3 Washington State Trails on my Spring Bucket List

It’s time to start planning your spring hiking adventures in Washington State, my friends! With so many trails to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down your options. To help inspire your next outdoor excursion, here are 3 Washington State Trails on my Spring Bucket List!

From lakes to lush forests, these trails offer some of the best hiking experiences in the Pacific Northwest, especially for a solo woman! So, grab your hiking boots and get ready to explore some of the most beautiful landscapes in the state.

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3 Washington State Trails on my Spring Bucket List

There are a ton of reasons to get out of the trails this season but I’m the most excited to be out in nature (obviously), spent time with friends, and also get active again! Working out is one of my vices but nothing feels better after a 7-mile hike up a mountain and tacos immediately after.

The 3 trails on my list are all trails I’ve actually done before but they are some of my favorite in the state. They’re all fantastic but also stunning and highly recommend them.

Lake 22 Trail

If you’re looking for a trail that’s guaranteed to take your breath away, look no further than this gem. The views from the top are absolutely stunning, but getting there is no easy feat. With loads of switchbacks and some rocky terrain about 60% of the way through, you’ll definitely want to bring your high-top hiking boots to protect those weak ankles.

My first time on this trail was in the fall, and let me tell you, it was an adventure. We encountered snow the last half mile of the hike, and it rained the entire time. My friend and I were drenched, but even with the rain, it was still one of the prettiest hikes I’d ever done.

A word of advice: this trail is incredibly popular on weekends, so if you’re looking for a bit more solitude, I highly recommend taking a mental health day and hitting the trail on a weekday. Trust me, it’s worth it.

5.4 miles

For more on Lake 22, check out my full post here.

Annette Lake Trail

Whether I’m hiking solo or with friends, this trail is always at the top of my list! And I’m not alone – there are plenty of other solo hikers and their furry companions on this trail too. Be prepared to share this trail with fellow nature enthusiasts, especially on early morning walks.

But the real star of the show is the view from the top. It’s an absolutely breathtaking experience – so much so that it’s almost a shame to go it alone. But when you’re solo, take the extra time to sit lakeside and soak in all that natural beauty. It’s so serene and peaceful up there, you’ll never want to leave.

As for difficulty, I consider this hike to be on the easier side, but it might be more moderate for those who are new to hiking. I’ve seen plenty of parents with their little ones on their backs, so it’s definitely kid-friendly. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, this trail is a must-do for anyone looking for a fun outdoor adventure.

For more on Annette Lake, check out my full post here!

7.8 miles

Mirror Lake via PCT Trail

This is another trail I got to explore a few years ago was Mirror Lake in the Fall. I actually hiked this trail before reading Wild by Cheryl Strayed and now that I know more about the history and the trail itself, I’m itching to go back and experience it all over again.

But what made this hike truly memorable was the company. I went with three of my friends, and it was so fun. This was one of the first trails where I saw other hikers sleeping on the trail – wild! And with Mirror Lake as the destination, who could blame them? It’s absolutely stunning, and I can only imagine how gorgeous it would be to wake up to.

Another kicker – I saw some fellow hikers carrying blow-up paddle boards with them! I did not have it in me to bring mine but I was jealous of their time on the water.

Pro tip: after all that hiking, definitely indulge in some local tacos! We did and tt was the perfect way to cap off an incredible day of adventure.

6.7 mile

Bonus trail: Snow Lake!

Though I haven’t done this one in a long time, I remember desperately wishing I brought more snacks. Haha! So if you plan to do it, definitely bring enough to eat.

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Thanks so much for reading 3 Washington State Trails on my Spring Bucket List!

I’d love to know what hikes you’re going to explore this season. Leave a comment below with your lists!

Other posts you might enjoy:

• Beginner’s Guide to Hiking Alone: Safety Tips and Essentials
• I Hiked the Hollywood Sign and Want to Talk About it
• This Year’s Spring Bucket List