Hikes in Washington: Best Trails for Every Hiker
- Toby Patrick
- 6 hours ago
- 13 min read
Washington is a dream for hikers because of its sheer variety. The state has nearly 700 miles of hiking trails in its state parks alone, while the Washington Department of Natural Resources manages more than 1,100 miles of trails across its recreation lands.
What I love most about hiking in Washington is that no two trails feel the same. One day, I can walk through a quiet old-growth forest. Next, I can climb toward an alpine lake, stand below a glacier-covered peak, or follow a trail along the Pacific coast.
This guide covers some of the best hikes in Washington for beginners, families, experienced hikers, photographers, and anyone looking for a real outdoor adventure.
Why Washington Is a Hiker's Paradise
Washington packs an incredible range of landscapes into one state. The Cascade Mountains offer rugged peaks, alpine lakes, wildflower meadows, and glacier views. Mount Rainier adds another level of scenery, with more than 260 miles of maintained trails running through forests, meadows, and high mountain terrain.
Olympic National Park shows just how diverse Washington can be. The park covers more than 922,000 acres and protects 73 miles of wild coastline, 660 miles of trails, old-growth forests, temperate rainforests, glacier-capped mountains, and 32 named glaciers.
Then there are the North Cascades, where steep mountain trails lead to some of the state's best alpine scenery. Higher trails can stay covered in snow well into July or even August, so I always check current conditions before planning a hike.
That mix is what makes Washington special to me. You can hike beside waterfalls in the forest, cross a wildflower-filled meadow, climb toward a mountain lake, or watch waves crash against the coast—all within the same state.
Best Hikes in Washington
Washington State Parks alone has nearly 700 miles of hiking trails, ranging from short nature walks to long mountain treks. I have found that the best hikes in Washington are not always the longest ones. Some give you huge mountain views after a short climb, while others take you deep into forests, past waterfalls, or along the coast.
Below are the trails I would put on a Washington hiking list, with options for different fitness levels, seasons, and types of scenery.
Mount Si Trail
Distance: About 8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation gain: About 3,150 feet
Best for: Experienced hikers and Seattle-area views
Permit/Pass: Discover Pass required at the trailhead
Mount Si is one of the classic hikes near Seattle. The trail climbs steadily through forest before reaching rocky viewpoints overlooking the Snoqualmie Valley. It is not an easy walk, but the steady trail makes it a good test for anyone preparing for harder mountain hikes.
I like Mount Si because it gives you a real workout without requiring a long drive into the Cascades. Go early if you want a quieter experience, especially on weekends.
Skyline Trail at Mount Rainier
Distance: 5.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
Elevation gain: 1,700 feet
Best for: Wildflowers, glaciers, and Mount Rainier views
Permit/Pass: National Park entrance fee or valid pass
The Skyline Trail is one of my top choices for scenery. The 5.5-mile loop climbs through Paradise Meadows toward Panorama Point, with views of Mount Rainier and the Nisqually Glacier along the way. In summer, wildflowers fill the meadows.
Snow can remain on the trail early in the season, so I would not plan this hike based only on the calendar. Check current conditions before you go.
Colchuck Lake Trail
Distance: 9 miles round trip
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation gain: 2,342 feet
Best for: Alpine lake and mountain scenery
Permit/Pass: Northwest Forest Pass or applicable recreation pass
Colchuck Lake is the kind of place that makes the climb feel worthwhile. The trail passes through forest before opening to a striking alpine lake surrounded by steep granite peaks. The U.S. Forest Service lists the route at 9 miles round trip with 2,342 feet of elevation gain.
Colchuck is also the gateway to the Enchantments. If you are considering the full route over Aasgard Pass, be ready for a much harder adventure. The climb becomes extremely steep near the pass.
Lake Serene Trail
Distance: About 8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation gain: About 2,000 feet
Best for: Alpine lake and waterfall views
Permit/Pass: Check current Forest Service requirements
Lake Serene combines two great sights in one hike: Bridal Veil Falls and a beautiful mountain lake. The Forest Service confirms that the Lake Serene Trail provides access to both destinations.
The trail gets steep in sections, so I would save it for a day when you are ready for a solid climb. The reward is the dramatic mountain backdrop around Lake Serene.
Heather-Maple Pass Loop
Distance: About 7 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: About 2,000 feet
Best for: Alpine views, wildflowers, and fall colors
Permit/Pass: Northwest Forest Pass or applicable pass
The Heather-Maple Pass Loop is one of the hikes I would choose when I want a little bit of everything. You get open mountain views, alpine meadows, wildflowers, and excellent fall color.
The trail sits in the North Cascades near Washington Pass, so the scenery changes quickly as you gain elevation. Fall is especially popular because the larches turn golden before winter arrives.
Rattlesnake Ledge
Distance: About 4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation gain: About 1,160 feet
Best for: Beginners and Seattle-area hiking
Permit/Pass: Check current trailhead requirements
Rattlesnake Ledge is a popular choice for people who want mountain scenery without committing to an all-day hike. The trail climbs through forest to a rocky viewpoint overlooking Rattlesnake Lake and the surrounding hills.
It can get crowded, but I still think it is a good introduction to hiking near Seattle. Start early if you want parking and a more relaxed climb.
Artist Point and Chain Lakes
Distance: Varies by route
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
Best for: Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan views
Permit/Pass: Check current Forest Service requirements
Artist Point gives you some of the best high-elevation scenery around Mount Baker. Nearby trails include Artist Ridge, Chain Lakes, Ptarmigan Ridge, and Table Mountain.
What makes this area special is how quickly the landscape opens up. You get alpine meadows, rugged peaks, and huge views in almost every direction. The road to Artist Point is seasonal, so always check access before planning your hike.
Mount Storm King
Distance: 3.4 miles round trip to the upper viewpoint area
Difficulty: Difficult
Elevation gain: About 2,000 feet
Best for: Lake Crescent views and steep climbs
Permit/Pass: National Park entrance fee or valid pass
Mount Storm King is short but demanding. The trail climbs steeply through forest and ends with impressive views over Lake Crescent and the surrounding peaks. The National Park Service rates it as difficult and notes that the maintained trail becomes exposed and steep near the top.
You may see ropes near the upper section, but the NPS warns that these are not installed or maintained by the park. I would treat this part seriously and turn around if conditions feel unsafe.
Snow Lake Trail
Distance: About 7.2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Best for: Alpine lake scenery
Permit/Pass: Check current Forest Service requirements
Snow Lake is another strong choice in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. The trail climbs through forest before reaching a large alpine lake surrounded by rocky peaks.
It is a popular area, so parking can be a challenge during summer. If you want a quieter experience, an early start makes a big difference.
Skyline Divide
Distance: About 9 miles round trip, depending on turnaround point
Difficulty: Moderate to hard
Best for: Mount Baker views and wildflowers
Permit/Pass: Check current Forest Service requirements
Skyline Divide is one of the hikes I would pick for wide-open mountain views. The Forest Service describes the trail as one of the most popular hikes in the Mount Baker Ranger District. It climbs through forest before reaching open, flower-filled terrain in the Mount Baker Wilderness.
The rough access road is part of the challenge. Once you reach the ridge, though, the views of Mount Baker and the surrounding peaks make the effort worthwhile.
Wallace Falls
Distance: 2.8 miles to the top of the falls
Difficulty: Moderate
Best for: Waterfalls and families
Permit/Pass: Discover Pass
Wallace Falls is one of my favorite choices when waterfalls are the main goal. Washington State Parks says the popular hike to the top of the falls is 2.8 miles and suitable for most skill levels. There are lower, middle, and upper viewpoints, so you can decide how far you want to go.
The middle viewpoint is especially good for wider views of the Skykomish River Valley. It is also a nice option when you want a scenic hike without spending the entire day on the trail.
Enchantments Through-Hike
Distance: About 18.5 miles
Difficulty: Very hard
Elevation gain: About 4,845 feet
Best for: Experienced hikers
Permit/Pass: Overnight permits are required for camping
The Enchantments Traverse is not a casual day hike. The current Forest Service research report puts the traverse at about 18.5 miles with 4,845 feet of elevation gain.
The route takes you through granite peaks, alpine lakes, and the famous Core Enchantments. Overnight permits are required for camping in the Enchantments area.
If you cannot get an overnight permit or do not want to tackle the full traverse, hiking to Colchuck Lake is a much more manageable alternative.
Palouse Falls
Distance: Short walks to designated viewpoints
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Waterfalls, families, and photographers
Permit/Pass: Discover Pass
Palouse Falls offers a completely different side of Washington. The 200-foot waterfall drops into a narrow basalt canyon, and the park has several designated viewpoints.
This is more of a viewpoint-focused outing than a mountain hike. The trails into the canyon and to the base of the falls are permanently closed, so stay within the designated viewing areas.
Cape Flattery
Distance: 1.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best for: Coastal views and photographers
Permit/Pass: Makah Recreation Pass
Cape Flattery is one of the most unique hikes in Washington. The trail is only about three-quarters of a mile each way, ending at cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It is also the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States.
The forested trail is short, but wet and slippery conditions are common. I would wear shoes with good grip and leave extra time to enjoy the ocean views from the platforms.
Hoh River Trail
Distance: 17.4 miles one way to Glacier Meadows
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best for: Rainforest, wildlife, and long-distance hiking
Permit/Pass: Wilderness permit required for overnight trips
The Hoh River Trail takes you into one of the most distinctive landscapes in Washington. The trail begins in the temperate rainforest, where moss-covered trees, ferns, and the Hoh River create a completely different hiking experience from the Cascades.
You do not need to hike the entire route. The first section is mostly level, making it possible to enjoy the rainforest as a shorter day hike. The full trail continues for 17.4 miles one way toward Glacier Meadows.
For me, that variety is the biggest reason these hikes in Washington stand out. You can choose a short waterfall walk, a tough alpine climb, or a long rainforest adventure without leaving the state.
Best Easy Hikes in Washington
Washington State Parks has nearly 700 miles of hiking trails, ranging from short nature walks to demanding treks. That variety makes it easy to find a trail that fits your fitness level. I usually recommend starting with shorter trails if you are new to hiking here. Washington's weather and terrain can change fast, so even an easy trail deserves some planning.
Best Easy Hikes Near Seattle
If you are staying in Seattle, you do not need to drive for hours to find a good trail. Rattlesnake Ledge, Twin Falls, Cedar Falls, and Bridle Trails are good starting points. Washington State Parks describes Cedar Falls and Twin Falls as shorter, easier trails that work well for families with young children.
For a little more challenge, Rattlesnake Ledge offers a steady climb and a wide view over Rattlesnake Lake. These hikes are great for a half-day outing when you want to get outside without committing to a long mountain trek.
Best Easy Waterfall Hikes
Waterfall hikes are an easy way to get a big payoff without taking on a difficult trail. Wallace Falls is one of my favorites. The popular hike to the top is 2.8 miles and is considered doable for most skill levels. You can also stop at the lower or middle viewpoints instead of going all the way up.
Twin Falls is another good option near Seattle. For the strongest waterfall flow, spring and early summer are usually good choices, although recent rainfall and snowmelt can affect conditions.
Best Family-Friendly Hikes
For families, I look for short distances, gentle terrain, clear trails, restrooms, parking, and places where kids can stop and explore. Nisqually Vista Trail at Mount Rainier is a great example. It is a 1.2-mile loop with views of Mount Rainier and the Nisqually Glacier, and the National Park Service lists it as suitable for families with strollers.
Wallace Falls and Cedar Falls are also good choices. Before leaving, check trail alerts, weather, and parking conditions. Washington State Parks specifically recommends checking these details before every hike.
Best Moderate Hikes in Washington
Moderate hikes are where I think Washington hiking becomes especially rewarding. You get more elevation, longer trails, and better mountain scenery without needing the skills required for technical routes.
Annette Lake, Snow Lake, Heather-Maple Pass Loop, and Mount Storm King are good examples. These trails can include steep climbs, rocky sections, and changing weather, so distance alone does not tell you how hard a hike will feel.
Season matters too. Many higher trails can hold snow well into summer. I always check recent trail reports and weather before heading out rather than relying on an old trail description.
Best Difficult Hikes in Washington
The hardest hikes in Washington combine long distances, major elevation gain, steep terrain, exposure, scrambling, or snow. Colchuck Lake, Mount Storm King, Skyline Divide, and the Enchantments Traverse are good examples, but they are difficult for different reasons.
The Enchantments Traverse is especially demanding because of its distance and steep sections. Mount Storm King is much shorter but has steep terrain and an exposed upper section. Conditions can also change the difficulty of a trail in a matter of hours.
If you are looking for challenging hikes in Washington, do not judge a route only by mileage. Check elevation gain, terrain, weather, snow conditions, and your own experience.
Best Hikes in Washington With Mountain Views
For mountain views, I would put Skyline Trail at Mount Rainier, Heather-Maple Pass Loop, Artist Point, Skyline Divide, and Colchuck Lake near the top of the list.
Mount Rainier alone has more than 260 miles of maintained trails, with routes passing through forests, subalpine meadows, lakes, streams, wildflowers, and glacier views.
Artist Point and Skyline Divide are excellent for views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. Skyline Trail gives you Mount Rainier and its glaciers, while Colchuck Lake places you beneath steep granite peaks.
Best Waterfall Hikes in Washington
Washington has plenty of trails where waterfalls are the main attraction. Wallace Falls, Twin Falls, Comet Falls, and Palouse Falls each offer a different experience.
Wallace Falls is particularly easy to recommend because you can choose how far to hike. The park has three main waterfall viewpoints, and the popular route to the top is 2.8 miles.
For stronger waterfalls, spring and early summer are often good times because snowmelt and rainfall add more water. Still, I always check current conditions because flow can vary from year to year.
Best Alpine Lake Hikes in Washington
Washington's alpine lakes are some of the most rewarding destinations in the state. Colchuck Lake, Snow Lake, Lake Serene, Annette Lake, and Bench Lake are all worth considering.
Colchuck Lake stands out for its blue-green water and steep granite surroundings. Snow Lake offers a large alpine setting, while Lake Serene combines the lake with views of the surrounding mountains.
Keep in mind that many high-elevation lakes are not accessible early in the season. Snow can cover trails and passes well into summer. Mount Rainier, for example, has trails ranging from low-elevation forest routes to high subalpine terrain, and the National Park Service advises hikers to check current trail conditions before setting out.
What to Pack for Hiking in Washington
Washington State Parks recommends carrying plenty of water and snacks, wearing suitable footwear, and checking the weather and trail alerts before every hike. It also warns that cell service can be limited in many areas.
I have learned that packing for hiking in Washington is less about carrying everything and more about being ready for changing conditions. Good hiking shoes or boots, a waterproof jacket, a warm insulating layer, water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a headlamp should be part of your basic setup. I also carry offline maps, sun protection, and a small emergency kit.
For longer or steeper trails, trekking poles can help. If snow or ice is still on the trail, add microspikes or snowshoes when conditions require them. Mountain weather can change quickly, so I would rather carry one extra layer than wish I had it halfway up a trail. The National Park Service also recommends sturdy footwear and preparing for sudden weather changes at Mount Rainier.
Washington Hiking Permits and Passes
Permit rules depend on where you hike. For Washington State Parks and many recreation lands managed by the state, a Discover Pass is required for parking. The current fee is $10 for a day pass or $45 for an annual pass.
National parks have their own entrance fees or passes, while some national forest trailheads may require a recreation pass. Overnight trips into wilderness areas can also require permits. The Enchantments are a good example, with permits required for overnight camping.
Winter hikers should also check for Sno-Park requirements. Washington currently has more than 120 Sno-Park sites, and parking there requires the appropriate permit during the winter season.
I always check the official land manager before leaving. Parking rules, permits, fees, and seasonal closures can change.
Washington Hiking Safety Tips
Check Weather Before Leaving
A sunny morning in Seattle does not mean the mountains will have the same conditions. Check the forecast for your actual trail and look for current alerts or closures. Washington State Parks recommends checking both weather and location conditions before heading out.
Start Early
I prefer early starts on popular hikes in Washington. You have a better chance of finding parking, avoiding the biggest crowds, and getting more daylight. This matters even more on long alpine trails.
Know Your Turnaround Time
Do not make the summit your only goal. Set a time to turn around and stick to it. This is especially important on long or high-elevation hikes where afternoon weather can change fast.
Watch for Wildlife
You may encounter bears, mountain goats, and other wildlife on Washington trails. Give animals plenty of space and never approach or feed them. The National Park Service recommends being prepared for wildlife encounters when hiking at Mount Rainier.
Be Prepared for Snow
Snow can remain on higher trails well into summer. Even experienced hikers can run into difficult conditions when a trail is covered in snow or ice. Check recent conditions before leaving and carry the right gear for the route.
Carry Offline Maps
Cell service is not reliable on many remote trails. Washington State Parks specifically recommends telling someone where you are going because service can be limited. I also download an offline map before starting a hike so I am not depending on a phone signal.
Tell Someone Your Plans
Before a longer hike, tell someone where you are going, which trail you plan to take, and when you expect to return. If something goes wrong, that simple step can make it much easier for others to know where to look.
Final Thoughts on Hiking in Washington
Washington has more than 700 miles of hiking trails in its state parks, according to Washington State Parks. Add the trails across Mount Rainier, Olympic, and North Cascades national parks and the state's national forests, and you have an almost endless choice of places to explore.
After exploring different parts of the state, I think that variety is what makes hikes in Washington so special. You can spend one morning on an easy forest trail and plan a demanding alpine climb the next day.
My biggest tip is simple: do not choose a trail just because it looks great in a photo. Look at your experience, the season, weather, elevation gain, and current trail conditions first. A little planning can turn a tough day on the trail into a great one.
