Best hikes in Washington: 5 Scenic Hikes you can't miss

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Updated: June 2026

When I first started hiking in Washington, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I was simply looking for a reason to spend more time outdoors. Instead, I discovered a state filled with turquoise alpine lakes, glacier-covered volcanoes, rugged coastlines, and some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the country.

Over the last four years, I’ve spent countless weekends exploring Washington’s trails, from quick day hikes near Seattle to challenging backcountry adventures throughout the Cascades and Olympic Peninsula.

With every hike, my bucket list somehow gets longer. That’s the magic of Washington – you think you’ve seen the best views in the state, and then another alpine lake, wildflower meadow, or jagged mountain peak completely changes your mind.

Reflection Lake at Mount Rainier National Park

Choosing the best hikes in Washington isn’t easy. There are hundreds of incredible trails spread across the state, each offering something unique. But if you’re looking for hikes that showcase the landscapes that make Washington famous, these are the trails I recommend again and again.

In this guide, I’m sharing five of the most scenic hikes in Washington. Some are short and accessible, while others require a bit more effort, but every trail earns its place for one simple reason: the views are unforgettable.

Whether you’re visiting Washington for the first time or searching for your next adventure close to home, these scenic hikes deserve a spot on your hiking bucket list.

1. Rattlesnake Ledge

Distance: 4 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 1,160 feet
Time Needed: ~2 hours
Trailhead: Rattlesnake Lake Recreation Area (45 min from Seattle)

Rattlesnake Ledge is a classic and beloved hike for both locals and visitors.

Rattlesnake Ledge is the easiest and closest hike on this list, making it a great option if you don’t want to dedicate an entire day to hiking.

While the views may not be quite as dramatic as some of Washington’s higher alpine trails, this hike earns its spot among the best hikes in Washington because of its accessibility and incredible payoff for the effort required.

In less than two hours, you can reach a stunning overlook with panoramic views of Rattlesnake Lake, the surrounding forests, and nearby mountain peaks.

The trail is well-maintained throughout, though it gains elevation steadily enough to give you a solid workout on the way up. Once you reach the ledge, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most iconic viewpoints near Seattle.

Best Time to Go: Year-round, but the lake is most scenic when full (spring through early summer).

2. Lake Colchuck

Distance: 8 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 2,300 feet
Time Needed: 5-7 hours
Trailhead: Stuart Lake Trailhead (2.5 hours from Seattle, near Leavenworth)

A true Washington gem, Lake Colchuck is a pristine, turquoise-blue alpine lake sitting at the base of the jagged Dragontail and Colchuck Peaks.

It’s part of the legendary Enchantments, a breathtaking but rugged wilderness area.

The hike is challenging, with some rocky sections and steep climbs, but the reward is unmatched.

Know Before You Go:

The Enchantments, including Lake Colchuck, require a permit (lottery system) for overnight stays.
This trail is very popular, so arrive early (before 7 AM) for parking.

3. Cascade Pass

Distance: 7.4 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 1,800 feet
Time Needed: 4-6 hours
Trailhead: North Cascades National Park (3 hours from Seattle)

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Cascade Pass is one of the most scenic day hikes in the North Cascades. You’ll climb a series of switchbacks through old-growth forests before reaching an epic panoramic view of towering peaks, glaciers, and alpine meadows.

Wildlife sightings are common – you might see mountain goats, marmots, or even black bears!

Tip: The final stretch of the road to the trailhead is rough, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended.

4. The Three Burroughs

Distance: 9 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 2,600 feet
Time Needed: 5-7 hours
Trailhead: Sunrise Visitor Center, Mount Rainier National Park (2.5 hours from Seattle)

For jaw-dropping views of Mount Rainier, few trails compare to the Three Burroughs.

Starting from the Sunrise area, this trail leads you past Fremont Lookout (more popular but another great hike!) and up to the Second Burrough, which offers the best view of Mount Rainier’s glaciers and surrounding valleys.

On my sunset hike here, I was lucky enough to see a herd of mountain goats!

Best Time to Go: Sunrise or sunset for golden light and fewer crowds.

Important: Entry to Mount Rainier National Park requires a fee ($30 per vehicle) or an annual pass.

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👉 Explore more at Mount Rainier National Park

5. Mount Storm King

Distance: 4.2 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 2,076 feet
Time Needed: 3-5 hours
Trailhead: Lake Crescent, Olympic National Park (2.5 hours from Seattle)

Mount Storm King is a true calf-burner!

It’s short, but intense.

This trail is known for the rope-assisted scramble at the end.

If you’re afraid of exposure, this might not be for you. However, if you’re up for the challenge, the view over Lake Crescent is breathtaking.

FYI: There is NOT a great view before the rope section.

Know Before You Go:

The ropes at the top are not officially maintained, so use caution.
Best hiked on a clear day for optimal lake views.
Olympic National Park requires an entrance fee ($30 per vehicle).

FAQ Ideas

What is the best hike in Washington State?

There’s no single “best” hike, but Lake Colchuck, Cascade Pass, and the Burroughs Trail are consistently considered among Washington’s most scenic hikes.

When is the best time to hike in Washington?

For most mountain hikes, late July through early September offers the best conditions. By then, many high-elevation trails are snow-free, wildflowers are blooming, and the weather is typically more reliable.

What is the most beautiful lake hike in Washington?

Lake Colchuck is often considered one of the most beautiful lake hikes in Washington, thanks to its vibrant turquoise water and dramatic mountain backdrop.

What is the best hike near Seattle?

Rattlesnake Ledge is one of the most popular hikes near Seattle because it’s less than an hour from the city and offers impressive views for relatively little effort.

Are these hikes suitable for beginners?

Rattlesnake Ledge is beginner-friendly, while Lake Colchuck, Mount Storm King, and the Burroughs Trail require more fitness and preparation due to elevation gain and trail conditions.

Best 1 Week Washington Itinerary for First-Time Visitors: Seattle, Mount Rainier & Olympic National Park

Final thoughts on the best hikes in Washington

One of my favorite things about hiking in Washington is that no matter how many trails I complete, my list somehow keeps getting longer!

Over the last four years, I’ve spent countless weekends exploring trails throughout the state, from the rugged coastline of Olympic National Park to the alpine lakes of the Enchantments and the glacier-covered slopes of Mount Rainier. Every hike has offered something different, which is exactly why Washington remains one of my favorite places to explore.

The five hikes on this list showcase some of the very best scenery Washington has to offer. Whether you’re looking for an easy afternoon adventure like Rattlesnake Ledge or a bucket-list hike like Lake Colchuck, each trail provides a unique perspective on the incredible landscapes that make this state so special.

Of course, narrowing Washington down to just five hikes is nearly impossible. There are hundreds of trails across the state that deserve recognition, and I discover new favorites every year. But if you’re looking for a place to start, these hikes belong at the top of your Washington hiking bucket list.

Happy hiking! Just don’t blame me when one hike turns into a lifelong obsession with Washington trails <3

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 years of traveling across the U.S. as a nurse has grown into a passion for exploring destinations across Asia and America through hiking, scenic landscapes, local food, wildlife encounters, and underwater adventures. 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.