8 Easy Overnight Backpacking Trips Near Seattle Washington(Perfect for Beginners & Families)
Looking to take your first steps into the world of backpacking? These family-tested, beginner-approved overnight hikes are perfect for new backpackers who want to ease into the experience without sacrificing epic views. Whether you’re hiking with kids or just dipping your toes into backcountry camping, this list features approachable mileage, manageable elevation, and unforgettable campsites — all within a few hours of Seattle. Read on for the 8 best beginner backpacking trips within 3 hours of Seattle.
🔎 Quick Finder Table
| Trail | Miles (RT) | Gain | Drive from Seattle | Permit | Best Season | Family-Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pete Lake | 9 | 600 ft | 1h 45m | NW Forest | Late Jun–Sep | ✅ |
| Goat Lake | 10.4 | 1,400 ft | ~2h | NW Forest | Jun–Oct | ✅ |
| Watson Lakes | 6 | 1,000 ft | ~3h | NW Forest | Jul–Sep | ✅ |
| Baker Lake Trail | Up to 14 | Minimal | ~2h 45m | NW Forest | Apr–Oct | ✅ |
| Barclay Lake | 4.4 | 225 ft | ~1h 30m | NW Forest | May–Oct | ✅ (very) |
| Waptus Lake | 18 | ~1,600 ft | ~2h 15m | NW Forest | Jun–Oct | ✅ (long miles) |
| Lake Ann (Baker) | 8.2 | 1,900 ft | ~3h | NW Forest | Jul–Oct | 🟨 (moderate) |
| Lake Valhalla | 7.5 | ~1,200 ft | ~2h 15m | NW Forest | Jul–Oct | ✅ |
✅ Why These Are Great for Beginners
All five of these backpacking trips are within a 3-hour drive from Seattle, making them ideal for quick weekend getaways or first-time overnight trips. Each one offers:
- Manageable mileage and elevation gain
- Established campsites
- Reliable water sources
- Breathtaking scenery without the stress
These trails are suitable for solo hikers, couples, or families with kids looking to dip their toes into backcountry camping.
📍 Need help planning? Check out How to Start Backpacking in Washington and Family Backpacking Gear Checklist.
1. Pete Lake
Mileage: 9 miles RT | Elevation Gain: 600 ft | Drive: 1h 45m from Seattle | Permit: NW Forest Pass
Pete Lake is one of those backpacking trips that feels almost too easy for how pretty the payoff is. The trail meanders through shady forest with just enough ups and downs to make you feel like you’re “really backpacking,” but it never gets hard. When you finally pop out at the lake, there’s a ton of space for tents and a laid-back, family-friendly vibe.
Heads up: The mosquitoes can be ferocious in July. If you don’t want to spend the evening hiding in your tent, bring a headnet—or better yet, time your trip for late August or September when the bugs calm down and the crowds thin out.
Pro Tip: Bring a LifeStraw Peak Gravity Water Filter — you can hang it up at camp and let it do the work while you set up your tent or wrangle kids.
🌲 2. Goat Lake (Mountain Loop Highway)
Mileage: 10.4 miles RT | Elevation Gain: 1,400 ft | Drive: ~2h from Seattle | Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Goat Lake is a beginner classic for a reason—it’s long enough to feel like a real backpacking adventure but with a mellow grade most of the way. The trail meanders through lush old-growth forest, crosses creeks on log bridges, and eventually opens up to a huge alpine lake backed by cliffs and waterfalls. There are plenty of established campsites along the lake, so even on busy weekends it usually feels doable.
Pro Tip: Take the lower trail one way and the upper trail the other. The lower is shadier and more scenic, the upper drier and faster—it makes for a perfect loop.
3. Watson Lakes
Mileage: 6 miles RT | Elevation Gain: 1,000 ft | Drive: ~3h from Seattle | Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Tucked in the North Cascades, the Watson Lakes are perfect for a short-but-scenic backpacking trip. The trail is moderate, winding through forest before opening up to two gorgeous alpine lakes surrounded by rocky ridges. Campsites are limited, which keeps the area peaceful. It’s a great spot if you want mountain views without committing to a huge climb.
Pro Tip: This trailhead is also the start for Upper Anderson Lakes—worth the extra side trip if you’ve got the energy. In late summer, the wildflowers here are spectacular.
4. Baker Lake Trail
Mileage: Up to 14 miles RT (out-and-back) | Elevation Gain: Minimal | Drive: ~2h 45m from Seattle | Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Baker Lake is perfect if you’re looking for something low-stress and kid-friendly. The trail follows the shoreline of a massive lake, with rolling terrain and lots of campsites right on the water. You can hike as far as you want—set up camp after two miles, or push deeper along the lake for more solitude. The views of Mount Baker reflecting on the water are hard to beat.
Campsites fill fast on summer weekends, so consider backpacking mid-week or heading out early in the day. Bring swimsuits—the water’s cold, but kids love it!
Pro Tip: A Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 (or similar lightweight tent) is awesome here — easy to pitch on uneven ground and gives you room to spread out by the lake.
5. Barclay Lake (Stevens Pass Area)
Mileage: 4.4 miles RT | Elevation Gain: 225 ft | Drive: ~1h 30m from Seattle | Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
This is hands-down one of the easiest backpacking trips near Seattle and a fantastic choice for kids or first-timers. The trail is short, flat, and ends at a big alpine lake with dramatic views of Baring Mountain shooting straight up from the shore. Even though it’s simple, it feels wild once you’re sitting around camp with the cliffs towering over you.
Pro Tip: This trail is popular, so get there early on weekends if you want a prime lakeside spot. Think of it as a great “test run” hike to try out new gear before committing to a longer trip.
6. Waptus Lake
Mileage: 18 miles RT | Elevation Gain: ~1,600 ft | Drive: ~2h 15m from Seattle | Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
At first glance, Waptus Lake looks like a big undertaking—but don’t let the mileage scare you off. The trail is long, yes, but the grade is gentle almost the entire way. You’ll wind through forest, cross streams, and eventually land at a massive alpine lake tucked deep in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. There’s plenty of room for camping, so even with its popularity you can usually find a quiet spot along the shore.
This is a great “next step” beginner backpacking trip—especially if you want to build confidence carrying a heavier pack for longer miles without tackling crazy elevation. Bring bug spray if you’re going in July—the mosquitos love this valley.
Pro Tip: A comfy sleep system matters on a long-mile day — the Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT keeps you warm and off the ground without adding much weight.
7. Lake Ann (Mount Baker Area)
Mileage: 8.2 miles RT | Elevation Gain: 1,900 ft | Drive: ~3h from Seattle | Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Lake Ann is a little tougher than the others, but still totally doable for beginners ready for a challenge. The trail starts with a steady descent, then climbs back up through meadows and rocky slopes to a jaw-dropping lake at the foot of Mount Shuksan. The views are next-level—you’ll camp right across from the Shuksan Glacier. And definitely go for a dip – you will feel refreshed!
Pro Tip: Save some energy for the hike out—it starts with a big climb since you’ll be gaining back what you descended at the beginning. Trekking poles make it a lot more manageable.
8. Lake Valhalla
Mileage: 7.5 miles RT | Elevation Gain: ~1,200 ft | Drive: ~2h 15m from Seattle | Permit: Northwest Forest Pass
Lake Valhalla feels like the perfect introduction to “real alpine backpacking.” The trail climbs steadily but never too steeply, and when you reach the lake, you’re rewarded with an emerald pool set beneath the rocky slopes of Lichtenberg Mountain. Campsites are limited but cozy, giving the trip a more wildernessy feel despite being so close to Stevens Pass.
Pro Tip: If you can time it for early October, do it—the huckleberries turn red and the larches light up golden. It’s one of the most spectacular fall overnights within a couple hours of Seattle.
Beginner Backpacking Gear I Actually Use
- 🏕️ Tent: REI Half Dome SL 2+ or Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 — easy pitch, roomy for families.
- 🎒 Packs: Osprey Renn 65 (Women) / Osprey Rook 65 (Men) — supportive, beginner-friendly fits.
- 💤 Sleep: Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT (warm, ultralight) or NEMO Tensor (cushier feel).
- 💧 Water: LifeStraw Peak Gravity Water Filter — hang it at camp and let gravity do the work.
- 🍳 Kitchen: MSR PocketRocket 2 + TOAKS 750 ml pot — fast boil for coffee and simple meals.
- 🔦 Lighting: Black Diamond Spot headlamp — reliable and affordable.
- 🗺️ Navigation/Power: Small USB power bank + offline maps (Gaia/AllTrails).
- 🐻 Food storage: BearVault BV450/500 or Ursack — required in many alpine areas.
- 🦵 Nice-to-have: Black Diamond Trail Cork trekking poles — kinder on knees with a full pack.
Affiliate disclosure: I may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. I only recommend gear I use and trust.
What Makes a Good Beginner Backpacking Trip?
- Under 10 miles round-trip (there are some on this list that are above this)
- Moderate elevation gain (<2,000 ft)
- Water source nearby
- Established campsites
- Low risk of getting lost
What’s the easiest overnight backpacking trip near Seattle?
Barclay Lake and Pete Lake are two of the most approachable — short mileage, gentle grades, and plenty of flat campsites.
Do I need a permit to backpack in Washington?
Most trips require a Northwest Forest Pass for trailhead parking. Some wilderness areas also require free self-issue permits at the trailhead. Bear canisters are required in many alpine areas.
When is the best season for beginner backpacking near Seattle?
July–September is the sweet spot for snow-free trails. October brings beautiful fall colors at places like Lake Valhalla but expect colder nights and shorter days.
Are these trips good with kids?
Yes! Barclay, Pete, Baker (shorter sections), and Watson are family favorites. Waptus is long but mellow, while Lake Ann is better for teens or older kids due to steeper sections.
📆 Ready to Hit the Trail?
Starting with an easy overnight hike is the perfect way to build confidence and fall in love with backpacking. These five trips offer the best blend of beauty, accessibility, and beginner-friendliness.
