Hiking in Washington may require an extra layer of clothing right now, but it’s worth it. There’s nothing like immersing yourself in the rich, warm colors of autumn while taking in the stunning views. These eight hikes are great options for beginners and veterans alike, and they all show off the beauty of Washington in the fall. Some of these trails are definitely on the long side, so plan your days accordingly.
- Blue Lake Trail, North Cascades
Mitch Campbell / alltrails.com This 4.5 mile out and back trail is located near Stehekin, one of the best parts of the state for seeing fall foliage. You’ll begin hiking through a forest and over boardwalks to a big, open meadow and eventually a lake. Along the way, you’ll see plenty of larches with golden yellow needles.
- Tolmie Peak Trail, Mount Rainier National Park
Stewart Carnes / alltrails.com Not only will you see some of the world’s best views of Mount Rainier from the top of Tolmie Peak, but you’ll take in some stunning fall scenery along the way. The trailhead starts at Mowich Lake and is a 5.2 mile round trip trek.
- Iller Creek Trail, Spokane
Jaime Johnson / alltrails.com Located near Spokane (and just 15 minutes from I-90), this beautiful 5 mile loop takes you through lush shaded forest leading up to a ridge with amazing views of the Palouse.
- Silver Star Mountain, Columbia Gorge area
Amy Case / alltrails.com If you live near Vancouver, get out and explore this hidden gem. The 4 mile trail offers some of the best views in the area, and the incredible fall colors start near the trailhead and only get better.
- Liberty Lake Regional Park Trail, Spokane
Eric Sylling / alltrails.com This 8 mile trail is the perfect trek for tree-lovers. The ponderosa pines, Douglas fir, birch and cottonwood are beautiful this time of year.
- Cowiche Canyon, Yakima area
France Freeman / alltrails.com This trail is proof that not all fall color is found in the mountains. Cowiche Canyon is a 6 mile hike full of sumac, dogwood, willow and aspen.
- Maple Pass Loop, North Cascades Highway
Christopher Klein / alltrails.com The 6.5 mile Maple Pass Loop is breathtaking in the fall, especially in October. The bright yellow larches poking through the undergrowth on a crisp sunny day will get you excited about autumn.
- Lord Hill Regional Park, Snohomish
Madison Hillary / alltrails.com This park is a peaceful respite for people who live in the nearby urban areas. With more than 5 miles of designated trails, you’ll have plenty of options for enjoying the autumn hues.
Have you enjoyed a fall hike in Washington yet? These 10 trails are also beautiful and relatively easy.
Mitch Campbell / alltrails.com
This 4.5 mile out and back trail is located near Stehekin, one of the best parts of the state for seeing fall foliage. You’ll begin hiking through a forest and over boardwalks to a big, open meadow and eventually a lake. Along the way, you’ll see plenty of larches with golden yellow needles.
Stewart Carnes / alltrails.com
Not only will you see some of the world’s best views of Mount Rainier from the top of Tolmie Peak, but you’ll take in some stunning fall scenery along the way. The trailhead starts at Mowich Lake and is a 5.2 mile round trip trek.
Jaime Johnson / alltrails.com
Located near Spokane (and just 15 minutes from I-90), this beautiful 5 mile loop takes you through lush shaded forest leading up to a ridge with amazing views of the Palouse.
Amy Case / alltrails.com
If you live near Vancouver, get out and explore this hidden gem. The 4 mile trail offers some of the best views in the area, and the incredible fall colors start near the trailhead and only get better.
Eric Sylling / alltrails.com
This 8 mile trail is the perfect trek for tree-lovers. The ponderosa pines, Douglas fir, birch and cottonwood are beautiful this time of year.
France Freeman / alltrails.com
This trail is proof that not all fall color is found in the mountains. Cowiche Canyon is a 6 mile hike full of sumac, dogwood, willow and aspen.
Christopher Klein / alltrails.com
The 6.5 mile Maple Pass Loop is breathtaking in the fall, especially in October. The bright yellow larches poking through the undergrowth on a crisp sunny day will get you excited about autumn.
Madison Hillary / alltrails.com
This park is a peaceful respite for people who live in the nearby urban areas. With more than 5 miles of designated trails, you’ll have plenty of options for enjoying the autumn hues.
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