Whether or not you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you can probably agree that a hike trumps the treadmill when you have the choice. And since there’s still some decent hiking weather ahead of us in Washington, you’ve got plenty of time to hit the trail. If you’ve done more poolside lounging than exercising over the summer, fear not – our state has plenty of paths you can take that won’t be too treacherous. Add these 10 hikes to your outdoor bucket list if you are looking for the best hikes in Washington.
The Icicle Gorge Trail is a 4.2 mile trek, but it’s a very gentle loop that doesn’t have any significant elevation gains. It’s a great trail for all skill levels, and there’s a lot of breathtaking scenery along the way.
Icicle Gorge Trailhead, Leavenworth, WA 98826, USA
When it comes to hiking on the Olympic Peninsula, the 1.5 mile Cape Flattery trail gives you the “most bang for your buck” when it comes to stunning scenery. After a short walk through an old-growth forest, you’ll start to get glimpses of the ocean. When you reach the final outlook, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world which is what makes this one of the most scenic hikes in Washington.
Cape Flattery, Washington 98357, USA
3. Beezley Hills, near Quincy
Beezley Hills is a 3 miles round trip hike best known for its beautiful wildflowers. The area is owned by the Nature Conservatory, and it’s one of the easiest hikes to reach from Quincy.
Beezley Hills, Washington 98848, USA
Franklin Falls, Washington 98045, USA
Franklin Falls is an easy hike in Washington and is one of the most popular hikes in the Snoqualmie area. It’s two miles round trip, it’s family-friendly, and it includes a beautiful waterfall. If you’ve never hiked in your life, this would be an amazing place to start.
This might be one of the easiest hikes in Mount Rainier National Park, but it’s also one of the most memorable. The 1.5 mile loop is absolutely enchanting, taking you through some of the oldest forest in Washington on a boardwalked trail.
Grove of the Patriarchs Trail, Eastside Trail, Packwood, WA 98361, USA
Bridal Veil Falls, Washington 98251, USA
This trail leads to a draping cataract waterfall that resembles a tiered veil, hence the name. It’s a 4.4 mile hike that can get a little misty, but it’s a pretty easy path to walk.
For breathtaking views of the Palouse and the Spokane Valley, hike the 2.5 mile Big Rock Trail near Spokane. To reach the trail, park in the Steven’s Creek parking lot and head right. Follow the old road for about half a mile, then take the winding path to the right.
Big Rock, Washington 99223, USA
This two mile out and back trail takes you through the Heather Meadows area past two sparkling alpine lakes with beautiful mountain backdrops. It’s almost surreal.
Bagley Lakes Trailhead, Mt Baker Hwy, Deming, WA 98244, USA
This classic Southern Washington walking spot is a 2.3 mile loop, but you’ll probably be too distracted by the beautiful river views to notice the distance.
Discovery Historic Loop, 115 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver, WA 98661, USA
We have so many amazing hiking options in Washington. These 15 trails are absolutely breathtaking and are some of the best hikes in Washington.