A Guide to Hiking the Hannegan Pass Trail in the North Cascades

The Hannegan Pass and Peak Trail is one of the most rewarding hikes in the North Cascades, offering wildflower meadows, glacier-fed streams, and sweeping summit views. In just a few miles you’ll climb from lush forest to a high alpine pass, with the option to continue up to Hannegan Peak for a 360° panorama of Mount Baker, Mount Shuksan, Ruth Mountain, and the jagged Pickets. Whether you’re looking for a challenging day hike, planning a backpacking trip, or simply want to experience the grandeur of the North Cascades, this trail delivers it all.

Best Alpine Lakes for Packrafting in Washington

Looking for the best alpine lakes for packrafting in Washington? This guide highlights float-friendly backcountry destinations across the Cascades, including trail stats, route tips, and lakes ideal for packrafting—like Snow Lake, Blue Lake, Goat Lake, and more. Whether you're just getting started or looking to expand your summer adventure list, these hikes offer the perfect mix of scenic trails and packrafting.

A Guide to Hiking Heather-Maple Pass Loop in Washington

Looking for one of the best hikes in Washington State? The Heather–Maple Pass Loop in the North Cascades offers everything you could want in a Pacific Northwest trail—alpine lakes, wildflowers, golden larches, and jaw-dropping mountain views. This 7.2-mile loop near Rainy Pass is especially popular in late summer and early fall, and it’s often ranked as one of the top hikes in Washington for its stunning scenery and variety of terrain.

Hiking Guide: 20 Essential Hikes to do in Washington

Discover the best hiking trails in Washington with this curated list of must-do hikes across the Pacific Northwest. From lush forests to rugged peaks, these favorites span iconic spots like Mount Rainier and the North Cascades. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or new to the outdoors, these trails offer unforgettable views and hiking experiences to inspire your next adventure.

Hiking Lake Valhalla: A Complete Guide

Planning a hike to Lake Valhalla? This dog-friendly trail in the Cascade Mountains is a must-see, offering stunning alpine scenery and a peaceful lakeside destination. In this guide, I’m sharing my top tips to make the most of your trip—best trail options, ideal seasons to visit, what to pack, and key things to know before you go. Whether you're hiking in summer or chasing fall colors, get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Backpacking to East Fork Foss - Necklace Valley and Tank Lakes: A Complete Guide

Planning a 3-day, 2-night backpacking trip in Washington’s Alpine Lakes Wilderness? Explore the East Fork Foss - Necklace Valley to Tank Lakes route, a challenging yet breathtaking adventure featuring lush forests, alpine lakes, and panoramic mountain views. This guide covers everything you need to know, from trail details and campsite recommendations to tips for tackling this stunning PNW backcountry trek.

Backpacking, Hiking, Pacific Northwest, WashingtonCynthia WongFebruary 18, 2025washington, Backpacking, alpine lakes wilderness

Lake Ann (Mount Baker Highway)

One of the most popular and best hikes in the Mount Baker Wilderness area, Lake Ann, offers a serene and picturesque retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Surrounded by rugged peaks and lush alpine meadows, the lake provides stunning views of Mount Shuksan. Accessible via a moderately challenging 8-mile round-trip hike, the trail to Lake Ann features diverse landscapes, including dense forests, vibrant wildflowers, and crystal-clear streams.

Backpacking, Hiking, Camping, Pacific Northwest, WashingtonCynthia WongAugust 5, 2024Mount Baker, Backpacking, Hiking

High Rock Lookout

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.

Hiking, Pacific Northwest, Washington, SummerCynthia WongAugust 14, 2023washington, hiking, sunrise hike

Anderson and Watson Lakes

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.

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