Washington state offers an unparalleled playground for backpackers, boasting thousands of miles of trails winding through diverse landscapes. From rugged coastlines to soaring peaks and pristine alpine lakes, the opportunity to spend a night immersed in nature’s beauty is truly special. Backpacking Trips Washington provide a deeper connection to the wilderness, allowing you to witness unforgettable sunsets and sunrises far from the city lights.
If you’re willing to carry your home on your back, the rewards are immense. We’ve explored numerous trails across the state during prime backpacking season (typically mid-June through mid-September), experiencing the peace and quiet of the wilderness firsthand. Based on our adventures, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best overnight Backpacking Trips Washington, categorized by difficulty to help you plan your next escape into the great outdoors.
Why Choose Washington for Backpacking?
Washington’s geography is incredibly varied, featuring everything from temperate rainforests and volcanic peaks to arid eastern landscapes and rugged coastal areas. This diversity means there’s a backpacking experience for every skill level and preference. Whether you’re seeking challenging alpine climbs, gentle lakeside strolls, or historic routes, Washington’s trail system, maintained by organizations like the Washington Trails Association (WTA), offers access to breathtaking natural wonders.
Planning Your Washington Backpacking Trip
Successful Backpacking Trips Washington require careful planning. Consider the time of year – while summer (July-September) offers the most reliable weather and snow-free trails at higher elevations, some lower elevation or coastal trips are possible earlier or later. Always check trail conditions and snow reports before you go. Essential gear includes a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, backpack, water filter/purifier, navigation tools (map, compass, GPS app), food, and appropriate clothing layers.
Beginner backpacking trip along the Washington coast at Capa Alava.
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Permits are often required, ranging from free self-issue permits at the trailhead to advance reservations in popular national parks and wilderness areas. Always practice Leave No Trace principles to protect the fragile ecosystems you visit. This includes staying on trails, camping in designated or durable areas, properly storing food, and packing out everything you pack in.
Beginner-Friendly Backpacking Trips Washington
These trips are ideal introductions to overnight hiking, featuring manageable mileage and elevation gain. They often offer beautiful scenery without requiring extensive experience or fitness.
Sheep Lake
A fantastic option for those new to Backpacking Trips Washington, Sheep Lake offers a gentle ascent in the Mount Rainier area. The trail leads directly to a serene lake framed by picturesque peaks. It’s relatively short and easy to follow, making it perfect for testing your gear and comfort level.
Stats: 3.6 miles roundtrip, 400′ elevation gain
Area: Mount Rainier area
Distance from Seattle: 1 hour, 48 min
Pass/Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Dogs Allowed? Dogs allowed on leash
Once you’ve set up camp by the lake, consider a day hike without your heavy pack. We highly recommend the trek up and over Sourdough Gap to Crystal Lake the following morning for additional stunning views and a chance to stretch your legs.
Camping near Sheep Lake in the Mount Rainier area on a backpacking trip.
Hiking towards Crystal Lake after camping at Sheep Lake near Mount Rainier.
Skyline Divide
While listed with moderate stats, Skyline Divide can be tackled as a beginner-friendly overnight by setting up camp early. The trail ascends gradually for the first couple of miles, reaching stunning meadows with panoramic views. You can establish your camp here and then explore further with just a day pack.
Stats: 9 miles roundtrip, 2,500′ elevation gain (Note: The stats reflect the full trail; see description for beginner strategy.)
Area: North Cascades, Mount Baker area
Distance from Seattle: 2 hours, 30 min
Pass/Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Dogs Allowed? Dogs allowed on leash
This area is famous for its abundant wildflowers and incredible sunset views over Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. It’s essential to only camp in established sites here to protect the fragile alpine meadows. Always check recent conditions, as road access can be challenging.
Wildflowers and Mount Shuksan views on a Skyline Divide backpacking trip.
Experiencing sunset views while backpacking the Skyline Divide trail in Washington.
Summit Lake
Another excellent entry into Backpacking Trips Washington in the Mount Rainier vicinity is Summit Lake. The trail takes you to a beautiful blue lake with Mount Rainier as a dramatic backdrop. It’s a straightforward hike perfect for a first overnight.
Stats: 6.1 miles roundtrip, 1,300′ elevation gain
Area: Mount Rainier
Distance from Seattle: 1 hour, 46 min
Pass/Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Dogs Allowed? Dogs allowed on leash
For truly spectacular views, consider pushing up to Summit Lake Ridge if campsites are available. Timing your visit for mid to late July might reward you with meadows full of vibrant avalanche lilies on the ridge approach. Securing a ridge campsite offers unparalleled vistas.
Campsite view from the ridge overlooking Summit Lake near Mount Rainier.
Moderate Backpacking Trips Washington
These trails present a bit more challenge in terms of mileage or elevation but are generally well-maintained and popular. They offer access to stunning alpine environments and unique natural features.
Tubal Cain Mine to Buckhorn Lake
Located on the Olympic Peninsula, this trail offers a unique journey through forests dense with rhododendrons before reaching a beautiful turquoise lake. It’s a moderate hike with some elevation gain, providing a satisfying overnight experience.
Stats: 12 miles roundtrip, 2,000′ elevation gain
Area: Olympic Peninsula
Distance from Seattle: 3-3.5 hours
Pass/Permit: Wilderness permit – self-issue at trailhead (no fee)
Dogs Allowed? Dogs allowed on leash
A fascinating detour on this route is the wreckage of an old plane crash, adding a touch of history and mystery to your trip. You can also connect to other trails, like the one leading to Marmot Pass, if you’re looking to extend your adventure or explore the area more deeply on future Backpacking Trips Washington.
Split image showing scenic Buckhorn Lake and a trail view on the Olympic Peninsula backpacking trip.
Park Butte
Leading to a historic fire lookout with commanding views of Mount Baker and the surrounding North Cascades, Park Butte is a classic Backpacking Trips Washington destination. The trail is popular and offers rewarding vistas throughout the hike.
Stats: 7.5 miles roundtrip, 2,200′ elevation gain
Area: North Cascades, Mount Baker area
Distance from Seattle: 2 hours, 13 min
Pass/Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Dogs Allowed? Dogs allowed on leash
If you’re lucky, you might find the fire lookout empty and available for overnight camping on a first-come, first-served basis. Otherwise, there are established campsites nearby. The views of Mount Baker from this trail are truly spectacular, especially during sunset.
Park Butte Fire Lookout at sunset, a highlight of Washington backpacking.
Views of Mount Baker while hiking towards Park Butte Fire Lookout in Washington.
Lake Ingalls
This trail takes you to a stunning deep blue alpine lake with dramatic views of Mount Stuart. While the stats seem moderate, the elevation gain is concentrated, making it feel more challenging in parts. The scenery is well worth the effort.
Stats: 9 miles roundtrip, 2,500′ elevation gain
Area: Snoqualmie Region, Salmon La Sac/Teanaway
Distance from Seattle: 2 hours, 19 min
Pass/Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Dogs Allowed? No dogs allowed
Camping is not permitted right by Lake Ingalls itself to protect the area. Headlight Basin, located about 0.8 miles before the lake, offers numerous campsites and is a popular spot with great views towards Mount Stuart. Be prepared for potentially windy conditions in Headlight Basin; choosing a sheltered spot on dirt (not rock) is advisable for staking your tent securely. Keep an eye out for the resident mountain goats!
A mountain goat near a campsite on the Lake Ingalls backpacking trail.
Stunning blue Lake Ingalls with Mount Stuart in the background during a Washington backpacking trip.
Campsite setup on rocks in Headlight Basin near Lake Ingalls.
Snowgrass Flats and Goat Lake Loop
A true gem among Backpacking Trips Washington, this loop trail offers constantly changing scenery, preventing any sense of retracing your steps. It features expansive mountain views, vibrant wildflowers, and a beautiful alpine lake.
Stats: 12.3 miles roundtrip, 2,706′ elevation gain
Area: South Cascades, Goat Rocks area
Distance from Seattle: 3 hours
Pass/Permit: Wilderness permit – self-issue at trailhead (no fee)
Dogs Allowed? Dogs allowed on leash
Highlights include views of Mount Adams, fields of wildflowers in season, and the chance to experience phenomena like cloud inversions at sunrise from higher vantage points near Goat Lake. The lake area can be windy, so come prepared with layers and sturdy tent stakes. For the adventurous, an extra push up to Old Snowy Mountain offers potentially even more dramatic views.
Wildflowers blooming near Goat Lake on the Snowgrass Flats Loop trail.
Sunrise cloud inversion near Goat Lake during a Washington backpacking trip.
Paddy-Go-Easy Pass
This hike, while somewhat challenging due to its concentrated gain, offers a strong sense of solitude and rewards you with gorgeous views of Sprite Lake and Mount Daniel. It’s less frequented than some other trails, providing a more secluded experience for your Backpacking Trips Washington.
Stats: 6 miles roundtrip, 2,560′ elevation gain
Area: Snoqualmie Region, Salmon La Sac/Teanaway
Distance from Seattle: 2 hours, 25 min
Pass/Permit: Wilderness permit – self-issue at trailhead (no fee)
Dogs Allowed? Dogs allowed on leash
A unique point of interest is a small, old mine shaft located near the ridge overlooking Sprite Lake. While mostly just a hole now, it adds a touch of history to the trek. Finding campsites near the lake allows for a beautiful morning view of the area.
View overlooking Sprite Lake from a ridge near Paddy-Go-Easy Pass.
Challenging Backpacking Trips Washington
These trips involve significant elevation gain, longer distances, or more rugged terrain, suitable for backpackers with good fitness and experience. The effort is often rewarded with truly spectacular, remote scenery.
Navaho Peak
Despite the significant stats, Navaho Peak can be approached as a more manageable overnight by breaking up the effort. Pitching your tent in the meadow area below Navaho Pass allows you to enjoy a lighter push to the summit the following day.
Stats: 13.7 miles roundtrip, 4,223′ elevation gain
Area: Snoqualmie Region, Salmon La Sac/Teanaway
Distance from Seattle: 1 hour, 58 min
Pass/Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Dogs Allowed? Dogs allowed on leash
The hike to the peak involves a demanding final ascent, but the 360-degree views from the top are incredibly rewarding. You’ll have panoramic vistas of surrounding ranges, including the impressive Mount Stuart. Ensure you camp on durable surfaces like dirt in the meadow, respecting the sensitive vegetation.
Sunset view of the Mount Stuart range from the Navaho Peak trail.
Panoramic view from Navaho Peak after a challenging Washington backpacking trip.
Rachel & Rampart Lakes
This trail’s stats can be deceiving, as much of the elevation gain is packed into a relatively short, steep section. The trail is also known for being wet and rocky in places, demanding careful footing. However, both Rachel Lake and the subsequent Rampart Lakes are stunning destinations among Backpacking Trips Washington.
Stats: 9 miles roundtrip, 2,539′ elevation gain
Area: Snoqualmie Pass
Distance from Seattle: 1 hour, 23 min
Pass/Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Dogs Allowed? Dogs allowed on leash
While Rachel Lake is beautiful and makes a good spot for a break, pushing on to Rampart Lakes offers even more camping options and arguably better views. The climb between the two lakes is steep but short, and the reward of exploring the Rampart Lakes basin is well worth the final push.
Descending towards Rachel Lake from the trail to Rampart Lakes.
Marmot Pass via Upper Big Quilcene Trail
Considered a challenging overnight, this Olympic Peninsula trail leads to a pass with expansive views. The climb is sustained, and some find it more strenuous than anticipated.
Stats: 11.5 miles roundtrip, 3,489′ elevation gain
Area: Olympic Peninsula
Distance from Seattle: 2 hour, 30 min
Pass/Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Dogs Allowed? Dogs allowed on leash
A common strategy is to set up camp at Camp Mystery, located below the pass, and tackle the final climb to Marmot Pass for sunrise with a lighter pack. The morning views from the pass can be absolutely incredible, making the early start worthwhile. As always, use established campsites to protect the delicate alpine environment.
Sunrise on the ridge just to the left of Marmot Pass.
Surprise Lake to Thunder Mountain Lakes
This is a long and challenging route, often done as a multi-night trip to fully appreciate the area. It involves significant mileage and elevation gain to reach two stunning lake destinations.
Stats: 14.5 miles roundtrip, 4,287′ elevation gain
Area: Stevens Pass
Distance from Seattle: 1 hour, 30 min
Pass/Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Dogs Allowed? Dogs allowed on leash
Starting from the Surprise Lake trailhead, you can camp at Surprise Lake on the first night, then tackle the connector trail to Thunder Mountain Lakes for the second night, hiking out on day three. The connector involves many switchbacks but is generally well-defined. Reaching Trap Pass offers views of Trap Lake, and while there are some steep sections and boulder fields, the effort leads to the beautiful Thunder Mountain Lakes. Campsites here can be limited and are often on rocky terrain.
High vantage point view of Thunder Mountain Lake after hiking Surprise Lake trail.
Enjoying the water at Thunder Mountain Lake during a backpacking adventure.
Lewis and Wing Lakes
Renowned for spectacular fall colors when the larches turn golden, this is one of the most visually stunning Backpacking Trips Washington. It’s a challenging hike with difficult terrain in sections but offers incredibly rewarding views.
Stats: 12 miles roundtrip, 2,652′ elevation gain
Area: North Cascades
Distance from Seattle: 3 hours
Pass/Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Dogs Allowed? Dogs allowed on leash
The trail initially shares a path with the popular Heather – Maple Pass Loop before branching off. The turn-off can be easy to miss, so pay attention to your map. A significant boulder field follows, requiring careful navigation. The payoff is the vibrant turquoise Lewis Lake, and a steep push leads to Wing Lake with incredible views back down. For experienced climbers, a scramble to Black Peak offers dramatic views over the lakes below (a helmet is highly recommended).
Sunrise over the North Cascades seen from the Lewis and Wing Lakes area in autumn.
Campsite overlooking Wing Lake during a fall backpacking trip in the North Cascades.
Tuck & Robin Lakes
This trail is often cited as one of the state’s hardest, yet for some, it was their very first backpacking trip (perhaps foolishly!). The stats can be misleading; the initial miles are relatively flat, but the final ascent to Tuck and then Robin Lakes is extremely steep and challenging.
Stats: 11.96 miles roundtrip, 3,354′ elevation gain
Area: Snoqualmie Region, Salmon La Sac/Teanaway
Distance from Seattle: 2 hours, 30 min
Pass/Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Dogs Allowed? Dogs allowed on leash
Be prepared for a serious workout on the steep climb. It can be mentally and physically taxing, particularly if you are carrying a heavy pack or are new to significant elevation gain. However, the views of Tuck and Robin Lakes from the upper basin are absolutely gorgeous and provide a stunning backdrop for your campsite. This hike is a great test of endurance and determination.
Campsite view overlooking beautiful Robin Lakes in Washington.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Backpacking Trips Washington
When is the best time for backpacking trips in Washington?
The prime season for high-elevation Backpacking Trips Washington is typically from mid-July to mid-September, when trails are mostly snow-free and weather is more stable. Lower elevation or coastal trips can be done earlier in the spring or later in the fall. Always check current conditions.
What permits are needed for backpacking in Washington?
Permit requirements vary depending on the location. National Parks (like Rainier, North Cascades, Olympics) require wilderness permits, often issued via lottery or advance reservation. Some wilderness areas require free self-issue permits at the trailhead. Many trailheads require a Northwest Forest Pass or Discover Pass for parking. Always research the specific requirements for your chosen trail.
Can I bring my dog on these Washington backpacking trips?
Many trails in National Forests and some State Lands allow dogs on leash. However, dogs are generally NOT allowed on trails in National Parks, with few exceptions for front-country areas or specific trails. Check the regulations for your destination; our list notes which specific trails from the original article allow dogs.
What gear is essential for Washington backpacking?
Beyond the standard backpacking gear (tent, pack, sleeping system, cooking items), essentials for Washington often include waterproof and layered clothing (weather can change rapidly), navigation tools (map, compass, downloaded GPS route), a water filter or purification method, sun protection, bear canister or proper food storage techniques (required in some areas), and sturdy hiking boots.
Final Thoughts on Washington Backpacking
Embarking on Backpacking Trips Washington is an incredibly rewarding way to experience the state’s stunning natural beauty. From the gentle slopes leading to serene lakes to the challenging ascents offering panoramic mountain views, there’s a trail for every adventurer. The sense of accomplishment, the peace of wilderness camping, and the beauty of alpine sunrises and sunsets create lasting memories.
Remember to plan carefully, respect the environment, and be prepared for changing conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or trying your first overnight, Washington’s trails offer an escape into nature that nourishes the soul.