23 Best Winter Hikes in Washington for Year-Round Exploring

Are you looking for the best winter hikes in Washington to spend time outside, even after snow falls and the temperatures drop?

When cold weather first strikes in Washington, many people forget about hiking trails and wait for summer to roll back around.

But if you’re anything like me, you can’t wait until summer and are always in search of a hike to do, even in the middle of winter.

Admiring the mountains dusted (and dumped) with snow and getting that fresh air is a great part of hiking in the winter months.

I lived in Washington for 6 months last year and spent nearly every weekend (yes, even in the winter!) out on the hiking trail.

In this post, I’ll share my favorites with you that are accessible even during the cold months.

Best Winter Hikes in Washington

Here are some of the best Washington winter hikes that can be done even in the cold weather and with snow.

It’s still important to note that some of the ones in higher elevations may still have snow and might require crampons or snowshoes.

Always check trip reports and conditions before heading to the trailhead!

1. Mount Storm King

Distance: 4.1 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,100 feet
Difficulty: Hard
Location: Olympic National Park
Pass Required: National Park Pass

The hike to the top of Mount Storm King is no joke.

With 2,100 feet of elevation gain in just 2 short miles, your legs will be begging for a break minutes after you start.

And just before you’ve made it to the top, you’ll reach a steep, slippery section where you’ll need to use the provided ropes to continue the climb.

But once you’ve managed to climb the steep hill up, you’ll be met with one of the most fantastic views on the Olympic Peninsula.

Overlooking Lake Crescent, you’ll see mountains curving around the lake, creating what looks like Norway’s fjords.

The best time to hike to Mount Storm King is at sunrise when not many other people are making the climb and the bright colors flood the sky.

Take a seat, pull out your breakfast, and stay to admire the views for a while.

2. Wallace Falls

Distance: 4.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Wallace Falls State Park
Pass Required: Discover

If you’re looking for a great winter hike near Seattle, then Wallace Falls is the best for you, just under an hour away!

This hike provides a view of one of northern Washington’s best waterfalls, dropping 259 feet into the Wallace River.

As you hike, you’ll be taken through the forest, passing giant trees and getting to see the green, mossy look of a typical Washington old growth forest.

The hike itself is moderately challenging, but a bit longer than some of the other waterfall hikes around.

It’s a great choice, even for the winter months, since it’s at a low enough elevation that you won’t usually see snow on the trail.

3. Rattlesnake Ledge

Distance: 5.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,500 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Rattlesnake Mountain Scenic Area
Pass Required: None

The quintessential hike in Washington that some people won’t even consider you a local until you’ve done, is Rattlesnake Ledge.

A moderately challenging hike up Rattlesnake Mountain will lead you to three different ledges, overlooking the teal lake below.

Of all the overlooks, the first one, known as Lower Rattlesnake Ledge, is the most popular, and where you’ll see the largest crowd.

It has the best view of Rattlesnake Lake below you and offers the best photo ops.

Go a little further up the trail, and you’ll have more solitude and still epic views of the mountains around you.

Look out in the distance and see if you can spot Mount Si or Mailbox Peak on the other side of the valley.

And to set your mind at ease, no- there are no rattlesnakes on Rattlesnake Mountain. 😉

4. Artist Point

Distance: 3.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 970 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

One of the most beautiful places I have ever seen is found way up in the far northern half of Washington, right next to Mount Baker.

Artist Point is a bit different than most of the other hikes on this list, as you will most definitely see snow on the trail.

But that shouldn’t scare you away from it, especially if you have a pair of snowshoes to bring along.

In the summer months, there is no hike to Artist Point, as you can reach it by driving right up to the parking lot.

But in the winter, snowfall closes down the road and you’ll need to hike from the ski resort, which creates this almost 4-mile hike.

Most people snowshoe it, to avoid falling into deep snow, so that’s what I would recommend.

And once you’ve reached the viewpoint, you’ll be blown away by the incredible views of Mount Baker, Mount Shuksan, and the mountains in the Cascade range.

During the fall months, enjoy the beautiful views of the fall colors.

5. Spirit Falls

Distance: 0.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 500 feet
Difficulty: Hard
Location: Columbia River Gorge
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

Further south, right on the border between Washington and Oregon, is the amazing Spirit Falls.

This short but steep and difficult hike leads you right down to the Little White Salmon River.

Here you’ll find teal waters, mossy trees, and a beautiful waterfall, called Spirit Falls.

This is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge, and it also lets you escape some of the crowds.

The Washington half of the Gorge is always less busy than the Oregon side, and still provides some of the most epic views.

And although the hike to this waterfall is especially difficult (slippery and steep!), it’s worth every second of wishing you were done.

But, even though it’s tough, you’ll get to enjoy a snow-free hike in Washington because there isn’t typically any snow here!

6. Guler Ice Caves

Distance: 0.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 180 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

With so much volcanic activity in the Pacific Northwest, there are interesting and unique caves all around.

But when you hike to Guler Ice Caves in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, you’ll get to see something very unique.

In the winter, it turns into a magical ice cave where icicles hang from the ceiling, frozen rocks turn slippery, and snow surrounds the entrance.

While this may seem scary to some, to others, it’s a unique experience that should not be missed.

Be prepared to walk a bit further than where the parking lot is because the road will likely be snowed in.

When we visited, our hike ended up being about 2.5 miles round-trip.

And if you’re not interested in visiting when there’s ice in the cave it’s definitely still accessible to see in the summer.

7. Heybrook Ridge

Distance: 3.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 900 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Wild Sky Wilderness
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

One of the more popular winter hiking trails on the Highway 2 drive in Washington is Heybrook Lookout.

But I’m always looking for more solitude on a trail, so I recommend Heybrook Ridge instead, just a few miles down the road.

This short hike has just a slight incline as you make your way up the hillside and to a beautiful lookout of two giant mountains.

Mount Baring is off in the distance to the east, while Philadelphia Mountain stands right in front of you, across the deep valley.

In the winter, it may be necessary to bring snowshoes or crampons with you as there might be snow on the trail, but it’s manageable.

Read recent trip reports to ensure that you’re prepared for the hike.

8. Sol Duc Falls

Distance: 1.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 250 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Location: Olympic National park
Pass Required: National Park Pass

Here’s another hike found in Olympic National Park, which provides some great opportunities for winter hikes in Washington.

The hike to Sol Duc Falls is along a short nature trail that’s rated as easy and doesn’t have much elevation change.

You’ll wander through some of the Olympic Peninsula’s temperate rainforests until you reach the falls.

This three-sectioned waterfall drops over a totally moss-covered ridge into the Sol Duc River.

The name ‘Sol Duc’ comes from the Quileute word meaning ‘sparkling water’, which is a very fitting name for this river.

In most years, you won’t find any snow on this trail, so it’s the perfect place to escape those cold winter days.

9. Beacon Rock

Distance: 1.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 575 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Beacon Rock State Park
Pass Required: Discover

Just under 45 minutes from Vancouver and Portland is the popular Beacon Rock Trailhead.

This short but steep hike leads you up the side of Beacon Rock on platforms built into the tall, natural structure.

You’ll walk uphill for almost the entire hike before reaching an overlook into the Columbia River Gorge.

You’ll be able to see for miles as you look out and see both Oregon and Washington in the same view.

Because of how easily accessible this winter hiking trail is, it definitely sees a lot of visitors, and you can expect the parking lot to be full by 10 am.

This is one of the best snow-free winter hikes in Washington, so if you’re looking for something that doesn’t require spikes or snowshoes, this is it!

10. Palouse Falls

Distance: 0.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 75 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Palouse Falls State Park
Pass Required: Discover

As one of the only winter hikes Washington on this list in the eastern part of the state, you’ll definitely want to pay a visit to Palouse Falls.

Plunging almost 200 feet into the Palouse River, this waterfall is powerful and striking, as it’s surrounded by huge cliffs.

When looking at it, it almost seems as if a huge crater was made on the Earth for Palouse Falls. It’s that big!

It’s unique from other waterfall hikes because instead of looking up at the falls, you’ll look down at them.

There are a few places to view the falls, one being directly in front of it, just steps from your car.

This is one of the best winter hikes in Washington because there is almost never snow here.

11. Hall of Mosses

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

The unique atmosphere of Olympic National Park’s temperate rainforest is surely a must-see when in Washington.

It’s not everywhere that you get to experience mountains, rainforests, and an ocean, all in one place.

The Hall of Mosses is the perfect place to do so, and is perfect for people of all skill levels, as it’s short and flat.

You’ll wind through the old growth forest where gigantic ferns cover the ground and bright green moss hangs from the huge trees.

One of my favorite parts of the Olympic Peninsula is the banana slugs, so watch your step, because they’re everywhere!

12. Franklin Falls

Distance: 6.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 800 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest
Pass Required: Northwest Forest & Sno-Park

This waterfall hike in Washington State is nice and easy during the summer, but in the winter, becomes longer and more difficult.

The trailhead is less than an hour away from Seattle and is on the I-90 Corridor, where many of the most popular winter hikes Washington are located.

Because the road is typically snowed in, you’ll need to start further away and hike yourself into the Franklin Falls Trail.

The unfortunate part about visiting Franklin Falls in the winter is that it will be hit or miss whether it’s frozen or not.

The best time to visit is when it’s frozen because it provides a unique experience that you can’t find very often in the PNW.

But either way, the falls are gorgeous, dropping 135 feet, but only allowing visitors to see 70 feet, due to rock covering the rest.

13. Panorama Point

Distance: 5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,900 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Mount Rainier National Park
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

If you’re a fan of snowshoeing, then you’ll love the snowshoeing around Panorama Point in Mount Rainier National Park.

This is definitely one of the more ‘”iffy” trails on this list, and by that I mean it could be open… and it could be closed. It’s tough to say.

Because of the mountainous atmosphere around Mount Rainier, Washington’s tallest mountain, the roads sometimes close in the winter.

But if you’re able to get into the park (check their Twitter for updates), I would highly recommend hitting this route.

It’s really such an amazing experience to see Mount Rainier up close, especially when she’s covered in heaps of snow.

The route up in the snow may be different than the route in the summer, so look for other hikers’ prints or ask at the Paradise Lodge.

14. Icicle Gorge Loop

Distance: 4.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 400 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Location: Okanagan-Wenatchee National Forest
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

The easy and well-marked Icicle Gorge loop is the perfect family-friendly winter hike in Washington.

You’ll follow a nice, easy trail through the woods that leads you right along Icicle Creek.

It’s a beautiful trail to escape into the woods and enjoy a simple stroll.

The views of the surrounding mountains are beautiful and you’ll get to feel the cool breeze of the winter weather on your face.

Informational signs are found along the trail, so you’ll even get to learn about the history of the area as you hike.

It’s only about an hour’s drive to Leavenworth, so it’s the perfect place to stop and explore Washington’s Bavarian village.

15. Barclay Lake

Distance: 4.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 400 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Location: Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

Looking for a nice, easy trail that features all of Washington’s most prized features? Look no further than Barclay Lake.

At just over 4 miles long and only 400 feet of elevation gain, you’ll be surprised at how much you’re able to see on this trail.

The short trail leads you to Barclay Lake, one of the most easily accessible alpine lakes around.

In the background, you’ll see the impressive Mount Baring towering over the lake.

Even kiddos will do well on this trail, as it’s very well maintained and features enough to keep them busy without tiring out too quickly.

16. Moulton Falls

Distance: 5.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 300 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Location: Moulton Falls Park
Pass Required: None

If you’re located down in southern Washington State, near the Vancouver area, check out Moulton falls this winter.

This easy trail is the perfect escape from the city into nature.

You’ll take a 5.3-mile trail, with very minimal elevation gain, and will follow the East Fork Lewis River.

View the popular Moulton Falls Bridge, walk near the cascading waterfall, and enjoy a peaceful stroll along the water.

Even though this isn’t the tallest or most beautiful waterfall in the state, it still provides a nice little trip to nature from Portland or Vancouver.

17. North Head Lighthouse

Distance: 0.75 miles
Elevation Gain: 25 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Location: Cape Disappointment State Park
Pass Required: Discover

I’ll never understand how anything as beautiful as this place could be named ‘Disappointment,’ but here we are.

Cape Disappointment State Park is located at the very far southwestern part of Washington, almost touching Oregon.

Within the park, you’ll find the popular North Head Lighthouse.

The trail to the lighthouse is short and great for all levels, as well as being wheelchair accessible (although take note that the trail can be steep).

If you’re looking for a bit more, add on the short 1/4 mile-long trail to Bell’s Overlook to learn more about how the area came to be.

Washington winter hikes without snow that feature views of the ocean are so great because they’re something that you can’t find everywhere.

18. Hole in The Wall

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

Have you ever done a hike right off the coast of the ocean?

Well, now’s your chance! The hike to Hole in the Wall from Rialto Beach follows the shore of the Pacific Ocean.

Start at Rialto Beach, one of Olympic National Park’s many popular beaches, and make your way down the coast.

You’ll want to try to do this hike at low tide so you have the best chance of staying dry and being able to walk through the “hole-in-the-wall.”

The large arch in the rock is an interesting feature along the beach and is popular for good reasons.

While you’re on the shore, keep an eye out for whale blowholes in the ocean and starfish and anemones in the tide pools.

19. Mount Si

Distance: 7.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 3.400 feet
Difficulty: Hard
Location: North Bend
Pass Required: Discover

One of the most popular hikes around the North Bend area is to the top of Mount Si, a 4,167-foot peak.

It’s popular for good reasons- beautiful views, a chance at spotting wildlife, close proximity to Seattle, and doable year-round.

Close to 100,000 people complete this hike every year because it acts as a kind of ‘gateway’ to the Cascade mountain range.

Many people use it as a training hike for climbing Mount Rainier, and others enjoy it as just a simple day hike.

In the winter months, you’ll need to come a bit more prepared with snow gear and warm clothes.

There will be snow on the trail, so you’ll want to have crampons, trekking poles, and other winter gear that you may need.

And although it’s not snow-free, the hike to Mount Si provides amazing views, no matter the time of year.

20. Gold Creek Pond

Distance: 2.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 45 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Location: Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest
Pass Required: Northwest Forest

This easy, paved trail provides a nice, wheelchair and stroller-accessible trail in the winter and a short, easy snowshoe in the winter.

You’ll have views of the central Cascades as you make your way around this small pond.

Kendall Peak is in front of you, so take in the views of the 5,784-foot mountain.

You’ll have a few choices as to where you go, including around the pond and back to the parking lot or further into the woods.

Many people take the shortened loop around the pond, which is perfect for beginner snowshoes and small kiddos.

21. Oyster Dome

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

A hike up multiple switchbacks through the old-growth forests on Blanchard Mountain leads you to a unique overlook.

Once you’ve reached the top, you’ll look out and have views of the Samish Bay and the Olympic Mountains in the distance.

See if you can spot Anacortes and Orcas Island, a few of the islands within the San Juan Islands of Washington.

Where you’re standing is part of the Chuckanut Mountain range, which is an extension of the Cascades that juts directly out of the Pacific Ocean.

Oyster Dome sits at about 2,025 feet above sea level, so you surely get a great view from the top of this challenging hike.

22. Snoqualmie Falls

Distance: 0.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 50 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Location: Fisher Creek Park
Pass Required: None

One of the most famous and popular waterfalls within the state, and perhaps one of the easiest hikes in Washington, is Snoqualmie Falls.

With just a short, 35-minute drive, you can be at one of the best winter hikes near Seattle, and with just a quick walk from the car, you’ll reach the roaring waterfall.

Over 100 years ago, this waterfall was turned into the world’s first completely underground power plant and is still used to this day.

Today, visitors flock to the waterfall and watch as it pours over the tall cliff.

A lodge has since been built right next to the waterfall, where many people stay for weddings and other events.

23. Steamboat Rock

Distance: 4 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Steamboat Rock State Park
Pass Required: Discover

The eastern half of Washington has yet to be explored by many hikers, but there are so many beautiful places to experience!

Steamboat Rock is one of them, a huge rock jutting out of Banks Lake, featuring epic views of the rolling hills surrounding it.

The hike to the top is tough and brings you over a large boulder field, but once you’ve made it to the top of the butte, it’s easy sailing.

Walk around on the 600 acres of land on the top of Steamboat Rock and see the 360-degree views around you.

It’s a different viewpoint from what you’ll see in western Washington and features a more desert-like climate.

Because of this, this is likely to be one of the winter hikes in Washington with no snow.

Visit during spring and early summer to see hundreds of yellow balsamroot flowers popping up all over the butte.

Can You Hike in Washington in the Winter?

Short answer; YES!

Even though summer and fall are the most popular times to hike in Washington, there are still plenty of trails open in winter.

High elevation trails (in the mountains- Cascades, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Adams, Mt. Rainier, etc.) will have snow ranging from October to July.

So hikes in these areas likely won’t be accessible unless you have the proper gear and knowledge for hiking in the snowy mountains.

But, plenty of trails at lower elevations are open year-round with little to no snow and are perfect for still hitting the trail when it’s cold.

Tips for Hiking in Washington in Winter

What to Wear for Winter Hiking in Washington

Base Layer — Wick sweat away from your body and keep heat in with the base layer. I like this Smartwool merino wool long sleeve. (Men’s version here)

Mid-Layer — A second layer helps keep you warm when temperatures are chilly. This Cotopaxi Fleece Sweater is great. (Men’s version here)

Jacket — The Outdoor Research Shadow jacket is a good option for a warm jacket without totally breaking the bank. (Men’s version here)

Long Pants — Keep your legs warm with a pair of long pants. Some have insulation while others are a shell to put over another pair.

Hiking Socks — I love Darn Tough socks because they have a lifetime warranty and tons of cute patterns.

Sturdy Hiking Shoes — I love my tried and true Oboz Sawtooth because they’re sturdy, comfy, and last forever! (Men’s version here)

Crampons — It’s important to have a traction device like crampons when on winter hiking trails with snow. These are the affordable ones that I use.

Trekking Poles — Poles help with balance and taking pressure off of your knees. They’re especially helpful in snow. These are my favorite ones.

Hat — Keep those ears warm with either a hat or headband. I use a headband like this one because I can still put my hair in a ponytail.

Gloves — It’s super important to protect your hands and fingers from frostbite and cold, so grab a warm, touch-screen compatible pair like these.

FAQs

Wrap-Up: Best Winter Hikes in Washington

Frosty waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, mossy forests, and beautiful trails are just a few of the things you’ll see on a hike in Washington.

Although it’s not the prime season, there are plenty of hiking opportunities when winter hits.

This list of the best winter hikes in Washington will help keep you busy during the cold seasons and have you outdoors year-round.