It’s best to get out into the wild, especially surrounded by stunning mountain ranges in Seattle, Washington. There are thousands of hiking trails. Here are 13 trails we recommend that have been carefully chosen by local hikers.
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Table of Contents
1. Horseshoe Basin-North Cascades, East Slope
Hiking in the North Cascades is great, especially between July and October. Horseshoe Basin, on the East Slope, is a great place to hike. These trails are approximately 12 miles long and rise to 1,550 feet above sea level. Backpackers love this hike. This hike can be extended to explore the area for a few more days or weeks.
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2. Green Mountain
The hottest trail of the year. This popular route has been reopened this year after the forest road was closed to vehicles in 2003 due to a landslide. The primeval forest can be walked through, although it has not been used in more than 10 years. You can also pass through the plateau of fresh green and view the Cascade Range at the summit at 1981m (6500F).
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3. National Forest, Chain Lakes-Mount Baker
Mount Baker is a popular ski spot for Seattle residents in winter. However, the forests of the area are great for hiking in summer or autumn. A hike to Mount Baker’s chain lakes can take between 2 and 8 miles depending on how long the hike takes. It is located at 1,700 feet above sea level. You can either do a loop or go on a longer backpacking trek.
There are many turning points along the trail. To avoid getting lost, please bring a map. You should delay your trip to August because the snow can be quite heavy here from spring through early summer. This loop hike will take you approximately 4-5 hours.
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4. Burrows Mountain Trail-Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier, Washington’s most famous hiking destination, is also home to Burroughs Mountain. It is approximately 4.7 miles in length, at 900 feet above sea level, and takes 2.5 hours to complete.
Trailheads can be found in the Sunrise parking lot. You will pass Shadow Lake, overlooking the White River, and Emmons Glacier. Sunrise Camp is located approximately one mile from the parking area if you wish to obtain a permit for camping and stay overnight. You will find stunning mountain views every step of your way in this area of the tundra.
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5. Tolmie Peak Trail-Mount Rainier National Park
Tolmie Peak is another great hike up Mount Rainier. It runs along Lake Eunice and ends at the observatory. The trail is approximately 7.5 miles long and climbs to 5,900 feet. Another hike is best done in October, September, or August. This Washington hike offers stunning views of mountains, lakes, and trees. You can bring your children along on this family hike. This hike will take you approximately 3 hours and requires a national park pass.
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6. Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm
This is one of the most beautiful hikes in Washington. It is easy to get to the Cascade Pass. Even children with weak knees can do it. You can reach Sahale (2303m / 7570F) at the back of the mountain if you are strong. It is certain that you will find such a beautiful landscape.
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7. Harry’s Ridge
This course will help you understand the 1980 eruption at Mount St. Helens. You’ll be able to see Spirit Lake from the Jonston Ridge Observatory, as you walk through the crowds.
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8. Lake Ingalls
There are many highlights on the course, including views of the Stewart Mountains, rocky peaks, and stingingly blue lakes. The Cascade Range’s eastern side is where you will find the most attractive views. There are many things to love about this area, including the sun shining on it, dry air, and the differences in the vegetation.
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9. National Forest Park – Snow Lake Trail-Snoqualmie
Popular Snow Lake Trail is a moderately difficult hike in Washington State. The Snow Lake Trail starts in Alpental, with stunning views and campgrounds. It is approximately 6.5 miles in length and takes most hikers between 3-4 hours. You can find wildflowers along the steep, rocky trekking routes. However, you should save your summer and autumn adventures for when there is less chance of avalanches.
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10. Horseshoe Basin
Central Washington at the Canadian border
It will take you at least 7 hours to get there from Seattle, the longest distance on this list. Its breathtaking views are unbeatable. It is located at 2195m (7200F), and the hills are spread out. The peaks and alpine lakes can be found densely. You can stay here for several days, or do a nighttime hike with a tent.
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11. Monitor Ridge-South Cascade, Mount St. Helens
Mount St. Helens, a volcano located in south Washington, erupted around 1980. However, it is safe to hike again today. To hike to Mount St. Helens’ summit, you will need a permit.
The hike is approximately 5 miles and takes you to the ash. The summit of the mountain rises to 8,365 feet and provides stunning views of the South Cascade Range. Monitor Ridge is an excellent hiking route. It is not difficult, and it does not require any climbing skills.
Permits must be obtained throughout the year. Only a few permits per day are granted between April and October. For pumice stones of Ash that can be harsh on the skin, gloves are recommended. Jackets are recommended because it can be windy during peak hours. It’s easier to hike on your knees with a trekking pole.
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12. Ozette Triangle
Even from the coast of Washington State, you can take in a stunning view. You will reach the Pacific Ocean after passing through the boreal forest and the promenade within the marsh. This is Washington’s northernmost ocean. You can walk along the beach and take a tour back to the rainforest.
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13. Mount Eleanor Trail – Olympic National Park
The Olympic National Park is another amazing national park that Washington should be visited. Here is the Eleanor hiking trail. The trail will significantly increase altitude so only experienced hikers should attempt it.
It takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete the hike, and it is approximately 5.5 miles in length. You’ll see lush forests, snow-covered peaks, and breathtaking views along the way. This hike is best between March and November.
