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Best river hikes in Pierce County
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Best river hikes in Pierce County

Go with the flow on these riverside adventures! From gentle streams to powerful rapids, these hikes offer constant companionship with the sound of rushing water.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Pierce County.

Most popular hikes

1

Difficult

Panorama Point and McClure Rock via Skyline Trail and Golden Gate Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.3 (19) · 7.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 36 min

2

Difficult

Little Mashel Falls Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.5 (21) · 1.9 km · Est. 38 min

3

Medium

Skyline Trail and Mazama Ridge Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.6 (12) · 10.4 km · Est. 3 hrs 10 min

4

Medium

Skyline Trail and Paradise Glacier Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.5 (14) · 9.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 39 min

5

Medium

Bud Blancher Trail and Little Mashel River and Falls

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.4 (19) · 7.4 km · Est. 1 hrs 56 min

6

Extra difficult

Camp Muir and Panorama Point via Skyline Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.5 (8) · 14.1 km · Est. 5 hrs 16 min

7

Medium

Skookum Flats Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.0 (1) · 24.3 km · Est. 6 hrs 14 min

8

Easy

Foothills Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.6 (11) · 21.2 km · Est. 4 hrs 40 min

9

Medium

Emmons Moraine and Glacier Basin Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.8 (8) · 6.7 km · Est. 1 hrs 54 min

10

Easy

Puyallup River Trail

Pierce County, Washington · star 4.6 (14) · 6.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 21 min

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Reviews for river hikes in Pierce County

Jenee Sauer avatar

Panorama Point and McClure Rock via Skyline Trail and Golden Gate Trail

OutbackPathfinder58 · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Esteban Homenick avatar

Little Mashel Falls Trail

RoamerWoodlander36 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Theodore Jaskolski avatar

Skyline Trail and Mazama Ridge Trail

PlateauScout44 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Ricardo Garcia avatar

Skyline Trail and Paradise Glacier Trail

Calvo506 · reviewed 24 days ago

star star star star star

No es exigente.

Justin Thomson avatar

Bud Blancher Trail and Little Mashel River and Falls

JTHOMSON82 · reviewed about 2 months ago

star star star star star

raining

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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