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Best backpacking hikes in Pierce County
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Best backpacking hikes in Pierce County

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in Pierce County.

Most popular hikes

1

Extra Difficult

Steamboat Prow and Columbia Crest via Glacier Basin Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.8 (16) · 25.9 km · Est. 2 day

2

Extra Difficult

Camp Muir and Paradise Glacier via Skyline Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.3 (16) · 13.7 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

3

Extra Difficult

Camp Muir and Panorama Point via Skyline Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.5 (8) · 14.1 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

4

Difficult

Burroughs Mountain Loop and Glacier Basin Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.3 (6) · 16.7 km · Est. 1 day 0 hrs

5

Medium

Summit Lake Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.7 (3) · 7.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 7 min

6

Difficult

Steamboat Prow via Glacier Basin Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.4 (14) · 17.7 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

7

Medium

Wonderland Trail - White River Campground Road

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.5 (23) · 28.7 km · Est. 1 day 3 hrs

8

Difficult

Norse Peak View Trail via Norse Peak Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 5.0 (2) · 13.3 km · Est. 4 hrs 8 min

9

Medium

Skyscraper Mountain and Dege Peak from Sunrise Park Road

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.6 (10) · 21.5 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

10

Medium

Frozen Lake, Mount Fremont and 2nd Burroughs Mountain Loop

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.9 (7) · 14.3 km · Est. 4 hrs 1 min

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Reviews for backpacking hikes in Pierce County

Cathrine Wisozk avatar

Steamboat Prow and Columbia Crest via Glacier Basin Trail

SummitBirchwanderer33 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

The Hon. Luciano Sporer avatar

Camp Muir and Paradise Glacier via Skyline Trail

SprinterCaveexplorer51 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Richie Krajcik VM avatar

Camp Muir and Panorama Point via Skyline Trail

BirchBushwalker18 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Manual Prosacco avatar

Burroughs Mountain Loop and Glacier Basin Trail

PlateauTrailguardian90 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Valentin Schamberger avatar

Summit Lake Trail

NomadCampfinder38 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Pierce County

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.

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