The best walks and hikes around Washington

The prime hiking season in Washington is typically from July to September. During these months, most trails, especially those at higher elevations in the Cascades and Olympics, are snow-free and the weather is generally warmer and drier. Spring (April-June) is great for lowland and coastal hikes, with blooming wildflowers and flowing waterfalls. Autumn (October-November) offers stunning fall colors, particularly in the eastern Cascades, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and less predictable weather.

Yes, Washington's national parks offer many accessible trails for families. In Mount Rainier National Park, the trails around Paradise and Sunrise provide stunning mountain views with relatively little effort. Olympic National Park is another excellent choice, featuring easy walks through the Hoh Rainforest and to coastal viewpoints. Many trails in these parks are well-maintained and suitable for all ages.

Washington is famous for its waterfalls. Wallace Falls State Park is a local favorite, offering a moderately challenging trail that leads to a series of impressive falls. For something more accessible, the trails to Bridal Veil Falls near the Lake Serene trailhead are very popular. Both Sol Duc Falls and Marymere Falls in Olympic National Park are also highly rewarding and reached via short, easy walks.

Dog-friendliness varies by location. Dogs are generally welcome on leash in state parks and national forests, but they are prohibited on almost all trails within Mount Rainier, Olympic, and North Cascades National Parks to protect wildlife and the natural environment. Always check the specific regulations for the park or forest you plan to visit before bringing your pet.

It's essential to be prepared for changing weather. Key items include waterproof rain gear, layered clothing (avoid cotton), sturdy hiking boots, and extra socks. Always carry the 'Ten Essentials': navigation (map, compass), sun protection, insulation, illumination (headlamp), first-aid supplies, fire starter, repair kit/tools, extra food, extra water, and an emergency shelter.

Absolutely. For a strenuous climb with a fantastic payoff, many hikers tackle Mailbox Peak or Mount Si near North Bend. In the North Cascades, the Maple Pass Loop offers some of the most spectacular panoramic mountain scenery in the state. These hikes are demanding and require a good level of fitness, but the summit views are well worth the effort.

Washington offers world-class backpacking. The North Cascades National Park is a top destination for wilderness backpacking, with rugged, remote trails. The Hoh River Trail in Olympic National Park provides a classic multi-day trek through a temperate rainforest to the base of Mount Olympus. For a truly iconic experience, the 93-mile Wonderland Trail circumnavigating Mount Rainier is a bucket-list trip, but permits are required and highly competitive.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained park paths and quiet riverside greenways that make for relaxing and accessible outings.

Yes, the Eureka Lake loop from Eureka is a great option. It's a short, easy loop of about 1.6 miles (2.6 km) around the lake, perfect for a quick and scenic walk that takes less than an hour.

The James W. Baldwin Riverfront Festival Park via Rock Island Greenway — Peoria trail is an excellent choice. This easy 1.7-mile (2.8 km) route follows a paved greenway along the riverfront, offering a pleasant urban hike that takes about 45 minutes.

Yes, a pass is often required. For state parks, you'll need a Discover Pass. For trailheads in national forests, a Northwest Forest Pass is typically necessary. National Parks like Mount Rainier have their own entrance fees. Passes can usually be purchased online or at ranger stations. Always check the requirements for your specific destination before you go.

Washington's diversity is one of its biggest draws. You can hike through lush, temperate rainforests in the Hoh and Quinault Valleys in Olympic National Park, traverse alpine meadows with stunning volcano views at Mount Rainier, explore the rugged, wild Pacific coastline, or experience the dramatic, arid landscapes of the Columbia River Gorge in the eastern part of the state.