Washington State Hiking Vacations

Mount Rainier Wonderland Loop Trail

• The Wonderland Trail in Mount Rainier National Park encircles the forests and foothills at the base of Mount Rainier, and is widely considered to be among the finest long trails in the country. The 93-mile route is difficult and takes 10 to 14 days to complete on rugged terrain with significant daily elevation changes. It also offers many rewards, including the gorgeous alpine forests and landscape of the Cascades Range. Hikers can expect to see meadows of alpine wildflowers, old growth forests, swift rivers, scenic waterfalls and crystal-clear mountain lakes. Throughout the trip, hikers can expect to see spectacular views of Mount Rainier and more than 20 named glaciers. Open from mid-July through October, it is best hiked in August.

  Mount Rainier National Park

  Carbon River Ranger Station

  Fairfax Forest Reserve Road East

  Carbonado, WA 98323

  360-829-9639

  nps.gov

Pacific Crest Trail

• The Pacific Crest Trail is a multi-state backpacking route that goes through Washington state. A portion that runs through the Alpine Lakes Wilderness is part of a popular 35-mile backpacking loop that takes three to four days. The strenuous but incredibly scenic trail extends from Stevens Pass and Snoqualmie Pass just north of the Mount Rainier National Forest. It features panoramic views of the Cascade range, lush forests, rugged terrain, high mountain passes and several beautiful lakes. The trail is open from mid-July through October and is best in late July and early August.

  Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

  2930 Wetmore Ave., Suite 3A

  Everett, WA 98201

  425-783-6000

  pcta.org

Olympic National Park South Coast Route

• The Olympic National Park South Coast Route is located on Washington's rugged and hauntingly beautiful Olympic Peninsula, the area where the popular "Twilight" movies were filmed. The South Coast Route is a 17-mile route that takes about two to three days to complete. It covers primeval coastal forests, incredible ocean views, beaches, sea stacks, crashing waves and wildlife, including bald eagles, seals and grey whales. Although the route is generally flat, it is rated moderate to difficult because of a few creek crossings that can be difficult to ford during high tides or heavy rain. Hikers are required to hang food in the park's hard sided containers, get back-country permits and carry tide charts. The route is open all year, but best from April through November.

  Olympic National Park

  600 East Park Ave.

  Port Angeles, WA 98362

  360-565-3130

  nps.gov