Hi! Welcome to my Washington Hiking Page!
...I'm still working on this but it's coming soon! So, Stay Tuned!
First off, Washington State is beautiful!
There are many, many hikes i still haven't done, but i'd thought i'd share some photos + a little info about different hikes I have done... Kind of a starting point guide for those of you who might want to check out some beautiful hiking in Washington and/or to find hikes you haven't done yet perhaps?
How to use this site?  For most of the hikes I have included pictures so you can see what might be of interest to you. If you scroll over the photo, a thumbnail should pop up telling you what hike you are looking at. Then below i've listed each hike with a brief description. Please note the "brief" part. I've just listed a few notes or tips that I remember...So, always do more research! Some hikes may be easy and can be done almost year round where as some are difficult and have a very short season... And things can change over time, such as road and trail conditions. I always recommend researching more about the hikes on your own and reading trip reports for conditions. WTA is amazing! All Trails is great too....as well as many other hiking websites. Do your research, pack for and know your conditions, and use GPS! Please be Safe!
I have listed hikes by region/area (north to south....sort of) and then have also listed hikes somewhat in my favorites order? But everyone has different opinions in what they like so keep that in mind. The 5*'s are my overall favorite hikes if I had to choose. 4*'s are really amazing and totally worth doing in my opinion... Beautiful!  Some 4*'s are almost 5*'s (or maybe they will be in your opinion?)... and some closer to 3*'s. 3*'s to me were nice hikes but maybe something i wouldn't go too far out of my way to tackle? 
Have fun and enjoy the amazing beauty out there!
.... And feel free to connect with any questions

MT BAKER
SKYLINE DIVIDE // 
PTARMIGAN RIDGE // 
TABLE MT // 
CHAIN LAKES LOOP  //
CHURCH MT //
YELLOW ASTER BUTTE //
PICTURE LAKE // 
NORTH CASCADES
HIDDEN LAKE//  5*
CASCADE PASS / SAHALE ARM // 5*
HEATHER-MAPLE PASS LOOP // 4* 
SAUK MT. // 4*
BLUE LAKE // 4*
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LAKE DIABLO //
WASHINGTON PASS // 
MT LOOP HWY
TWIN LAKES // 5* 18-ISH MILES (CAN BIKE 8 OF IT) / 2939 FT. GAIN / HARD
Twin Lakes are wow-ers!... and the hike to get there is so diverse and and adventurous! The actual hike starts at the Ghost Town Monte Cristo. Monte Cristo is 4 miles down a gated (can't drive it) dirt road......It's A nice road, but 8 miles total of it I almost guarantee you'll be pretty board..... So I highly recommend biking it - mountain bike suggested. I have done it twice in a road bike. Although It worked for me, luckily, I don't recommend. The road is really rocky and you can easily get hurt or at least, easily pop a tire on a road bike. There is a river crossing, atleast when I went - not too far into the hike - that was a little tricky with a bike, but I was able to manage. Biking is also so much quicker! If you don't bike, get a super early start as it's a long hike! 

The hike begins in Monte Cristo ghost town, which if fun to poke around the remnants before hopping on the trail. In about 2 miles, after climbing Poodle Dog Pass, there is a detour for Silver Lake. Its ads about a mile total and is easy, so I recommend checking out Silver Lake while your there. Its not as amazing as Twin Lakes, but it's still a nice alpine lake. As you make your way to Twin Lakes, views open up of the surrounding Mountain peaks and at a point you can see Silver Lake off in the distance behind. The trail is a little hard to follow at some points, so I highly recommend GPS just in case. On the trail you eventually come around a bend and beautiful turquoise Twin Lakes lies below. If you have the time and energy, I recommend hiking down to them, the basin is really cool to hike down through. I last hiked this just before snow covered the trail too much to hike it - in October, and the fall colors were abundant, especially in the basin.  

GOTHIC BASIN //  5* / 9.2(+ DEPENDING ON EXPLORATION) MILES / 2840 FT. GAIN / MODERATE - HARD
One of my all-time favorite hikes in Washington! I've probably hiked this 5-6 times? Always so much fun to explore the basin! The hike is tiring, but well worth the effort....so don't give up. It goes up and then winds up and along side where views open up and passes a couple waterfalls. I recommend getting an early start to give yourself plenty of time to spend in the basin at the top - The basin is "fairytale/ hobbit" like and there is so much to explore! To the right you can scramble to Foggy Lake (highly recommend), or if you want a longer/ more technical hike you can scramble Del Campo or Gothic Peak (definitely research first if you are doing one of the peaks!). Foggy Lake makes a great place for lunch or just to relax. If you go left when you reach the basin, much to explore as well - even a view of Weden Lake below, a waterfall, and a mine shaft if you wish to take a trail along a cliff? A lot of fragile grounds though, so watch the stepping - It is really a special place! 

VESPER PEAK // 4* / 8 MILES / 4000 FT. GAIN / MODERATE - HARD
Beautiful views from the summit of surrounding Mountains, a beautiful lake, and the basin below. The last stretch to the summit is a scramble across boulders. I was constantly on lookout for for the next cairn to follow, but the scramble itself I didn't find too difficult. I heard staying to one side is better than the other so you probably want to research this one before you go. I met some people on the way up who were doing work at a ruby mine in the area, which I thought was interesting. Another note about the trail is that after you climb the pass there is a side trail to a basin that is really cool to check out! It could also be a good place for a rest or a bite to eat before you hit the summit....or after if you prefer. Overall, an amazing hike. Even the trail itself was nice and provides a good mix of scenery. I thought the hardest or "scariest" part of the hike was a river crossing near the beginning of the hike. There was a log to cross, but the river was rushing pretty fiercely and you would not want to fall in. 

MT. DICKERMAN // 4* / 8.2 MILES / 3950 FT. GAIN / MODERATE - HARD
Really unique Mt. views at the top make the switchbacks forever through the forest worth it - overall a great hike! 

MT. PUGH // 4*  11 MILES / 5300 FT. GAIN / HARD
No break - You will be hiking up hill start to summit, but wow! 360 views of surrounding peaks await you at the top. The last part of the hike is a decently long scramble to the summit. It's not difficult, but definitely not for those afraid of heights. There is a picture of what I thought was the most sketchy part of the scramble, but honestly it looks way crazier than it is. The hike is all about the summit, switchbacks through forest felt like they were never going to end.

MT. FORGOTTEN / PERRY CREEK // 4*  13 MILES / 4300 FT. GAIN / MODERATE - HARD
Nice hike that begins by going to Perry Creek meadows (at about 5-ish miles in). The meadows and the views (although a bit obscured) around them are pretty. The meadows are also a nice place to relax or have a bite before going up Mt. Forgotten.  From the meadows you follow a trail/scramble down and then head across to the base of Mt. Forgotten.  From there you begin a scramble up a gully to reach the top. Grand 360 views at top and fun to be among those pointy peaks. Great hike!

MT. PILCHUCK // 4*  5.4 MILES / 2300 FT. GAIN / MODERATE
Fun hike to a lookout, that at least the last time I went, you can go inside of it. Nice 360 views from the top. A short scramble at the end to get to the lookout. If you have extra energy after, heather lake is down the road. Road was potholed pretty bad last time I went. Expect crowds , but great hike though!

LAKE 22 // 4*  5.4 MILES / 1,350 FT. GAIN / MODERATE 
Beautiful alpine lake with nice mt. views on the way. Definitely worth hiking, but expect crowds. I suggest going early and non-weekend day.

​HEATHER LAKE //  4*  4.6 MILES / 1,0340 FT. GAIN / EASY - MODERATE 
Pretty lake and not too difficult of a hike. Nice boardwalk and reflections in the lake. Mt. Pilchuck is up on the same road if you feel energetic and want to do another hike. I heard this hike can get crowded so might want to start early or on a weekday. I remember the road being pretty potholed. 

​OLD ROBE CANYON // 4*  2.4-5ISH?  MILES / 350+ FT. GAIN / EASY 
I was not expecting an exciting hike as I did this hike just to get outside with my dog who cant hike much mileage or elevation. What a cool hike for how easy it is! The hike starts by going down and along the Stillaguamish River, which is really pretty, and then you follow old railroad tracks along the river. Its cool to read up on the history of those tracks and imagine traveling on a train through there. There are also some nice spots along the river to stop to picnic or just relax. Eventually you come to a sign that says it may be unsafe to travel further. You should use your own judgement here and not proceed if you feel it is dangerous....However, that is where the hike starts to get fun. If you decide to continue, you keep following the railroad tracks and then up and down some dirt paths (you may get muddy and it can be slippery if it is wet), and through old railway tunnels. Eventually you come to an old bridge, which is really cool in itself. I did cross over the bridge, but I wouldn't recommend it - definitely not for those afraid of heights. I think there might be a mind shaft after the bridge? The trail goes further but Ive heard its nothing too exciting. The bridge is a good turn back point. I saw a few kids and families on this hike and the kids seemed to be loving it! Whether you go past the "sign" or not I think this makes a great hike with younger ones and definitely recommend checking out!

BIG FOUR ICE CAVES // 3*  2.2 MILES / 220 FT. GAIN  / EASY
I don't have any photos for this one as its been years since Ive been.  The caves are a cool phenomenon, but I wouldn't say I thought the hike was super exciting. Could be a fun one for kids though, or if you are in the area and have a little extra time on your hands. Beware though that the caves can collapse and have killed hikers in the past...You may want to stay outside them.

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HWY 2 / LEAVENSWORTH
THE ENCHANTMENTS  (+ LITTLE ANNAPURNA) // 5* / 18+ MILES (NOT INCLUDING LITTLE ANNAPURNA) / 4, 500+ FT. GAIN / Hard 
If you can hike 20+miles with intense elevation gain, then do this hike! The enchantments are wowing the whole way through - for real, ENCHANTING! The hike is a one-way point to point hike, so you either need to park a car at the end or use a shuttle. There are shuttles in the area you can reserve to pick you up from the ending point parking lot and bring you to the start of the trailhead. They cost about $50 p/2 people I think? My husband and I did the hike together and opted for the shuttle, which worked out great! We camped at a campground close to the ending lot and drove over in the morning. The earliest shuttle that day was 6am, which worked ok, but I recommend an earlier shuttle if its available. My husband and I hike at a decent pace without many stops (although we did get confused with staying on the trail a few times going up Asgard and little Annapurna) and we didn't finish the hike until 7;30 PM. GPS of some sort is a must! I also highly recommend Little Annapurna if you have the time and energy as it was a really cool viewpoint - a sort of 360 of the Enchantments and surrounding mountains!..But it is more mileage and elevation gain. I've also heard Prusik Pass is really cool, but we were getting short on time and had to skip. If you do Little Annapurna + Prusik you are looking about 24 miles and 5,000 ft. elevation gain. Start to finish amazing (although kind of over it by the end, hahaha). Going up Asgard Pass is a steep scramble, but it's so beautiful it makes it worth it! Once you are in the enchantments you can kind of meander through the network of beautiful alpine lakes and peaks (unless you do Little Annapurna = more elevation gain), and eventually work your way back down. 

COLCHUCK LAKE // 4* / 8MILES / 2,280 FT. GAIN / MODERATE
If you do the Enchantments, Colchuck Lake is the first lake you come to, before Asgard Pass. As a hike on its own, its a nice one. Colchuck is a beautiful turquoise in color. If you are feeling up to it, you can continue around the lake and scramble up Asgard Pass, even if it is just enough to get a bit of a birds-eye view of Colchuck....or just stay and enjoy the lake a bit before heading back.
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MT MCCAUSLAND // 4* / 7 MILES / 1800 FT. GAIN / EASY- MODERATE 
Awesome hike, especially in the early fall when the colors start to change. Even more amazing is that it isn't that difficult for the awesome views you get. Nice views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Valhalla. Only the last half mile is steep, but totally worth it!  If you want you can also include stopping by Lake Valhalla, which only ads one more mile. 

LAKE SERENE / BRIDAL VEIL FALLS // 4* / 8.2 MILES / 2,000 / MODERATE
Lake Serene is beautiful and the hike itself is nice as well. I Have done this hike a few times and enjoyed it every time, and in different weather situations. In the summer it is definitely more crowded as it is a popular place to swim and cliff jump....but that can be fun if you are ok with crowds and more of a party atmosphere (not so Serene, but fun). I also really enjoyed it early summer(late June/early July?)  and early fall (October) season, on a weekday, when there were fewer people. Last time I went there was some snow around the lake and clouds in the sky that gave a more gothic feel to the lake....and a sense of Serenity....Really a beautiful lake! On the way up I recommend stopping by Bridal Veil Falls, which are pretty cool. If you only want to do the falls (3* by themselves), it is about 4 miles RT and 1000ft. gain. I do recommend pushing on if you can. From the falls,  the trail switchbacks a bit, and then nice views arrive at the top before finally coming to the lake. When you get to the lake, there are some coves to check out or just relax and enjoy the views. If you can, I recommend continuing on the trail which eventually ends up at "Lunch Rock," a huge sloping rock you can sit on and probably the best place to have lunch, enjoy views, or jump in the water from.

INDEX TOWN WALL// 4* / 2-4 MILES / 1,250 FT. GAIN / EASY- MODERATE 
Really cool view of the town Index from above. A little steep, but pretty short making it not too difficult of a trail.

WALLACE FALLS // 4* / 5.6 MILES / 1,300 FT. GAIN / EASY
Nice falls and easy and nice trail to follow along the Wallace River. Although it is a popular hike, I definitely recommend checking it out, especially if you can go at a more off-time or non weekend.

HEYBROOK LOOKOUT // 3* / 2.6 MILES / 850 FT. GAIN / EASY
Fairly easy/quick hike. Good for a novice hiker or to kill time. Recommend climbing up the lookout for views. Was fun, but views are somewhat obscured.

BARCLAY LAKE // 3* / 4.4 MILES / 500FT. GAIN / EASY
Simple and easy hike to Barclay Lake. Very popular hike, maybe because it is easy? Didn't mind the hike, but wasn't wow'd. Lots of mosquitoes when I went. 

WELLINGTON GHOST TOWN // 3* / 2 MILES / 20 FT GAIN / EASY
Makes a nice stop if you are in the area. Cool tunnel and history. Probably nice with family as it is more of a small walk than a hike.

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HWY 90

 http://www.goldmyer.org/index.php?m=1// RAMPART LAKES + ALTA MT + LAKE LILA /  5* (BACKDOOR OR RACHEL LAKE TRAIL OPTIONS) /  11-18? miles? / Elevation?  /Hard (especially the backdoor way) 
Moderate/Hard the Rachel Lake way. Hard if going up to Alta Mt = elevation gain. You can shorten it by not going to all 3. All 3 are amazing though and definitely worth seeing if you have the time + energy. Alta Mt is the hardest/elevation gain. The other lakes are much easier to get to. If you take the Rachel Lake route, go past Rachel Lake! Rachel lake by itself I would give3*, the others  4-5*each. Such an amazing hike! Especially if you can make it there in fall when the colors turn- wow!  The hike is great both via Rachel Lake or Backdoor! I think I preferred the backdoor route a little more as you get to see Lake Lillian and some nice Rainier views, Its slightly shorter the backdoor way but be aware it is extremely steep which made it a more difficult hike overall. Also, the road to get there is a single land dirt road with potholes. Recommend high clearance car and hope that no one comes the opposite direction as there are some but not a lot of turn-outs to pass. I was glad I wasn't driving! However if you do the Rachel Lake instead, I believe you can get there with any type of car (always check road conditions as things can change).  

// SNOW LAKE / GEM LAKE / WRIGHT MT. / 4* / 7.2-11.4 Miles / Gain 1800 (to Snow Lake only) / Moderate Hard 
Snow lake is a great hike but know that it is also very popular and usually a more crowded trailhead. Snow Lake is a large and beautiful alpine lake and makes a great place to take a swim and picnic along its shores. Some people even bring rafts and paddle boards (note, you have to hike your equipment in and out). Its easy to access the trailhead as it starts from the parking lot of the Alpental Ski area. I recommend hiking at least along snow lake as it is very scenic. If you have the time and energy, you can continue past Snow lake to Gem lake and up Wright Mt (recommend GPS for directions or know where you are going as its not obvious going up top Wright Mt. Gem lake is ok, but Wright Mt. offers some really nice views. Bring mosquito spray if you go in the summer especially- There were tons of them once I got to Gem lake/ Wright Mt. 

// NAVAHO PASS + PEAK / 4* / 13.7 Miles / 4,223 Elevation Gain / Moderate Hard  
Navaho Peak is a nice trail on the more east side of the 90. It is definitely much drier than most of the Western Washington hikes i've done. Once you get to the pass you start getting some nice views. Recommend continuing to the peak as you get unique views over the Mts. as well as nice views of Rainier on a nice day.

// MAILBOX PEAK / 4* / 5.4 Miles (old trail) 9.4 Miles(new trail) / 4,000 Ft. Gain / Hard ( old trail steeper, new trail longer but easier)
Mailbox Peak is a very popular hike with amazing views at the top, plus a mailbox where you might find or leave some interesting item? Many people use this trail to train for harder hikes as it gains a decent amount of elevation in a short distance (especially the old trail). Im not a fan of switchback after switchback so I prefer the old trail over the new. However the old trail goes pretty much straight up and is definitely not fun for many people. The new trail is a much more gentle grade if you can deal with the switchback after switchback after switchback... The two trails meet up at a point and the climb to the top is intense but you unique. 

// GRANITE MT. / 4* / 8.6 Miles / 3,800 Ft. Gain / Moderate Hard
Granite Mt. is a nice hike leading to a lookout (lookout itself is closed) with nice views of Rainier  and the i-90 and surrounding lakes. The lookout is always a nice spot to have lunch and take in the views. Additionally, you can scramble behind the lookout to a nice overviews of some lakes and it is likely to be less crowded there as well.  Lots of berries and some color variation on the trail in the fall. Fun time glissading when hiked in the late spring as there was still snow but had to be cautious of path. 

​// MT TENERIFFE  KAMIKAZE (UNMARKED TRAIL) / TENERIFFE FALLS / 4* /  9 MILES / 3,800? FT. GAIN / Hard (PROBABLY MODERATE/HARD THE OFFICIAL WAY?)
Start by heading to Teneriffe Falls (3*, they are ok) and sort of continue on an unmarked trail from there. Super steep! When I did this trail I didn't know that by doing this unmarked trail I was contributing to erosion, so I actually don't recommend this trail. However, you can also access Mt. Teneriffe  through its official trail (13 miles) which is less steep ( switchbacks). I have't tried the switchback way so I cant say much about it, but I thought the views on Mt. Teneriffe were really Cool!  

// KENDALL KATWALK / 4* /12-14 Miles / 2,600 Ft. Gain  / Moderate
Nice hike. Cool Peak formation. I didn't find the "Katwalk" scary but it seems some people do, so may not be the best hike if you are scared of heights/drops? About 12 miles to Katwalk itself. Another 1-2 miles to some alpine lakes. Definitely recommend continuing to the lakes if you have the time/ energy. They arent the most exciting alpine lakes, but definitely still nice. When I went there were also lots of berries right after the katwalk that make a delicious snack. 

// BANDERA MT. (+MASON LAKE OPTION)  / 4*/ 8 MILES BANDERA (12-ISH? INCLUDING MASON) / 3,400 FT. GAIN / Moderate
Nice view of Rainier on a clear day! Also view of Mason lake from above. A little scrambling at the end but not difficult. You can extend the hike by going to Mason Lake if you wish... or anywhere else off the Ira Spring Trailhead. Recommend checking out a trailhead map for optional additional trails.

// MT. DEFIANCE / MASON LAKE / 4* / 11 MILES / 3,584 GAIN / Moderate Hard
The day I hiked this it was cloudy and only got peekaboo glimpsed of the views, but I still enjoyed the hike. You can pass by and enjoy Mason Lake on the way (or way back). Enjoyed the view of Mason Lake from above. I imagine there would be amazing mountain views on a clear day.

// RATTLESNAKE LEDGE / 4* / 4 -9+MILES / 1,160 GAIN / Moderate 
In only 2 miles (one way you get to Rattlesnake Ledge. It's An extremely popular hike so expect crowds, especially if you go on a weekend. But if you can hang with the crowds you get to an amazing viewpoint in only 2 miles. Sweeping Mt. views and a view of Rattlesnake lake from above. If you want, you can head back to the trailhead from Rattlesnake Ledge and head up to 2 other viewpoints -middle and upper ledge that are likely to be less crowded and offer slightly different viewpoints. You can also continue 2.4 more miles to East peak. Im not sure why, but I haven't done East Peak yet? So, can't say if its worth it but Rattlesnake Ledge alone is a must do!

// MT. SI / 4* / 7.4 MILES OLD TRAIL - 8.4 MILES ( NEW TRAIL) / 3,150-3,420 GAIN  / Moderate ....BUT SCRAMBLE HARD
This is probably the most popular, must do hike for Seattle-lights. Maybe tied with Rattlesnake Ledge? ....So, I avoided it for a long time. Then I found out there was a back way(olde route) up that is a lot less crowded and has a lot less switchbacks so I went on a weekday late spring? and only passed a few people on the way up. Trail is simple and forested most of the way. The old trail is a lot steeper but shorter. The new trail has a mellower grade via switchbacks and is longer... and usually more crowded. The trails almost connect at a point, so If you take the old trail be sure to not accidently take the new trail on the way down. I did this the last time I took the trail. Luckily I have gps and there are trails I could take to connect back without going back up but it was definitely longer.
When you get up to the summit there are nice views of Mt. Rainier and the surrounding area (on a clear day). Most people may want to stop here or just continue a little further to another viewpoint (follow trail on the right of the rocks). However, If you are comfortable with it, you can also scramble up the Haystack but it is a difficult scramble and not for most (class 3 scramble). Luckily, the first time I went I met some nice hikers who had done the scramble many times and let me follow them up (and down). If you do go up, its a great place to enjoy the view. However, if you do not know what you are doing, I highly don't recommend. 

// MELAKWA LAKE + PASS / CHAIRPEAK LAKE /SNOWSHOE FALLS / FRANKLIN FALLS / 4* / 10-ISH? / 3,441-ISH GAIN / EASY (FRANKLIN FALLS - 2 MILES 400FT ) / MODERATE (MELAKWA LAKE - 8.5 MILES 2,700 GAIN) /  MODERATE-HARD (MELAKWA PASS + CHAIR PEAK LAKE)
The trail starts by going to Frankin Falls. Although I would give Franklin Falls a high 3* on its own, I remember it having a nice boardwalk-y trail which I thought was pretty cool. The falls were nice and there were lots of kids playing in them, so I imagine it would be a great hike to do with kids and/ or family especially on a warm summer day. Then you start to gain elevation, if I remember correctly, and as you make your gain Snowshoe Falls comes into sight off in the distance. Eventually you get to Lower Melakwa Lake. To get to upper Melakwa Lake there is a small path on the left. You will then see the rocky pass which you can scramble up if you wish. You get a beautiful Mountain + lakes (Chair Peak and Gem) view from the top. Chair Peak Lake below is an amazing blue color! You can then scramble down to Chair Peak lake if you wish, however it is steep and  you'll have to navigate the scree.  

// GOLDMYER HOTSPRINGS / 4* / 9MILES+ / ? GAIN / EASY- MODERATE
Goldmyer is a special place for sure! The hot springs are small, but unique. The trail to the springs is nice and mostly flat. I believe it is part of the middle fork trail? running along the Middle fork river. The road to get there can have potholes so definitely check out road conditions first. The hot springs themselves are cute, I would say? The hottest pool is on top which has a cave and I believe there are two other pools below? Water waterfalls from the top pool to the lower pool. The hot springs sit on the edge of  the river which is nice as well. There is also a nice deck to leave clothing under/ change. Note these hot springs are clothing optional. The hot springs are also pretty small, so sharing with others can be a little tricky and awkward. Luckily I think Goldmyer's only allow a small amount of people per day. Also, I believe you have to now make reservations for the hot springs before you arrive- there may even be a lottery? They have a website so check it out first  (http://www.goldmyer.org/index.php?m=1 ) . I believe it is also $20 per person for a day. When I went I camped overnight, which was nice to go back to camp after soaking, but did have to backpack everything in. 

// GOLD CREEK POND / 4* / 1 MILE / 10FT GAIN / EASY
Super easy hike....or rather, walk on a paved loop path. Very family friendly! I believe the path is even ADA accessible. Hard to call it a hike, but it is actually really beautiful! Also makes a great "rest" stop to stretch your legs if you are driving Highway 90 near Snoqualmie Pass. There are also picnic tables by the lake if you want to picnic there as well. Highly recommend to hikers and non hikers alike! 
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// SNOQUALMIE FALLS / 4* / 1.4 MILES / 250 FT. GAIN / EASY 
Must see! Really nice falls! Like Gold Creek Pond (above), Snoqualmie Falls is another great family friendly hike! It is also closer to city areas than a lot of the other hikes making it a great place to bring friends or family visiting that want to see some of the natural beauty of Washington. There is a nice viewing area of the falls that doesn't require a "hike", making it nice even for those who are not into or cant do the full hike. The hike is pretty easy in my opinion, but note it it is not flat meaning you have to go down a hill and then walk back up that hill. Doing the hike brings you down to a second viewpoint, looking at the falls from below (There is also a lower parking lot for those that wish to drive down instead of hike).  Note,Snoqualmie Falls is a popular tourist attraction, so expect crowds, especially on weekends!

// POO POO POINT / 4* /7.2 MILES / 1,858 FT. GAIN /MODERATE 
I did Poo poo as a spring hike when the weather was getting nice(er), but most hikes were still buried in snow. I didn't think it would be very exciting, but I ended up really enjoying it. The view from the top is definitely nice- not amazing, but nice for sure! When I went the were people paragliding from the grass way at the top. It was really cool to be sitting amongst the people paragliding, getting to see them take off and fly into the sky. 

// MIRROR + COTTONWOOD LAKES / 3* /2.2 MILES / 870 FT.GAIN / EASY 
I did this hike as I wanted to do a hike with my dog who is small and older and not able to do much distance. The hike and the lakes were nice, and we enjoyed the hike for sure, but I wouldn't say it was amazing....but worth it, especially for the fact that you can get to a lake (2 lakes) in a little more than a mile. Cottonwood lake is small but nice. Mirror lake is pretty big and had this cool sparkle to it. People were swimming and enjoying the lake, which could make it a nice summer destination. I even someone on an inflatable paddle board enjoying Mirror lake, which makes sense, especially that you only have to lug equipment a little over a mile. The lake is also off the PCT, and when I went I enjoyed chatting with some PCT hikers working their way down from Canada. I was glad to have some snacks in my bag that I offered them and it was cool to see how stoked and how quickly the demolished them. I asked them their favorite part of the PCT so far and they said Stehekin. I still haven't been, but Stehekin seems like a pretty cool area so I thought i'd share.

// GARFEILD LEDGES / 3* / 2.2 MILES / 830 FT. GAIN / EASY 
Nice trail that is easy and leads to a unique viewpoint. As it is short, it can be good for families. Great hike for my older, small dog. Nice places to picnic along the river before or after hike. Beware that, at least in 2020 when I went, there were some huge potholes in the road that you might have to navigate (or park and walk depending on your car) near the end of the road to get to the trail. 

// TWIN FALLS / 3* / 2.6 MILES / 500 FT. GAIN / EASY
Sorry there are no pictures for this one. Nice waterfall that is an easy, family friendly trail. Nice hike to get outside in nature.

// MT. WASHINGTON / 3* / 8.5 MILES / 3250 FT GAIN / MODERATE
Decent hike, but views are somewhat obscured on top, making it a little dissapointing despite a decent amount of effort to get there.  However, it does have it's own unique view and i'm still glad I did this hike, it's just not as wowing as some of the others.

// TALAPUS LAKE + OLALLIE  LAKE / 3* / 6.2 MILES ( 3.4 TO JUST TALAPUS LAKE) / 1,220 FT GAIN / EASY- MODERATE
Simple lakes, but nice. Might be nice as picnic destinations or during the summer for a swim. Forested most of the way, and just being in the forest is nice. Trails connect with other trails so may want to check out the trail system and combine/extend hikes or start at an alternate point, such as the Pratt Lake trailhead. 
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// COUGAR MT. TRAILS / 3* / ? MILES / ? FT. GAIN / EASY
Another family friendly place to explore. Not the most exciting trails, but still nice to be in nature. Lots of different trails to check out. Great place to get outside, especially when the mountains are still snowed in. 
 





MT RAINIER
SKYLINE LOOP TRAIL (PARADISE) // 5* 5.5 MI Gain: 1700Ft. Starts at Paradise. If you've never been to Rainier, Highly recommend this hike as a starting point. Can add on or take off distance to this hike making it great for beginner and advanced hikers. Paradise is Paradise! 

Note: Not up for the full hike? You can also do short hikes from the Paradise area. Skyline trail to Myrtle Falls is only 1 mile RT with only 100 ft. gain. Also note, while Paradise is amazing and I highly recommend, you wont be hiking alone as it is probably the most touristy area of Mt. Rainier.....but did I mention how beautiful it is? Must see!

MILDRED POINT + COMET FALLS // 5* 7 MI Gain: 3135Ft. HARD-ISH This hike is not super long, but uphill the whole way! Super steep near the end, but totally worth it if you can hang. If not, Comet Falls is 3.8 miles RT and 1250 elevation gain. Has a little of everything- Amazing falls, meadows (nice with fall colors), views, and really cool viewpoint of the glacier.

Note: Comet Falls, in my opinion is still a 4* hike, but if you can push on I highly recommend you do.

​BURROUGHS MT TO BURROUGHS 3 (SUNRISE) // 5* ?MI Gain: variable? I rate this hike 5*  if you do this hike as a loop, all the way to Burroughs 3 and  going  up Mt Fremont as well. Its probably about 18. miles?...and definitely steep, especially going from Burroughs 2 to Burroughs 3. Just going to Burroughs 3 is still a high 4* hike and you can make a loop with other trails in the sunrise area. Just going to Burroughs 2 is still really cool and I would give it a lower 4*. Definitely go past Burroughs 1! Check out a sunrise trail map for loop possibilities. 

Note: Loops can be done either direction, I've done it both ways and they seemed just as interesting both ways. However, if you go clockwise to Burroughs you get views in your direction of Emmons Glacier and White river on the way.

MT. FREMONT (SUNRISE) // 4* 5.6 MI Gain: 1200 Ft. Nice views. Can combine the hike with others in the area if you want to extend.

Note: Look for goats below, sometimes they are there. 

TOLMIE PEAK // 4* 7.5 MI Gain: 1100Ft. Great hike! High on the 4* for sure! Moderate-Not too long or steep, but long and steep enough. Awesome views!

Note: Once you get to the lookout tower, there is a small trail that leads along the ridge for different views.

SNOW + BENCH LAKES // 4* 2.5 MI Gain: 610Ft. Relatively easy hike. Bench lake can have a nice reflection of Rainier. It was muddy to get to the lake and you had to find your way though an overgrown trail, but definitely worth checking out! Snow lake I found less interesting, however maybe during the summer it might be a nice place for a swim? Did the trail in early fall.

​Note: Someone told me Snow Lake was super cool looking when they came late June/early July. They said it was covered with ice but you could see bright blue water moving underneath. Also, you can go past Snow Lake to a pond, but I didn't find it too exciting. However, the pond is a short distance away if you want to check it out.

NACHES PEAK LOOP // 4* 3.2 MI Gain: 600 Ft.. Nice views of Rainier and nice that it's a loop. Also, not too difficult.

MT ST. HELENS
HARRY'S RIDGE  // 4* 8.2 MI Gain: 970Ft. Starts at the Johnson Ridge Observatory. Can combine with other hikes. Really impressive views of the volcano and Spirit Lake. 

Note: Not too much gain, but it's a very exposed hike so be prepared. Lots of wildflowers when hiked late June/Early July.

MONITOR RIDGE (MT. ST. HELENS SUMMIT) // 4* 10 MI Gain: 4500. HARD Might have been a 5*, but the day I went was so foggy there that we didn't get any views. Still was fun and terrain really cool.

Note: Need a permit to hike most of the year. To obtain one, you have to enter a lottery (or find someone who's selling theirs?)

APE CAVES // 4* 2.8 MI Gain: 350 Ft. EASY-ISH  Super fun and different. One cave is super easy, great for kids, The other is a little trickier as there is more climbing over rocks and such, but really cool.

Note: Headlamp or flashlight needed. Recommend headlamp.
OLYMPIC PENINSULA
The Olympics are a huge and diverse area ranging from beaches to Mountain Peaks, to rainforest....and everything in between. There is something for everyone here. Because it's such a diverse area, I have listed hikes more by area than by rating. Enjoy!
HIGH RIDGE TRAIL (HURRICANE RIDGE) // 5* ?MI Gain: Variable. Hurricane ridge is really cool- whatever trail you take...or no trail. definitely worth the stop

 MT. TOWNSEND + SILVER LAKE (HOOD CANAL) // 5* 14 MI Gain: 3200 Ft. HARD-ISH Some nice view over the hood canal going up and amazing views at the top! Worth the effort! You can extend the hike to Silver Lake, which is a nice side trip 2.5 miles away.

Note: If you make it to Silver Lake and want to explore more, there is a small trail to the left that goes up to a ridge with some more views. If you backpack, Silver Lake can be a nice spot to set up camp.

MARMOT PASS (HOOD CANAL) // 4* 11.5 MI Gain: 3489 Ft. Nice views!

LAKE OF THE ANGELS  (HOOD CANAL)// 4* 7 MI Gain: 3400Ft. Steep hike. The very top of the hike was snow covered and we never got to the lake, so I am guessing its a 4*, although i'd give it a 3* if you never get to see the lake. Looked really nice in pictures though? Fun steep trail with some rope sections to help you climb.

HALL OF MOSSES TRAIL (HOH RAINFOREST) // 4* .8 MI Gain: 100Ft. EASY Good trail for the whole family. Enjoyed the trail more on a foggy day than a sunny one, but that is easy to come by in the Olympic

​Note: Elk were chasing people when I was there, so make sure to give them their space if you see one.

MARYMERE FALLS (NEAR LAKE CRESCENT) // 4* 1.8MI Gain: 500  Nice falls and nice short-sh hike relatively easy.

​STAIRCASE RAPIDS (STAIRCASE) // 4* 4 MI Gain: 150 Ft. Enchanting forest and river. Super easy trail good for the whole family. Enjoyed it more than I thought I would.

DUCKABUSH RIVER (DUCKABUSH) // 4* 10.6 MI Gain: 2300 Ft. Would probably give it a low-ish 4. Nice, but not many views. One decent view and I thought the river by the camp was a really pretty color.

MURHUT FALLS (DUCKABUSH) // 4* 1.6 MI Gain: 250Ft. Honestly I cant remember them that well. Hahaha, but i think i remember them as nice

RIALTO BEACH (HOLE IN THE WALL (COAST)// 4* 4MI   Beautiful beach as all the beaches in the area.  

Note: Catch a sunset at this beach or any of the others in the area! Beautiful!

SHI SHI BEACH/ POINT OF THE ARCHES (COAST) // 4* 8 MI Gain: 200Ft. Really beautiful, serene beach with cool rock formations. Definitely worth visiting!


CENTRAL/EASTERN WASHINGTON
There are some really cool places in Central / Eastern Washington! I especially find it a great place to visit in spring, when the mountains and trails in the West are still too snow covered and the rain storms feel like they will never end, but you are itching to get out for a hike. 

Central / Eastern Washington is anything East of the cascades, which is a huge area! So again, I will order things more by area than by rating. Hope you get to check out some of these if you never have! Cheers!
WHITE BLUFFS- NORTH // HANFORD REACH (TRI-CITIES) // 5* MI Gain: 500FT I had a lot of fun exploring these dunes with my dog. It was so windy I thought my dog might blow away if I let go of the leash. Really amazing and unique place!Highly recommend!
Note: If you want to check out a viewpoint close by you can drive up SADDLE MT. not too far away.

SUN LAKE DRY FALLS STATE PARK (GRAND COULEE)//  ?MI Gain: ? It's kind of like the Grand Canyon of Washington? Really amazing! There are lots of trails in the canyon, but even just going to the visitor center observation point is amazing. The trail I took in the canyon would be a 3-4*. The observation point view is 5*. Don't miss!
STEAMBOAT ROCK (GRAND COULEE) // 4-5* 6 MI Gain: 650 Ft. Once you climb up you get really impressive views- different in each direction. You can kind of loop around Steamboat Rock if I remember correctly. Loved this hike! 
Note: GRAND COULEE DAM is not too far away. Thought it was interesting to check out, including the museum. 
LENORE LAKE CAVES (GRAND COULEE) // 3* 1.5MI Gain: 200Ft. EASY-ISH. Caves were ok, but I remember thinking I would think the hike were fun as kid.

ANCIENT LAKES ( POTHOLE) // 4* ? MI Gain: ? Ft. Really cool with lots of different trail options to explore. 
Note: The beginning of the trail may not be very exciting, but stay with it- it gets interesting!
FRENCHMAN COULEE  (POTHOLES)// 4*  Such a cool place! You will probably see lots of climbers and it's even cooler to watch them! There is an actual Frenchman Coulee hike (if you search, it comes up on WTA), and Ive done that hike and its decent (3*), but I think its much more interesting to go where the climbers are and you can walk to the top of some of the coulees. There are little trails up there where you can explore and even watch climbers from the top sometimes. 
Note: A great place to stop by after top by  before or after a concert at the Gorge Amphitheatre!
GORGE AMPHITHEATRE RIVER TRAIL (POTHOLES)// 4*  6?MI Gain: 1000? Ft. Great hike while you are attending a festival at the aphitheatre! I think its about 6mi from the far camping area? Beware that its exposed and gets a little steep and rocky going down to river (might want covered shoes?). However, brings you to some wading spots on the river where you can cool off. 
Note: The hike passes through Cave B. Inn Resort and winery. The winery makes a great stopping point on the way back (or in) from the hike. There is also a restaurant and bar in the resort for another stop option. 
GINKO PETRIFIED FOREST  (POTHOLES) //  ?MI . EASY. I thought the small walk around the visitor center was the most interesting. Really cool petroglyphs. 4*  There is a 3mi loop if you want to explore more or are interested in the history and seeing petrified Ginko. I thought the trail was ok 3* 

PALOUSE FALLS  (PALOUSE) // 4* 1 MI Gain: 803Ft. EASY-  Don't miss . Not much of a hike (short), but the falls are amazing!

BOWL AND PITCHER (RIVERSIDE STATE PARK - SPOKANE) // 3* 2.1MI Gain: 166Ft. EASY LOOP. Nice place to go for a walk while in Spokane. 
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OTHER

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