Route Overview
A Washington loop covering Olympic, Mount Rainier, and North Cascades with a mix of rainforest, alpine meadows, and rugged peaks.
Itinerary
Start with alpine views and a lake stop.
Hurricane Ridge
For those looking for longer hikes, you can continue from the High Ridge trail out toward Klahanne Ridge and Mount Angeles, where you may connect to other trails, or simply turn back to Hurricane Ridge.
Alpine views and short trails.
Check road status; winter closures are common.
Lake Crescent
Clear lake views and shaded shoreline walks.
Great picnic spot.
Marymere Falls Trail
Short forest hike to a waterfall.
Easy trail with light elevation gain.
Hoh Rain Forest and a sunset beach.
Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center
Picnic area near the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center
Start for the rainforest trails.
Arrive early; parking fills fast.
Hall of Mosses Trail
Iconic mossy forest loop.
Go early for quieter trails.
Ruby Beach sunset
Sea stacks and dramatic coastal light.
Check tide times for beach walking.
Morning coast stop and drive to Mount Rainier.
Alpine meadows and classic viewpoints.
Paradise Visitor Center
Start at Paradise for trail info and exhibits.
Arrive early for parking.
Skyline Trail (short loop)
Alpine meadows and big mountain views.
Wildflowers peak in July.
Reflection Lakes
Classic reflections of Mount Rainier.
Calm mornings have the best reflections.
High-elevation views and ridge walks.
Sunrise Visitor Center
High-elevation access with alpine views.
Road opens seasonally, usually mid-summer.
Sourdough Ridge Trail
Ridge walk with open views and wildflowers.
Go early for cooler temps.
Grove of the Patriarchs (if open)
Short loop through old-growth trees.
Check trail status for bridge closures.
Transition day to the North Cascades.
Iconic overlooks and short hikes on Highway 20.
Diablo Lake Overlook
Turquoise lake views from a short walk.
Ross Dam Trail
Short hike to a dramatic dam and lake views.
Washington Pass Overlook
Classic North Cascades peaks and roadside views.
Drive back for departure.
Creates a copy you can customize
8
Days
15
Stops
moderate
Difficulty
Best Season
July-September for stable weather and road access
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