22 Best Winter Hikes In Washington State

The worst season in Washington State is known to be winter. It is dreary, cold, wet, and cloudy. After living here for two years, I can see why many people like to stay inside during the winter. But as you might know, hiking is amazing for your mental and physical well being. So even though I want to stay inside nice and warm, I still make myself get outside and take in some fresh air. It really has helped me get through the brutal winter seasons, and I have found some of the most beautiful Winter Hikes In Washington. The mountains dusted with snow really is something marvelous to witness. So grab your snowshoes, microspikes, and warm jacket and get ready for some awesome hikes in the winter.

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What To Pack For A Washington Winter Adventure

• Base Layers: This is the first layer I put on. Smartwool makes great quality base layers. >Check Out The Bottoms Here >Check Out The Tops Here
• Sweat Wicking Shirt: Cotton shirts soak up your sweat when hiking, so make sure to wear something breathable. >Check out this awesome breathable shirt here.
• Mid Layer: A nice sweater is great to have in the winter. The key to winter hiking in Washington State is layering. >Check Out My Fav Sweater Here
• Insulating Jacket: Arcteryx makes some of the warmest and comfiest jackets in the market! >Check Out My Fav Winter Jacket Here
• Outer Shell: Winter in Washington is so rainy or snowy so I always bring a rain jacket on all my hikes no matter if the forecast says sunny all day. >Check Out My Rain Jacket Here
• Wool Socks: Having the correct socks helps prevent getting blisters. Smart Wool is probably my favorite brand out there. >Buy Hiking Socks
• Winter Hiking Boots: Winter hiking boots usually have a better grip than regular hiking boots and are insulated. >Check these out here
• Hiking Gloves: >Buy Some Gloves Here
• Winter Hat: You lose a lot of your body heat from your head so wear a warm hat! >Buy This One Here
• Buff: This helps keep your face nice and warm 🙂 >Buy A Buff Here
• Sunglasses: It can get sunny even in the winter! Make sure to bring these just in case. >Check Them Out Here
• Gaiters: This helps prevent snow from getting inside your shoes. >Check Them Out Here
• Crampons/Microspikes: If there is a chance of trails with ice, it is a good idea to bring this. It will make your life so much easier. >Buy Some Here
• Sports Bra: For women. >Check This One Here
• Trekking Poles: These help keep your balance! Especially because the ground is so slippery in the Winter. >Check Them Out Here
• Winter Hiking Pants: My favorite hiking pants are these leggings that have a warm fleece lining. If it is super cold I make sure to pair them with base layers. >Check Out These Warm Leggings Here!
• Knife: I always carry a knife in my backpack just in case. >Check Out My Knife Here
• Water Bottle: Winter is the only time I hesitate to bring a hydration reservoir as the water might freeze. >Check Out My Fav Water Bottle Here
• Backpack: To carry all your gear, water, and food, you need a good backpack. Osprey is known to have some of the best backpacks in the market. >Buy This Great Quality Backpack
• Snacks: I love these bars! Very healthy and flavorful. >Check Them Out Here

Safety Tips For Washington Winter Hikes

• Always bring your Ten Essentials.
• Read trail reports before heading out. This is especially important in the winter. What if the road to the trail is too snowy, and your car gets stuck with no service. I like to use the Washington Trails Association and All Trails for trip reports.
• Avalanche safety is key to hiking in the winter. In all honesty, I avoid avalanche areas as much as possible. Most of the trails I list below are not avalanche-prone areas. The only one you have to check is Artist Point. You can check here. I also recommend at least taking a beginner avalanche safety course.
• Having a downloaded map on your phone is another way to stay safe on the trail. If you are the first hiker on the trail and it just snowed the night before, it can be difficult to follow. I like to use All-Trails as a map.

For more in-depth information on The Ten Essential Click Here: The Ten Hiking Essentials

Winter Hikes In Washington State

Puget Sound and Islands

Deception Pass

• Trail Guide: Link

If you feel like you want a more beachy snow free vibe this winter, then Deception Pass is the perfect place to explore. You don’t need to hike to enjoy this spot necessarily. There are many fantastic places you can park and enjoy. I particularly love exploring around here during the sunset. The reflection of the water, while the sun is setting, is just stunning.

Oyster Dome

• Distance: 7.3 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 1,879 ft.
• Route Type: Out and Back
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

I did this trail on a cold February day. The views were glorious at the top, and I loved the pretty streams and greenery blanketed with snow. It would be best if you had good shoes, a jacket, and layers for this hike. When we did the trail, it was filled with snow and slush. This trail is more for experienced hikers.

Mount Rainier

Mazama Ridge

• Distance: 6 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 900 ft.
• Route Type: Out and Back
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

Hiking anywhere in Mount Rainier National Park is a magical experience. Add in some snow, and you got yourself a winter wonderland. I loved hiking the Mazama Trail in Paradise, and to this day, it is one of the best snowshoeing experiences of my life. It is a little difficult, but the trail is pretty flat once you get to the ridge.

We saw some backpackers, and I was honestly jealous that they would experience sunset and sunrise at this magical place. You have to get out of the park by a certain time in the winter, so a sunset hike is out of the question.

Since my friends and I wanted to avoid avalanche terrain, we asked the ranger how to get to the ridge while avoiding avalanche zones. The ranger was very kind and gave us a map of the trail and avalanche chutes. We also used the AllTrails map to guide us safely.

Olympic Peninsula

Sol Duc Falls

• Distance: 1.6 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 226 ft.
• Route Type: Out and Back
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

Sol Duc Falls is a popular trail for the whole family. Even though I usually enjoy difficult hikes, I really liked this straightforward trail. I did it on a beautiful morning when the sun was going up, and the light rays were lighting up the trees. Simply marvelous! You don’t need any crampons or snowshoes for this trail in the winter.

Mount Storm King

• Distance: 4.1 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 2,106 ft.
• Route Type: Out and Back
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

Mount Storm King is a popular Instagram spot all year round. The breathtaking views of Lake Crescent and Canada in the distance really make this difficult trek worth it. When I say this trek is difficult, I really mean it. The trail is so steep on some sections, and you need rope to pull you up. Don’t worry; the rope is already on the trail, so you don’t need to bring your own. Is it fun? Yes, it was a blast for me as a former rock climber, but this can be a doozy for someone scared of heights. 

If this all sounds a little too much, then check out Marymere Falls. The trail is extremely easy and short to do and shares the same trailhead as Mount Storm King. This is a great family hike.

Staircase Rapids

• Distance: 2.1 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 213 ft.
• Route Type: Loop
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

My friend and I decided to attempt this trail on a cold, winter, rainy day. It was the perfect hike for the crappy weather. The dreary clouds really brought out the lush, green trees, and the river was flowing rapidly due to the rain. This trail can be done all year long, and you don’t need crampons or snowshoes as the trail is pretty flat and easy with no elevation gain.

Central Cascades – Stevens Pass

Skyline Lake

• Distance: 3 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 1100 ft
• Route Type: Out and Back
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

I feel like this snowshoe hike is extremely underrated. The trail is pretty steep and has glorious views of the Stevens Pass ski area. I especially loved how the trees looked on this trail. This trail is for more intermediate snowshoers and requires snowshoes to get up to the lake.

Wallace Falls State Park

• Distance: 4.9 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 1,489 ft
• Route Type: Out and Back
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Wallace Falls is a great rainy day hike in the winter (which is a huge probability in Washington). Even though it is rated as moderate, it is still a great trail for the whole family. Just take your time. I did this at the beginning of winter, and the trail was muddy, so bring some good hiking shoes. Microspikes are not needed. There are many viewpoints along the way, and you don’t need to see all of them to enjoy this trail (Lower Wallace Falls, Middle Wallace Falls, and Upper Wallace Falls). We got to Upper Wallace Falls, but I feel like Middle Wallace Falls has the best views.

Heybrook Lookout

• Distance: 1.9 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 879 ft.
• Route Type: Out and Back
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

Heybrook lookout is an easy day hike you can do with the family all year long. The views are fantastic while you are hiking through the forest, and the views are glorious at the lookout. The best time to go is during the early morning before the crowds are there as the parking lot is pretty small.

Lake Wenatchee State Park

• Distance: 2.3 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 78 ft.
• Route Type: Loop
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

Lake Wenatchee State Park is such a dreamy spot to explore. We had a cabin nearby for Christmas and decided to hike here with the whole family (including non-hikers). No snowshoes needed, only hiking boots. The trail is pretty flat and does require a snow park pass.

Mountain Loop Highway

Heather Lake Trail

• Distance: 5.4 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 1,210 ft.
• Route Type: Out and Back
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Heather Lake is a popular winter hike. The road to the trailhead can be a little sketchy. There are many potholes that can be difficult to drive in, in the winter. You might have to park far away from the trailhead. Most people bring microspikes to get to the lake.

Snoqualmie Region – North Bend Area

Middle Fork Snoqualmie

• Distance: 24.9 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 3,316 ft.
• Route Type: Out and Back
• Trail Guide: Link

This trail is a fantastic easy hike for everyone, and it features a beautiful bridge that is Instagram-worthy. I love this trail because you don’t need crampons or snowshoes, and you can turn around anytime you like. There isn’t a specific viewpoint on this hike. It is one of those go at your own pace and just enjoy the scenery kind of hike (the bridge is located at the trailhead).

Franklin Falls Hike

• Distance: 6.9 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 816 ft.
• Route Type: Out and Back
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Franklin Falls is well known to be the best waterfall to visit in the winter. The reason for that is the waterfall can freeze and becomes a glorious frozen oasis. There is a lot of confusion on this hike though. If you Google this waterfall you might see that the trail is around 2 miles round trip. This is incorrect for the winter.

During the winter the forest road closes and you have to hike around 7 miles. The elevation gain is not too bad, but the length can be exhausting, especially in the winter. Bring many snacks and layers.

You might need snowshoes and microspikes to help you get to the waterfall. We were able to get to the waterfall without either but that might not be the case for when you go.

Hex Mountain Snowshoe

• Distance: 7.2 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 2614 ft.
• Route Type: Out and Back
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

Hex Mountain is another trail where I got unlucky weather. Thick, ominous clouds blocked the views, and there were high winds to the point where we had to turn around because our dog was a little too cold for comfort (yes, even with a jacket). But I have seen pictures of this trail on a beautiful day, and it is worth it if you have perfect weather.

The trail is very steep and deep with snow, so you definitely need snowshoes. The hike is for more advanced snowshoers.

Rattlesnake Ledge

• Distance: 5.3 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 1,459 ft.
• Route Type: Out and Back
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Rattlesnake Ledge is the most well-known trail in Washington State. It is the trail that even non-hikers hike. It is pretty easy, has great views, and is relatively close to Seattle. You usually do not need microspikes for this trail in the winter. I say usually because I live pretty close to the trail, and every once in a while, it does get a little snowy/icy.

Twin Falls

• Distance: 2.5 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 636 ft.
• Route Type: Out and Back
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

Twin Falls is my go-to hike for out of towners. The waterfall is so spectacular to witness, and the trail is pretty easy. This is great for the whole family, and you do not need microspikes or snowshoes. Just note that it does get pretty busy on weekends.

Mount Si

• Distance: 7.9 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 3,395 ft.
• Route Type: Out and Back
• Difficulty: Hard
• Trail Guide: Link

Mount Si delivers fantastic views of North Bend and the Snoqualmie area. It is a great trail that is located pretty close to Seattle. You do not need snowshoes, but you might need microspikes on certain days.

Gold Creek Pond

• Distance: 2.8 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 10 ft.
• Route Type: Loop
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

Gold Creek Pond trail is probably the number one winter hike in Washington. The trail is flat, easy, and relatively close to Seattle. Because of that, I highly recommend getting there exceptionally early, or you will be met with hoards of people. It features a cute lake and beautiful trees blanketed with snow. You may need showshoes, or you might not. It all depends on how packed the snow is when you get there.

Mount Baker Area

Artist Point

• Distance: 4.4 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 980 ft.
• Route Type: Out and Back
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

My all-time favorite trail in the winter is Artist Point. If someone told me I could only pick one winter trail that I had to do for the rest of my life, it would be this one. Mount Baker and all of the mountains surrounding it are spectacular. It is even better if you can get this on a clear beautiful winter day.

I will warn you, though, that there is some avalanche danger in this area. Always check before you head out here and bring snowshoes. You will, for sure, need them. It is one of the snowiest areas in the country.

Columbia River Gorge

Spirit Falls

• Distance: 0.7 miles, roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 433 ft.
• Route Type: Out and Back
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Trail Guide: Link

I love Spirit Falls. My husband and I decided to do this trail on Christmas, and we were met with a fantastic show of kayakers racing down the waterfall. It was a perfect way to celebrate the holidays. Do not let the mileage of this trail fool you, though.

This trail is rated difficult even in the summer. Add in some snow and ice, and it is even more difficult. The trail is extremely steep, so definitely bring some crampons if you attempt this in the winter. I do not think this trail is the best fit for children. 

Southwest Washington

Cape Disappointment

• Trail Guide: Link

Cape Disappointment isn’t an actual trail. It is more of an area. I really enjoyed exploring this place at the end of November. Even when it was drizzling, the views were outstanding. You can attempt trails like the North Head Lighthouse and the Lewis and Clark Discovery Trail. There is also Waikiki Beach, where many people flock in the winter to experience the King Tides. The King Tides are enormous waves that crash into the coast and can be experienced in December.

Final Thoughts On Best Winter Hikes Washington

I hope you found the perfect hike for the winter. Make sure to check out some of my other Pacific Northwest Posts:

• Best Hikes In Washington State
• Best Hikes At Mount Rainier National Park
• Best Hikes At Olympic National Park
• Best Waterfalls In Washington State
• The Best Hikes At North Cascades National Park
• 17 Breathtaking Easy Hikes In Washington State
• The Ultimate Guide To Snowshoeing Mt Rainier National Park

Pin For Later: Winter Destinations Washington State