4 Must-Do Washington Fall Foliage Hikes

The leaves are changing and time is running out to enjoy Washington’s beautiful fall foliage before it’s all on the ground! Here are 4 fall hikes every Washingtonian must try!

green trees near mountain under cloudy sky during daytime

Naches Peak Loop

Naches Peak Loop is a 3.5-mile hike near Chinook Pass where you can enjoy bright red, orange, and gold huckleberry foliage along with breathtaking views of Mount Rainier during the fall. You will also see beautiful, crystal-clear alpine lakes and many scenic viewpoints. The drive is also only about an hour and fifteen minutes from Yakima down Hwy 410.

Wallace Falls State Park

Located about an hour and fifteen minutes northeast of Seattle in the foothills of the Cascades is a Washington site you cannot miss! This 5.5-mile trail follows the rushing Wallace River through lush forest and fern groves.

The height of the experience is the majestic 367-foot waterfall system known as Middle Falls, which features sweeping views of the Skykomish River Valley. Bright red maple trees and yellow cottonwoods surround the area, making it one of the most beautiful spots in Washington State.

Tieton River Nature Trail

Located only 20 miles west of Yakima, the Tieton River Nature Trail is a worthwhile alternative to driving more than an hour. The path winds through a forest of oaks, aspens, and cottonwoods that turn beautiful shades of gold, orange, and red in the autumn. You will also walk across the glacier-fed Tieton River and alongside massive rock columns.

Heather Maple-Pass Loop

The Heather Maple-Pass Loop is known as the “king of fall hiking in Washington State.” Unlike many hikes that keep you in dense forest until the end, Maple Pass breaks out into scenic views very early. The lower parts of the hike feature huckleberry, bilberry, and heather bushes that turn bright red and orange in the fall.

As you trek further, your hike becomes lined with beautiful golden larch trees, and you can look down off the ridge to the clear waters of Lake Anne down below! Note that the hike is long and fairly difficult, spanning 7.2 miles and climbing up to 2,020 feet in elevation!