Spring Hikes

Spring is that time of year when trails are yawning awake, snow is melting and flowers are blooming from recently thawed meadows. Hikers too are emerging in greater numbers and exploring those places that were out of reach in the winter and eagerly visiting the ephemeral displays of wildflowers that peak during this season. Spring is a dynamic time of year, and we've put together these guides to highlight some of the best offerings out there.

If you don't already have one, create an account with us so you can save hikes you're interested in while you're browsing. We promise you'll find more than one here you'll want to do. And if you're new to this whole hiking thing, we've got a handy Hiking 101 page you'll want to check out.

Hike Like a Pro

How To: Water Crossings | Hiking in the Rain | Build a First-Aid Kit | How to Photograph Wildflowers | Re-waterproof Your Gear

Spring Hiking Tips

Tips for hiking in Washington during the spring. How to be prepared for all conditions. How to choose your destinations. What hazards to be wary of. And a reminder about the fun of it all!

Hiking Coulee Country: Big Skies, Early Spring

In spring, Central Washington's dramatic shrub steppe, broken up by pothole lakes and soaring basalt cliffs, offers hikers a warm, bright landscape to stretch their legs. You've probably heard of the iconic coulee hike - Ancient Lakes. But did you know Washington has loads of other trails in the same sort of scenery? Find your next favorite one on this list, or use our Hike Finder Map.

WTA Staff Favorites: 17 Trails to Try Running This Spring and Summer

Whether you're looking for a new training run or just want a good spot to try out the sport of trail running this season, consider stretching your legs on these trails suggested by experienced trail runner and WTA Board Member, Wendy Wheeler Jacobs.

Spring Hikes in the Gorge (that Aren't Dog Mountain)

Between the Eagle Creek Fire closures and Dog Mountain permits, where are you supposed to go hiking in the Gorge this spring? We've got some ideas.

Waterfall Field Guide: 12 Hikes to 4 Types of Falls

Waterfalls are mesmerizing to watch. And if you have a naturalist interest, it's also fun to carefully observer waterfalls to determine how they should be classified. The way the water falls over the rocks, the shape and the size are all different categories in the niche world of waterfall classification. We’ve put together a guide to four different types of waterfalls and where you can find them in Washington.

9 Approaches to Adventure for May and June

Want to spend some, or all, of your Memorial Day weekend outside, hiking birding or giving back? Here are 9 ways to experience trails at the very start of summer.

Long Loops, Routes and Traverses for Spring

How does one squeeze in big miles during the springtime? The key is to create longer loops and traverses that link up shorter trails and forest roads.

Spring Hikes with Dogs

When spring fever hits, a hike with your pup can be the best cure. With fewer crowds and moderate temperatures less likely to overhead your buddy, the early season is a great time for hiking with dogs. Get started with one of WTA's suggestions for spring, or find your own using the resources below.

Visit a Wildlife Refuge This Spring

Ten Wildlife Refuges to explore for a springtime ramble.

Washington in Bloom: 12 Spring Hikes for Wildflowers

Early spring is the perfect time to seek out the early wildflowers on display on hikes all over the state.

Hike the Westeros of Washington

Game of Thrones may not have actually been filmed in Washington — but that doesn't mean you can't walk through the ecological diversity of the Seven Kingdoms right here in Washington.

10 Local Loops: Spring Hikes Near Seattle

Stretch your legs with these snow-free trails and trail systems around Puget Sound.