This fall has been downright pleasant here in the Evergreen State, and luckily, we've got plenty of autumn days left to enjoy. If you enjoy hiking, you probably already know how colorful many of our trails look right now. And if you have yet to check out the Ferry County Rail Trail, now is the perfect time to go.
The Ferry County Rail Trail runs between the communities of Republic and Danville near the Canadian border in northeast Washington.
The main access point, the Curlew trailhead, is located on the north side of the town of Curlew just off Boulder Creek Road.
Fall is an incredible time of year to go for a hike in Washington. And if you don't have time to check out the Ferry County Rail Trail, you can always try one of these short and sweet hikes.
Washingtonians may spend half the year deprived of sunshine, but we’re happy that the great outdoors spoils us with its beauty. If you’ve been looking for a remote North Cascades hike, the dreamy Maple Pass Loop in Winthrop, WA is worth your sweat and tears. Grab your hiking boots and get ready to explore this remote hiking trail in Washington state. You’ll also need to download AllTrails so that you’ll have access to offline directions as you trek.
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This remote trail is located north of Lake Chelan in the North Cascades. The Stehekin community is the closest blip of civilization you'll find nearby and it's only accessible by boat!
Don't let the beauty fool you. In nature, stunning vistas like these often come at the end of a grueling trek. The starting elevation at Maple Pass's trailhead is around 4,630 feet, and hikers will gain 2,000 more over the Loop's seven miles. If you're interested in taking on Maple Pass Loop, prep in advance to enjoy the trail safely.
While the loop welcomes pooches, consider whether your pup is conditioned for the climb before bringing him with you! For many family pets, this hike may be too challenging.
After a little over a mile meandering through coniferous forests, the trees thin, exposing sprawling alpine views. From late July into September, seasonal wildflowers blanket the surrounding ridgelines.
Hikers wander through these mountain meadows until they reach Heather Pass. Along this stretch of the loop, social trails curl out from the main path. Cross-country hikers and climbers follow these routes to reach Black Peak, Lewis Lake, and Wing Lake. But don't worry. The dramatic views visitors enjoy from Maple Pass Loop will satisfy even the most seasoned adventurer.
Though you may spot a dog or two on Maple Pass Loop, canines aren't the only animals worth looking out for! The Lake Chelan National Recreation Area is home to abundant wildlife. My favorite trail companions are American pikas. These vocal little critters are the alpine biome's busybodies, and from the minute you enter their territory, word of you will spread.
Make no mistake that as you struggle with the altitude, these seasoned mountaineers are commenting on your progress. Though they're permanent fixtures of the Maple Pass ridgelines, pikas are most active in the summer and fall.
The loop's alpine environment is in constant flux. Snow persists at higher elevations all the way through May. In late summer, flowers color the mountain slopes pink and yellow. But the hike may be at its most beautiful in autumn.
That's because of the larches, whose colors change from bright green to deep gold in the fall. While most conifers retain their needles year-round (hence the name "evergreen"), larch needles change color like deciduous leaves and fall off in the winter.
So, if you're looking for a remote hiking trail in Washington State, then grab your gear and check out Maple Pass Loop. This gorgeous trail near Stehekin, Washington will stun you with its pristine beauty.
The Coolest Visitor Center In Washington Has A Boardwalk Trail Where You’ll See Wildlife
Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge offers accessible, family-friendly hiking with rich wildlife and historical significance near Olympia, Washington.
If you'd like to hike a trail with wildlife near Olympia, Washington, look no further than Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. This walk is accessible, family-friendly, and astoundingly beautiful. Grab a pair of binoculars and throw on your shoes for a hike where you'll see wildlife and learn some of the area's rich history while checking out the best visitor center in Washington state.
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With over 275 species of birds and countless other resident animals, Nisqually Refuge is a fantastic destination for those seeking wildlife encounters. The United States Fish & Wildlife Services established the Refuge in 1974. In 2009, community leaders decided to remove a local dam. The removal flooded 762 acres, restoring the area back to an estuary.
Whether you're a local history buff or a bird watcher, Nisqually Refuge has something for you. Beginning at the visitor center, the park is full of informative signs. The trail is manageable for kids and beginning hikers. Its design includes key vantage points with panoramic views and plenty of spots to rest.
The local history is as interesting as the nearby plants and animals. Nisqually Refuge is the location of one of Thurston County's first homesteads. It's also an important site of Indigenous activism. The Refuge was a key battleground in the Fishing Wars of the 1960s and 1970s. In 2015, Barack Obama renamed the Refuge to memorialize Billy Frank Jr., an influential Nisqually activist.
Nisqually Refuge is a tidal estuary, which is a vital part of Washington's local ecology. It's the meeting place of the Nisqually River and the Puget Sound and comprises many unique habitats. This biodiversity attracts many types of wildlife and visitors who want to see them.
Most people spend about two hours on the trails, but I've always enjoyed the Refuge best when I pack a picnic and spend the day there. Since local tides affect the area, it's always changing. This means there's always something new to see for patient visitors!
Your reward for taking your time will be some of the best wildlife sightings in the area. Besides year-round and migratory birds, you may see sea lions, river otters, frogs, and more.
For an easy hike with outsized beauty, consider visiting this beautiful Washington spot. If you're looking for a trail with wildlife near Olympia, Washington, you can't beat this local stunner. To make a day out of it, visit the nearby capital for food and incredible craft breweries. Given its manageable size, it's also a great option if you're just passing through the area. Stop your car and stretch your legs at this remarkable destination. You won't regret the time you spend there.
Do you agree this is the best visitor center in Washington state? What are some of your favorite things to do at Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge? Let us know in the comments!
