Getting Started Hiking in Washington State
The Hike to Snow Lake in Early Winter
Washington State is a hiker's dream destination, offering a diverse range of trails that wind through lush forests, cascade down waterfalls, and offer breathtaking views from towering mountain peaks. If you're planning a hiking adventure in the Evergreen State, here's everything you need to know before hitting the trails.
Do Your Homework: Choosing the Right Trail (and Having a Backup Plan)
With so many trails to choose from, selecting the right one can be overwhelming. In Washington State, we’re fortunate to have access to some online tools to help you research your next hike. Spend some time reviewing your hike options on Washington Trail Association’s Hike Finder and/or AllTrails. Pay special attention to the following bits of information:
Difficulty level, length, elevation gain, and average duration.
Conditions - Read the Trip Reports to see what the current conditions are. Has it been hiked recently? Are there hazards on the trail such as snow or downed trees?
Parking Pass - What kind of parking is available near the trailhead? What permit is required? A Discover Pass, Northwest Forest Pass, and Sno-Park Pass (for winter use) are the most common passes in Washington State. Don’t leave without first confirming you have the necessary pass or permit, as you will likely come back to your car with an expensive ticket on your windshield.
Also, always leave the house with 1-2 nearby backup hikes ready in case you can’t get parking near your first choice trailhead! Do not try to park where you are not supposed to - it’s dangerous for you and those around, it may block emergency vehicle access, you may get stuck, and you may end up with a costly ticket, or worse, get towed.
Essential Gear
Before setting out, make sure you have the necessary gear to stay safe and comfortable on the trail. Familiarize yourself with The Ten Essentials:
Navigation - Note that you may not have cell service on the trail. AllTrails allows you to download trail maps for offline use, so be sure to download maps for your primary and backup trails before you leave. I also strongly recommend having a device like a Garmin inReach Mini so you have communication ability when you’re outside of cell reception.
Headlamp - I’ve had a few headlamps, and Black Diamond are my favorite. I would get a minimum 400 lumens, and while rechargeable is nice, the last thing you want is to need your headlamp and realize it isn’t charged; so I would go with one that can take batteries (and keep some extra batteries in your bag). Check out this Black Diamond Spot 400 if you’re looking for a place to start.
Sun Protection - In Washington, we sometimes forget about the power of the sun! Don’t forget sunscreen, especially on those nice days (and especially in snowy conditions, as the snow reflects the UV rays)! I also like to wear a sun hoodie, hat, and sunglasses for extra coverage.
First Aid - You can get a small first-aid kit meant specifically for hiking.
Knife - A simple pocket knife will do. I’m a fan of the Benchmade Mini Bugout and leave it in my bag with my first aid kit.
Fire - Throw some matches, a lighter, or a flint fire starter in your first aid kit or in a separate ziplock bag. It’s important to keep this in a waterproof location in your pack.
Shelter - Can be a light emergency bivvy to keep you warm in case you get stuck and need to spend the night or wait for help.
Extra Food - Bring snacks. Don’t try new foods that may upset your stomach on the trail. I typically bring Cliff Bars, Honey Stinger Waffles, and Honey Stinger Gummies. And make sure you pack-out any wrapping or packaging!
Extra Water - Always bring more water than you think you’ll need. I’m a hydration bladder fan, as I don’t have to mess with getting my bottle out of the pack and can hydrate while moving. If you’re going for a long hike, consider bringing some electrolyte / flavor packs or a separate bottle that has them already in. If you’re hiking with a dog, don’t forget water and a bowl for them too :)
Extra Clothes - Be prepared for a change of weather, so bring some layers. You may also want to leave some dry clothes to change into when you get back to the car.
At a minimum, you should have sturdy hiking boots or trail running shoes, weather-appropriate clothing layers (WA weather can change fast, so be prepared for anything!), a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, a map or GPS device, and a first aid kit.
Hygiene Bonus Tip: I would also pack a quarter roll of toilet paper in a ziplock bag, as well as sanitizing wipes, and hand sanitizer. Sometimes the trailheads may have a portapotty, but it may not have toilet paper or hand sanitizer stocked, so better to be prepared!
Leave No Trace
As you explore Washington's natural beauty, remember to follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. Stay on designated trails, pack out all trash, respect wildlife, and be considerate of other hikers. Leave the trail as beautiful as you found it for future generations to enjoy.
Safety Tips
Washington's rugged terrain and unpredictable weather conditions require hikers to be prepared for anything. Check the weather forecast before heading out, let someone know your hiking plans, and be aware of potential hazards such as slippery rocks, steep drop-offs, and wildlife encounters. Always prioritize safety on the trail.
Capturing Memories
As a landscape and wildlife photographer based in Washington State, I understand the allure of capturing the beauty of nature on camera. Don't forget to bring your camera or smartphone to document your hiking adventure and create lasting memories. From sweeping mountain vistas to delicate wildflowers, Washington offers endless photographic opportunities. I’ll create a blog post soon on hiking photography gear and tips.
Conclusion
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a novice explorer, Washington State has something for everyone. With its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and stunning views, the Evergreen State is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. By choosing the right trail, packing essential gear, following Leave No Trace principles, prioritizing safety, and capturing memories along the way, you'll create an unforgettable hiking experience in Washington State. So lace up your boots, hit the trails, and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of this beautiful state. Happy hiking!