Fourth of July Hikes

Patriotic hiking destinations, accessible on the Fourth of July. Plus where to go to maximize sun and minimize snow.

Ahhh! The Fourth of July. Months of cabin fever waiting to be broken by a long weekend in the backcountry soaking in sun and views. But therein lies the rub. Here in the Pacific Northwest, summer doesn't really begin until AFTER the Fourth of July.

It can be frustrating to find the exact right calculus between sun and snow. How to maximize the former and minimize the latter? Especially this year, with the deep spring snowpack sticking around much longer than usual. We warn you: the pickings are much slimmer than usual. But great adventures still await. And while we can't promise the weather, we can help orient you to some places to hike and backpack that you might not have considered. But first, we must begin with some patriotic-themed hiking for our nation's birthday - each trail hikeable right now.

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Patriotic Destinations

Fourth of July Creek

: Fourth of July Creek trail. Photo by Galiwalker

Location: Near Leavenworth
Round Trip: 12 miles
Elevation Change: 4370'
High Point: 7020''

For hikers who seek late spring ridge top views and significant elevation gains, this hike is designed for you. Switchbacking up a steep southwest-facing slope, the Fourth of July Creek trail will test your lung power while giving you ample reason to take lots of breaks and enjoy the constant views of the Icicle Valley and Mt. Stuart. There may be a tiny bit of snow remaining on Icicle Ridge, but this is one hike where you can get really high without having to post-hole as you climb! Note that only two campgrounds on the Icicle Creek Road are open, due to recent debris slides along the road. Read more in our Hiking Guide.

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Fourth of July Pass

: The view from Fourth of July Camp. Photo by George and Sally.

Location: Hwy 20 - North Cascades National Park
Round Trip: 11.2 miles
Elevation Change: 2400'
High Point: 3600'

Start at the patriotically-named Colonial Creek Campground. Hike along lovely, turquoise Thunder Creek. And then climb steeply (2000 feet in 2.5 miles) to Fourth of July Camp. If you didn't bring your backpack (and pick up a backcountry permit), you'll wish you had. Expect to get your feet wet on a couple of stream crossings, and there is a bit of snow on the pass. Otherwise, gorgeous views of Colonial Peak, Snowfield Peak and Neve Glacier are enjoyed here. Turn around, or push on to Fourth of July Pass. Read more in our Hiking Guide.

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Mount Constitution

: Reach the highest point in the San Juans by climbing Mount Constitution. Photo by Quantum Guru.

Location: Orcas Island
Round Trip: 6.7 miles
Elevation Change: 1500'
High Point: 2410'

Most folks going to Orcas Island are probably aware of Mount Constitution. The highest mountain in the San Juans, it tops out at 2400 feet. Located in Moran State Park, this is one of the finest areas to hike in the islands. A great choice is the nice loop that connects Mountain Lake with the summit. The lake is serene and the summit sports views of Cypress Island, Lummi Island, and the northern Cascades. Read more in our Hiking Guide.

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Other Fun Fourth of July Destinations

The Teanaway

: Wildflowers abound along Ingalls Creek. Tiger lilies by Suzanne.

This area northwest of Cle Elum is one of the best destinations for cloudy-weary Western Washingtonians. It is often sunny when the Cascades are socked in and offers excellent hikes to lakes, ridges and wildflower meadows. There is something for everyone here - from families with kids to backpackers and peak baggers. Much of the high country is snow-free, but hikers should consult Trip Reports and call the Cle Elum Ranger Station (509.852.1100) before heading out on trails that take you above 5000 feet.

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Olympic Mountains

: Backpackers can hike for miles snow-free through the Enchanted Valley. Photo by Hikingqueen.

Sun? Perhaps. Fun? Certainly. The great thing about the Olympics is that sun is not necessary to enjoy the wonderful old growth trails. You're in a RAINforest, after all. It's just the natural state of things. Do note that there is plenty of snow in them thar hills. In fact, the Obstruction Point and Deer Park Roads remain closed because of snow. But you'll find miles of snow-free walking. Try the south side - in and around the Skokomish, Queets, Humptulips and the Quinault. Hike in from the west along the Hoh or Bogachiel Rivers. Or go hiking or backpacking along the Pacific Coast.

View Hiking Guide entries for the South, the West and the Pacific Coast.
Read recent Trip Reports for the Olympics

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Columbia River Gorge

: Catherine Creek sports beautiful wildlfowers in May and fabulous views of the Columbia River Gorge all year round. Photo by Ryan Ojerio.

It's a three-day weekend - perfect for exploring the wonders of the Columbia River Gorge. Explore a waterfall on the Oregon side or the views and wildflowers on the Washington side. There is something for everyone, from flat ADA-accessible trails to vertical ascents that will challenge the hardiest of hikers. You really can't go wrong!