Year Round Destinations

Whether it's a rainy winter day, a gorgeous summer morning or a crisp fall afternoon, getting outside in Washington is always a good idea (provided you're well-prepared for it, of course)!

And while not every trail in the state is great year-round, there are quite a lot that can scratch that itch you might get for a little dose of nature. It might be a short visit to an in-town park or a long walk on a low-elevation rail trail. Whatever you need, see if you can find it in our suggestions below.

Hike Like A Pro

Day Hike Packing List | A Hiker's First Aid Kit | Who Has Right-of-Way on Trail? | Hike Safely in the Rain

Hikes Within 30 Minutes from Olympia

Whether you're looking to get away from the sounds of the city in the forest or spend some time along the shore, Olympia is right around the corner from wonderful places to get outside.

Hikes Within 30 Minutes of Spokane

No matter which part of Spokane you live in, there is sure to be a great hike nearby. Whether you're looking for a peak, a prairie or a ponderosa forest on the riverbank, they're all within reach.

Urban Cure: Hikes Within 30 Minutes

Find a hike only 30 minutes (or less) from Seattle, Bellingham, Spokane, Tacoma, Olympia, Vancouver, Wenatchee and Yakima.

Get Some Space: Wide Trails for Hiking Together

The trails on this list will allow plenty of room for hikers to spread out a bit on your stroll.

Hikes 30 Minutes from Wenatchee

Rolling hills, wildflowers, waterfronts and views of nearby ranges and peaks can all be found without traveling far from Wenatchee.

Hikes 30 Minutes from Yakima

With botanical gardens, canyons, nature preserves and waterfront trails, Yakima has plenty to offer to hikers right in the neighborhood.

Hike Across Washington Through Books

Many authors have drawn inspiration from Washington’s many interesting and beautiful locations to use as their stories’ settings or backdrops. These books run the gamut of genres, so no matter your preference, you should be able to find a title to suit your fancy. Check out these books written in the realm of Washington's beautiful spaces.

11 Date Hike Ideas That Are Actually Good

You're planning a date with that special someone, and love is in the air. Or, at least, it could be! Whether you are on your first date or you've already been together for a while, we've got some ideas on where to take your date hiking.

Spread Out: 9 Hikes to Find Your Space in the Lowlands

You might be thinking you have to drive dozens of miles into the mountains to expand your personal bubble this weekend outside, but you may be able to find it you’re craving closer to home. Check out some of these hikes that offer you the chance to spread out so you can get that solo nature time you’re seeking.

The Hikes Must Flow: Hike the "Duniverse" of Washington

Dune: Part Two is finally here! Grab your spice and join us on a journey across the universe (Washington landscapes).

Transit-accessible hikes around Washington

Hiking by transit is a great way to see trails and get to know your city a little better. Plus, you don't need to worry about finding parking. There are a remarkable number of trails accessible by bus across Washington, many of which are well-known and popular, but many are little-known treasures. Here are a few.

Bird Watching Hikes in Washington: Where to See Birds, Birbs and Borbs

Bird watching can be another great layer to add to any hike. Washington’s diverse ecological landscape offers a wide variety of bird watching opportunities year-round.