The Enchantments Trail

Chelan County, Washington

Pacific Crest Trail - Snoqualmie Pass To Stevens Pass

King County, Washington

Northern Mount St Helens Loop

Lewis County, Washington

Blue Glacier And Hoh River Trail

Jefferson County, Washington

Enchanted Valley - LaCrosse Basin Loop

Jefferson County, Washington

Goat Rocks Circuit

Lewis County, Washington

Northern North Cascades Loop

Whatcom County, Washington

Olympic Coast Trail - South

Jefferson County, Washington

Elwha River Trail to Dodger Point

Clallam County, Washington

Lost Creek Ridge Trail to Camp Lake and Lake Byrne

Snohomish County, Washington

Best backpacking hiking trails in Washington

Got your backpack ready? These multi-day trails are perfect for hardcore adventurers looking to carry everything they need for an extended journey into the wild.

Here are some great trails to explore in Washington.

Most popular trails

Extra Difficult

The Enchantments Trail

Chelan County, Washington · star 5.0 (12) · 28.7 km · Est. 1 day 3 hrs

Difficult

Pacific Crest Trail - Snoqualmie Pass To Stevens Pass

King County, Washington · star 4.0 (7) · 113.0 km · Est. 5 day

Difficult

Northern Mount St Helens Loop

Lewis County, Washington · star 5.0 (11) · 27.7 km · Est. 1 day 2 hrs

Extra Difficult

Blue Glacier And Hoh River Trail

Jefferson County, Washington · star 5.0 (7) · 56.6 km · Est. 2 day

Extra Difficult

Enchanted Valley - LaCrosse Basin Loop

Jefferson County, Washington · star 5.0 (6) · 83.2 km · Est. 4 day

Extra Difficult

Goat Rocks Circuit

Lewis County, Washington · star 5.0 (8) · 51.0 km · Est. 2 day

Extra Difficult

Northern North Cascades Loop

Whatcom County, Washington · star 5.0 (9) · 52.6 km · Est. 2 day

Medium

Olympic Coast Trail - South

Jefferson County, Washington · star 4.0 (8) · 30.3 km · Est. 1 day 2 hrs

Extra Difficult

Elwha River Trail to Dodger Point

Clallam County, Washington · star 5.0 (7) · 42.6 km · Est. 2 day

Extra Difficult

Lost Creek Ridge Trail to Camp Lake and Lake Byrne

Snohomish County, Washington · star 4.0 (9) · 39.6 km · Est. 2 day

Show more hikes

Reviews for backpacking hiking trails in Washington

The Enchantments Trail

MitchelEckstein · reviewed 4 months ago

star star star star star

I think it was played down quite a bit. After asgaards pass its pretty mellow until you start heading to snow lakes. A few added scrambled in there and once you get past Nada lake its down hill on rocky terrain the entire way. Definitely a humbling experience. Also if you are afraid of heights plan for the extra time it might take.

Pacific Crest Trail - Snoqualmie Pass To Stevens Pass

Claire Garcia · reviewed over 5 years ago

star star star star star

Northern Mount St Helens Loop

Enora Aubert · reviewed over 5 years ago

star star star star star

Blue Glacier And Hoh River Trail

Alani Gonçalves · reviewed about 5 years ago

star star star star star

Enchanted Valley - LaCrosse Basin Loop

Pauline Perez · reviewed almost 5 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Washington

What is the climate like for hiking in Washington?

add_circle

In Washington, spring brings pleasant temperatures for hiking, though trails can be wet. Come summer, east Washington can be hot while west remains moderate. Fall brings stunning colors, cool temperatures, and drier trails. Winter is challenging with snowy conditions. Check Washington Trails Association for seasonal hiking suggestions.

Do I need a permit to hike in Washington?

add_circle

In Washington, some hiking areas require permits. Check with specific land management agencies like National Park Service or US Forest Service for requirements. Wilderness permits can often be obtained at trailheads or ranger stations. The https://www.wta.org/go-outside/passes provides comprehensive permit information.

Is wild camping allowed in Washington?

add_circle

Wild camping, or dispersed camping, is permitted in certain areas of Washington, often requiring permits. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and restrictions regarding fire safety, waste disposal, and distance from water bodies. Visit the US Forest Service for details.

Are there mountain rescue services in Washington?

add_circle

In Washington, dial 911 for mountain emergencies, they'll alert the appropriate services. This often involves volunteer organizations like Seattle Mountain Rescue. Before hiking, ensure you have adequate insurance as rescues can be costly. More information at the Seattle Mountain Rescue website.

Are there dangerous plants in Washington?

add_circle

Washington's diverse flora is impressive for hikers. Expect western hemlock, Douglas fir, and salal in coastal regions. The alpine areas have subalpine fir, heather, and lupine. Forests transition into sagebrush in the arid eastern region. For detailed knowledge, refer to Washington Native Plant Society.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Washington?

add_circle

From coastal to alpine environments, Washington's diverse fauna presents black bears, cougars, deer, and unique birds like bald eagles. Along trails, watch for insects like mosquitoes and ticks. Safe wildlife practices are essential, refer to the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife.