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Best difficult hikes in Pierce County
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Best difficult hikes in Pierce County

Got your game face on? These difficult hikes are designed for hikers who are looking for a serious adventure.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Pierce County.

Most popular hikes

1

Difficult

Skyline Loop Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.7 (7) · 9.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 44 min

2

Difficult

Tin Shack Tie Through Trail via Greenwater Lakes Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.5 (2) · 13.6 km · Est. 2 days

3

Difficult

Kautz to Longmire via Indian Henry's Hunting Ground Horseshoe Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.7 (3) · 20.2 km · Est. 2 days

4

Difficult

Shadow Lake via Wonderland Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.8 (5) · 10.2 km · Est. 3 hrs 6 min

5

Difficult

Dege Peak and Frozen Lake via Sourdough Ridge Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star N/A (0) · 12.5 km · Est. 3 hrs 19 min

6

Difficult

Golden Lakes Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.4 (5) · 29.9 km · Est. 2 days

7

Difficult

Suntop Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.0 (2) · 26.3 km · Est. 2 days

8

Difficult

Panorama Point via Skyline Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.3 (16) · 6.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 59 min

9

Difficult

Lake Christine Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.5 (2) · 5.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 40 min

10

Difficult

Alta Vista Loop Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.4 (12) · 2.6 km · Est. 49 min

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Reviews for difficult hikes in Pierce County

Penny Meth avatar

Skyline Loop Trail

penny · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

sick

Calvin Krajcik avatar

Tin Shack Tie Through Trail via Greenwater Lakes Trail

SierraSkiwanderer29 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Arlene Auer avatar

Kautz to Longmire via Indian Henry's Hunting Ground Horseshoe Trail

PlateauTrailfinder22 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Delmy Kuphal avatar

Shadow Lake via Wonderland Trail

DriftwoodAlpinist62 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

No reviews available for Dege Peak and Frozen Lake via Sourdough Ridge Trail.

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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