The Best Fall Hikes in Washington State
Words and Photos by Jared Leingang
Fall is here and now is a great time to experience a different side of Washington especially if you’re used to only hiking in the Summer. The crisp air, early sunsets, and golden larches make Fall one of the best times of the year to get out and hike. So pack your hand warmers, grab an extra jacket and discover the best Fall hikes Washington has to offer!
Little Si
We are starting off with one of the most popular hikes in Washington State. If you are a local you most likely have heard of it or even hiked it! Little Si is the younger brother of the more difficult Mt. Si. Both provide amazing views of the valley. Located near North Bend, the parking lot is usually full by 8 AM so get there early or take the bus! Little Si is still a great workout for beginners and experienced hikers. It's 3.7 miles roundtrip with 1300 feet of elevation. If you feel like you can handle the older brother, the Mt. Si trail connects with Little Si so you could even do both on the same day. If you’re looking for an easy to moderate-level hike with no snow then Little Si is the perfect choice.
Naches Peak Loop & Sheep Lake
These 2 popular hikes are close together by the Sunrise side of Rainer National Park and can be done on the same day. Naches Peak is a short loop that gives you breathtaking views of Mt. Rainer and Tipsoo Lake. It includes stunning colorful meadows and even follows a part of the Pacific Crest Trail. Naches Peak clocks in at 3.2 miles round trip and a meager 600 feet of elevation.
After completing Naches Peak take a short drive to the Sheep Lake trailhead. Sheep Lake is a remarkable little lake guarded by alpine mountains and trees. The trail starts off along the highway and gives you beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding area. Dip into the forest for a short period before opening up to the lake. The trek is an easy climb and is suitable for children as with Naches Peak. This area is very popular so consider going early. Sheep Lake is 3.6 miles roundtrip and only 400 feet in elevation.
Skyline Trail
After seeing the views of Rainer on the Sunrise side take the drive over to Paradise and witness the beauty that is the Skyline Trail. This is one of my favorite areas in the state and it's called paradise for a reason. The most popular trail at Paradise visitor center boasts beautiful fall colors of red, orange, and yellow. The trail is filled with roaring waterfalls and picturesque views that you’ll be stopping every 5 minutes to take a picture. Unfortunately, Paradise shuts down to visitors as soon as winter starts so make sure to get there as soon as possible! Skyline is a step up in difficulty from Naches peak as it's 5.5 Miles roundtrip and has 1450 feet of elevation gain
Heather Lake
Conquered Skyline Loop and looking for a little more of a challenge and the same amazing views? Heather Lake is a must for anyone looking for a little more of a challenge. Located in the North Cascades, the scenic lake is located on Mt. Pilchuck. It’s short but steep and the road to the trailhead is littered with potholes but the view is worth the effort. The trek is 4.6 miles roundtrip and over 1000 feet of elevation it can be a real thigh burner. Along the trail and the lake witness the beautiful vegetation, and berries. The lake is crystal clear and the surrounding cliffs are in its reflection
Twin Falls
Coming back to North Bend, Twin Falls is just off I-90 and is one of the best family-friendly hikes in Washington. The trail starts off by following the South Fork Snoqualmie River. It's a great spot to relax and listen to the roaring waters. At about 0.5 miles in climb away from the river and enter the woods. After about another 0.5 miles you hit your first viewpoint that has some benches for you to rest and view the falls. You can turn around here or continue to the final 2 viewpoints; Lower Falls and Upper Falls. Overall the trip is 2.6 miles roundtrip and only 500 feet of elevation. The view from the Upper Falls viewpoint is spectacular and is highly recommended. This is a personal favorite and I do this hike many times during the Fall and Winter.
Now, these are only a few of the many hikes in Washington State. There are plenty of other hikes and adventures out there that are perfect for Fall. Remember no matter what hike you go on be sure to pack the 10 Essentials and check the weather before you start your adventure.
