Washington

Located in the Pasayten Wilderness and surrounded by Amphitheater Mountain and Cathedral Peak, Cathedral Lakes are a great destination for a multi-day backpacking trip. The shortest route to get Cathedral Lakes (not coming from Canada) is roughly 19 miles. This may be a bit of a "slog" but is def...

Under 2 hours from Portland, Mount Adams sees a sizable crowd of visitors - but get beyond the first mile of the South Climb trail, and you're unlikely to encounter another person until you circle around all the way to the PCT.  This loop around the mountain doesn't put you quite as high up as th...

Getting to the summit is no easy task.  The approach is long, you must cross a glacier, and once you are to the summit block the easiest way up is on loose 4th class rock, however a short pitch of 5.4 rock is recommended instead. Getting there On your way to the trail-head you will need to stop a...

From Leavenworth, head south on Icicle Creek rd for 8.2 miles until you reach USFS rd 7601. This road isn't plowed and is blocked by a locked gate about one quarter mile from where it intersects with Icicle Creek Road (usually from November to May), so parking at the intersection is probably your...

Looking for a distinctive high-country hike just east of the pass? Cutthroat Pass is a hearty day hike perfect for gaining elevation and views with every step. It's even more dynamic as a point-to-point, exiting via the Pacific Crest Trail if you have two vehicles. Also great for a one-night back...

You can stat this adventure at one of two trailheads. I suggest using the lower of the two. The start of the trail ascends through a forest of old growth pines with periodic views of Mt Washington. Eventually, at a fork in the trail, you will see a sign marking the start of the winter route. You ...

Ruby Mountain is one of the North Cascades more prominent peaks, sitting high above Diablo and Ross Lakes. This trip is one for more experienced hikers with a very aggressive incline from start to finish. If that does not scare you then definitely add this amazing hike to your list. While it can ...

This trail features beautiful wildflower meadows during the summer season and is relativity low trafficked. Bring your hammock for breathtaking views from the lookout and catch an incredible sunset. The summit has no established camping spots, so if staying overnight prepare to sleep on uneven gr...

The well trodden and well marked trail begins in the rainforest, and is flat and follows the river for the first few miles. There are many marked camp sites along the way, as well as dispersed camping on the sand bars in the river bed. Follow the trail until the first major intersection, at the O...

Take Hwy 20 to Rainy Pass, and park at the trailhead on the east side of the highway. Begin on the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), heading towards Cutthroat Pass.The trail winds it's way towards the pass at a gentle grade over 5 miles. As the trail ascends, you'll leave the forest behind as you enter ...

Starting in the parking lot at Steven's Pass Ski Resort (roughly 4,062 feet in elevation; I recommend parking in E lot), start by walking between the two main lodges towards the ski lifts. You'll see a trail on the northwest-facing slope that switches back across the mountain - this is the PCT. O...

There are many different ways to reach 1000 Acre Meadows, but this guide will get you there starting at the Deer Park trailhead (5,400').Day 1: 14 miles You will start out by descending 2,400' and 4.3 miles to reach the Graywolf Camp. This is where the loop meets up with itself later on. Our goal...

If you want to visit multiple lakes, get a view of or tackle a peak at Kaleetan, Chair, and Bryant, campgrounds for overnight or weekend adventures, fish in the lakes, explore off the trail and natural waterslides and picnic area waterfalls, this is for you. Denny Creek Trail offers it all! Afte...

Arrive at Longmire in Mount Rainier National park about 9a.m. They open the gate during the late season at this time so you will want to get ahead of the crowd, especially if it is a beautiful day! This time of year it is required to carry chains, so don't forget those. Arrive at Paradise parking...

I backpacked to and setup basecamp at Rainbow Lake and then I ran over to Island Lake. After enjoying the peace and quite I ran up to the top of Bandera Mountain and enjoyed the views. Then, I ran back to basecamp and spent the night. The following morning I ran up to the top of Mount Defiance a...

Starting at Rainy Pass trailhead, you'll proceed to skirt high above Lake Ann on a marvelously maintained trail. Without realizing you're about to arrive at a pass, you'll come to Heather Pass, where you'll need to take a right. Continuing straight is also a popular hike, especially during peak l...