24 Stunning Winter Hikes in Washington (All Dog-Friendly!)

ByCaitlin

Winter hikes in Washington take a little extra prep, but they’re absolutely worth it!

The state is known for its gray skies and rain this time of year, but with the right layers and gear to keep you comfortable, you’ll have epic views of snowy mountains on bluebird days, frozen lakes, and more!

I’ve lived in Washington for 30 years, and winter hiking has become one of my favorite ways to get outside this time of year. If you’re visiting Seattle in the winter or you’ve lived here forever, winter hikes are such a fun way to experience the state.

In this guide, I’ve rounded up 24 of the best winter hikes in Washington that are all dog-friendly. I’ve organized them by region, so you can easily pick the right one for your adventure. Each trail includes a quick overview, along with a link to the AllTrails page, so you can check conditions before heading out.

Pro tip: Download the AllTrails map before you lose service, it’s a lifesaver if you don’t have a paper map with you!

An epic view during sunset of the mountains in Washington State with snow.

I’ve also included a section on gear and safety to help you feel prepared before hitting the trail. For now, let’s dive into some of my favorite winter hikes in Washington state.

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    Built with Kit

    Best Winter Hiking Gear:

    ✔️ Best Boots: Danner Waterproof Boots
    ✔️ Best Microspikes: Traction Spikes
    ✔️ Best Trekking Poles: Black Diamond Poles

    What to Wear for Winter Hiking in Washington

    When most people think of winter hiking in Washington, their first thought is brrr. And sure, it’s called the rainy state for a reason, but skipping winter hikes means missing some of the most picturesque adventures of the year.

    Winter hiking can be just as fun as summer; it just takes a little extra prep. Trails might be snowy, icy, or muddy depending on elevation, so the right gear is key. Check recent reports on AllTrails, wear waterproof boots, and bring microspikes or snowshoes as needed.

    Layers are your best friend: warm enough when you’re cold, easy to shed if you start to sweat. Pro tip: Try not to overheat on the climb, because once you stop at the summit or for a snack, that sweat will make you extra chilly.

    Clothing:

    Tip: If you’re going on a snowshoe adventure, I love my Flylow Foxy Bib Pants. They’re comfy, have a convenient chest pocket, fit an athletic body type, and last for years.

    Gear:

    Regional Winter Hikes in Washington

    Time to dive into the ultimate 24 winter hikes in Washington. For each trail, we’ll cover important details such as distance, elevation, difficulty, pass requirements, and more.

    If you’re deciding what area to hike, I’ve created a map for each of these hikes as a visual aid.

    Bellingham Region

    Oyster Dome

    • Distance: 6.3 miles
    • Elevation: 1,896 ft
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Route Type: Out & back
    • Pass Required: No
    • AllTrails Link

    I hike Oyster Dome every winter, and it feels more special each time. Sunset is my favorite time to hike; the glow on the trees and the reflection off the water is unreal. If you go at that time of day, bring extra layers and a headlamp.

    The trail starts with an incline, so you’ll warm up fast, and most of it winds through forest with a few peeks at Samish Bay. At the top, the rocky bluff has epic views (go on a clear day or it’s just a total whiteout, trust me). In winter, it can be muddy or icy, so spikes help, but the steady climb is worth it for that view.

    Oyster Dome is a popular hike year-round in Washington State. The photo highlights the top of the trail during the winter during sunset with the reflection off of the bay.

    Snoqualmie / North Bend Region

    Rattlesnake Ledge

    • Distance: 5.3 miles
    • Elevation: 1,430 ft
    • Difficulty: Easy
    • Route Type: Out & back
    • Pass Required: No
    • AllTrails Link

    Rattlesnake Ledge is one of the most popular hikes near Seattle, thanks to its easy access and short drive from the city. I recommend arriving early; the parking lot fills quickly, and the trail tends to get very crowded.

    The trail is a steady climb, and in winter, snow and ice on the switchbacks make microspikes or other traction devices very helpful. At the top, you’ll get clear views of Rattlesnake Lake and the surrounding snow-dusted mountains, but be careful, the drop-off is steep and the rocks can be slick.

    A woman at the top of the Rattlesnake Ledge Hike in North Bend, WA. She has hiked the trail during the winter and is bundled up in warm clothes, looking out at the snow-dusted peaks.

    Mount Si

    Mount Si is a classic hike for people around Seattle. It’s longer and steeper than Rattlesnake, but very doable at a steady pace, and usually a little less crowded. The trail starts in dense forest and climbs almost the entire way up the mountain.

    The views at the top are stunning with the surrounding peaks and town of North Bend below. There is a top section called Haystack, which I do not recommend climbing for safety purposes during the winter due to the slippery rocks. In winter, it tends to be ice-packed, which makes traction your best friend.

    A woman standing at the top of Mt. Si on a warmer winter day looking out at the snow-covered peaks in the distance. This is one of the top winter hikes in Washington State.

    Mailbox Peak

    • Distance: 10.4 miles (new trail)
    • Elevation: 4,028
    • Difficulty: Hard
    • Route Type: Out & back
    • Pass Required: Discover Pass
    • AllTrails Link

    This hike is one of my favorites in the North Bend region because of the steady incline over a shorter distance. It’s a great training hike if you’re prepping for longer backpacking trips. The trail is mostly tree-covered, but eventually it breaks into open slopes with big views.

    The trail can give you that “false peak” feeling near the top, when it looks like you’re almost there, but the climb keeps going.

    At the summit, you’ll find the famous mailbox, often stuffed with trinkets and notes left by other hikers. In winter, this is where you’ll definitely want microspikes since snow and ice are common. Also, pack a warm jacket and a neck gaiter because the wind tends to be a bit chilly at the top.

    Two different pictures of Mailbox Peak, one of them shoes the mailbox at the top, and the other one shows the surrounding mountains in the winter.

    Snow Lake

    Snow Lake is one of my go-to snowshoe spots for a quick dose of winter beauty. The climb is steady but not too steep, which makes it a comfortable hike even with snow. In winter, the lake usually freezes or gets a fresh blanket of snow, giving the whole area a quiet, crisp feel.

    On bluebird days, the light on the snow is unreal, and depending on conditions, microspikes or snowshoes are the way to go. It’s a popular trail, but the payoff is always worth it.

    Granite Lakes Trail

    Granite Lakes Trail is less crowded than many North Bend hikes, making it more of a peaceful winter option. The trail follows old logging roads before reaching the two lakes, often snow-covered but still beautiful.

    I like doing this one later in the day when the sun lights up the peak behind the lake. And yes, my PB&J tasted even better with that view.

    I always bring some type of snack/food option while hiking in the winter in Washington.

    Teneriffe Falls

    Teneriffe Falls is a great winter waterfall hike close to Seattle. The lower section of the trail is usually clear, but snow often appears as you climb toward the falls. The steady climb makes it a good workout without being too long.

    At the top, you’ll see the waterfall flowing strongly from winter rains and snowmelt. Microspikes are helpful if the trail is icy. I always keep a pair in my backpack for “just in case” trail conditions.

    South Bessemer Mountain Trail

    South Bessemer is a longer trail in the Middle Fork Snoqualmie area. It follows old forest roads with an easy, steady climb most of the way. In the winter, this trail tends to have snow, so I’d recommend bringing microspikes or snowshoes.

    At the end of the trail, the trees open up to reveal views of nearby peaks, valleys, and rivers. I’ve only run into a few people here, making it the perfect choice if you’re looking for a quiet hike.

    South Bessemer is a longer trail in the Middle Fork Snoqualmie area.

    Anette Lake Trail

    Annette Lake is a great option if you want a peaceful winter escape. The trail meanders through the forest before reaching a small alpine lake, often covered in snow this time of year. The climb is steady but not too demanding, and once you get there, the quiet alone time makes it feel like the lake is all yours.

    Three Summits Loop

    • Distance: 8.6 miles
    • Elevation: 2,660 ft
    • Difficulty: Easy
    • Route Type: Loop
    • Pass Required: No
    • AllTrails Link

    Three Summits Loop on Tiger Mountain is an easy hike that mostly follows logging roads. The trail has a gentle, steady incline and opens up to big mountain views, including stunning sights of Mt. Rainier, without a brutal climb.

    I still brought microspikes and layers since the trail is fairly open and the wind can feel chillier than on tree-lined sections.

    This hike on Tiger Mountain is a fairly easy hike on logging roads. This provides epic views of Mt. Rainier on bluebird days.

    Little Si

    Little Mt. Si is a short hike with a comfortable climb, and I love it when I want a quick workout close to home. The trail winds mostly through forest, and for some reason, it always feels extra magical this time of year. There are a few rocky sections that get a bit steeper near the top.

    In winter, it can get icy, so microspikes help. The summit rewards you with views of Mount Rainier and the Snoqualmie Valley, making it a perfect half-day hike.

    A cute dog on the Little Si trail in North Bend, WA during a causal winter day.

    Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Trail

    • Distance: 27.3 miles (no need to complete, hike as much or little as you want)
    • Elevation: 3,989 ft
    • Difficulty: Easy
    • Route Type: Out & back
    • Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass
    • AllTrails Link

    The Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Trail is a great winter hike if you want something mellow. It follows the river through mossy PNW forest and often stays snow-free in the lower sections.

    You can go as far as you feel like, which makes it super flexible. It’s peaceful with big trees and river views, and it’s usually much quieter than the busier I-90 trails.

    Franklin Falls

    Franklin Falls is one of the most beautiful winter hikes near I-90, and it’s an absolute stunner with snow-dusted trees framing the waterfall. When you reach the base, be extra careful; the rocks can turn into an ice rink. There have been times I couldn’t even step onto them because they were so slick.

    The parking lot fills up fast, so plan to arrive early if you want a spot. In winter, the main road to the trailhead sometimes closes depending on the snow, which can make the hike longer but still flat. Check trail conditions before heading out, and be prepared for 4WD or AWD if needed.

    Franklin Falls is one of the most beautiful and short hikes near i-90. The waterfall gets icy in the winter and the snow-dusted trees make it picturesque.

    Gold Creek Pond

    Gold Creek Pond is a short, easy loop near Snoqualmie Pass and one of the best winter stops if the road is open. The trail is flat and super family-friendly, and after a fresh snowfall, the pond reflects the surrounding peaks, making it feel like a postcard.

    It’s a great low-effort winter walk just minutes from the highway, but you’d never know it from how peaceful and quiet it feels.

    Gold Creek Pond is an easy hike off of i-90 on Snoqualmie Pass. This is a great flat winter walk that is great for all age groups.

    Mount Rainier & Central Cascades

    High Hut Snowshoe Trail

    • Distance: 7.9 miles
    • Elevation: 2,375 ft
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Route Type: Out & back
    • Pass Required: Sno-Park Permit (winter months)
    • AllTrails Link

    High Hut is something else (in a good way). The hike up to the tiny backcountry hut is fairly easy/moderate. When you reach the hut, you will have unreal views of Mt. Rainier. This is one of my favorite hikes because you can actually reserve a bunk to stay in the hut overnight. I’ve done it once, and it is one of my core memories.

    I have noted in the title that all of these hikes are dog-friendly, which this hike is, but the hut is unfortunately not dog-friendly, and they cannot stay overnight in the hut.

    In winter, the trail is snow-covered, the hut feels like a little warm alpine escape, and the whole vibe makes it feel like a mini getaway in the mountains.

    High Hut is one of the most beautiful places to stay overnight in the Mt. Rainier area. The views are incredible and reserving a bunk overnight is absolutely worth it.

    Mount Baker & North Cascades

    Artist Point

    • Distance: 3.5 miles
    • Elevation: 967 ft
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Route Type: Out & back
    • Pass Required: Sno-Park Permit (winter months)
    • AllTrails Link

    Artist Point is a classic winter hike near Mount Baker and one of the most iconic snowshoe routes in Washington. The trail isn’t long, but the climb through deep snow will make your legs feel each step. The views along the slopes are wide, with jaw-dropping views of Mount Shuksan, Mount Baker, and the surrounding peaks.

    This area gets heavy snow, so snowshoes are usually required, and conditions can change fast. Even though it can get busy after a fresh storm, the scenery more than makes up for it. This is an active ski mountain, so keep an eye out for people zooming down.

    Artist Point on Mt. Baker is one of the most iconic snowshoe trails in Washington State during the winter.

    Hidden Lake Lookout

    Hidden Lake is a more advanced option for experienced hikers. In winter, the trail is steep and often buried in snow, so avalanche knowledge and gear are important. The lookout is above a frozen alpine lake with epic views of the surrounding peaks. It’s a quiet, rewarding trail for anyone ready for a high-elevation winter adventure.

    Coastal/Low-elevation Winter Hikes

    Whatcom Falls

    • Distance: 4.1 miles
    • Elevation: 295 ft
    • Difficulty: Easy
    • Route Type: Loop
    • Pass Required: No
    • AllTrails Link

    This is an easy winter walk right in the heart of Bellingham. This urban park has forested trails, cute bridges, and a waterfall. The paths are a mix of dirt and paved, so it’s accessible most of the year and a perfect low-effort option if you want to get outside without leaving town.

    Boulder River

    Boulder River is a chill winter hike that’s easy, mostly flat, and follows along the river in the trees. It’s great for a low-key day outside when you want a walk that won’t wear you out. In winter, the water and moss feel extra PNW. Be careful on the rocks; the water will make them extra slippery this time of year.

    Boulder River Trail is a very casual hike in the greater Seattle area. It's a lovely option for those who want to get some steps in without a sweat.

    Sugarloaf Mountain

    • Distance: 4.4 miles
    • Elevation: 1,272 ft
    • Difficulty: Easy
    • Route Type: Loop
    • Pass Required: No
    • AllTrails Link

    Sugarloaf is a short, easy hike, perfect if you’re visiting Anacortes or the nearby islands. The climb is steady, and the views at the top give a great bird’s-eye view of the town and the surrounding water. In winter, it’s an ideal low-elevation option for a quick outdoor break while you’re in the area.

    Stevens Pass Region

    Heybrook Lookout

    • Distance: 1.9 miles
    • Elevation: 869 ft
    • Difficulty: Easy
    • Route Type: Out & back
    • Pass Required: No
    • AllTrails Link

    Heybrook Lookout is a straightforward hike with a nice reward: an old lookout site and good views when the day is clear. The trail is steady and often used for snowshoe runs in winter. Heybrook Lookout is a solid choice if you want some rad alpine views without a long day on the trail.

    If you’re driving on Highway 2, this hike is great because you can pull off the side of the road into the small parking lot and immediately be on the trail.

    A cute dog on the Heybrook Lookout trail during a dry day in the winter.

    Lake 22

    Lake 22 has long been one of my favorite hikes in the area for classic frozen-lake scenery. The trail is beautiful year-round, but in winter it feels especially magical. The whole basin is quiet and fresh, with the lake and surrounding trees dusted in snow.

    The hike climbs steadily through the forest, but nothing too extreme, and the route is straightforward and scenic. It’s a perfect winter outing, great for photos or just soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

    Lake 22 is one of the most beautiful hikes in Washington State. During the winter the lake will typically freeze over and the trees and mountain peaks will be covered with snow.

    Wallace Falls

    Located near Gold Bar, this trail is a solid winter hike option with multiple waterfall viewpoints along a well-maintained trail. The trail is shaded, which is nice during the summer, but it males the lower sections a bit more icy in the winter. Microspikes are recommended for this hike for that reason.

    Wallace Falls is popular year-round, but the waterfalls are extra dramatic when the water rushes over the icy cliffs. Since there is no true “off-season” to this trail, starting early can help avoid crowds.

    Wallace Falls in Gold Bar, WA is a popular hike year-round and is one of the best winter hikes in Washington State.

    Heather Lake Trail

    Heather Lake is a short, mossy trek that ends at a beautiful lake tucked beneath Pilchuck’s ridges. For most of the trail, you’ll be walking through dense forest, with boardwalks along the way before you reach the lake. In winter, those boardwalks can get pretty slippery, so proceed with caution. Microspikes and poles are super helpful for traction and stability on the icy or muddy sections.

    This time of year, the basin often freezes over, making it feel extra surreal and quiet. When no one else is around, it can feel almost eerie. It’s a popular spot on sunny weekends, so arrive early for parking or head out on a weekday if you’d rather avoid the crowds.

    Safety & Planning for Washington Winter Hikes

    Winter hikes in Washington are stunning, but they require extra preparation. Shorter daylight, snowy or icy trails, and changing conditions mean it’s important to plan ahead and know your limits. Here are a few safety and planning things to keep in mind before you head out:

    ✔️ Check Conditions & Avalanche Risk

    Even popular trails can be dangerous in the wrong conditions. Before heading out, make it a habit to:

    • Review recent trip reports on WTA or AllTrails.
    • Check road closures and pass status on WSDOT.
    • Monitor avalanche forecasts on Northwest Avalanche Center (NWAC) if hiking in steep terrain.
    • Always trust your instincts. Turn back if conditions feel unsafe or daylight is fading.
    A snow plowing the road over a pass on a snowy day.

    ✔️ Planning Tips

    Proper planning can make the difference between a fun hike and a stressful one. Keep these in mind:

    • Start early to avoid crowds and to end the hike before dark.
    • Confirm parking lot access and Sno-Park permit requirements.
    • Use 4WD or AWD if necessary, and carry tire chains.
    • Always tell a friend your route and estimated return time.

    ✔️ Essential Gear for Winter Hikes

    The right gear keeps you safe and comfortable:

    • Layered clothing: moisture-wicking base, insulating mid-layer, waterproof shell.
    • Waterproof boots with traction; microspikes or snowshoes, depending on trail conditions.
    • Extra clothes and shoes in the car in case you get wet.
    • Hydration and snacks. I’ve learned that a little Gatorade can help prevent water from freezing quickly in water bottles or hydration packs.

    ✔️ Dog Safety

    If you bring your pup, winter hiking adds some extra considerations:

    • Bring towels or blankets to keep them warm and dry.
    • Protect paws from ice and snow with dog boots or paw balm.
    • Watch their behavior closely and don’t push them if they’re cold or uncomfortable.
    • Respect the trail and other hikers.
    Hiking with a furry friend is always extra fun, but it does mean to make sure that they are also prepared for snow/icy conditions.

    Conclusion: Winter Hikes in Washington State

    Winter hiking in Washington is pure magic between the frozen lakes, snowy peaks, and trails that feel extra quiet this time of year. It’s important to remember that the trails and weather can be unpredictable, and this is why the right gear, prep, clothing, and judgment matter.

    If you bring your pup, nothing compares to watching them tear through the snow with that pure stoke. It’s one of those simple, soul-filling joys that makes winter hiking unforgettable. Just stay warm, know your limits (and your dog’s), and enjoy every bit of beauty this season brings.

    Happy Trails,
    Mindful PNW Travels

    Hi! My name is Caitlin and I am the author of Mindful PNW Travels. My blog was created to be a mindful guide for travelers who want to explore just like me.

    I had a life altering event in April 2023 that gave me the motivation and confidence to start this blog. I was diagnosed with Epilepsy and the world as I knew it flipped upside down. Now I am trying to navigate this new reality with positivity, nature, and explorations. Welcome to my journey!