Hiking and Backpacking in Washington
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Are you ready to elevate your backpacking experiences? Dive into the ultimate adventure with a kayak camping trip at Diablo Lake in North Cascades National Park. Known for its stunning turquoise waters and majestic mountain scenery, Diablo Lake offers an unparalleled setting for your outdoor escapade and could potentially be where you get started with kayak camping.
Whether you are a seasoned paddler or just dipping your paddle in for the first time, here is a list of 15 places to take your kayak, packraft or paddle board out for a ride. With its diverse landscapes, Washington offers endless opportunities to explore by paddle.
Are you ready to embark on a thrilling adventure that promises breathtaking vistas and a heart-pounding hiking experience? Look no further than the 3.2 mile roundtrip High Rock Lookout Trail in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest in Washington, where nature's majesty collides with your inner explorer. Prepare to be enchanted by panoramic landscapes, rugged terrain, and the promise of an unforgettable journey that leaves you in awe of the Pacific Northwest's rugged charm.
Situated in the beautiful Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest and the Noisy-Diosbud Wilderness, the Anderson and Watson Lakes trail features plenty of variety - from hiking through a lush forest to stepping over small streams to eventually finding yourself at Watson Lakes, the crown jewel of this quintessential Pacific Northwest hike.
Are you someone that’s looking for an early season backpacking trip? Can’t decide between lake views and mountain views? You can find solitude in the more remote part of North Cascades National Park where you’ll end up in Stehekin, a town that can only be accessed by foot, boat or ferry.
Lush rainforests, roaring waterfalls and multiple bridges - ready to take on this classic hike in Washington state? Here’s everything you need to know about doing the Enchanted Valley trail in Olympic National Park. This 13.2 mile hike takes you through some of the most iconic views in the Pacific Northwest, plus there are privys at the end of the trail too (what a bonus!).
Didn’t get the dream permit for the summer? Look no further - Goat Rocks wilderness doesn’t require an advanced backcountry permit, instead you get a self-issued one at the trailhead. This area is known for its sweeping views of Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens and Mount Rainier. Feeling adventurous? Extend your trip and hike part of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). This is a quintessential hike to do in the Pacific Northwest.
Do you have a weekend or a week to spend time in Olympic Peninsula? Make sure you eventually carve out time to visit all these locations. This area encompasses beaches, forests and mountains and is known for its hiking trails, backpacking and camping options and water activities such as paddling, clamming and whatnot - a perfect area for solo trips or taking your family or friends here.
The Ptarmigan Ridge trail should be on everyone’s bucket list. This out-and-back hike features one of the most iconic views in the Mount Baker Wilderness area. See Mount Shuksan and Mount Baker up close when the weather permits. This can easily be done as a day hike or an overnight trip. If you feel more adventurous, be sure to head all the way to the Portals East to get super up close and personal with Baker.
Try to beat the crowds and experience one of the most iconic hikes you can ever do in the Mount Rainier area. The road up to the trailhead is rough so be prepared for a bumpy ride. But once you make your way up to Summit Lake, give yourself a pat in the back - you made it!
Located in the Chinook Pass area of Mount Rainier National Park, this hike takes you on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) until you enter the national park boundaries. This is an easy to moderate walk on an exposed trail that takes you through Sheep Lake and Sourdough Gap before concluding at Upper Crystal Lake for the night. Perfect for the last minute backpacking trip you’ve been daydreaming about all year long.
A quick trip to Hole in the Wall in Olympic National Park - a perfect for year-round backpacking. You can extend your trip by hiking along the North Coast or South Coast. The options are endless.
Located 40 minutes from the Kalaloch Campground, the easy 5 mile hike takes you through lush rainforests and a few waterfalls. Cross a few well-maintained bridges and a boardwalk that takes you through a bog. Explore the towering Douglas Fir and the animals that reside within this coastal terrain of Olympic National Park.
Looking for a less popular hike in the North Cascades but still want to experience mountains and an alpine lake? Look no further than Thornton Lake. This 11.2 mile roundtrip hike is perfect for a day hike or a one-night backpacking trip. Read more to find out what the hype is all about.
The Chain Lakes Loop is located in the Mount Baker Wilderness area up north. Located about 3 hours from Seattle, this can easily be done as a day hike or a backpacking trip for beginner backpackers.