I couldn't be more lucky than moving to Washington from France. This is where I found out my love for hiking and how much I enjoy my time in the mountains. Here's my 5 favorite hikes I have done:
1. Burroughs Mountain at Mt. Rainier NP
This trail is amazing from beginning to end and offers one of the most dramatic views of Mt. Rainier. This hike is a 9 mile round trip with a 2,600ft elevation gain. There are many possibilities on this trail. You can stop at the first, second or third Burroughs. Usually, people turn around at the second. We reached the third Burroughs with an extra effort, which was worth it. We were so close to Mt. Rainier, we felt like we could touch it.
2. Tolmie Peak & Eunice Lake
Very nice 7.5 miles with an 1,100ft that leads first to Eunice Lake. After 1 mile with a steep uphill, we reached an old fire lookout with a stunning view of Mt. Rainier and an amazing sapphire blue color of Eunice Lake below. Most people stop at the fire lookout. We decided to leave the crowd and go a bit further and it was really incredible.
3. Tuck and Robin Lakes
Worth the effort but more a hike for backpacking. This very steep hike will take you to paradise. I recorded about 13 miles roundtrip and 3,500ft elevation gain. It was flat for the first 3 miles, then we gained about 1000ft every mile. Passed Tuck Lake, the trail became indistinct and hard to follow. Some rock stacks helped us find the way.
4. Crystal Peak and Lake
We did two hikes in one. We hiked Crystal Peak first and had a stunning view from the summit. The weather was clear and it was possible to see six volcanoes spanning two states. Mt. Rainier, Mt. St Helens, Mt. Baker, Glacier Peak, Mt. Adams, Mt. Hood. We caught a nice rainbow before we went down to the lakes. The upper lake is much larger than the lower lake. We recorded about 11 miles and 4,000ft elevation gain.
5. Rattlesnake Ledge
Short and very popular hike at 1h drive from Seattle. Rattlesnake ledge is a 4 mile roundtrip with an 1,160ft elevation gain. At the top, there is a view of the Cedar River watershed, Mt. Si, Mt. Washington, Rattlesnake Lake and Chester Morse Lake. Also, it's nice to stay at the lake especially during the summer. Here's some pictures from the last time I went there but the color of the lake when it's sunny is more beautiful.
I'm sure I will change my top 5 hikes by June. I won the permit for the Enchantment. I'm going to spend 2 nights with some friends at Colchuck Lake. I'm looking forward to it!
Check out my Instagram or my Blog for more pictures
HAPPY HIKE!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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