Summer Hikes

Long days and less snow in the mountains: for some, summer is the best hiking season. With so many possible destinations, how do you pick where to go? Let us help. These features highlight some of Washington's best locations, and some you may not have heard of, but are definitely worth a visit.

If you don't already have one, create an account with us so you can save hikes you're interested in while you're browsing. We promise you'll find more than one here you'll want to do. And if you're new to this whole hiking thing, we've got a handy Hiking 101 page you'll want to check out.

Hike Like a Pro

Where to Pitch Your Tent | How to Keep Cool | How to Read a Map | A Guide to Washington's Hiking Jargon

Fire Lookout Hikes

More than 90 fire lookouts still perch on the lofty heights of Washington's mountaintops. Hike to one of these historic perches, or a former lookout site, and take in the panoramic views.

Hike the Minecraft Biomes of Washington

If you want to take your Minecraft exploration off-screen, we figured we could help by pairing in-game biomes with some local hikes right here in Washington.

Hike 'em all! Washington Hikes for Pokémon Types

The world of Pokémon is incredibly diverse — with types that include rock, water, psychic, poison and ghost — and the hiking world of Washington is arguably just as diverse.

Hike Across Washington Through Motion Pictures

Washington's remote areas, diverse landscapes and iconic landmarks make it a great place for filming and telling any number of stories. With the large variety of different places in the state where motion pictures have been set and filmed, you could easily hike all across Washington just by visiting these spots.

22 Short Summer Hikes with Giant Views

Find big summer views without putting in long miles.

Hike Washington's National Forests

Get to know the national forests in Washington.

Conditioning Hikes

Have some big adventures planned for summer? Get your body used to the demands of being on trail so you have a lot more fun and you feel more sure on your feet.

16 Hikes For Close-to-Town Vistas

Get high and get a good view close to town. Now add sparkles.

Halfway Hikes: Kid-Friendly Turnaround Points on Longer Trails

When you're on a hike with a reluctant hiker, having a nice place to rest, have a snack, and maybe even turn around can make it feel more like you arrived at a destination if you need to cut the day short. So we compiled a list of several trails with nice spots along the trail to rest or call it a day. Read on for some old favorites, or new locations. We promise they're not all lakes.

Shady Hikes for Hot Summer Days

This summer, take to the trees to enjoy some respite from the sun, and while away the hours basking in the simple sounds and delights that can only be found outside.

Hike the State 2026: Four WTA staff share 14 favorite summer hikes

Ideas to help you plan a summer or spectacular hiking ahead.

These trails rule! 16 spectacular hikes in Roadless areas across Washington

Since 2001, the Roadless Rule has protected some spectacular trails in national forest land across Washington (and the country) from logging and mining. Sample some of what these special places have to offer hikers, backpackers and all trail users.