Washington is a well known hub for scenic hikes thanks to instagram and thousands of miles of trials through the state. Here are 5 hiking ideas for you to do if you plan on visiting Washington in 2021.
- Location: Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, 54 miles east of Vancouver
- Length: 6.5-mile round-trip out-and-back
- Difficulty Rating: Intermediate/difficult
Dog Mountain Trail is location on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge. We recommend timing this hike in the late spring to catch incredible flowers in bloom. Make sure to acquire a permit though at that time of year as it is required between April 20 and June 16.
Photo by Sarah Baker.
- Location: Paradise in Mount Rainier National Park, 77 miles southeast of Tacoma
- Length: 5.3-mile loop
- Difficulty Rating: Intermediate
Mount Rainier is full of incredible views and trails alike so for this one to make the list is very important. For most hikers this will be considered a walk as it is on paved path, but it is a staple to visit. Here you are guaranteed meadows of flowers, waterfalls, views of the Nisqually Glacier and so much more.
3. Twin Falls
- Location: Olallie State Park, 35 miles southeast of Seattle
- Length: 2.3-mile round-trip out-and-back
- Difficulty Rating: Easy/intermediate
This is an easy 2.3 mile hike to a beautiful waterfall. Since this hike is so short it means that you have plenty of time to take in the views and also enjoy some mountain biking, rock climbing, and even fishing while you are there.
Photo by Bryan Swan
4. Lake 22
- Location: North Cascade --
- Mountain Loop Highway
- Length: 5.4-mile round-trip
- Difficulty Rating: intermediate/difficult
Nestled in the center of an Alpine wetland Lake 22 is part of the best mountain rainforests you can visit relatively easily. The winter is not advised to visit as it can bring avalanches as it is an alpine lake with snow conditions so we suggest late spring/early summer as there will still be snow. At the top you are in awe of the beautiful alpine lake with jagged snow top peaks. You can also walk the trail around the lake as well.
Photo by Taum Sauk
4. Lake Ann (Mount Baker Highway)
- Location: North Cascade -- Mount Baker Area
- Length: 8.2 mile round-trip
- Difficulty Rating: intermediate/difficult
This hike takes you through many scenic areas with wildflower meadows and close up view of Mount Shuksan's glacier. There is a few creek crossing and rocky terrain that you must travers.
