Incredibly Beautiful Hikes In Washington State Worth The Sweat

This post is in collaboration with Standard Process, and their support in sponsoring Colin O’Brady’s 50 peaks challenge! All opinions, writing, and photos are our own!

1. Cape Flattery

The most northwestern point of the contiguous United States, Cape Flattery is not a hike to be missed. This very short, 1.5-mile round trip hike will wow you with its dense forest, sweeping ocean vistas, and beautiful boardwalks.

Walk to the end to get a view of where the Strait of Juan De Fuca meets the Pacific Ocean! Keep to the designated trails to preserve this insanely beautiful spot for years to come.

Difficulty: Easy. Though the boardwalks may be slippery in poor/rainy weather (which is very likely!).

2. Mount Storm King

This hike isn’t for the faint of heart.

Over 2,300 feet of elevation gain in 2 miles comes with a pretty steep climb! There are also sections of the trail with installed rope, to help assist you over very loose, small rocks that can be slippery.

Come on a clear, sunny day (bad weather could make the trail dangerous or impassable) and only go as far as you’re comfortable!

Enough with the cautions – the Mount Storm King trail is BREATHTAKING! It’s one of the most amazing views Berty and I have ever experienced, and the challenge is 100% worth this view from the top.

Difficulty: Very Challenging. This trail is consistently steep with very few flat parts on the trail.

Make sure to wear shoes that are well broken in (coming from experience, my new shoes HURT after this hike!) and pack plenty of water and snacks for the top!

3. Cape Disappointment

Opposite its sister, Cape Flattery, Cape Disappointment is the farthest southwest location you can explore in Washington State.

Experience the North Head trail that leads you to a lighthouse, a working Coast Guard Station, and the beautiful Moonrise Kingdom-like cove!

The park covers nearly 13 miles of trails, so there are tons of viewpoints to explore that will give you plenty to see.

Reminder: This is a Washington State Park, so make sure to display your Discover Pass in your car, or purchase a day pass at the park entrance.

Difficulty: Moderate. A clear trail through the forest and a steep hike down to the cove will require some agility, but most people can accomplish this hike.

4. La Push Second Beach

Explore the Pacific Ocean at one of Washington’s most iconic beaches. La Push Second Beach is a 4-mile round trip hike with switchbacks through the dense Olympic Peninsula trees.

Soon enough you’ll hear the sound of crashing waves and emerge to the view of a dotted coastline of gorgeous sea stacks. With the right permits, you can even camp on this beach! 

Difficulty: Moderate. The hike requires a trail through the forest with exposed roots, and the ability to walk over driftwood and on the sand.

5. Lake Wenatchee Trails

There are so many beautiful trails to explore around Lake Wenatchee State Park that we couldn’t pick just one!

Both the North Shore and South Shore provide opportunities to discover sweeping views, hidden lakes, and beautiful forest trails.

For a short hike with a quick reward, try Hidden Lake Loop or visit the Lake Wenatchee State Park beach to see the famous Emerald Island. For a longer, more challenging hike, head to the North Shore and hike up Dirty Face Lookout.

Difficulty: Easy to Hard. There are several choices to choose from depending on your preference!

This article adapted from this Site