14 SPECTACULAR TRAILS YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS HIKING IN WASHINGTON — FROM A LOCAL
There is so much to experience in the PNW, but hiking in Washington is just something you don’t want to miss!
To get the best experiences of Washington, I highly recommend getting out into the nature Washington’s known for.
For starters, the glistening blues, illuminating greens, and vast waters will have you wanting more every time you’re here.
For instance, I’ve lived in Washington for 22 years and was raised there. I leave to explore, but always seem to find my way back, with a bigger desire to explore than before.
I highly recommend coming between May till October, (June is the best) to experience the most of the hiking season.
Here are some hikes I personally have listed as my favorites. They are listed in no specific order and have varying mileage, for all skill levels.
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1. LAKE 22
This hike was my absolute favorite right at the beginning of the month of June or the end of May, while there was still a little snow at the top.
This hike had quite a bit of elevation, but I will tell you that the payoff is incredible. Standing on a bridge, watching the waterfalls rush off of the mountain into the lake, hitting the snow and ice swirling the fresh snow on the way down, was immaculate.
Make sure to dress for snow if you decide to go while there is some up there. All the other times that this hike is open are just as beautiful, but something about the snow and ice really was something that made the view a little extra beautiful.
Mileage: 6.8 mi
Elevation: 1,473 ft
Rating: Moderate
Address: 36731 Mountain Loop Hwy, Granite Falls, WA 98252
Located: Centered in Northern Washington
Admission Cost: National Forest Pass, I highly recommend getting the Annual National Parks Pass because it covers National Parks and National Forests and can be used at any of the locations across the United States. Plus, it’s an annual pass, which means it could be used all year! It’s a total money saver in the long run.
Open: May until October
2. MOUNT PILCHUCK
A very well-known hike, a bit of a harder hike, but you will get amazing views that are unforgettable. Trekking this hike you will be looking at high elevation increases, large boulders, and loose rocks.
I highly recommend wearing excellent shoes with good grip. I personally wear and love these Solomon shoes, check out this one here for wider feet or these here for a slim fit.
Fortunately, they grip the rocks effortlessly, I cannot imagine hiking without them now, and I’ve never trusted shoes like this before.
In fact, they come in handy for most hikes near or in the water, and Washington is pretty wet!
Once you’ve trekked over the boulders, there will be a light amount of rock climbing, then you will reach a look-out point. The lookout point has multiple astonishing views on each side!
Please be aware that the road is best for off-road vehicles or high lifted vehicles because the road isn’t as well maintained.
Mileage: 5.2 mi
Elevation: 2,122 ft
Rating: Hard
Address: Mount Pilchuck Trailhead, NF-4200, Granite Falls, WA 98252
Location: Centered in Northern Washington
Admission Cost: Washington State Park Pass
Open: June until October
3. CAPE FLATTERY TRAIL
Firstly, this trail is so incredibly peaceful. Just sitting on the cliffside, listening to the waves crash and watching the birds nestled in the cliffside coves, immediately lifts every ounce of tension.
Not only that, but the opportunity of spotting a whale or seal are extremely high here. I’ve managed to spot a whale and sea spotted leopard while here!
I also highly recommend exploring Neah Bay while you’re in the area, there are tide pools with colorful sea life to explore.
Fair warning, this trail’s closed during the pandemic because of it being on Native land, but will hopefully reopen once things subside.
Mileage: 1.3mi
Elevation: 259ft
Rating: Easy
Address: Cape Flattery Trail, Neah Bay, WA 98357
Location: Western Washington – Near the Olympic Peninsula near Neah Bay
Admission Cost: A Makah Tribe Recreational Pass is $10 and good for a year. The pass can be purchased from the Tribal Museum.
PS: For #vanlifers there is a free campsite nearby called Bear Creek Campsite, please limit stay time to allow all to enjoy the area!
4. BRIDAL VEIL FALLS & LAKE SERENE
Surely enough, hiking in Washington wouldn’t be complete without these two hikes, or should I say this hike?!
Lake Serene is an alpine lake hidden in the Cascade Mountains of Washington State, with an added gem of Bridal Veil Falls. The best part is, seeing the falls only adds a mile to the trip.
Though, this can be quite the trek; covering rocky paths switchbacks, steep steps, slippery creeks, and fallen logs.
Once, you’ve made it to the top pf Lake Serene, sit back and enjoy your meal at “Lunch Rock”. Also, if you don’t mind the cold, you could always take a dip in the lake too!
Mileage: 7.6 mi
Elevation: 2,690 ft
Rating: Hard
Address: Parking lot, Washington 98251
Location: Central Washington
Admission Cost:National Forest Pass, I highly recommend getting the Annual National Parks Pass because it covers National Parks and National Forests and can be used at any of the locations across the United States. Plus, it’s an annual pass, which means it could be used all year! It’s a total money saver in the long run.
5. HEATHER LAKE
Leading up to Heather Lake is a bit of a journey its self, a high clearance vehicle with all-wheel drive or 4WD is recommended.
Especially since the trails are often covered in snow most of the year, except during the peak of summer.
Beyond that, the trail is a steep incline leading to a phenomenal view of the mountain tops, waterfalls, fluttering dragonflies landing on dragonflies, and the nestled Heather Lake.
Alongside the views, there were people relaxing, listening to music, swimming, and laughing by the lake. The peak of summer in Jul when it gets warm enough, the lake becomes a sought-after splash!
Although this may be a vulnerable moment, I’d love to share that this was the very first hike I had ever done solo (I also cried at the top, from the view being so beautiful!). So, this hike holds a special place in my heart, and I hope that you’re able to equally enjoy it!
Mileage: 5.4 mi
Elevation: 1,210 ft
Rating: Moderate
Address: Heather Lake Trail, NF-4220, Granite Falls, WA 98252
Location: Central Washington
Admission Cost:National Forest Pass, I highly recommend getting the Annual National Parks Pass because it covers National Parks and National Forests and can be used at any of the locations across the United States. Plus, it’s an annual pass, which means it could be used all year! It’s a total money saver in the long run.
Open: May until November
6. BIG FOUR ICE CAVES
For years, I had been going to this hike and not even knowing that there were two more caves to see. Everyone referred to it just as the “ice caves”, including the friends that initially took me here.
Years later, I had discovered not only four glorious ice caves but many waterfalls.
Oh man, I was missing out! Don’t forget those! There is a waterfall at the end of the cave and through the second cave. However, going under the ice caves is highly dangerous, and I do not recommend it. Please be safe!
Also, while I decided to explore there is a hidden waterfall if you keep on pushing past that second set of caves, just hidden behind some huge boulders above, which looks like a cave.
Once, you climb up those boulders and up to the cave, a waterfall just flushes down.
Throughout the cave, bright-green ferns and mosses cover the sides of the rocks, making it a complete paradise. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a little fresh picnic!
Crazy to think, if I kept my mind and eyes closed and remained “comfortable”. I would have never experienced either of them!
Mileage: 0.6 mi
Elevation: 29 ft
Rating: Easy
Address: Big Four Mountain Trailhead, Big Four Mountain Trail, Granite Falls, WA 98252
Location: Central Washington
Admission Cost:
Open: May until October
7. CHERRY CREEK FALLS
As for Cherry Creek Falls, there are multiple trails that offer different viewpoints.
This trail is not well-marked and crosses many other trails, so it’s best to use the map/GPS along the way.
For instance, the very beginning of the hike treads along a gravel road that splits, for most of the trail you’ll keep right (while leading to the falls). The very last trail split that goes off to the left offers a view from above the waterfall, and the trail to the right views the front and base of the falls.
Not only does this trail split multiple times, but it also has a fair mix of ups and downs.
Of course, the journey is well worth it. Especially because it’s a 25-foot tall waterfall with water that’s accessible and tons of fun to play in!
Oh, almost forgot to mention, be careful of the mud. A simple solution would be to lay down fall wood along the path to step on and over.
Mileage: 5.1 mi
Elevation: 636 ft
Rating: Easy
Address: Riverview School District, Washington
Location: Northern/Central Washington
8. SOL DUC FALLS
Nestled on the Olympic peninsula, Sol Duc Falls is a well-known, and easily accessible hike for most. Although I must say that if you’re coming east, getting to the Peninsula requires a ferry.
But don’t let that stop you, Most of the hikes in the Olympic National Park area are worth it!
Did you know that the Olympic National Forest is technically a rainforest and one of the only rainforests in all the United States? This means you may see different foliage and fauna here, compared to other parts of the U.S.
These beautiful falls flow under a large wooden bridge, offering views of waterfalls on either side, with one side being a bit more impressive than the other.
This trail is actually also the beginning of the Seven Lakes Basin backpacking trail, which I have had the pleasure of backpacking, check out the article here!
However, it may be beautiful, use caution during the rain season, the bridge can overflow and be closed.
Mileage: 1.6 miles
Elevation: 255ft
Rating: Easy
Address:
Located in Western Washington
Admission: National Forest Pass, I highly recommend getting the Annual National Parks Pass because it covers National Parks and National Forests and can be used at any of the locations across the United States. Plus, it’s an annual pass, which means it could be used all year! It’s a total money saver in the long run.
9. EXPLORER FALLS
Surprisingly, these falls are extremely hidden and usually a local favorite.
Without a doubt, this is one that was a favorite go-to hike, that features a glorious waterfall.
However, to get the best views of the waterfalls, you’ll want to cross the creek and trek alongside it and towards the falls.
Once you reach the waterfalls, the very top has a rock scramble that can be climbed to reach a small body of water below the waterfall that can be enjoyed on a hot day.
Alongside the waterfall, you can spot a little cave, big enough for one person to venture in.
Fair warning though, the previous trailhead’s completely blocked off, because of trespassers contaminating the local water supply. The new trailhead’s tucked away on the side, along the same road, look for a very small gravel patch for parking and a discovery pass sign.
Mileage: 5.3 mi
Elevation: 597 ft
Rating: Moderate
Address: Snohomish, Washington 98290
Location: North West Washington
Admission Cost: Washington State Park Pass
10. NISQUALLY VISTA
Differing from the other recommended hiking trails, this trail is completely paved and one of the easiest to walk with the most rewarding view of all.
Seriously, just mosey on down the paved path for a view that will absolutely blow your mind.
Not to mention, during the spring and summer, the path is complimented with wildflowers blooming all around.
This view is one I recommend to all!
Mileage: 1.1 mi
Elevation: 180 ft
Rating: Easy
Address: Nisqually Vista Trail, Ashford, WA 98304
Location: South West Washington – Mt. Rainier
Admission Cost: National Forest Pass, I highly recommend getting the Annual National Parks Pass because it covers National Parks and National Forests and can be used at any of the locations across the United States. Plus, it’s an annual pass, which means it could be used all year! It’s a total money saver in the long run.
Open: June till October
11. HEYBROOK LOOKOUT
First and foremost, the hike a steady incline, through an extremely dense forest.
Similar to Mt. Pilchuck the final incline is onto a wooden lookout tower, offering 360 degree views.
This tower measures to be about 72 foot high. Psshhhtttt, don’t let the height fool you, the 89 steps were the easy part of this hike!
Not only does this lookout offer a gorgeous view, it also offers the opportunity to book a cozy stay inside.
Mileage: 2.6 mi
Elevation: 912 ft
Rating: Moderate
Address: Heybrook Lookout Trailhead, Stevens Pass Hwy, Gold Bar, WA 98251
Location: Northwestern Washington
Admission Cost:National Forest Pass, I highly recommend getting the Annual National Parks Pass because it covers National Parks and National Forests and can be used at any of the locations across the United States. Plus, it’s an annual pass, which means it could be used all year! It’s a total money saver in the long run.
Open: Year round
12. OYSTER DOME
The Oyster Dome trail starts off uphill but relatively offered a steady incline.
However, don’t let that put a damper on things, this trail seems to stay pretty dry from the dense forest. So this trail can be enjoyed through rain or shine.
Once you’ve reached the lookouts (located on large boulders), there were immaculate views of Bellingham Bay.
Mileage: 7.3 mi
Elevation: 1,879 ft
Rating: Hard
Address: Oyster Dome Trailhead, Pacific NW Trail, Bow, WA 98232
Location: Northern Washington – Near the city of Bellingham
Admission Cost:Washington State Park Pass
Open: April until October
13. FALLS CREEK FALLS
Along with all the other amazing waterfalls, this waterfall is one of the most amazing waterfalls I’ve ever been to. Especially because it’s not just one waterfall, it was multiple waterfalls tiered.
Not only is this waterfall spectacular, but it’s easily accessible, although the last mile is a bit of an incline.
Despite the incline up, on the way down, it makes for a fun trail run down!
All too often, a rainbow appears, through the mist coming off the falls. So, keep your eyes open on the sun-dappled spots.
Mileage: About 2-3 mi
Rating: Easy
Address: Winthrop, Washington 98862
Location: Eastern Washington
Admission Cost: Washington State Park Pass
14. DECEPTION FALLS — INTERPRETIVE TRAIL
While a few of the other trails can be a bit more involved, this is a bit more of a leisurely trail. Just take a stroll down the primarily paved path, to the different levels and views of the varying falls.
While the waterfalls are definitely spectacular, Deception Creek also meets Tyee River, offering a multitude of different colors throughout the water. Similarly, resembling a bright turquoise color, in some areas.
Overall this is a great hike, quick picnic spot, peaceful place and is even good for all skill levels.
Mileage: .6
Elevation: 65 ft
Rating: Easy
Address: Winthrop, Washington, 98862
Location: Eastern Washington
Admission Cost: National Forest Pass, I highly recommend getting the Annual National Parks Pass because it covers National Parks and National Forests and can be used at any of the locations across the United States. Plus, it’s an annual pass, which means it could be used all year! It’s a total money saver in the long run.
Open: May till October
Love this article on hiking in Washington?
Have you ever thought of backpacking? Backpacking is essentially hiking and camping combined!
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Bryce
What a great article, thank you so much for sharing!