The best walks and hikes in Washington

Embark on the Marymere Falls Nature Trail, an easy hike covering 3.3 miles (5.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 399 feet (122 metres). You will wander through a lush old-growth forest, where towering trees create a dense canopy and the ground is carpeted with ferns and moss. The route typically takes about 1 hour and 32 minutes to complete, leading you to the impressive 90-foot Marymere Falls and offering serene views of Lake Crescent.

When planning your visit, you can find parking at the Storm King Ranger Station, which serves as the trailhead for this popular route. The trail is generally considered family-friendly and accessible, though the final ascent to Marymere Falls involves natural stairs and switchbacks. These sections can be moderately challenging, so be prepared for a short, steeper climb to reach the falls.

Located within Olympic National Park, this trail offers a classic Pacific Northwest experience, showcasing the region's rich natural beauty. You can admire Marymere Falls from both lower and upper viewpoints, providing different perspectives of the cascading water. The trail is a great way to immerse yourself in the unique ecosystem of the park without committing to a longer, more strenuous adventure.

Embark on an easy hike up Hurricane Hill, a 3.4 miles (5.4 km) route that takes about 1 hour and 42 minutes to complete. You will gain 725 feet (221 metres) of elevation, leading you through vibrant subalpine meadows. As you climb, look out for wildflowers like lupine and Indian paintbrush, and keep an eye peeled for local wildlife such as deer and Olympic marmots. The summit offers expansive views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Accessing the Hurricane Hill Trail is straightforward, as it begins close to the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center. This makes parking and initial orientation simple for your visit. While the path is generally easy, be aware that some upper sections feature steeper grades and water bars. During winter months, the trail transforms into a popular destination for snowshoeing, offering a safe option with low avalanche danger.

The Hurricane Hill Trail is a highlight within Olympic National Park, renowned for its diverse ecosystem. It provides a unique opportunity to witness the park's subalpine environment, which bursts with color during summer. From the top, you can often spot Mount Olympus and even Vancouver Island on clear days, showcasing the region's vast natural beauty and geographical significance.

Embark on the Skyline Trail Loop for a classic Mount Rainier hiking experience, covering 6.3 miles (10.2 km) with a moderate difficulty. You'll ascend 1684 feet (513 metres) over an estimated 3 hours and 27 minutes, traversing varied terrain from paved sections to rocky paths. As you climb, you'll be treated to expansive views of Mount Rainier and its majestic glaciers. Look out for vibrant subalpine wildflower meadows that add splashes of color to the landscape. Don't miss the stunning vistas from Panorama Point Summit, offering 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks. The trail also passes the picturesque Myrtle Falls Viewpoint, where Mount Rainier provides a dramatic backdrop.

Plan your hike on the Skyline Trail Loop between mid-July and early October, which is the prime season for exploring this area. If you want to see the wildflowers at their peak, aim for late July to mid-August. Be prepared for varied terrain, including potential snow patches at higher elevations, even during summer months. This popular trail can become very crowded, especially on summer weekends, so consider starting early or visiting on a weekday to avoid the busiest times.

The Skyline Trail Loop offers a deep dive into the natural environment of Mount Rainier National Park. You'll encounter diverse ecosystems, from the lush subalpine meadows to the rugged, glaciated slopes of the mountain itself. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as marmots, which are often spotted along the route. This trail is notable for providing some of the most iconic and accessible views of Mount Rainier, making it a highlight for many visitors to the park.

The Chain Lakes Loop Trail offers continuous panoramic views of Mount Shuksan and Mount Baker as you hike around pristine alpine lakes. This moderate route covers 6.5 miles (10.5 km) with an elevation gain of 1748 feet (533 metres), typically taking about 3 hours and 25 minutes to complete. You will traverse varied terrain, from well-maintained paths to rocky sections, passing through meadows and heather, with highlights like the turquoise waters of Iceberg Lake.

When planning your visit, you can access the trail from multiple parking areas, including Artist Point and the Heather Meadows Visitor Center, giving you flexibility for your starting point. While considered moderate, the length and elevation gain mean you should have a reasonable level of fitness. The trail is also dog-friendly, so you can bring your leashed companion along for the adventure.

This popular loop is nestled within the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, known for its stunning sub-alpine environment. The route encircles several distinct lakes, including Lower Bagley Lake, providing diverse scenery throughout your journey. It stands out in the region for its combination of accessible beauty and rewarding challenge, making it a favorite for day hikers seeking grand mountain vistas.

Embark on the Rattlesnake Ledge Trail, a popular hike that takes you through a lush second-growth forest. You will climb steadily, navigating well-engineered switchbacks as you gain elevation, with glimpses of Rattlesnake Lake appearing below. This moderate route covers 5.4 miles (8.7 km) with an elevation gain of 1313 feet (400 metres), typically taking around 2 hours and 49 minutes to complete, culminating in panoramic views from the Ledge.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail is very popular, especially on weekends and sunny days. Parking at the trailhead can fill up quickly, so arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot. While generally accessible year-round, always check local conditions before you go to ensure a smooth experience.

The main reward of this trail is the expansive vista from Rattlesnake Ledge, where you can clearly see the blue-green waters of Rattlesnake Lake, Mount Si, and the distant peaks of Snoqualmie Pass. For a quieter experience and different perspectives, you have the option to continue your hike to Rattlesnake Middle Ledge or Rattlesnake Upper Ledge View.

Embark on the challenging Dog Mountain Trail, a difficult hike that spans 6.5 miles (10.5 km) and climbs a significant 3986 feet (1215 metres). This route typically takes around 4 hours and 41 minutes to complete, offering a strenuous but rewarding journey through varied landscapes. As you ascend, you'll move from dense temperate forests into expansive meadows, often bursting with vibrant wildflowers like yellow balsamroot and purple lupine. The highlight is reaching the summit, where you're greeted with sweeping views of the Columbia River Gorge, and on clear days, distant glimpses of Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens.

Planning your hike requires some foresight, especially if you aim to visit during the popular wildflower season from mid-April to mid-June. During this peak time, permits are mandatory for weekend hikes. Be aware that the trailhead parking lot fills up very early, so consider utilizing the transit service from Stevenson, which often includes your permit. For this demanding ascent and descent, trekking poles are highly recommended, and if you plan a winter visit, be prepared for snow-covered conditions at the peak, potentially requiring mountaineering gear.

The Dog Mountain Trail is a renowned destination within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, celebrated for its dramatic elevation changes and seasonal floral displays. It stands out as a prime example of the region's diverse ecosystems, transitioning from lush forest floors to exposed, sun-drenched slopes. The trail's popularity underscores its status as a classic Pacific Northwest experience, drawing hikers seeking both a physical challenge and unparalleled natural beauty.

Step into the lush embrace of the Quinault Loop Trail, an easy hike that winds through a vibrant temperate rainforest. You will find yourself beneath a dense canopy of towering old-growth conifers, with the forest floor a soft carpet of ferns and mosses. This accessible route offers serene views of the Quinault River and picturesque glimpses of Quinault Lake, along with charming small waterfalls like Cascade Falls, all within a comfortable 3.9 miles (6.3 km) journey.

Completing the loop typically takes around 1 hour and 42 minutes, with a gentle elevation gain of 298 feet (91 metres), making it an ideal choice for a relaxing outing. Parking is conveniently available near the historic Lake Quinault Lodge, providing easy access to the trailhead. Given the region's frequent rainfall, expect muddy conditions on the trail, so be sure to wear waterproof footwear to keep your feet dry.

This trail is a fantastic way to experience the unique ecosystem of the Quinault Rainforest, known for its ancient trees and rich biodiversity. As you hike, you will pass through a fascinating cedar bog, a distinctive feature of this temperate environment. The Quinault Loop Trail is also welcoming to families and leashed dogs, offering a wonderful opportunity for everyone to enjoy the natural beauty of the Olympic National Forest.

Step into a lush temperate rainforest on the Quinault Loop Trail, an easy hike covering 3.9 miles (6.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 298 feet (91 metres). You will find yourself surrounded by towering Douglas firs and Sitka spruces, forming a dense canopy overhead. The forest floor is a vibrant carpet of ferns and mosses, leading you past picturesque Cascade Falls and a unique boardwalk through a cedar bog, all completable in about 1 hour and 42 minutes.

When you plan your visit, be prepared for rain and potentially muddy conditions; waterproof gear is essential for your comfort. Convenient parking is available near the trailhead. The route is also close to the historic Lake Quinault Lodge, which offers amenities like food and restrooms. If you are bringing your furry friend, leashed dogs are welcome on the trail.

This trail offers a serene rainforest experience, often with fewer crowds compared to other popular areas in the region. It provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique ecosystem of the Olympic National Forest, exploring its ancient trees and diverse plant life without the hustle and bustle you might find elsewhere. It is a perfect choice for a peaceful outing.