23 Best Spring Hikes in Washington (For Wildflowers and Epic Views)

Blooming wildflowers, raging waterfalls, and warmer weather are some of the best things that come with the spring season in Washington.

And when you’ve waited all winter long to get out on the trail, it’s understandable why you’re so ready to hike!

But, many of the trails are still covered in snow and it can be tough to determine which are accessible, especially in the early spring.

In this post, you’ll find the best spring hikes in Washington that are ususally accessible in the spring months and will have amazing views!

Note: Some of these hikes may still have snow on them, especially in early spring. Use caution, carry the proper gear, and be safe when exploring.

Best Easy Spring Hikes in Washington

Below you’ll find some of the best hikes that have minimla snow that are easy and have minimal elevation gain.

These are doable for most beginner hikers and still will give you a taste of Washington’s amazing beauty!

Distance: 1.6 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 230 feet
Location: Olympic National Park
Pass Required: National Park Pass

One of the best places for hiking in the springtime is Olympic National Park because a lot of the lower elevation trails have no snow!

Of the hikes within the park, Sol Duc Falls is one of the most beautiful.

You’ll take a short, flat hike before you hear the loud, raging waters of the waterfall.

The beautiful, green, mossy cliff walls surrounding this 3-section waterfall are unlike anything else.

It almost feels straight out of a fairytale!

But, this hike is fairly popular, so it’s best to visit in the early morning to avoid the crowds of people.

Distance: 1.1 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 75 feet
Location: Olympic National Park
Pass Required: National Park Pass

The Hall of Mosses is the perfect hike to pair with Sol Duc Falls for a beautiful spring day on the Olympic Peninsula.

One of my favorite parts about Washington is the green, mossy forests that cover the state.

The Hall of Mosses puts that perfectly on display, especially in the springtime when the moisture in the air makes for the greenest colors.

Along the trail, there are educational signs to help you learn about the area.

When out in Olympic National Park, be sure to keep an eye out for banana slugs crawling on the forest floor!

Distance: 4.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 400 feet
Location: Gold Bar
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

With minimal effort, you’ll get to see a beautiful lake, situated in the mountains, that is the perfect spring hike in Washington for families.

You’ll hike along the beautiful Barclay Creek through the woods until you reach the lake.

Behind the lake, you’ll have fantastic views of the mountains. I mean, the type of views that you usually have to scale a mountain for!

Spring is the perfect time to hike to Barclay Lake, as it tends to be pretty busy during the summer months.

It is one of the best trails for beginners to check out in the state, so be sure to give it a try!

But because this hike is found in the cascade range, there may be snow on it during certain parts of the spring, so bringing microspikes is a good idea.

Distance: 4.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 300 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Location: Quincy
Pass Required: Discover

Pretty much smack-dab in the middle of Washington, you’ll find the trailhead for the Ancient Lakes.

This beautiful area is much different than some of the other trails on this list, featuring views of a desert landscape.

But what you won’t expect is to see the waterfalls, large lakes, and green feilds, in seemingly, the middle of the desert.

Watch out for rattlesnakes and enjoy the warm weather here, as there is no shade along the trail at all.

But during the spring months, that won’t be a problem because of the cooler weather!

Plus, you’re probably ready to bask in the sun after a long winter anyways!

This hike is actually not too far from the winding Columbia River and the popular concert venue, the Gorge Amphitheater.

Best Moderate Spring Hikes in Washington

These hikes are also all beautiful in the springtime but will require a bit more physical effort from you.

Though they’re definitely still doable for many people, these hikes are all rated as moderately challening.

Distance: 3.3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 100 feet
Location: Olympic National Park
Pass Required: National Park Pass

If you’re looking for a unique hike this spring, then you should definitely add Hole in The Wall from Rialto Beach to your list.

Starting at Rialto Beach in Olympic National Park, you’ll hike along the shores of the Pacific Ocean.

During low tide, you’ll have the opportunity to spot sea life like starfish.

Also, keep an eye out for the blowholes of migrating whales off the coast.

While this hike is fairly easy, if the sand is wet or it’s high tide, you may end up having wet feet.

And towards the end, you may need to scramble up rocks or driftwood to see the Hole in the Wall.

Distance: 5.3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet
Location: North Bend
Pass Required: None

The hike to Rattlesnake Ledge is one of the most popular spring hikes in Washington, and for good reason!

After about a 2.5 mile hike, you’ll reach a beautiful overlook of Rattlesnake Lake and the surrounding mountains.

There are many lookouts and viewpoints along the way to stop at as you make your way to the top.

On a clear day, you might even be able to spot Mount Washington and Mount Si in the distance.

The color of Rattlesnake Lake below you is a gorgeous teal color that feels unreal!

Because of its short distance from Seattle (about 30 minutes), this is a busy hike and you should prepare to meet others on the trail.

Distance: 1.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 600 feet
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Pass Required: Discover

Beacon Rock along the Columbia River Gorge is a beautiful hike that can be done almost year-round.

So if you’re looking for an early spring hike, you can definitely count on Beacon Rock!

Once you reach the top, you’ll be met with incredible views of the Columbia River.

I will say that it is a steep, uphill climb for the entire hike, so plan to be short of breath by the time you finish.

It is a unique hike, with switchbacks built into the side of the cliff face and views of the entire gorge surrounding you.

One of the best parts about hiking in the spring is the beginning of blooming wildflowers along this trail.

This hike gets very busy as the summer draws nearer, so plan your visit in the morning.

When I arrived at the parking lot around 8 am, I was the only one there. But when I finished at 9 am, the lot was full.

Distance: 5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,300 feet
Location: Gold Bar
Pass Required: Discover

Spring is the best time to visit the many waterfalls around the state because the water flow will be at its highest.

Wallace Falls is no exception to this and is truly at its peak between March and May.

You’ll follow the trail along Wallace River and will have views of the surrounding mountain range in certain areas.

First, you’ll hit Lower Wallace Falls, then Middle, and then Upper.

This is a unique hike in that you get multiple viewpoints of the falls before turning back towards the trailhead.

And with this waterfall being so close to Seattle, it makes for a perfect day trip or after-work hike.

Distance: 4.4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
Location: North Bend
Pass Required: Discover

Little Si is a popular spring hike near Seattle because it’s only about 35 minutes from the city!

The views from the top are spectacular and will give you a teaser for what it would be like to climb the larger Mount Si.

On a clear day, you might even be able to spot the spectacular Mount Washington.

You’ll start with a thigh-burning incline from the trailhead, but it flattens out after not too long.

This hike is quite busy year-round, so you’ll likely see others along the trail. But, if you arrive early enough, you can still have some peace and quiet.

Distance: 5.3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,100 feet
Location: Stevenson
Pass Required: None

If you’re searching for one of the best waterfall hikes in Washington, then you’ve found the perfect one.

Falls Creek Falls is an incredible, multi-tiered waterfall that is absolutely raging in the springtime!

You seriously won’t believe how big it actually is until you see it in person! It’s one of my favorites.

There’s a beautiful spot where you can stand near the falls that will have you feeling like you’re standing near a mister.

The hike is a loop, so you’re able to choose whichever direction you start with. Or just come back the same way!

It’s important to note that in the winter, the gate to the trailhead may close due to snow, so be sure to research this before heading out!

I’ve found it sort of hard to find information about this hike online, so you can click here to find the All Trails map for it!

Distance: 5.4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
Location: Granite Falls
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

The Heather Lake hike will give you a taste of the Enchantments area of Washington, without having to spend multiple days on the trail.

Enjoy a moderately rated hike out to Heather Lake where you’ll loop around the entire lake and have views of beautiful Mount Pilchuck.

I love hikes like this one where I can see some of the most beautiful places without having to climb thousands of feet of elevation.

There will likely still be snow on the lake and parts of the trail for much of the spring, so be prepared for this with microspikes and poles.

The road into the trailhead can be a little rough, so if possible, take a high-clearance vehicle to this hike.

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Distance: 2.8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 900 feet
Location: Index
Pass Required: None

You might’ve heard of this trail’s sister, the popular, heavily trafficked Heybrook Lookout.

I personally prefer this trail, which offers similar incredible views, because there are many less people on the trail!

After just a short 1.75 miles, you’ll be met with marvelous views of the North Cascades in all directions.

Definitely try your best to plan this hike on a clear day, so you don’t miss out on seeing the mountains.

There are so many other hikes nearby to this one that are extremely strenuous and could be multi-day hikes, so this one is perfect for less advanced hikers.

Distance: 4.1 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet
Location: North Bend
Pass Required: Discover

Here’s another great spring hike near Seattle, that still provides beautiful views.

From the top, you’ll be able to see the surrounding mountains as well as the valley where the road winds through.

There are multiple switchbacks on the way up to the final viewpoint, so it definitely isn’t extremely easy.

But along the way, there are many awesome viewpoints where you can stop and catch your breath.

This trail is really well marked, so you should be able to stay on the trail pretty easily.

If you’re looking for a couple of other hikes to pair with this one for a weekend trip, consider Rattlesnake Ledge!

Distance: 6.8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,600 feet
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Pass Required: None

Want a trail that is going to leave you in awe for days after completing it? Look no further.

The Coyote Wall trail is another popular one in the Columbia River Gorge that boasts colorful wildflowers in the springtime.

This has become one of my all-time favorites, specifically as a spring hike in Washington, not too far from Portland and Vancouver.

Dare I say, better than Dog Mountain…

It’s easier, less crowded, and you don’t have to have a permit! What more could you ask for?!

For the best wildflower blooms, plan to hike this one from late April to mid-May, but this really depends on the year.

I would recommend doing some research before heading out, because peak bloom varies year to year.

On clear days, you’ll have incredible views of the Columbia River Gorge, wildflowers, and Mount Hood.

Distance: 6 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
Location: Electric City
Pass Required: Discover

This unique hike is found in Steamboat Rock State Park, on an inlet of Banks Lake.

Most of the popular hikes in Washington state are found in the western part of the state, but this one is found closer to the eastern side.

It’s a lot different than the other hikes on this list, as it’s not surrounded by mountains.

Instead, you’ll see rolling hills, basalt cliffs, and lush meadows.

This area is best visited in spring because the summer heat typically dries out the grass and fields.

It’s even great in the winter if you’re looking to escape the cold and get out on the trail.

This is definitely the place to visit if you’d prefer to escape the busyness of the western Washington hikes.

Distance: 5.2 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,800 feet
Location: Leavenworth
Pass Required: None

Sauer’s Mountain brings hikers along a steep cliffside with fantastic views of the mountains and landscape below.

In the spring, beautiful yellow and purple wildflowers bloom along the trail, making for a beautiful, colorful experience.

This is a popular area, but it isn’t one of the most well-known hikes in the area, so it’s unlikely to have as many crowds around.

This beautiful trail is made available by the owners of the property, so be sure to respect this and their requests.

Parking is limited, and the owners request that visitors only stay if they can find a designated spot.

Distance: 4.1 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,200 feet
Location: Mount Rainier National Park
Pass Required: National Park Pass

While most hikes on this list are mostly clear of snow by spring, Panorama Point in Mount Rainier National Park is an exception.

In saying that, before you head out for the hike, check here to ensure that the road is open.

If you are able to get in and do this hike, you will not be disappointed by the beauty of Mount Rainier in the snow.

While it requires more equipment and patience, it’s well worth it.

Panorama Point is one of the best hikes in the park that provides incredible views, and many people enjoy snowshoeing it in the winter.

For this hike, you may need microspikes or snowshoes. It’s important to check with the park or reviews on All Trails to see what the conditions are like.

Distance: 6.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Granite Falls
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

Perhaps known as one of the most popular alpine lake hikes in northern Washington, be prepared to see others on this hike!

The trail to Lake 22 is fantastic, leading you through a mossy forest, up the mountains before emerging into an opening.

Here is where you’ll find the beuautiful lake, which sits right in front of the tall, towering Mount Pilchuck.

You can take a trip around the lake, as long as there isn’t too much snow, to get a different perspective of it.

Keep in mind that you may need microspikes for this one, as you will be higher in elevation.

Best Hard Spring Hikes in Washington

Not all epic views can come easy, and that’s why I’m finishing this post with the best hard spring hikes in Washington.

All of these have a lot of elevation gain, so it’s very important to ensure that you’re prepared for that before embarking on a hike.

Distance: 6.5 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 2,800 feet
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

One of the most popular hikes in southern Washington is found on the Columbia River Gorge.

Dog Mountain is a permitted hike (from mid-April to mid-June) that has some of the most beautiful wildflowers in the area.

It’s recommended to visit this hike around mid-April to mid-May for the best wildflower blooms.

The hike is pretty steep and will definitely present itself as a challenge, as it’s uphill for pretty much the entire way!

You’ll spend most of the hike winding through mossy trees and forests before emerging into an opening of beautiful views.

In this opening, you’ll be surrounded by lupine and balsamroot wildflowers lining the Columbia River Gorge.

Distance: 5.3 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet
Location: Olympic National park
Pass Required: National Park Pass

Mount Storm King is personally one of my favorite hikes ever and I think is one of the best hikes in all of Washington.

I will cut straight to the chase and let you know that it is hard and steep. Don’t underestimate this hike!

But, once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with some of the best views of Crescent Lake and what looks like something straight out of Norway.

Something unique about this hike is that there are ropes along the top of the trail to help you climb to the end.

These ropes can easily burn your hands so bring heavy-duty gloves!

When we hiked, there was a pile of them at the start of the ropes for others to use, but you may want to pack your own.

I truly can’t say enough about this hike, so be sure to check it out!

Distance: 0.8 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 500 feet
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Pass Required: None

One of the most beautiful waterfalls is found right in southern Washington, not too far from Vancouver.

The hike to Spirit Falls is short but grueling and extremely steep.

I highly recommend bringing a pair of trekking poles to save your knees on the up and downhills.

But besides the difficulty of this trail, you’ll find this to be one of the most magical waterfalls.

You may even be lucky enough to see kayakers going over the falls (amazing!).

I highly recommend doing this one in March or April because the water flow is incredible in spring!

Distance: 7.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,900 feet
Difficulty: Hard
Location: Bow
Pass Required: Discover

If you’re looking for something different, the trail to Oyster Dome will break up those mountain views for you!

After several switchbacks through the woods, you’ll emerge for a viewpoint of the Samish Bay and some of the San Juan Islands.

The contrast of dark green trees to bright blue water is phenomenal and is a favorite view in Washington.

The road into the trailhead is a bit rough, so just use caution as you make your way through the potholes.

Distance: 7.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,700 feet
Difficulty: Hard
Location: Gold Bar
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

Another fantastic hike to an alpine lake, featuring one of Washington’s tallest waterfalls!

This popular trail is long and tough, but will be worth it once you’ve reached Lake Serene, sitting below Mount Index.

It’s been given the name “Serene” for a reason, that’s for sure!

On the way to the lake, you’ll have the option to branch off to go see Bridal Veil Falls, a waterfall that drops over 1,000 feet.

It’s so tall that you can’t even see the entire thing, and will be blasted with mist from how powerful it is.

This one surely can’t be missed, and is a great option for a spring hike, as long as you carry microspikes with you for the potential snow.

When is Spring in Washington?

It can definitely be confusing when the spring season actually is in Washington, as snow can sometimes fall into June.

But typically, spring tends to hit Washington between March and May.

The lower elevations have minimal snow by this time, although the mountains will still have snow likely into early summer.

During spring, the temperatures start to rise, usually varying from 40°F to 70°F.

There’ll still be plenty of rain, so plan for that when heading out for a hike!

The wildflowers start to bloom around mid-April, and the cherry blossom trees at the beginning of March.

If you’re heading closer to the mountains, snow tends to linger into the summer, but the temperatures will likely be warmer.

What to Wear Hiking in Spring in Washington

When hiking in Washington during the spring, it’s important to wear a few key items to have a comfortable experience.

Here are the best types of clothing to wear for your spring hike.

👉🏼 Read my post here about Packing for a Day Hike! 👈🏼

Tips for Hiking in Washington

There are some important things to remember for your safety and comfort when hiking. Here are some of the top tips for hiking in Washington during the spring season.

Passes

Many trailheads require a pass to park in the parking lot. Be sure you have the right one to avoid getting ticketed!

The most popular in Washington include the Discover Pass, the Northwest Forest Pass, and America the Beautiful Pass.

Busy Trailheads

Spring is when many of Washington’s most beautiful trails start to open up for the hiking season, meaning that parking lots will fill up.

If you have your heart set on a certain hike, I highly recommend that you arrive early or visit on a weekday.

Weekends during the peak times of day are going to be busy and crowded, so just be ready to have to park far away or come back if you don’t arrive early.

Avalanche Danger

In higher elevations, avalanches may occur during the springtime when temperatures are starting to get warmer.

If you don’t know the warning signs of avalanches or what to do if you encounter one, be sure to research it and learn.

You can find some great information about avalanches in Washington here.

Because of the snow, many roads also require you to carry chains in your car until at least May.

Rain Gear

Rain is extremely common in Washington in the spring, so always bring the proper gear.

It’s no fun to end a hike soaking wet, so you should always carry rain gear, even if the forecast shows clear skies.

FAQs: Spring in Washington

Conclusion: Best Spring Hikes in Washington

There are so many epic hikes in the beautiful state of Washington, many of which are best hiked in the spring months.

When the weather starts warming up, I feel that itch to get back out and hit the trail again.

This list of best spring hikes in Washington will help you plan those warmer weather adventures and get out even before summer hits!