Search a hike or location

search
Best lake hiking trails in Washington
Share:

Best lake hiking trails in Washington

Want a trail where the views are as smooth as the water’s surface? These lake-side paths will have you reflecting on nature’s beauty—literally—while enjoying the peace and tranquility of the great outdoors.

Here are some great trails to explore in Washington.

Most popular trails

1

Medium

Colchuck Lake Trail

Chelan County, Washington · star 5.0 (10) · 14.6 km · Est. 4 hrs 9 min

2

Medium

Lake 22 Trail

Snohomish County, Washington · star 5.0 (4) · 9.6 km · Est. 2 hrs 44 min

3

Difficult

Snow Lake Trail

King County, Washington · star 5.0 (4) · 10.6 km · Est. 2 hrs 57 min

4

Easy

Owhi Campground Trail

Kittitas County, Washington · star 0.0 (0) · 1.8 km · Est. 27 min

5

Easy

Chehalis Western Trail

Thurston County, Washington · star 4.0 (16) · 33.7 km · Est. 1 day 2 hrs

6

Medium

Price Lake Trail

Whatcom County, Washington · star 5.0 (2) · 13.4 km · Est. 3 hrs 49 min

7

Extra Difficult

Lake Isabel Trail

Snohomish County, Washington · star 5.0 (4) · 4.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 39 min

8

Difficult

Maple Pass Trail

Chelan County, Washington · star 5.0 (6) · 9.3 km · Est. 3 hrs 15 min

9

Difficult

Bead Lake Trail

Pend Oreille County, Washington · star 5.0 (3) · 10.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 42 min

10

Difficult

Blanca Lake Trail

Snohomish County, Washington · star 5.0 (1) · 11.9 km · Est. 4 hrs 6 min

Show more hikes

Reviews for lake hiking trails in Washington

Cammon Woolsey avatar

Colchuck Lake Trail

Cam_Wulfsige · reviewed 5 months ago

star star star star star

The lake was beautiful, definitely worth 5 stars, but the 4 is because of the killer uphill climbs

Deandre Rice avatar

Lake 22 Trail

SummitviewFinder35 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Jack McHenry avatar

Snow Lake Trail

Jack M · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Owhi Campground Trail.

Wanita Okuneva MD avatar

Chehalis Western Trail

CragPathfinder23 · reviewed 12 months ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Washington

What is the climate like for hiking in Washington?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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?

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.

More trails in Washington

by difficulty

by type

by activity