10 Hikes In Washington For Mere Mortals That Lead To Mystifying Destinations
Washington has some gorgeous hiking trails, many of which are best left to the experts. Still, those of us who love to hike but prefer a relaxing trail have some beautiful options, many of which come with breathtaking views, waterfalls and wildflowers. These are 10 of the best hikes in Washington that are on the more relaxing side. So you don’t need to search for laid-back hiking trails near me, because this article has you covered!
Paradise Valley Conservation Area Parking and Trail Head, 23210 Paradise Lake Rd, Woodinville, WA 98077, USA
This conservation area started out as a working farm and timber producing homestead over a century ago, and it’s now in the process of returning to the wild. The trails are all well marked and easy to navigate, and the entire parameter is about five miles. To reach the trail, take Highway 9 south from Snohomish, turn left onto Maltby Road, follow it east for 1.5 miles and cross the railroad tracks. Start planning your trip by reading more about Paradise Valley Conservation Area Trail.
Boulder River Waterfall, 65RG+3P, Oso, WA 98223, USA
The hike around Boulder River is a long one, about eight miles. But the path is both easy and beautiful. It starts on a nice, wide path, passes by a river and leads to a waterfall. To get there, take I-5 to Highway 530. Turn right onto French Creek Road after milepost 41. It's one of the most scenic hikes in Washington. Learn more about Boulder River Trail, and then check it out.
Ancient Lakes Trail, Washington 98848, USA
The Ancient Lakes area should be explored by every Washingtonian. The trail starts near the head of Potholes Coulee, where the Missoula flood spilled out of the Quincy Basin into the Columbia Gorge. The hike continues westward all the way to the Columbia River, but you can stop and enjoy the scenery anytime. This is one of the more kid-friendly hikes around Washington. So check out more about Ancient Lakes Trail, then take the whole family for a hike.
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, 902 Wasco St Suite 200, Hood River, OR 97031, USA
If you can hike this well-maintained 1.5-mile loop in the spring, you’ll be treated to over 90 varieties of wildflowers in bloom. But the stunning views and open grasslands are available all year. The Catherine Creek Trail is located in Southwest Washington. Drive east on Highway 14 until you see a junction for Country Road 1230, take a left and drive 1.5 miles until you reach the parking lot for Catherine Creek. Start planning your hike by learning more about Columbia River Gorge.
Franklin Falls, Washington 98045, USA
Franklin Falls is definitely one of the more popular trails in Western Washington, but the 2 mile trek is also one of the most scenic hikes in the state. Arriving early will help you beat the crowds and find parking. From Seattle, head east on I-90 and take Exit 47 to Forest Road 58 to reach the trail. The is one of the best easy hikes in Washington. Read more about Franklin Falls, and then pencil in your next visit.
Sol Duc Falls, Washington 98363, USA
This is a 5.6-mile loop from the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort that’s perfect for both early and late season hiking. You’ll start by hiking over the Sol Duc River Bridge and follow the river past RV parks and campgrounds before coming to the falls. So if you’re considering a good spring or summer camping destination, this area makes a great natural retreat. This is one of the best hikes in Washington, so be sure to learn more about Sol Duc, and then pay it a visit.
Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Washington 98377, USA
Lower Falls Creek Trail is located near Carson in the Columbia River Gorge area. The five-mile trail includes plenty of stunning scenery, including a waterfall. Learn more about Lower Falls Creek Trail, and then grab your camera and head over.
Watson Lakes, Washington 98237, USA
The trail here features plenty of variety, with destinations spaced perfectly (so your hike can be as short or as long as you’d like). You begin by hiking through a beautiful forest of second-growth hemlock with boardwalks to help mark the path. You might find some steep hikes, but you won’t encounter anything terribly tough. To reach the trail, take Exit 230 from I-5 and head east on Highway 20 for 23 miles. Turn left on Baker Lake Road, then right onto Baker Lake Dam Road. These are some of the most scenic hikes in Washington, so be sure to read more about Anderson and Watson Lakes before you go.
Twin Falls Trailhead, SE 159th St, North Bend, WA 98045, USA
Located near North Bend in Twin Falls State Park, this is an easy and scenic trail that’s about 1.5 miles in length. Not only is it easy to navigate, it’s easy to find—the Twin Falls Trailhead has parking off I-90 Exit 34. Learn more about Twin Falls, then hit the trail!
Naches Peak Loop Trailhead, Pacific Crest Trail, Naches, WA 98937, USA
There are dozens of beautiful hiking trails in Mount Rainier National Park, but the Naches Peak Loop Trail, located near Enumclaw, has to be one of the best. The 3.4-mile loop is great for all skill levels; in fact, it’s the perfect trail to get a first-timer hooked on hiking. So learn more about Naches Peak Loop Trail, and then calendar your next hike there.
Where will you hike in Washington this year? These beautiful trails are all under 5 miles in length.
Address: Paradise Valley Conservation Area Parking and Trail Head, 23210 Paradise Lake Rd, Woodinville, WA 98077, USA
Address: Boulder River Waterfall, 65RG+3P, Oso, WA 98223, USA
Address: Ancient Lakes Trail, Washington 98848, USA
Address: Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, 902 Wasco St Suite 200, Hood River, OR 97031, USA
Address: Franklin Falls, Washington 98045, USA
Address: Sol Duc Falls, Washington 98363, USA
Address: Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Washington 98377, USA
Address: Watson Lakes, Washington 98237, USA
Address: Twin Falls Trailhead, SE 159th St, North Bend, WA 98045, USA
Address: Naches Peak Loop Trailhead, Pacific Crest Trail, Naches, WA 98937, USA
best hikes in Washington
April 27, 2022
What are some kid-friendly hikes around Washington?
Just about an hour from Seattle is Gold Creek Pond Loop, which is one of the most kid-friendly hikes around Washington. And bonus, the hike is absolutely stunning, so everyone in the family will love this trail. Located in Snoqualmie Pass, the trail is a flat 1.2-mile hike that is perfect for short legs. The trail is paved or boarded the entire way around, so it’s perfect for strollers, scooters, and wheelchairs. The lake is crystal clear and surrounded by towering evergreens and the Cascade Mountains. So don’t forget your camera!
Address: Paradise Valley Conservation Area Parking and Trail Head, 23210 Paradise Lake Rd, Woodinville, WA 98077, USA
Address: Boulder River Waterfall, 65RG+3P, Oso, WA 98223, USA
Address: Ancient Lakes Trail, Washington 98848, USA
Address: Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, 902 Wasco St Suite 200, Hood River, OR 97031, USA
Address: Franklin Falls, Washington 98045, USA
Address: Sol Duc Falls, Washington 98363, USA
Address: Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Washington 98377, USA
Address: Watson Lakes, Washington 98237, USA
Address: Twin Falls Trailhead, SE 159th St, North Bend, WA 98045, USA
Address: Naches Peak Loop Trailhead, Pacific Crest Trail, Naches, WA 98937, USA
