Washington is a hiker's paradise, one of its many amazing qualities. And if you're looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure, make it a point to hike the beautiful Hurricane Hill trail on the Olympic Peninsula. It's an unforgettable experience with views for days.
The Hurricane Hill Trail is located at the top of a winding hill near Port Angeles.
Hike to a Breathtaking Glacier in Washington for an Unforgettable Adventure
For an adventure you'll never forget, lace up your hiking boots and tackle the Heliotrope Ridge Trail. This Washington hike leads you to a beautiful glacier.
I love a good adventure and here in the Evergreen State, there are experiences around every corner. From scenic drives to campgrounds and state parks to waterfalls, there are countless bucket-list-worthy destinations to visit. If you are like me and love a good adventure outdoors (and want a little challenge to accompany it), I’ve got just the hike for you — the Heliotrope Ridge Trail. Located in the Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest, this out-and-back trail is just over five miles but it’s quite difficult in areas. However, if you are willing to take the challenge, this hike will provide you with an experience you will never forget.
advertisement
The Heliotrope Ridge Trail is the type of hike that’s best for experienced hikers and those who are willing to put forth a little extra effort. You’ll find the trailhead tucked away in the Mount Baker Wilderness, near Deming, and off Forest Road 39. You can use Google Maps to guide you. Also, keep in mind that a Northwest Forest Pass is required to park at the trailhead.
The trail is approximately 5.2 miles but it may feel a little longer due to some of the difficult areas that lie ahead. You’ll have lots of steep climbs to tackle. In fact, you’ll climb approximately 1,850 feet in total elevation on this journey.
There are also several water crossings you must make to complete this hike. However, you must be smart with these crossings as water levels do fluctuate throughout the season. Spring and early summer are when you will see the highest water levels. And remember that water levels can also change throughout the day. We strongly recommend coming prepared for these areas of the trail with extra clothing, water shoes, and hiking poles.
As you climb, you’ll walk through a thick forest that will begin to thin. Pay attention to the various vegetation you'll see along your way including huckleberries. And always watch for wildlife as well – you never know what creatures are also exploring this beautiful area of the Evergreen State.
After some time on the trail, you’ll come to several forks in the road. These off-shoot trails take you to various camps such as Hogsback Camp and Harrison Camp. However, if you stay on the main trail, you’ll come to the final destination — the Coleman Glacier Viewpoint. It’s absolutely beautiful.
The viewpoint is a great place to relax and rest before turning around and heading home. Unless you have the proper gear and experience, you should not continue to the glacier. This is not a gentle playground to climb and explore.
The Heliotrope Ridge Trail in Washington State has so much to love. It’s an adventure that will certainly impress you every step of the way and it’s one you will never forget.
Have you ever hiked the Heliotrope Ridge Trail? What was your experience like? Let me know! And if you’d like to learn more and read recent reviews of the trail, visit AllTrails. We also recommend downloading AllTrails+ for the ability to download a trail map, know trail conditions before you go, and more.
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.
advertisement
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.
