Hiking in Washington

In Washington, you can't get much better hiking that what is available in the state's three national parks: Olympic, North Cascades, and Mount Rainier. Each park boasts miles of backcountry trails through old-growth forests or across alpine glaciers. The extensive system of national forests across Washington are peppered with trailheads, and offer many starting points for a backpacking or hiking excursion.

Destinations to consider are grouped below by region. For detailed information, follow the links to any biking destination that interests you. Go Washington Travel connects you with outfitters and guides across Washington who will gladly supply you with supplies and advice about hiking Washington. For more, visit our extensive Guides and Outfitters Search Page.

WESTERN WASHINGTON

Miles of secluded beaches and peaceful forest trails are the best escape the Olympic peninsula has to offer. Within Olympic National Park, world class hiking can be found in places like the lush Hoh and Quinault Rain Forest, where watchful hikers might get a glimpse of Roosevelt Elk or a black bear mother and cub.

Alternatively, the entire northern Pacific coast is open to hiking. Beaches range from protected, sandy coves to magnificent rugged bluffs. Hiking along the ocean can be difficult, but the cool breeze and crashing waves are immensely rewarding.

NORTHWEST WASHINGTON

Hundreds of trailheads are within easy drive from Seattle and Tacoma. Mount Rainier National Park is always an attractive destination, and the surrounding forests around the Cascade Range are loaded with waterfalls and mountain streams worth exploring.

In the north, the Cascades reach North Cascades National Park. Roads into this area are limited, which translates to an ideal location. While most Washington residents will escape to the mountains when possible, Bellingham itself has an extensive system of waterfront parks for day hikes, and much exploring in the San Juan Islands can be accomplished on foot.

NORTHEAST WASHINGTON

The Cascade Range extends well into the central region of Washington, and with it excellent hiking locations. Be sure to take your camera when departing from Leavenworth or Kettle Falls, as Bald Eagles are common around the shorelines of Lake Roosevelt.

Spokane has nearly 3,500 acres of parks and conservation areas worth exploring, many within the city limits. For a great chance to stretch your legs, Riverside State Park north of Spokane a trail progresses east to the Idaho border.

SOUTHEAST WASHINGTON

The southeast region of Washington is dominated by farmland and vineyards, but some unique hiking is available. Yakima is a great departure point for an excursion into the Mount Rainier area, and beautiful hiking through fern and wildflower woodlands along the Columbia River Gorge is a great break from a day of windsurfing the river.