Washington State’s winter hiking trails are a gateway to a world of serene beauty and adventure. Picture snow-draped forests, frozen waterfalls, and the crunch of snow underfoot—all while enjoying fewer crowds compared to the summer season. Winter hiking offers a unique opportunity to stay active, connect with nature, and experience the magic of Washington’s outdoor wonders.

This guide highlights some of the best winter hiking trails in Washington State, along with tips on staying safe, essential cold-weather hiking gear, and how to make the most of your snowy adventures.

Rattlesnake Ledge (Near North Bend, WA)

• Mileage & Difficulty: 4 miles round trip; moderate difficulty due to elevation gain (1,160 feet).

• Features: A relatively short hike that leads to an incredible viewpoint overlooking Rattlesnake Lake and the surrounding mountains. The trail is well-maintained but can become icy during winter, especially near the summit.

• Parking: Free parking is available at the Rattlesnake Lake Recreation Area, but spaces fill up quickly even in winter.

• Permits: No permit required.

• Tips: Arrive early to secure parking and avoid the midday crowd. Bring microspikes for traction, as icy conditions are common on the final stretch of the trail.

Wallace Falls (Gold Bar, WA)

• Mileage & Difficulty: 5.6 miles round trip; moderate difficulty with an elevation gain of 1,300 feet.

• Features: A popular family-friendly trail leading to a series of stunning waterfalls, including the grand 265-foot Wallace Falls. In winter, the waterfalls are often framed by ice, creating a magical atmosphere. The trail is well-marked and shaded by old-growth trees.

• Parking: Paid parking is available at Wallace Falls State Park ($10 daily or free with a Discover Pass).

• Permits: Discover Pass required for parking.

• Tips: Dress in waterproof layers to handle mist from the waterfalls. Hike early in the day to avoid crowds, as this trail remains busy year-round.

Franklin Falls (Near Snoqualmie Pass, WA)

• Mileage & Difficulty: 2 miles round trip; easy difficulty with minimal elevation gain (400 feet).

• Features: A short and accessible trail that leads to a breathtaking frozen waterfall. Perfect for families and beginners, the path follows the South Fork Snoqualmie River, offering scenic views along the way.

• Parking: Paid parking is available near the trailhead (Sno-Park permit required).

• Permits: Sno-Park permit required.

• Tips: This trail is extremely popular on weekends, so arrive early or visit on a weekday for a quieter experience. Microspikes are helpful for icy sections near the falls.

Mount Si (Near North Bend, WA)

• Mileage & Difficulty: 8 miles round trip; strenuous difficulty with a 3,150-foot elevation gain.

• Features: This challenging hike rewards your effort with panoramic views from the summit, including a close-up look at the rugged Cascade peaks. Snow and ice are common on the trail during winter, adding an extra layer of difficulty.

• Parking: Free parking at the Mount Si trailhead, but spaces fill up quickly.

• Permits: Discover Pass required for parking.

• Tips: This trail is recommended for experienced hikers. Microspikes are a must, and trekking poles can help with steep, icy sections. Start early to ensure you complete the hike before sunset.

Artist Point (Near Mount Baker, WA)

• Mileage & Difficulty: 4 miles round trip; moderate to advanced difficulty with a 1,000-foot elevation gain.

• Features: One of the most scenic winter trails in Washington, Artist Point offers unparalleled views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. Snowshoeing or skiing is required to navigate the deep snow and access this trail.

• Parking: Free parking at the Mount Baker Ski Area, but it can fill up quickly on weekends.

• Permits: No permit required.

• Tips: Only experienced hikers should attempt this trail in winter due to potential avalanche risks. Always check conditions with the Northwest Avalanche Center and carry avalanche safety gear.

Lake 22 (Near Granite Falls, WA)

• Mileage & Difficulty: 5.4 miles round trip; moderate difficulty with a 1,400-foot elevation gain.

• Features: This stunning trail winds through moss-covered forests before opening up to an alpine lake surrounded by snowy cliffs. In winter, the lake is often frozen, and snowshoeing may be required to navigate deeper snow.

• Parking: Free parking is available at the Lake 22 trailhead, but spaces are limited.

• Permits: Northwest Forest Pass required.

• Tips: Check weather conditions before heading out, as the trail can become dangerous during heavy snow or rain. Pack extra layers for the icy wind at the lake.

Heather Lake (Near Granite Falls, WA)

• Mileage & Difficulty: 4.6 miles round trip; moderate difficulty with a 1,000-foot elevation gain.

• Features: This peaceful trail takes you through an enchanting old-growth forest before reaching a serene alpine lake. In winter, the lake is often surrounded by snow-covered cliffs and frozen landscapes, making it a picture-perfect destination.

• Parking: Free parking available at the Heather Lake trailhead.

• Permits: Northwest Forest Pass required.

• Tips: This trail can be icy and muddy in some sections, so bring microspikes and waterproof boots. Pack an extra warm layer for the exposed lake area, where temperatures can drop significantly.