11 of the Absolute Best Hiking Trails in Washington State

Finding an awesome hiking trail is something that each and every outdoor lover looks for. Nature is full of amazing hikes and trails to explore, it just takes a bit of research to find the ones that are best suited for you.

Think about what type of hiking trails appeal to you. Do you like to climb up hills, really work out those quads, or are you more of a stroller when it comes to hiking?

Note: If you have kids, read below for kid-friendly hikes in Washington State.

Next, determine the length of trail that you are looking for. Some people hike for a really great workout and look for trails that are several miles plus in length, while others prefer a more laid back hike that allows for a leisurely stroll to be able to view the vegetation and the animals that can be found lurking around.

On the fence? No worries! Here are some suggestions for hiking trails to explore in Washington.

The Best Hiking Trails in Washington State

If you’re traveling with children, read our list for the best hiking trails in Washington for kids. For those of you traveling without kids or have older kids, keep reading for the best hiking trails in Washington.

Church Mountain

Looking to start your hiking journey off with quite the distance? This 8.5-mile roundtrip hike may be just what you are looking for. Not only is it a great way to get in those steps, but the views that await you on this trail can’t be beaten.

Bygone Byways Interpretive Trail

Take a simple and quick stroll on this 1.0-mile hike that is ADA accessible as well. If your time is limited, but you are wanting to be one with nature, this may be perfect for you and your busy schedule.

Franklin Falls

This is a short and easy hike (kids ages 5+ are fine without assistance). We love going into the hidden gem – the splash pool at the base of the falls! It’s a great picnic area and day trip.

Sheep Lake

Looking for some swimming motivation at the end of the trail? Sheep Lake is packed full of nature’s beauty with the trail ending at the beautiful Sheep Lake. While this hike is only 1.8 miles round-trip, it’s worth every step to see the beauty that awaits.

Icicle Ridge

Hiking here in Spring offers some amazing views, as well as the glimpse of the first beautiful wildflowers of the season. Spend your day hiking this 8.0-mile round-trip to start to see the first signs of Spring blooming.

Margaret’s Way

Be one of the first hikers to set foot on the new trail that was built by volunteers on this 5.5-mile round-trip hike. Enjoy the cooler weather and listen closely for the tricking water on your hike!

Marymere Falls

Who doesn’t love waterfalls? With this 1.8-mile round-trip hike, your eyes will be delighted by the site of one of the most beautiful scenes that everyone should see.

Elbow Peak

Ready for the longest hike to make this list? At 10.0-miles round-trip, get ready for an adventure of a lifetime. You’ll encounter a few different terrains along this hike so do your research to be prepared. Hiking to the peak offers some stunning views that make the hike worth it!

Quinault Rainforest Nature Loop

Looking for a family-friendly hike that literally takes no time? This may be just the perfect one to try out with your crew. Bring your rain boots for this .5-mile round-trip hike as it rains quite a bit in the Quinault Rainforest.

Index Town Wall

This trail is the workout that you’ve been waiting for. While it may be shorter in length, only 2.6-miles round-trip, it is an incline that is sure to give your legs a nice wake-up call.

Heybrook Ridge

Give one of the newer trails a chance and give this 3.3-mile round-trip hike a try. Imagine strolling through a forest to step out and see some awesome views? With this hike, that is absolutely a reality.

The Best Hiking Trails in Washington for Kids

Because we’ve traveled all over this beautiful state, we’ve also compiled a list of the best hiking trails in Washington for kids. Kids benefit from time outdoors far beyond just breathing in the fresh air, so be sure to check these out if you’re traveling with kids.

These kid-friendly hikes are relatively easy, boast many ‘must-see’ areas of the Evergreen State, and are sure to please kids of any age.

Over to You

Hiking is an amazing adventure that brings about some awesome views that you may not ever discover if you hadn’t ventured on your hike in the first place. The peace and serenity that accompany a beautiful hike is something that everyone should experience.

Which of these hiking trails in Washington is your favorite?

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