Exploring the trails of Western Washington can be a breathtaking experience, especially for those looking for shorter hikes. Here’s a guide to some of the best trails under 5 miles in the region, offering a blend of scenic beauty, ease of access, and unique natural features.
- Rattlesnake Ridge, Snoqualmie Region (4.0 miles): This popular trail offers a well-maintained path with breathtaking views at the summit, including a turquoise lake and rolling hills.
- Naches Peak Loop, Mt. Rainier Area (3.2 miles): With a moderate elevation gain, this trail presents majestic views of Mt. Rainier. Hikers can enjoy huckleberries and wildflowers in late July, as well as stunning views from Alpine Meadows.
- Franklin Falls, Snoqualmie Region (2.0 miles): Perfect for beginners or a simple day hike, this trail leads to a beautiful waterfall. The hike is relatively cool even on warm days due to the tree cover.
- Oyster Dome, Puget Sound & Islands (5.0 miles): Known for its switchbacks through a Douglas Fir forest, this trail offers incredible views of Orcas Island, Vancouver Island, and the Olympic Mountains.
- Little Si, Snoqualmie Region (4.7 miles): A less challenging alternative to Mt. Si, this hike still offers a rewarding view of North Bend and the side of Mt. Si, with a trail busy throughout the year.
- Shadow of the Sentinels Trail (1.0 mile): This half-paved, half-boardwalk trail winds through an old-growth forest with towering ancient trees. It’s an educational and serene experience suitable for all ages.
- Grove of the Patriarch’s Loop, Mount Rainier National Park (1.5 miles): This family-friendly path takes you through some of the oldest forests in Washington, over a suspension bridge to a grove of towering trees.
- Bagley Lakes Trail (2.0 miles): Offering a fairy tale-like experience, this loop passes two alpine lakes, wildflowers, and has a stunning mountainous backdrop.
- Quartzite Mountain (3.0 miles): A steep but short hike, it rewards you with a 360-degree view overlooking the town of Chewelah, passing through wildflower meadows and forests.
- Naches Peak Loop (3.2 miles): This kid-friendly loop offers easy hiking full of alpine scenery, passing through grassy meadows with minimal elevation gain.
- Twin Falls Trail (3.5 miles): Featuring a huge, 135-foot cascade, this trail leads to a beautiful waterfall and is accessible from the Homestead Valley Trailhead.
- Comet Falls Trail (3.8 miles): A must-visit for its impressive waterfall in Mount Rainier National Park, the trail winds along Van Trump Creek.
- Second Beach (4.0 miles): An easy coastal hike leading through a forested area to a sandy beach with a natural arch formation and scenic views.
- Moulton Falls (4.0 miles): A peaceful out-and-back hike in southwestern Washington along the Lewis River, leading to an amazing swimming hole.
- Silver Star Mountain (4.0 miles): Though challenging, the hike offers some of the most rewarding views in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
- Rattlesnake Ledge (4.0 miles): A busy but scenic trail, it leads to a rocky ledge with sweeping views over a bright turquoise lake.
- Sauk Mountain Trail (4.2 miles): Offering 360-degree views, this steep hike rewards you with vistas of river valleys, the Cascade mountains, and, on clear days, the Olympics, Puget Sound, and San Juan Islands.
- Little Si Trail (4.7 miles): Slightly challenging, this trail offers picturesque views of North Bend and the side of Mt. Si.
These trails are ideal for family outings, group hikes, or solo adventures, providing a chance to experience the diverse natural beauty of Western Washington without the commitment of a long hike.
