Backpacking to Royal Basin - Royal Lake (Olympic National Park): A Complete Guide
Explore the stunning Royal Lake and Royal Basin in Olympic National Park. This blog post takes you through the adventure of hiking to one of the most breathtaking alpine areas in the park. From the crystal-clear waters of Royal Lake to the dramatic peaks surrounding Royal Basin, discover why this hike is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts.
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.
Enchanted Valley
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!).
Goat Rocks Wilderness
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.
Sheep Lake to Sourdough Gap and Upper Crystal Lake
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.
Thornton Lakes
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.
Chain Lakes Loop
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.
