Three Backpacking Trips for Beginners in Washington

ByAmber Hours

Washington is home to some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the Pacific Northwest. It offers everything from alpine lakes , desert cliffs and coastal adventures. If you’re looking to start backpacking or need a spot to test out some new gear—Snow Lake, Ancient Lakes, and Rialto Beach are perfect destinations.

If you’re planning your next outdoor adventure, keep reading to learn about these iconic trails – where to camp, what to expect and essential hiking tips!

🏔 Snow Lake: Washington’s Favorite Alpine Hike

Snow Lake is the most challenging and closest trail to Seattle on this list. It’s a stunning alpine destination that attracts hundreds of daily hikers and is arguably one of the most popular hikes in the greater Seattle area. While most visit for a day hike, few realize you can camp overnight at established sites near the lake!

Why Hike Snow Lake?

✅ Breathtaking Alpine Views – Crystal-clear waters surrounded by rugged peaks
✅ Moderate Challenge – A great workout without being too strenuous
✅ Overnight Camping – Several forested campsites for those wanting to stay longer
✅ Access to More Adventures – Continue to Gem Lake for an extended hike

Trail Details:

📍 Location: Snoqualmie Pass
🥾 Difficulty: Moderate
📏 Distance: 6.7 miles (out-and-back)
📈 Elevation Gain: 1,699 feet
🕒 Time Needed: 4–5 hours round trip

Trailhead & Parking

🚗 Parking is across the street from Snoqualmie Pass Ski Resort, making it easy to find. However, this is one of Washington’s busiest trails, so arrive early—even on weekdays—to secure a spot!

🛑 A Discover Pass is required for parking during the warm season.

Hiking Route & What to Expect

🌲 Forest & Boulder Fields: The hike begins in the woods, leading to a scenic boulder field before reaching steep switchbacks.
🏔 Scenic Overlook: At the highest point, you’ll catch your first stunning glimpse of Snow Lake before descending into the valley.
🏕 Camping Spots: Stick to the right side of the trail near the lake to find designated camping areas tucked into the trees.
💙 Day Use Areas: If you’re not camping, head toward lakeside spots reserved for picnics and relaxation.
🥾 Extend Your Hike: Continue deeper into the mountains to reach Gem Lake for even more breathtaking scenery.

⚠ Important Safety Notes:

Despite its name, Snow Lake is NOT a winter hiking trail! The route crosses several avalanche chutes and can be dangerous in snowy conditions. Check avalanche forecasts before planning a winter trip and be careful of snow bridges during shoulder season.

🏜 Ancient Lakes: A Desert-Like Escape in Washington

Looking for something different from Washington’s usual evergreen forests? Head to Ancient Lakes, where you’ll find breathtaking canyon landscapes, waterfalls, and sunshine—a perfect hike for late winter or early spring.

Why Hike Ancient Lakes?

✅ Sunny Weather – Located east of the Cascades, it’s much drier than Seattle’s trails
✅ Unique Scenery – Feels like the Southwest desert but with waterfalls!
✅ Great for Beginners – A shorter, easy hike with minimal elevation gain
✅ Perfect for Backpacking – Dispersed camping is allowed near the lakes

Trail Details:

📍 Location: Quincy
🥾 Difficulty: Easy
📏 Distance: 4.6 miles (loop)
📈 Elevation Gain: 295 feet
🕒 Time Needed: 2–3 hours round trip

What to Expect on the Trail

🌅 Expansive Desert Views: Wide-open spaces with rocky cliffs and dry terrain
💦 Lakes & Waterfalls: Despite the desert-like feel, several small lakes and waterfalls are nestled throughout the area
🏕 Camping Allowed: There are designated campsites, but dispersed camping is also permitted

📍 Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall—summer temperatures can be extremely hot!

⚠ Important Safety Notes:

Watch for rattlesnakes and don’t drink the lake water

🌿 Read about my full experience at Ancient Lakes HERE

🌊 Hole-in-the-Wall at Rialto beach: A Must-See on Washington’s Olympic Coast

One of the most iconic coastal hikes in Washington, Rialto Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Olympic Peninsula. This beach hike is perfect for day trips or beginner backpacking adventures!

Why Hike to Hole-in-the-Wall at rialto beach?

✅ Coastal Views – Rugged sea stacks, tide pools, and Pacific Ocean vistas
✅ Beginner-Friendly – Short and mostly flat, great for all skill levels
✅ Camping on the Beach – Experience dispersed camping right on the sand
✅ Tide Pool Exploration – Spot marine life like starfish, crabs, and anemones

Trail Details:

📍 Location: Forks, Olympic National Park
🥾 Difficulty: Easy
📏 Distance: 3.3 miles (out-and-back)
📈 Elevation Gain: 108 feet
🕒 Time Needed: 1.5–2 hours round trip

What to Expect on the Trail

🏖 Scenic Beach Walk: The trail follows Rialto Beach before reaching the famous hole-in-the-wall rock formation.
🌊 Tide Pools & Wildlife: Explore hidden tide pools at low tide and look for seals, eagles, and other wildlife.
🏕 Beach Camping: Dispersed camping is allowed, but permits are required.

⚠ Important Safety Notes:

Check the Tide Chart! The trail requires crossing tide zones, and you may get stranded if you don’t time it right.
Possible Creek Crossings: Some sections may have small water crossings, depending on the season.

Which Trail Should You Choose?

TrailDifficultyBest ForCampingBest Season
Snow LakeModerateAlpine views, day hikes, overnight campingYesSummer, early fall
Ancient LakesEasyDesert-like scenery, waterfalls, beginner backpackingYesSpring, fall
Rialto BeachEasyCoastal views, tide pools, beach campingYesYear-round (check tides)

Each of these trails offers something unique, whether you’re looking for alpine beauty, desert landscapes, or coastal adventure.

Looking for more on hiking? Check out 5 scenic hikes in Washington

What do you bring?

Not sure what to bring or where to start? Check out my curated gear list below. You’ll find the exact tent, backpack, sleeping pad and cooking system I use – plus so much more!

Final Thoughts: Start Your Next Washington Adventure!

Washington State is full of incredible hiking destinations. I love these three trails because they showcase the diverse landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. Regardless of where you’re residing or visiting- these trails will all be fairly accessible for a newer backpacker.

Hi, I’m Amber —

A Michigan native now living in Washington with a deep love for travel and the outdoors. What started with church mission trips and traveling across the U.S. as a nurse has grown into a passion for exploring the world through hiking, food, culture, and the beauty of God’s creation. Sometimes I’m joined by my goldendoodle, Millie, but I’m always traveling with my camera. My goal is to help you feel inspired and confident that travel is possible — no matter where you’re starting from.

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