10 Most Popular Hikes in Washington State
Posted by ROLF WILLIAMS
The Pacific Northwest is an absolute dream for hikers. With its rugged mountains, lush forests, and breathtaking waterfalls, there’s a trail for everyone, whether you're a casual weekend walker or a hardcore backpacker. Before lacing up your boots, check out this list of the 10 most popular hikes in Washington, complete with details on skill level, average time, and what to know before you go.
1. Skyline Trail (Paradise to Panorama Point)
•Why it’s popular: Mount Rainier up close and personal, plus fields of wildflowers in summer and sweeping views year-round.
•Skill level: Moderate
•Average time: 2–3 hours round-trip
•Address: Paradise Visitor Center, 52807 Paradise Rd E, Ashford, WA 98304
•46.7860, -121.7350
•Things to know: Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so pack layers. Snow can linger into summer—hiking poles help with stability.
2. Mount Si
•Why it’s popular: A classic Washington hike offering panoramic views and a great workout, just 45 minutes from Seattle.
•Skill level: Hard
•Average time: 4–6 hours round-trip
•Address: Mount Si Trailhead, 45550 SE North Bend Way, North Bend, WA 98045
•47.4880, -121.7231
•Things to know: This is a steep and strenuous climb. Bring plenty of water, and if you’re up for a challenge, scramble up the "Haystack" at the summit for even better views.
3. Colchuck Lake
•Why it’s popular: The turquoise waters of Colchuck Lake are straight out of a postcard, framed by dramatic mountain peaks.
•Skill level: Hard
•Average time: 5–6 hours round-trip
•Address: Stuart Lake Trailhead, Forest Service Rd 7601, Leavenworth, WA 98826
•47.5277, -120.8210
•Things to know: This hike is part of the Enchantments area, so a permit is required for overnight camping. The trail is rocky and steep in places—good hiking shoes are a must.
4. Rattlesnake Ledge
•Why it’s popular: Stunning views of Rattlesnake Lake and the surrounding Cascades, all for a relatively short and accessible hike.
•Skill level: Moderate
•Average time: 2–3 hours round-trip
•Getting there: From I-90 take exit 32 for 436th Avenue SE. Turn right onto 436th Avenue SE, also signed as Cedar Falls Road SE. Proceed about four miles down the road to the Rattlesnake Lake parking lot on the right.
•47.4347, -121.7687
•Things to know: The trail is often crowded, especially on weekends. Start early for a quieter experience, and watch your footing at the top—there are steep drop-offs with no guardrails.
5. Lake 22
•Why it’s popular: A well-maintained trail through old-growth forest leading to a serene alpine lake.
•Skill level: Moderate
•Average time: 3–4 hours round-trip
•Address: Lake 22 Trailhead, Mountain Loop Hwy, Granite Falls, WA 98252
•48.0770, -121.7457
•Things to know: The trail can be muddy, so waterproof footwear is recommended. Expect to share the trail with plenty of other hikers.
6. The Enchantments (Thru-Hike)
•Why it’s popular: Quite possibly the most stunning scenery in Washington, featuring alpine lakes, rugged peaks, and mountain goats.
•Skill level: Extremely Hard
•Average time: 10–14 hours (or multiple days if camping)
•Address: Stuart Lake Trailhead, Forest Service Rd 7601, Leavenworth, WA 98826
•47.5279, -120.8207
•Things to know: A permit is required for overnight trips, and the full thru-hike is only for experienced hikers with strong endurance. Be prepared for a long day with significant elevation gain.
7. Hoh Rain Forest Trail to Five Mile Island
•Why it’s popular: A magical hike through a lush rainforest, filled with moss-draped trees and the peaceful sounds of the Hoh River.
•Skill level: Easy to Moderate
•Average time: 3–5 hours round-trip
•Address: Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center, 18113 Upper Hoh Rd, Forks, WA 98331
•47.8597, -123.9337
•Things to know: The trail is relatively flat, but rain is common, even in summer—bring waterproof gear.
8. Snow Lake
•Why it’s popular: A relatively accessible hike with one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Washington.
•Skill level: Moderate
•Average time: 4–5 hours round-trip
•Address: Alpental Parking Lot, 1001 State Route 906, Snoqualmie Pass, WA 98068
•47.4454, -121.4230
•Things to know: This is one of the busiest hikes in the state. Go early to avoid crowds, and be prepared for rocky sections near the lake.
9. Wallace Falls
•Why it’s popular: A beautiful waterfall hike that’s great for families and offers multiple viewpoints along the way.
•Skill level: Moderate
•Average time: 3–4 hours round-trip
•Address: Wallace Falls State Park, 14503 Wallace Lake Rd, Gold Bar, WA 98251
•47.8669, -121.6780
•Things to know: The lower and middle falls are the most popular stops, but continuing to the upper falls rewards hikers with a quieter, more secluded view.
10. Ebey’s Landing
•Why it’s popular: Coastal views, wildflowers, and a mix of beach and bluff hiking make this a unique and scenic experience.
•Skill level: Easy
•Average time: 2–3 hours round-trip
•Address: Ebey's Landing Parking Lot, Ebey’s Landing Rd, Coupeville, WA 98239
•48.2049, -122.7060
•Things to know: This is a great year-round hike, but be prepared for wind along the bluffs. Sunsets here are particularly stunning.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re chasing mountaintop views, alpine lakes, or the peace of a quiet forest, Washington’s hiking trails deliver. Pack the essentials - water, snacks, layers, and a good map, always check trail conditions before heading out and note that many of these locations will require a Discover Pass for entry. Happy hiking!
