Hiking and Backpacking in Washington
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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.
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.
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!
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.
Explore the Ptarmigan Ridge Trail, a breathtaking 9-mile round trip hike near Mount Baker, Washington. Experience stunning views of glaciers, wildflower meadows, and rugged alpine terrain. Perfect for experienced hikers seeking scenic vistas and adventure in the North Cascades.
Take your next adventure to the next level by taking your packraft up to an alpine lake. The real reward awaits at Goat Lake, where the crystal-clear, glacial-fed waters reflect the surrounding peaks. Unpack your packraft and paddle across the serene lake, taking in the majestic views from a new perspective. Whether you're an experienced hiker or seeking a new challenge, the Goat Lake Trail offers a unique and unforgettable adventure.
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.
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.
Experience one of Washington’s most iconic hikes for an epic view of Mount Rainier. The road up to the trailhead might be rough so be prepared for a bumpy ride. But once you start your trek up to Summit Lake, give yourself a pet in the back, you made it! Now soak in the views and enjoy a snack.
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.
A quick hike in the Sunrise area of Mount Rainier National Park. Get 360 degrees views of the surrounding peaks and enjoy solitude at the summit of this easy hike.
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.