How to Start Backpacking in Washington: A Beginner’s Guide (2025 Edition)

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Washington State is a backpacker’s dream. From glacier-fed lakes and lush forests to rugged ridge lines and alpine meadows, there’s no shortage of stunning places to pitch a tent. But if you’re new to backpacking, getting started can feel overwhelming. What gear do you need? Do you need a permit? How do you find trails that won’t totally wreck you on day one? (the struggle is real) This guide is here to help. Whether you’re planning your first overnight hike or simply want to level up your day hiking game, here’s everything you need to know to start backpacking in Washington—with confidence.

1. What to Know Before You Go

Washington Backpacking Regions (Quick Overview)

Backpacking in Washington is all about choosing your backdrop. Some of the most popular areas include:

  • North Cascades National Park – Remote, rugged, and alpine heaven
  • Mount Rainier National Park – Iconic views and glacial terrain
  • Goat Rocks Wilderness – Wildflowers, ridgelines, and fewer crowds
  • Alpine Lakes Wilderness – Home to some of the prettiest lakes in the state

If you’re new to hiking or want something shorter to build confidence, check out my Easy Day Hikes Near Seattle post for beginner-friendly trails.

Required Permits & Regulations

Permits can be a little tricky in Washington, but here are the basics:

  • For most backpacking trips in wilderness areas managed by the U.S. Forest Service, a self-issued permit or no permit at all is required—though some popular areas have additional rules.
  • National Park Trips (like Rainier, Olympic, and North Cascades) usually require a lottery or advanced reservation via Recreation.gov.
  • Bear Canisters are required in some areas (especially in Olympic and North Cascades). Always check local ranger guidelines.
  • Parking Passes: Most trailheads require a Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass.

2. Gear Basics for Beginners

You don’t need every piece of gear on the market to get started. Here are the essentials:

Must-Haves:

  • Backpack (45-60L for most beginners)
  • Tent (2-person freestanding is a good start)
  • Sleeping bag + pad (aim for 3-season warmth)
  • Water filter or purifier
  • Stove + fuel (or a no-cook option)
  • Layered clothing (PNW weather can be moody)

You can find a full breakdown of how I pack for one night out backpacking.

Rent or Borrow:

If you’re not ready to invest, start with a few borrowed or rented items before committing. Ask a friend or REI rents the basic equipment.

3. Choosing Your First Backpacking Trail

Start small! You don’t need to tackle a 20-mile loop on your first trip. Look for:

  • Trails under 10 miles roundtrip
  • Under 2,000 feet of elevation gain
  • Campsites near lakes or streams for easy water access

Great Beginner Options:

  • Pete Lake – A gentle 9-mile round-trip hike near Snoqualmie Pass that follows the Cooper River through lush forest to a beautiful alpine lake. Minimal elevation gain, shallow creek crossings, and plenty of established campsites make it ideal for beginners and families.
Pete Lake
  • Goat Lake – A Pacific Northwest favorite with a forested trail and a stunning waterfall en route. The gentle elevation gain makes it feel manageable throughout, and the lakeside campsites offer a big reward for relatively little effort.
Goat Lake
  • Lake Valhalla – Accessible via the Smithbrook Trailhead, this moderate hike offers steady climbing through the forest and incredible views at the lake. A great intro to alpine backpacking without a major time commitment.
Lake Valhalla
  • Chain Lakes Loop – This popular loop near Mount Baker delivers constant views, dramatic ridgelines, and alpine lakes. It can get crowded, but the scenery easily makes up for the foot traffic—plan for a weekday if you can.
Chain Lakes Loop

4. Trail Etiquette & Leave No Trace

Please, please follow Leave No Trace principles. Popular Washington wilderness areas are seeing more traffic than ever.

  • Pack out everything, including toilet paper
  • Use a trowel or wag bag (some areas require them)
  • Be respectful of other hikers and keep group sizes low
  • Don’t feed or approach wildlife

5. Planning, Packing & Safety Tips

  • Always check trail conditions on WTA, AllTrails, or Gaia
  • Share your plan with someone at home
  • Watch the weather like a hawk (things change fast here)
  • Start early and pace yourself
  • Carry paper maps or have offline navigation

6. Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

  • Packing way too much (we’ve all done it)
  • Starting with a trail that’s too long or steep
  • Forgetting your water filter or map
  • Not breaking in boots or testing gear beforehand
  • Assuming you’ll find cell service (you probably won’t)

Final Thoughts: Just Get Out There

Backpacking doesn’t have to be intimidating. Start small, go with a friend, and keep your first trip simple. The most important thing is to get out there and learn as you go. Washington is full of incredible places to explore—and I hope this guide gives you the nudge you need to get started.

Want more ideas? Check out my post on Backpacking with Kids or browse my favorite gear picks to get your pack ready.

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