This Easy Trail in Washington Is Covered in Wildflower Blooms in the Springtime

What is your favorite part of springtime in Washington? Nothing says spring quite like peaceful waterways and flowers blossoming. That said, in the Evergreen State, many of the best streams and blooms are located in the mountains, where reaching them comes at the cost of your calves. Sure, those treks are always worth the effort, but sometimes an easy-paved trail is just as fulfilling.    

That's why I think Lake Crescent's Spruce Railroad Trail near Port Angeles may be the best wildflower trail in Washington. This relatively flat route boasts abundant flowers and tranquil lakes from spring through summer, while being remarkably beginner-friendly. It’s the kind of trail that will brighten any day with lots of surprises along the way. 

You won't find Spruce Railroad Trail in many flower-specific hiking guides, but that doesn't mean it isn't popular. What makes this busy Olympic National Park route beloved is the dazzling Lake Crescent, which is renowned for its clear blue water. I'd argue, however, that besides its glorious lakeside views, this trail should be on more people's radar for its seasonal wildflowers in Washington.

Although you won't find the sprawling wildflower fields that brighten Mount Rainier's alpine slopes, beginning in April, you'll enjoy gorgeous pops of color. Visitors regularly encounter patches of lady's slippers, a type of temperate orchid. Spring hikers might also see trilliums, one of my favorite Pacific Northwest blossoms that can flower as early as March. Summer arrivals will see foxgloves, daisies, and other bright, warm-weather blooms.

Spruce Railroad Trail is an 11-mile, out-and-back trek with little elevation gain. Though its length might intimidate some, remember you can turn back any time. For the contingent of nature enthusiasts who resist any hike that isn't a loop, I find that— far from being redundant— approaching the same path from the opposite direction draws your attention to new sights.

And speaking of sights, there are lots to see as you trek that will keep you engaged. The unique McFee and Daley-Rankin tunnels are standouts on the trail. Engineers blasted out the tunnels for the old Spruce Railroad during World War 1. After they were abandoned, the debris was recently cleared for hikers and bikers to trek through as part of the adventure. History buffs and the little ones will especially enjoy the tunnels.

You'll also want to keep your eyes peeled for the wildlife in the area. They include fluttering butterflies, small reptiles, waterfowl, cute little chipmunks, and you might even spot a bald eagle and other large birds flying around the lake. Naturally, you'll want to have your camera in hand to snap pics of the flowers and wildlife on the trail.

On a warm spring day, you might see kayakers and swimmers on the lake. If you want to add some adventure to this hike, I'd recommend getting your feet wet, too. There are lots of spots to stop and rest along the water's edge as well. So, be sure to pack a lunch and stay a while. I like that a portion of the trail is paved, so it's great for moms with strollers, wheelchair users, casual hikers, and kids. Of course, don't leave your furry friend behind. Pups are allowed here as long as they remain leashed.

Between the wildflower blooms, the peaceful waterways, and the tunnels, you should make Spruce Railroad Trail your first hike this spring. With such abundant wildflowers in our state, it's natural to feel drawn to the biggest blooms. But don't overlook the blossoms decorating our state's other trails, which are just as gorgeous while attracting fewer crowds.If you're looking for a beginner-friendly wildflower trail in Washington, I recommend eschewing the mountains in favor of lower-elevation hikes.

Routes like Spruce Railroad Trail boast stunning seasonal flowers without the calf burn or the crowds, making them excellent options for casual outdoor enthusiasts and those breaking in fresh gear. There's no denying the iconic blooms of places like Mount Rainier's Paradise, but other blossoms deserve their due, too. Not to mention, Lake Crescent makes a pretty spectacular backdrop in its own right.

What is your favorite springtime trail in Washington? Tell us on our nomination page. And when you're feeling inspired, use Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to discover more Washington hiking trails to love.