Washington

Sights & Activities

Alpine Lakes Wilderness

• Colchuck Lake: Turquoise alpine lake with stunning mountain backdrop, popular for swimming and photography; described as “Washington’s prettiest alpine lake.” reel reel
• Colchuck Lake Trail: 8.9 miles round trip, 2,450 ft elevation gain, ~4.5 hrs+. More accessible alternative to the full Enchantments Traverse; Northwest Forest Pass required. reel
• The Enchantments Traverse: 20.7 miles, 5,600 ft elevation gain, ~9.5 hrs+. “One of the most beautiful hikes in the world”; very difficult, permits required for overnight camping, Northwest Forest Pass required. reel
• Snow Lake reel
• Lake Ingalls reel
• Keekwulee Falls reel

North Cascades National Park

• Diablo Lake reel
• Maple Pass: activity/hike reel
• Cascade Pass reel
• Sahale Glacier Camp reel

Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

• Picture Lake reel
• Chain Lakes Loop: activity/hike reel
• Franklin Falls reel
• Artist Point reel

Olympic National Park

• Rialto Beach reel
• Ruby Beach reel
• Mount Storm King reel
• Hoh Rainforest reel

Mount Rainier National Park

• Skyline Trail: activity/hike reel
• Fremont Fire Tower reel
• Sunrise Point reel
• Tipsoo Lake reel

Other Hikes

• Vesper Peak: Alpine peak with panoramic views of Pacific Northwest valleys, turquoise alpine lakes, and distant mountains; popular for sunrise/sunset photography. 6.8 miles round trip, 4,094 ft elevation gain; steep, difficult hike suited for experienced hikers. One of the best hiking views in the Pacific Northwest. reel

Practical Tips

• Total driving time is approximately 16 hours to hit all five major areas (Alpine Lakes Wilderness, North Cascades, Mount Baker-Snoqualmie, Olympic, and Mount Rainier). reel
• Can be completed as a 2-4 week epic road trip or as individual shorter trips; each area is worthwhile on its own. reel
• Best visited during summer months. reel
• Route connects Seattle, Tacoma, Yakima, and Victoria areas. reel
• Northwest Forest Pass required for Alpine Lakes Wilderness access (Enchantments/Colchuck Lake). reel
• Permits required for overnight camping in the Enchantments. reel
• Mountain goats are common on Alpine Lakes trails; respect wildlife and maintain distance. reel
• Follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out all trash, stay on marked trails, respect fragile alpine ecosystems. reel
• These are challenging hikes; be properly prepared with adequate fitness, gear, and water. reel
• Best visited during summer/early fall for snow conditions and trail access. reel
• Popular hikes: arrive early to secure parking and follow permit reservation procedures. reel
• Vesper Peak: check seasonal conditions, as snow patches are visible on the alpine terrain. reel