Best Hikes In the Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest is known for its stunning natural beauty, with towering mountains, lush forests, and sparkling bodies of water. With such magnificent landscapes, it's no wonder that hiking is a popular activity in the region. Hiking is not only a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but it also provides an opportunity to exercise, de-stress, and connect with nature.
Best Time of Year to Hike in the Pacific Northwest
The best time to hike in the Pacific Northwest largely depends on the season. In the spring, wildflowers bloom, and temperatures are mild, making it an ideal time to see the region's natural beauty. Summer is the most popular time for hiking, with warm temperatures and longer days, but it can also be crowded. In the fall, the leaves change color, and the cooler temperatures make for comfortable hiking conditions. Winter can be challenging with snow and ice on the trails, but it offers a unique opportunity for snowshoeing and winter hiking.
When planning a hike in the Pacific Northwest, it's important to consider the weather and trail conditions. Checking weather forecasts and trail reports before heading out is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Additionally, some trails may be closed due to weather or maintenance, so it's always a good idea to check before setting out on a hike.
Overall, the Pacific Northwest offers year-round hiking opportunities, with each season bringing its own unique beauty and challenges.
Below is our list of the 6 best hikes in the Pacific Northwest. Additionally, we’ve added some honorable mentions for you to consider.
Multnomah Falls is one of the most iconic hiking destinations in the Pacific Northwest, located in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area in Oregon. The hike is relatively short, at just 2.2 miles round trip, making it an ideal choice for hikers of all levels. The trail takes hikers through lush forests, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the falls itself. The difficulty level of this hike is considered easy, with well-maintained trails and moderate elevation gain. The best time to hike Multnomah Falls is in the spring or fall, when the crowds are smaller, and the weather is milder. Hikers are advised to wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water and snacks, and dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
2. Trail of Ten Falls - Silver Falls State Park, Oregon
Located in Silver Falls State Park in Oregon, the Trail of Ten Falls is a scenic hike that takes hikers past ten breathtaking waterfalls. The hike is moderate in difficulty, covering a distance of 7.9 miles and featuring 800 feet of elevation gain. The trail takes hikers through lush forests, over bridges, and past stunning views of the waterfalls, making it an excellent option for nature lovers and avid photographers. The best time to hike the Trail of Ten Falls is in the late spring or early summer when the waterfalls are at their peak and the wildflowers are in bloom. Sturdy hiking shoes are a must for this one.
3. Skyline Trail Loop - Mount Rainier National Park, Washington
The Skyline Trail Loop in Mount Rainier National Park in Washington is a popular hiking destination for experienced hikers. The hike covers a distance of 5.5 miles and features a steep elevation gain of 1,700 feet. The trail takes hikers through lush meadows, past stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and to the top of the ridge for panoramic views of the park. The best time to hike the Skyline Trail Loop is in the late summer or early fall when the wildflowers are in bloom and the weather is milder. Hikers are advised to dress in layers for the changing weather conditions.
4. Snow Lake - Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Washington
The Snow Lake hike in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness in Washington is a stunning alpine hike that takes hikers through lush forests, past waterfalls, and to the shores of a crystal-clear alpine lake. The hike covers a distance of 7.2 miles and features a moderate elevation gain of 1,800 feet, making it an excellent choice for hikers of intermediate skill level. The best time to hike Snow Lake is in the summer months, from July to September, when the snow has melted, and the lake is warm enough for swimming. Changing weather conditions can make this hike challenging so bring a variety of layer to wear depending on the season you hike it.
5. Dog Mountain Trail - Cook, Washington
The Dog Mountain Trail in Cook, Washington, is a popular hiking destination for both locals and visitors. The hike covers a distance of 6.9 miles and features a steep elevation gain of 2,800 feet, making it a challenging hike for beginners. The trail takes hikers through lush forests, past wildflowers, and to the summit for stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge. The best time to hike Dog Mountain is in the spring or fall when the wildflowers are in bloom, and the weather is milder. It’s best to arrive at this hike early in the morning as the parking lot is small and often fills very quickly. But the views you enjoy at the end make it all worthwhile.
6. Spruce Trail + Hall of Mosses, Olympic National Park, Washington
The Spruce Trail and Hall of Mosses hike in Olympic National Park in Washington is a stunning hike that takes hikers through lush forests, past waterfalls, and to the Hall of Mosses, a unique ecosystem that features moss-covered trees and stunning views of the park. The hike covers a distance of 1.2 miles and features flat terrain, making it an ideal choice for beginner hikers. The best time to hike the Spruce Trail and Hall of Mosses is in the spring or fall when the weather is milder, and the crowds are smaller. Hikers are advised to wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water and snacks, and dress in layers for the changing weather conditions.
If the spots above seem too intimidating and you need a hike a little easier consider Mount Rainier. Mount Rainier is another very popular hiking destination in the Northwest that features a number of great hikes for beginners. Known for its stunning vistas and diverse landscapes. For beginner hikers, there are several easy hikes that offer a taste of the park's beauty without too much physical exertion. Some of the easiest hikes in Mount Rainier include:
Nisqually Vista Trail
Grove of the Patriarchs Trail
The Trail of Shadows.
These hikes range in distance from 0.5 to 3 miles and are considered easy in difficulty. The best time to hike in Mount Rainier is during the summer months when the trails are free of snow and ice. Hikers are advised to wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
For those who seek more adventure and want to get fully immersed in the outdoor lifestyle a hiking trip along these 3 iconic through trails may be up your alley. Note these trails are not for the faint of heart. They stretch over many miles of rugged terrain and long distances. Months of planning should be taken in order to prepare for them. But it’s worth it all as you get to experience some of the most fantastic scenery the NW has to offer. This variety of landscapes creates a unique hiking experience that can't be found anywhere else.
Here are three of the most popular long through trails that hikers should consider:
Pacific Crest Trail: The Pacific Crest Trail spans over 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada, passing through California, Oregon, and Washington. This trail offers hikers stunning views of the Sierra Nevada and Cascade mountain ranges, as well as a diverse range of ecosystems. The trail is best hiked from June to September, and its difficulty level ranges from moderate to strenuous depending on the part of the trail you choose.
Oregon Coast Trail: The Oregon Coast Trail is a 382-mile trail that follows the coastline of Oregon from the California border to the Columbia River. This trail offers hikers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, as well as access to secluded beaches and hidden coves. The trail is best hiked from July to September, and its difficulty level is moderate.
Wonderland Trail: The Wonderland Trail is a 93-mile trail that circumnavigates Mount Rainier in Washington. This trail offers hikers spectacular views of glaciers, waterfalls, and wildflower meadows. The trail is best hiked from July to September, and its difficulty level is strenuous. This hike is not for the faint of heart.
The Hardest Hike in the PNW
The hardest hike in the Pacific Northwest is arguably the Mount St. Helens hike. This active volcano, located in southern Washington, offers a challenging and rewarding hiking experience. The trail is approximately 10 miles long and gains over 4,500 feet in elevation. Hikers must be prepared for steep inclines, loose rocks, and potentially hazardous weather conditions. However, the reward of reaching the summit and gazing into the crater of the volcano is unparalleled. Hikers who are planning to tackle this trail should ensure that they are adequately prepared and equipped with proper gear, food, and water. It is also important to check weather conditions and trail reports before embarking on this hike.
Hiking is a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest and to stay active and healthy. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner, there are countless trails and destinations to discover. By following some simple tips and coming prepared with the right gear and supplies, you can safely and comfortably explore the region's stunning landscapes and experience the benefits of spending time in nature. So grab your hiking boots, hit the trails, and enjoy all that the Pacific Northwest has to offer!