Top 5 Places to Hike in Washington for Scenic Adventures
Washington's diverse landscapes offer some of the most stunning hiking trails in the U.S. For scenic expeditions, you can't miss Mount Rainier National Park, with its towering peak and wildflower meadows. The Olympic Peninsula boasts unique coastal trails and lush rainforests. In the North Cascades, you'll find dramatic peaks and pristine alpine lakes. The Snoqualmie Region offers diverse scenery and mesmerizing panoramas, while the Central Cascades feature trails ranging from moderate walks to strenuous ascents. With over 3,700 miles of routes to plumb, these top five destinations are just the beginning of your Washington hiking sojourn.
Mount Rainier National Park
Towering above the Washington terrain, Mount Rainier National Park offers hikers an unparalleled experience with its diverse array of trails. With over 157 hiking trails boasting an impressive 4.6-star average rating, you'll find options for every skill level and preference.
For breathtaking views and a challenging plunge, tackle the Skyline Loop. This 9 km trail rewards you with stunning vistas of glaciers, rivers, and wildflower meadows. If you're up for a more strenuous foray, the Emmons Glacier Trail promises an unforgettable 7.5-mile odyssey with 2,300 feet of elevation gain.
For a gentler experience, traverse the Grove of the Patriarchs Trail. This easy 3.2-mile loop showcases some of the park's oldest and largest trees. The Naches Peak Loop offers a perfect middle ground, combining moderate difficulty with diverse terrain and panoramic views.
Whether you're seeking Washington's best mountain scenery or peaceful forest strolls, Mount Rainier National Park has it all. From alpine meadows to glacial lakes, each trail offers a unique vantage point of this iconic landmark. Don't miss the chance to experience some of the most spectacular hiking the Pacific Northwest has to offer.
Olympic Peninsula
While Mount Rainier offers stunning alpine vistas, the Olympic Peninsula beckons with its diverse scenery and unique coastal trails. You'll find an array of hiking experiences, from lush rainforests to rugged beaches.
The Hoh Rainforest Trail is a highlight of the Olympic Peninsula, offering a challenging 37-mile trek through verdant landscapes. With an elevation gain of up to 3,700 feet and a highest point of 4,300 feet, it's a year-round expedition for experienced hikers. For a coastal experience, head to Rialto Beach and Hole-in-the-Wall. This 4-mile roundtrip hike along the Pacific Coast provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean with minimal elevation gain.
If you're looking for a more strenuous hike, Mount Angeles offers a 6.25-mile roundtrip excursion with 1,254 feet of elevation gain. Best hiked in July and August, it reaches a peak of 6,454 feet. While not on the Olympic Peninsula, the nearby Naches Peak Loop and Burroughs Mountain trails offer additional scenic options for hikers seeking diverse landscapes and challenging terrain in Washington's beautiful wilderness.
North Cascades
Nestled in the heart of Washington's rugged wilderness, the North Cascades National Park offers hikers a paradise of dramatic peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and diverse ecosystems. This stunning region boasts some of the most scenic hiking trails in Washington, perfect for adventurers seeking challenging excursions and panoramic views.
The Cascade Pass Trail is a must-try 8-mile foray that climbs 1,700 feet, rewarding you with breathtaking vistas of jagged Cascade mountains and alpine meadows. For a more demanding experience, tackle the Sahale Arm Trail, which ascends 4,000 feet over 8 miles to a glacial basin with views of Forbidden Peak and the Sahale Glacier.
Don't miss the Maple Pass Loop, a 7.5-mile circuit showcasing the region's magnificent ridgeline scenery. This trail offers 360-degree views of mountain lakes and wildflower-filled slopes. For an extended exploration, try the Heather-Maple Pass Loop, a 9-mile trek combining waterfalls, Alpine Lakes Wilderness, and sweeping vistas of the surrounding peaks. As you traverse these trails along the North Cascades Highway, you'll witness firsthand the raw beauty of Mount Baker and its neighboring summits.
Snoqualmie Region
Just east of Seattle, the Snoqualmie Region beckons hikers with its diverse scenery and captivating panoramas. You'll find trails for every skill level, from the easy Wildside Trail in the Issaquah Alps to the strenuous Mailbox Peak with its 4,000-foot elevation gain. The region's varied terrain offers:
- Breathtaking views: Rattlesnake Ledge provides unbeatable vistas of the Cedar River watershed and Chester Morse Lake, while Poo Poo Point Trail rewards you with stunning panoramic scenes. When planning your hike, be sure to check present conditions and wave size to ensure safe circumstances.
- Challenging adventures: Tackle the 12-mile Kendall Katwalk for ridge-top views at 5,400 feet, or conquer Bandera Mountain's 3,400-foot climb in Snoqualmie Pass. Additionally, it's recommended to try using equipment at home for familiarity to be well-prepared.
- Family-friendly options: Enjoy the popular Twin Falls trail with its beautiful waterfalls or the moderate Heather Lake hike. Whether you're a solo explorer or joining a group, the buddy system is pivotal for maximizing your safety.
Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll or a demanding trek, the Snoqualmie Region has you covered. From the iconic Mailbox Peak to the scenic Rattlesnake Ledge, you'll find an array of trails that showcase the area's natural beauty. Don't miss the chance to investigate this premier hiking destination and experience its diverse landscapes firsthand.
Central Cascades
The Central Cascades region in Washington beckons investigators with its diverse array of hiking trails. You'll find challenges and rewards in abundance, from moderate walks to strenuous climbs. For a breathtaking waterfall experience, head to Wallace Falls, where you'll witness a 1,300-foot cascade along a moderate 5.6-mile round trip.
If you're seeking a more demanding adventure, tackle the Bandera Mountain trail. This challenging hike offers 3,400 feet of elevation gain and stunning vistas of the surrounding Cascades National landscape. For the ultimate test of endurance, take on Mailbox Peak. This difficult 6-mile trek rewards your 4,000-foot climb with panoramic views from its 4,822-foot summit.
Near Mount Baker, you can undertake the strenuous Hannegan Peak trail. This 10.4-mile journey climbs 3,100 feet, offering glimpses of Mount Rainier and Mount Adams on clear days. For a unique experience, venture to Mount St. Helens and survey the treacherous Loowit Falls route. While not as well-known as Olympic National Park or the Snoqualmie River area, the Central Cascades provide equally impressive scenery and diverse hiking options for all skill levels.
