Top 15 Hiking Trails in Washington State

Absolutely! Washington State’s diverse landscape, ranging from rugged coastlines and dense forests to towering mountains and alpine meadows, makes it a haven for hikers of all levels. With countless trails winding through its stunning scenery, hikers can discover breathtaking vistas, pristine lakes, and cascading waterfalls around every corner. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll through ancient forests or a challenging summit hike with panoramic views, Washington State offers something for every outdoor enthusiast.

What a captivating introduction! It sets the stage perfectly for the adventure that lies ahead. With such a diverse landscape, Washington State truly offers a plethora of hiking opportunities for enthusiasts of all levels. Whether one seeks the challenge of scaling towering peaks or the tranquility of wandering through lush rainforests, there’s an experience waiting to be discovered in every corner of this remarkable state.

1. Pacific Crest Trail

Stretching from the southern border of Washington to the northern border of Oregon, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) offers hikers an iconic journey through some of the state’s most breathtaking landscapes. With a total length of over 2,650 miles, the Washington section of the PCT traverses diverse terrain, including rugged mountain ranges, alpine meadows, and dense forests. Highlights along the trail include stunning views of the North Cascades, serene lakes nestled in the wilderness, and encounters with diverse wildlife. Whether you’re thru-hiking the entire PCT or embarking on a shorter section hike, the trail promises unforgettable experiences and unparalleled beauty.

2. Mount Rainier Wonderland Trail

Encircling the majestic peak of Mount Rainier, the Wonderland Trail offers hikers a 93-mile journey through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in Washington State. As one of the state’s premier long-distance trails, the Wonderland Trail showcases the diverse ecosystems of Mount Rainier National Park, including old-growth forests, alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers, and glaciated peaks. Hikers can expect breathtaking views of Mount Rainier from various vantage points along the trail, as well as encounters with wildlife such as marmots, deer, and even the occasional bear. With its challenging terrain and stunning scenery, the Wonderland Trail is a bucket-list adventure for hiking enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable wilderness experience.

3. Enchantments

Nestled within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, the Enchantments offer hikers a magical alpine experience unlike any other in Washington State. Known for their rugged beauty and pristine landscapes, the Enchantments feature a network of trails that wind through rocky terrain, sparkling lakes, and jagged peaks. Popular routes include the Core Enchantment Zone, where hikers can explore stunning alpine meadows, granite peaks, and turquoise-colored lakes such as Colchuck Lake and Lake Viviane. The Enchantments are also renowned for their vibrant fall colors, making them a sought-after destination for backpackers and day hikers alike. With limited permits available for overnight stays, experiencing the Enchantments is a rare and unforgettable adventure for those lucky enough to secure access to this wilderness paradise.

4. North Cascades National Park: Cascade Pass

Cascade Pass is a gateway to the rugged beauty of North Cascades National Park, offering hikers a spectacular trail that showcases the park’s dramatic landscapes. The trail begins with a gentle ascent through lush forests before emerging into open meadows with panoramic views of towering peaks and cascading waterfalls. As hikers continue along the trail, they’ll traverse rocky switchbacks and traverse alpine terrain, eventually reaching Cascade Pass itself, a breathtaking saddle nestled between towering peaks. From the pass, hikers can soak in sweeping vistas of jagged mountain ridges, glaciers, and valleys carved by ancient glaciers. Cascade Pass is not only a stunning destination in its own right but also serves as a starting point for longer backpacking trips into the heart of the North Cascades, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure in Washington State’s wild and rugged landscapes.

5. Mount Si

Mount Si is a beloved hiking destination located near North Bend, offering hikers a challenging yet rewarding trek with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trail begins with a gradual ascent through dense forest, where hikers can admire towering evergreens and listen to the sounds of nature. As the trail climbs higher, it becomes steeper, with switchbacks leading to the rocky summit. At the top, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Snoqualmie Valley, Mount Rainier, and the Cascade Mountains stretching into the distance. Mount Si is a popular choice for day hikers and fitness enthusiasts looking to challenge themselves and enjoy the beauty of Washington State’s wilderness.

6. Mount St. Helens: Loowit Trail

The Loowit Trail offers hikers a unique opportunity to circumnavigate the iconic Mount St. Helens, providing an up-close look at the volcanic landscape and the effects of the 1980 eruption. This challenging 28-mile loop trail winds through diverse terrain, including barren lava fields, rugged ridges, and pristine alpine meadows. Along the way, hikers are treated to stunning views of the volcano’s crater, lava domes, and surrounding peaks. The trail also passes by Spirit Lake, which was dramatically altered by the eruption, offering a poignant reminder of the volcano’s power. While completing the entire loop requires backpacking and wilderness skills, shorter sections of the trail can be hiked as day trips, providing a glimpse into the fascinating natural history of Mount St. Helens and the resilience of the surrounding ecosystem.

7. Mount Baker: Chain Lakes Trail

The Chain Lakes Trail near Mount Baker offers hikers a scenic journey through alpine meadows, rugged ridges, and pristine lakes in the shadow of the majestic volcano. This moderate to strenuous trail starts at the Heather Meadows Visitor Center and winds its way through subalpine forests before opening up to expansive views of Mount Baker and the surrounding peaks. Along the way, hikers pass by a series of beautiful alpine lakes, including Picture Lake and Bagley Lakes, which offer stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains. The trail also provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, with the chance to spot mountain goats, marmots, and various bird species. Whether you’re seeking a day hike or a longer adventure, the Chain Lakes Trail is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the Mount Baker area.

8. Mount Adams: South Climb

The South Climb route on Mount Adams offers hikers and climbers a challenging yet rewarding ascent to the second-highest peak in Washington State. Starting from the South Climb Trailhead, the route follows a well-defined path through forests and alpine meadows, gradually gaining elevation as it approaches the mountain’s towering summit. Along the way, hikers are treated to stunning views of the surrounding Cascade Range, including Mount Hood to the south and Mount Rainier to the north. As the trail steepens, it transitions to rocky terrain and snowfields, requiring crampons and ice axes for safe travel, especially in late spring and early summer. The final push to the summit involves a steep scramble up loose volcanic scree, culminating in panoramic views of the sprawling landscape below. While the South Climb route is less technical than other routes on Mount Adams, it still requires careful planning, physical fitness, and knowledge of mountain safety techniques.

9. Lake Serene and Bridal Veil Falls

The Lake Serene and Bridal Veil Falls trail is a picturesque hike in the Cascade Mountains, offering hikers stunning views of waterfalls, old-growth forests, and alpine lakes. Beginning at the trailhead near Index, Washington, hikers ascend through dense forest alongside the gushing waters of Bridal Veil Creek. Along the way, hikers are treated to glimpses of the impressive Bridal Veil Falls, a stunning cascade plunging into the lush valley below.

As the trail climbs higher, it leads to the serene shores of Lake Serene, nestled amidst towering peaks and surrounded by pristine wilderness. Hikers can relax by the lake, enjoy a picnic, or even take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. For those seeking an additional challenge and more breathtaking views, a side trip to the nearby Bridal Veil Falls viewpoint offers a closer look at the majestic waterfall from above.

The Lake Serene and Bridal Veil Falls trail is a favorite among hikers of all levels, offering a perfect combination of natural beauty, rewarding scenery, and a sense of serenity amidst the stunning Cascade landscape.

10. Goat Rocks Wilderness: Goat Lake Trail

The Goat Lake Trail in the Goat Rocks Wilderness offers hikers a scenic journey through alpine meadows, rugged ridges, and pristine lakes in the heart of the Cascade Mountains. Beginning at the trailhead near Packwood, Washington, the trail gradually ascends through dense forests and subalpine meadows, with wildflowers blooming in abundance during the summer months.

As hikers climb higher, they are treated to breathtaking views of towering peaks, including Mount Adams and Mount Rainier, towering above the surrounding landscape. The trail eventually reaches the sparkling shores of Goat Lake, a stunning alpine lake surrounded by rugged cliffs and verdant meadows.

Hikers can relax by the lake, enjoy a picnic, or even take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters before retracing their steps back to the trailhead. With its stunning scenery and relatively moderate difficulty level, the Goat Lake Trail is a popular choice for hikers of all levels seeking a memorable wilderness experience in the Cascade Mountains.

11. Mount Pilchuck

Mount Pilchuck offers hikers a rewarding adventure with stunning panoramic views of the Puget Sound region and the North Cascades. Beginning at the Mount Pilchuck Trailhead near Granite Falls, Washington, the trail winds through dense forests of hemlock and fir before emerging into subalpine meadows filled with wildflowers during the summer months.

As hikers ascend higher, the trail becomes steeper and rockier, with sections of scrambling required near the summit. However, the effort is well worth it, as the summit of Mount Pilchuck offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including Mount Baker, Mount Rainier, and the Olympic Mountains on clear days.

At the summit, hikers can relax and enjoy a well-deserved break while taking in the stunning vistas before making their way back down the trail. With its relatively moderate difficulty level and stunning views, Mount Pilchuck is a popular hiking destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the beauty of the North Cascades.

12. Lena Lake

Lena Lake offers hikers a serene escape into the lush forests of Olympic National Park, culminating in a picturesque alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks. Beginning at the Lena Lake Trailhead near Hamma Hamma, Washington, the trail meanders gently through old-growth forests of cedar and fir alongside the rushing waters of Lena Creek.

As hikers ascend higher, the trail gradually gains elevation, offering glimpses of the surrounding mountains through breaks in the trees. Eventually, the trail emerges at the pristine shores of Lena Lake, where hikers can relax and enjoy the tranquility of the alpine setting.

For those seeking additional adventure, a side trip to Upper Lena Lake offers a more strenuous ascent and even more breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. After taking in the beauty of Lena Lake, hikers can retrace their steps back to the trailhead, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated by their time spent in nature. Lena Lake is a popular destination for hikers of all levels, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the stunning landscapes of Olympic National Park.

13. Mount Ellinor

Mount Ellinor offers hikers a challenging yet rewarding trek to panoramic views of the Olympic Peninsula and Hood Canal. Beginning at the Mount Ellinor Trailhead near Hoodsport, Washington, the trail ascends steeply through dense forests of fir and hemlock, with occasional viewpoints offering glimpses of the surrounding landscape.

As hikers climb higher, the trail becomes rockier and more rugged, requiring careful footing and occasional scrambling over boulders. However, the effort is well worth it, as the summit of Mount Ellinor offers stunning vistas of the Olympic Mountains, Puget Sound, and beyond.

At the summit, hikers can relax and enjoy a well-deserved break while taking in the breathtaking views before making their way back down the trail. With its challenging terrain and stunning scenery, Mount Ellinor is a popular hiking destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to test their skills and experience the beauty of the Olympic Peninsula.

14. Tiger Mountain: Poo Poo Point

Poo Poo Point on Tiger Mountain offers hikers a popular trail with sweeping views of the Issaquah Alps and the Puget Sound region. Beginning at the High School Trailhead near Issaquah, Washington, the trail ascends through dense forests of Douglas fir and cedar, gradually gaining elevation as it winds its way up the mountain.

As hikers climb higher, the trail emerges from the trees into open meadows with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Eventually, the trail reaches Poo Poo Point, a scenic overlook named for the steam whistle sounds once used by loggers in the area.

At Poo Poo Point, hikers can relax and enjoy panoramic views of Mount Rainier, Mount Si, and the Cascade Mountains, as well as paragliders launching from the nearby paragliding launch site. After taking in the views, hikers can retrace their steps back to the trailhead, feeling refreshed and invigorated by their time spent in the great outdoors. Poo Poo Point is a popular hiking destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels, offering stunning views and a rewarding ascent just a short drive from Seattle.

15. Olympic National Park: Hoh River Trail

The Hoh River Trail in Olympic National Park offers hikers a captivating journey through one of the last remaining temperate rainforests in the United States. Beginning at the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center near Forks, Washington, the trail meanders alongside the sparkling waters of the Hoh River, winding through ancient forests of towering Sitka spruce, Western hemlock, and moss-draped maples.

As hikers trek deeper into the rainforest, they are surrounded by a lush and verdant landscape teeming with biodiversity. Along the way, they may encounter wildlife such as elk, deer, and various bird species, while the air is filled with the soothing sounds of rushing water and bird calls.

The trail offers several options for hikers of all levels, from short day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips into the heart of the rainforest. For those seeking a longer adventure, the trail continues for over 17 miles, eventually reaching the base of Mount Olympus and offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Whether embarking on a short stroll or a longer expedition, the Hoh River Trail promises an unforgettable experience immersed in the natural wonders of Olympic National Park’s pristine rainforest ecosystem.

Conclusion

From the iconic Pacific Crest Trail to the serene alpine lakes and rugged mountain passes, these trails have something for hikers of all skill levels and interests. Whether you seek the challenge of high peaks, the tranquility of old-growth rainforests, or the awe-inspiring vistas of the Cascades, Washington State’s trails have it all.

So, pack your hiking gear, lace up your boots, and set out to explore these remarkable trails, immersing yourself in the pristine beauty and adventure that defines Washington’s great outdoors.