old growth forest coated with fragrant moss. The River Hoh acts as your guide on this trail, and you’ll follow the path of the water until you come to the Five Mile Island campground, where you’ll have the chance to spot herds of deer and elk.
Easy Pass Hike: Come to the North Cascades National Park in autumn, when the larches shine in ablaze of yellow glory at the turning of the leaves. You’ll find stunning fall colors, set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Don’t let the name lull you into a false sense of security – this hike is somewhat challenging! However, the rewards are simply breathtaking.
When Is The Best Time To Hike In Washington State?
It’s possible to go hiking year-round in Washington State, and this beautiful region has hikes for every type of weather. Spring is a wonderful time to visit, as the forests and meadows will be covered in a carpet of wild flowers and the extra light opens up the possibility of doing slightly longer trails. High-altitude treks will still be covered in snow, but snowshoeing is still a possibility.
The peak hiking season comes in summer, although over the highest trails it’s confined to July and August. At this time the weather is usually warm and sunny, although the trails may be crowded. For quieter routes, plan your visit in late spring and early autumn.
Perhaps the most spectacular time to hike in Washington State is September and early October, when the forests erupt in a blaze of autumn colors. However, over the higher peaks, early snows can limit hiking opportunities, so watch out for weather updates and take advice from local guides. Although some low-level trails remain open in winter, the roads through the national parks are typically blocked by snow. This is a fantastic time to get your snowshoes and skis out to enjoy the slopes!
Best Regions For Hiking in Washington State
One of the best regions for hiking in Washington State is undoubtedly the North Cascades National Park, a beautiful region boasting dense forests, jagged peaks, and stunning alpine lakes. Close by, the Mount Baker region is another hiking gem. Although it’s best known as a top skiing destination, Mount Baker has some incredible summer hiking trails, offering the possibility of getting up close to the iconic Mount Shuksan. The trails here are typically covered in wildflowers and berries, making this one of our favorite places to hike in the region. Further west, the Olympic National Park offers wonderful hiking trails in a unique, epic landscape. Here, you’ll find coastal trails, atmospheric tide pools and dense temperate rainforest, in addition to mountain and ridge hikes.
Other Outdoor Activities in Washington State
Although we love hiking in the North Cascades National Park and the area around Mount Baker, there are many other outdoor activities in Washington State! The national parks of this beautiful region offer many possibilities for backpacking and through hikes, and this could be the ideal spot to try your first long-distance trek. If you’re an avid climber, Washington State is something of a paradise, with more than 100 mountains and climbing routes to suit all levels of expertise. In the coastal areas you’ll also find windsurfing, paddle-boarding and other watersports, and when the snows hit, you can get our your snowshoes and cross-country skis for some serious winter adventures.
How To Plan A Trip To Washington State
If these suggestions have got you reaching for your hiking boots, start planning your trip to Washington State today! We’ve got everything you’ll need to get started – our Mount Baker guide is perfect for advice on hiking routes and our Olympic National Park guide has everything you’ll need to plan your trip. Don’t miss our expert tips on planning your visit to the North Cascades National Park. Whatever your question, we’ve got it covered!
Hiking regions in Washington State
Best Hikes in Washington State
Ladder Creek Falls
Hiking to ladder Creek Falls is a great family-friendly hike for those in Newhalem. Take a short hike over the Skagit River and through the woods to Ladder Creek Falls. In the evenings, a colored light show provides entertainment from dusk till midnight year-round.
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- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Obstruction Point
A stunning alpine hike that is - surprisingly - not often done. You can choose to do this as a linear hike, with a car-shuttle. That takes a lot of time so we prefer to do either a long return dayhike or else turn around after 8.0 km as a more reasonable dayhike.
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Washington Park Arboretum Trail
The Washington Park Arboretum is a stunning park filled to the brim with trees and flowers. It’s packed with magnolias, oaks, maples, and more flowers than you could count. A highlight of the arboretum is the stunning Azalea Way. There are meadows, a Japanese Garden, greenhouses, and groves of trees to see. A 6.1 km loop trail explores the park, and with only 66m of elevation gain, it’s easy enough for all skill levels. You can also extend your trip by checking out the other trails that traverse the arboretum. You’ll want to linger a while, we promise.
Dogs are allowed on this trail but must be kept on leash. The arboretum sees lots of visitors, so try visiting midweek or early in the morning for a quieter experience. Parts of the arboretum, including the Azalea Way, are ADA accessible.
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Rachel Lake Trail
Rachel Lake Trail is an 12.9 km hike in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest that is rated as hard, although we’d consider it to be on the moderate side of hard. This trail takes you to the shores of Rachel Lake, but it also provides access to Rampart Lakes. If you want to venture a bit further, you can continue to Lila Lake.
There are charming waterfall lookouts along the way, but most of the trail is in the woods. Expect heavy traffic, making a midweek visit pleasant. You can also camp on the lake if you’d like to make this a multi-day adventure.
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Three Corner Rock Hike
Three Corner Rock is a unique formation atop a hill that overlooks all the big ones: Mount Adams, Mount Rainier, and Mount Saint Helens. It’s a moderate hike at 6.1 km but the views are what you’d expect of a much more demanding trek. This hike sees moderate traffic and is best done on a clear day when the views are the best.
This trail is well-graded and generally well-kept. Some logging has occurred around the trail in recent years but this doesn’t detract too much from the overall experience.
There is another route to Three Corner Rock that clocks in at 14.5 km roundtrip with 579 m of elevation gain. This route follows the PCT. The route described in this guide is shorter, more direct, and easier.
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Tolmie Peak, Alki Crest, and Florence Peak
The Tolmie Peak, Alki Crest, and Florence Peak trail is a moderate hike in Mount Rainier National Park that takes you up to an old fire lookout where you’ll enjoy incredible up-close views of Mount Rainier and Eunice Lake. From the lookout, you’ll hike to Alki Crest and Florence Peak, where even more expansive views await.
This approach combines three worthwhile destinations in one route, and the more unique trail gives you a quieter journey to enjoy. For a lightly-trafficked day with plenty of amazing scenery and 3-in-1 satisfaction, this trail delivers.
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Granite Mountain Hike
The Granite Mountain hike is a heavily trafficked out and back trail near Snoqualmie Pass that is rated as hard. This trail offers unbelievable views of Mount Rainier, Kaleetan Peak, Crystal Lake, and more. However, you’ll need to take on almost 305 m of elevation gain per mile to see it all! If you’re up for a leg burner, this trail will astound you at the summit.
Please note that there is an avalanche chute that crosses the Granite Mountain trail. If you’re hiking in the snow, you should have a solid understanding of avalanche safety and the proper equipment.
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Royal Basin
This is an absolutely stunning hike, following Royal Creek up to the heavenly Royal Basin. Since this hike begins in the Olympic National Forest, and not the park, the crowds on this trail are greatly diminished. It is a challenging hike, but it’s well worth the work.
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Thunder Creek Trail
Hiking along the Thunder Creek Trail can be as short or long as you want. The Thunder Creek Trail stretches over 48.3 km into the North Cascades backcountry, providing hikers with great daytrips and multi-day backpacks.
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Nisqually Estuary Boardwalk Hike
The Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, formerly known as the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, is a beautiful estuary that provides a haven to countless bird and animal species. Walkers on the boardwalk trail, which stretches 7.4 km through the refuge and back, can spot herons, harbor seals, salmon, otters, and more. The trail is flat and suitable for strollers and most wheelchairs, making this a wonderful walk for most adventurers. You’ll walk along the Nisqually River Delta to a viewpoint of Puget Sound, counting all the different species you see along the way.
Since it’s such a premier wildlife viewing and photographing location, expect fairly heavy traffic. Try visiting midweek or early in the morning to enjoy a quieter trail.
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Hidden Lake Trail
Hidden Lake is a small lake just above the shores of Lake Wenatchee that can be reached on an easy, short trail. It’s a family-friendly hike that can be extended if you want to head down to Lake Wenatchee or to the Glacier View Campground on the shore.
The hike is great for young kids thanks to its mostly flat grade, and it makes for a splendid snowshoeing trip in the winter months. The trail to the lake was relocated a few years ago and the new trail is wide, even, and easy to follow. Expect heavy traffic, especially on summer weekends. Try to arrive early in the day if you want to beat the crowds.
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Moulton Falls Hike
The hike to Moulton Falls on Lewis River Trail is an easy hike suitable for all skill levels and ages. This 8.5 km out and back trail is a good choice year-round, and it’s shared by walkers, runners, and bikers. You’ll walk along a mossy cliff with the river beside you, having the chance to relax at viewpoints and benches on the way. It’s peaceful but also offers the chance to adventure a little if you take side trails to Big Tree Falls or up the Bells Mountain Trail to a nice viewpoint.
This trail is multi-use, so remember to share it and keep dogs leashed at all times.
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Narada Falls to Reflection Lake Hike
The hike between Narada Falls and Reflection Lake is a moderate trek in Rainier National Park that links the serene Reflection Lake with the thundering Narada Falls. Instead of driving to see both, you can take this enjoyable trail in between.
This trail can be hiked in either direction, allowing you to tailor your adventure to your day’s plans. On a hot day, the cool mist of the falls and water of the lake is a welcome treat.
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Summit Lake Trail
The Summit Lake Trail is a 9.2 km heavily trafficked out and back trail in Clearwater Wilderness that is rated as moderate. This pretty trail offers excellent views for relatively little effort, and the numerous camping spots along the way make it an ideal first backpacking trip. You can extend your trip by heading down the nearby Bearhead Mountain Trail, or just stick to Summit Lake for a satisfying day hike. This hike actually features two lakes, but the star of the show is Mount Rainier peaking over Summit Lake.
The road to the trailhead is covered in large potholes and can become overgrown, so we recommend a high-clearance vehicle and a slow approach.
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Klahhane Ridge
Beginning the hike from the incredibly high alpine-viewpoint that is Hurricane Ridge, the trail along Klahhane Ridge provides some of the most picturesque panoramas in the park. Plus, this hike isn’t too physically demanding.
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm Trail
Cascade Pass is one of the most jaw-dropping locations you can reach on foot in North Cascades National Park. With towering peaks framing a meadow-clad saddle and glaciers and summits in the distance, it’s a world-class view. While many hikers come to the pass and then depart, this variation goes up Sahale Arm Trail to reach the summit of Sahale Mountain. It’s a difficult hike with heavy traffic.
Come prepared with poles, good boots, and lots of water for this trail.
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Cranberry Lake Hike
The Cranberry Lake hike is a 3.4 km easy trail that sees light traffic. This hike is in Cama Beach State Park and begins near the shoreline, moving east towards the small Cranberry Lake. With only 56m of elevation gain to complete, it’s a hike suitable for all skill levels. In the springtime, the trail is lined with beautiful wildflowers. This route is also a favorite for local birdwatchers.
Dogs are able to enjoy this trail but must be kept on a leash.
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Dirtyface Peak Trail
Dirtyface Peak Trail is an 13.7 km hard hike in Wenatchee National Forest. This hike offers amazing views, but it’s no walk in the park to get there. Expect steep switchbacks, a bit of overgrowth, rocks, and mud. You’ll also want lots of sunscreen and water as most of this hike is unshaded. Expect moderate traffic on this hike.
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Takhlakh Lake and Meadows Trail
The 5.3 km loop hike around Takhlakh Lake and the Takh Takh Meadows is a unique hike in the best ways. You’ll climb up an old lava flow for views of Mount Rainier, a uniquely southwestern Washington experience. The hike doesn’t tend to be very busy despite its lovely views.
This trail is rated as easy and is suitable for all skill levels and ages. The trail begins near the campground, so it’s a great choice for those camping here already, but you can also book a spot if you’re planning on visiting to make a weekend out of it. You can also fish in the lake if that interests you.
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Comet and Christine Falls Trail
The Comet and Christine Falls Trail is a moderate hike in Mount Rainier National Park that takes you to two waterfalls in a pleasant, shaded forest. It’s a hike that falls on the more strenuous side of moderate, but it’s still a top pick for a hot summer day because of the cool, refreshing mist of the falls. With the thundering falls, flowing rivers, and verdant forest around you, this hike is a great half-day outing in the park.
This hike provides a steady uphill climb, and thankfully, a previously steep section has been improved by the WTA to eliminate the technical challenge. For a few solid hours of cardio and some lovely moments spent by the rushing water, the Comet and Christine Falls Trail is a perfect choice.