Mount Rainier, Washington

Starting at an elevation of 3,300 feet, begin the hike on a steep gravel road for 1/4 of a mile. Take a left onto a dirt road that will lead to an area of clear cuts and windy switchbacks.As daunting as this may seem, don't be discouraged. On a clear day, the surrounding peaks of Snoqualmie Pass ...

Starting at the McClellan's Butte Trailhead, right off of I-90 exit 47, head out on the main (only) trail at the trailhad. The first half mile of the trail is quite easy as it meanders through the forest, but don't be fooled or worried, it will get harder. This first half mile has a crossing of a...

The trek up Granite Mountain is a strenuous and fairly steep hike located east of Seattle and west of Snoqualmie pass off of I-90. Take exit 47 and turn North to a T intersection, park at the Pratt lake Trailhead at approximately 1860' and right beside I-90. The trail splits just after the first...

This overnight hike is definitely a challenge with 2,300 feet of elevation gain but all that huffing and puffing will be worth it when you reach the beautiful Pratt Lake Basin.The trail can be a bit busy in the first mile but most of the traffic is from day hikers on their way up the popular Gran...

For the most of the hike, the mountain is hidden behind the firs that surround the hiker as they gain elevation. Because of the dense forest the trail is remains in for most of the hike, it is nicely shaded and pleasant to wander through. At about 2 miles in, the trail leads the hiker into variou...

This hike offers some of the best views one can see in the area. On a clear day, you'll get amazing views of Mt. Rainier. The best part is that as you start heading uphill in the first half mile, you'll get great views of McClellan Butte. Once you reach the summit of Defiance at 5584 feet, you'll...

This hike has unreal views of Mount Rainier. On a great clear spring day, the mountain is out. It's right in your face. It's incredible. If you tackle this hike in the spring the bear grass and wildflowers are alive and blooming towards the top and it makes for some fantastic picture-taking. Once...

Takhlakh Lake is located 7 miles NW of Mt Adams with a 53 site campground on the west side of the lake as well as a day use picnic area.The campground features a boat ramp and a wheelchair-accessible 1.1 mile flat trail, which encircles the lake, and accesses the Meadows Trail that climbs up to t...

Being only a 10 minute drive off the 90, this Lake is often overlooked by the popular Rattlesnake Ledge hike right above. Take exit 32 from the 90E onto 436th SE Ave and continue onto Cedar Falls Rd SE and continue for about 3 miles. At this point, a parking lot will be on your right that is both...

The trail to Rattlesnake Ledge is one of the busiest in Washington. Usually, a Saturday or Sunday is a no go for a lot of avid hikers due to the crowds. Adding a little snow and cold diminishes the crowds nicely. While it is no secret, this hike is popular for a reason. The 2 miles it takes t...

The quintessential family friendly hike,  Gold Creek Pond is a simple yet spectacular hike next to Snoqualmie Pass. Easily accessible from the top of the pass (4.5 miles, 12 minute drive), the Gold Creek Pond hike is a simple addition to any itinerary if you're in the area. From Hwy 90, take exit...

Since the parking lot is not plowed in the winter you have to park along the main road next to the drive way toward the hike. Once to the trial head it is smooth sailing the rest of the hike. When I went the snow was compacted so snowshoes were not necessary but they are very helpful. Once to the...

This is an easy 2 mile roundtrip hike that leads to beautiful Franklin Falls. The trail is very well maintained and is easy for even young hikers to travel. The trail goes through the forest and along a gorge as you gain 400 feet in elevation to the falls. There are a few places you can scramble...

You start out at an elevation of about 1200 feet and you gradually make your way up to the top at 4450 feet. You are hiking through forest land the whole time with peaks of a beautiful view to the north every so often. Along the way there are many rock walls which you can climb at, however on our...

Initial note: because this is an alpine scramble, do your research before tackling this adventure, including learning the correct route and the current conditions (such as any early- or late-season snow). From the Denny Creek Trailhead, take the Denny Creek trail just over 4 miles to Melakwa Lak...

Driving Directions: From Seattle drive east on I-90 to exit 54 (signed "Hyak"). Turn left (north) under the freeway and right on the frontage road marked "Gold Creek." After about 0.5 mile turn left (north) on Gold Creek Road (Forest Road 4832), and in another 0.5 mile reach a junction. To the le...