water-stream,-outdoor-recreation washington hike

5 Can’t-Miss Spring Hiking Trails

Though almost all of the state begs to be explored this spring, the following are five of the best hiking trails in Washington. 

Click here for a list of activities to enjoy this spring.

For Intermediate Hikers: Poo Poo Point

Issaquah

Located on West Tiger Mountain in Issaquah, Poo Poo Point is of the most popular hiking trails in Washington. Though you will likely see many others on your visit, be sure to download a map to your phone; you will lose service during the climb. The trail is considered to be a challenging hike for intermediate hikers and beyond. It takes almost four hours to complete the 12-mile-long trek, and visitors will come across various streams, steep slopes and even wildlife, including bears, rabbits and deer. The pay-off of completing Poo Poo Point is one of the most spectacular views of Mt. Rainer; the area also serves as the perfect launch pad for hang gliding and paragliders. Poo Poo Point’s trail is pet-friendly, so be sure to watch your furry friends closely and keep them on a leash at all times. Check weather conditions before visiting; this trail can be muddy, slippery or even icy, depending on the season. Poo Poo Point’s path is open year-round. For more information, visit wta.org

Beginner and Family Friendly: Rattlesnake Lake

King County

Just 30 minutes from Seattle, Rattlesnake Lake is in King County and offers a beginner, family-friendly trail. This trek is ADA-accessible, paved and only 3.4 miles long. Seattle Public Utilities maintains the Rattlesnake Lake trail, making the destination one of the most well-kept trails to explore. The site is pet-friendly and very popular with locals for its scenic views and low difficulty level. Once you complete the trail, enjoy a dip in the lake in the warmer months for a nice cooldown. Rattlesnake Lake trail is open year-round from dusk until dawn, depending on weather conditions. For more information, visit seattle.gov

Lake Twenty-Two

Moderately Challenging: Lake Twenty-Two

Granite Falls

A one-mile trek will take hikers to an oasis of alpine wetland at Lake Twenty-Two. The hiking trail in Washington directs visitors around the lake, with stops along the way to swim, grab a picture or simply enjoy the view. The course is most popular during the summer months and is commonly used as a destination for snowshoeing in the winter months. The lake is one of the few glacier lakes in Washington, located off of a basin on the north side of Mt. Pilchuck. Lake Twenty-Two’s trail is moderately challenging, with a few sections having a steep climb down. A federal recreation pass is required to visit, and the destination is open year-round. For more information, visit fs.usda.gov

Unique, Intense Trek: Mailbox Peak

Snoqualmie 

Arguably one of the busiest trails in Snoqualmie, Mailbox Peak is a unique adventure leading up to the iconic old mailbox at the top (be sure to check inside; locals love to leave presents behind for others to find). The trail is 4,181 feet in elevation with 10 total miles round-trip. With its rocky high altitude, Mailbox Peak takes an average of seven hours to complete and can be an intense trek for beginners. Though the trail is one of the more challenging ventures, the reward waiting at the top is unbeatable. The views from the peak overlook Mt. Rainer and the stunning bends below. Mailbox Peak is open year-round, depending on weather conditions. For more information, visit wta.org

Twin Falls

Short and Easy: Twin Falls 

Snoqualmie 

Twin Falls is one of the most rewarding, short and easy hiking trails in Washington, perfect for the little ones and the beginner hikers in your life. The trek is 2.6 miles long, takes up to an hour and has minimal elevation. The trailhead will take you into the lush woods, where visitors will stumble upon three waterfalls, rivers and calming springs. Hikers can find various fish and growing aquatic life in each pool and might even catch an elk or two on the trail. Twin Falls is pet-friendly, with dogs allowed only with a leash on. The track is open year-round, depending on weather conditions. For more information, visit wta.org.

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