9 Easy Backpacking Trips with Kids in Washington!

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Great backpacking for kids in Washington… here we go!

When you’re starting out with backpacking with kids, it can be challenging to find the right trails so read on for 9 east backpacking trips with kids in Washington!. You want something that’s easy enough for everyone to enjoy and stay safe, but also rewarding enough to give a sense of accomplishment at the end. Where can you find great backpacking trips for families in Washington?

Good news! I’m always on the lookout for easy backpacking trips for families in Washington. I’ve compiled a list of my absolute favorites. Each trail has been tried and tested, offering that special something while remaining accessible and manageable for everyone. If this is your first or your tenth backpacking trip, any one of these will be sure to delight!

Getting started.

If you are planning your very first backpacking trip, congratulations!! Do you need a little bit of help? Check out my blog post on planning your first backpacking trip. https://www.thetrekkingmama.com/hiking/planning-your-first-backpacking-trip/

Okay, on to the list of the 9 best easy backpacking trips for families in Washington!

Chain Lakes Loop

#1 of the Easy backpacking trips for families in Washington.

Nestled in the heart of the North Cascades, the Chain Lakes Loop is a must-visit for backpackers seeking stunning alpine scenery. Its really beautiful the entire trail! Lakes Loop is a fantastic choice for backpacking with kids due to its manageable terrain and for the adults, and captivating scenery. Firstly, the loop offers a (relatively) short and well-maintained trail making it accessible for young hikers who might not yet have extensive backpacking experience. Additionally, the gradual elevation changes ensure that the hike is challenging enough to be rewarding without being overwhelming.

One of the highlights is the series of picturesque lakes that the trail circles, providing ample opportunities for exploration and play. And when you backpack here you have the lakes to yourself once the day hikers have gone home. We loved walking on logs, skipping rocks and just playing by the water.

Lastly, Chain Lakes Loop features a variety of landscapes that keep the journey engaging and fun for children. The chance to experience different terrains adds an element of adventure to the hike. Overall, this loop combines incredible beauty with an approachable route, making it an ideal choice.

Chain Lakes Overview

Anderson + Watson Lakes

#2 of the Easy backpacking trips for families in Washington.

Watson Lakes is an excellent easy backpacking choice for families with kids in Washington. Firstly, the hike to Watson Lakes is relatively short and straightforward, making it perfect for young adventurers who are just starting out. The well-marked path is gentle and gradual, minus a few switchbacks, which minimizes the chance of fatigue or frustration. It also isn’t all up on the way there and all down on the way back. It is rolling.

Along the way, kids can enjoy picturesque views of alpine meadows, towering trees, and 2 sparkling lakes. Once you reach the destination, the serene and inviting spot by the lake offers ample space for lots of play. Including, floating on the lake (don’t forget your floatie), swimming or spend time fishing or just relaxing in a hammock.

Overall, Watson Lakes strikes a wonderful balance between ease and reward, making it a memorable and enjoyable spot for children and parents too!

Watson Lakes Overview

Lake Ann

#3 of the Easy backpacking trips for families in Washington.

The highlight of the hike is reaching Lake Ann itself, a pristine alpine lake nestled beneath the towering peaks of Mt.Shuksan. The lake’s clear waters and scenic backdrop provide a perfect spot skipping rocks, swimming (might be a little cold but we went in) and climbing on the rocks that surround the lake. And if you can, try to get up to see the sunrise, you wont be disappointed. The lake is so still and the colors that can appear make it nothing short of magic!

At 8.6 miles round trip, the hike to Lake Ann is relatively short, making it suitable for young adventurers who may not be ready for longer treks. Additionally, while the trail does have some elevation gain, it is well-maintained and offers a steady ascent, which helps ensure a manageable experience for children. And there are streams to cross along the way, berries to pick and stunning views of both Mt.Shuksan and Mt.Baker. But this one might be a second or third time out type of backpacking trip once you have gotten your feet wet.

Overall, Lake Ann combines stunning views with an accessible trail, making it an great spot for a family backpacking trip.

Lake Ann Overview

  • Location: Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest
  • Distance: 8.6 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 2,047 feet
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Best Time to Visit: July to October
  • Permits: Northwest Forest Pass required for parking
  • Alltrails Link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/lake-ann

Waptus Lake

#4 of the Easy backpacking trips for families in Washington.

We spent two nights at Waptus Lake with friends, and it proved to be the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a few relaxing days. Firstly, the 8-mile hike to the lake features a series of ups and downs, but nothing too steep, and it’s lined with an abundance of wild berries. In fact, all I remember from the hike in was picking and eating berries along the way.

Additionally, the trail offers the option to break the journey into two parts. You can set up camp about 4 miles in at a group campsite with incredible river access. Here, several emerald pools provide excellent opportunities for swimming, which is a hit with kids.

Once you reach Waptus Lake, you’ll find a series of campsites located along the east end of the lake. Many of these sites have their own small, private beaches. Moreover, the lake’s water is pleasantly warm, and some spots even have a sandy bottom, making it ideal for children to swim and play. I particularly enjoyed watching the sunset from the water, with a stunning view of the sun setting over the mountains to the west. Overall, Waptus Lake offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty and kid-friendly activities. If you are looking for an awesome and easy backpacking trip for your family in Washington, you can’t go wrong with this one!

Waptus Lake Overview

Baker Lake Trail

#5 of the Easy backpacking trips for families in Washington.

If I had to recommend my first pick for a first-time backpacking trip for families in all of Washington, this would definitely be it. Firstly, it has everything you could hope for. You can easily reach the first camp within just 2 miles, and the trail is quite mellow, featuring a rolling path with minimal elevation gain.

Upon arrival at the camp, you’ll find a host of amenities, including picnic tables, stumps for stools, bear boxes, and convenient water access for both drinking water and water sports. Additionally, the site offers stunning lake views and well-maintained toilets. But that’s not all—from your campsite, you can also enjoy spectacular vistas of both Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. Isn’t that amazing?

Baker Lake Trail Overview

Summit Lake

#6 of the Easy backpacking trips for families in Washington.

incredible, the water was a dream to swim in, and our campsite exceeded all expectations. Although the road to the trailhead is notoriously rough, it was worth every bump and rut.

The hike to Summit Lake by Mount Rainier is a rewarding 6-mile round trip with moderate elevation gain. The trail offers breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and meanders through picturesque alpine meadows and old-growth forest. Upon reaching the clear Summit Lake, you’ll find a perfect spot for a swim, surrounded by stunning mountain vistas.

Moreover, if you’re seeking one of the best campsites in Washington, continue past the lake and hike up the hill to an overlook that will surely leave you breathless. Alternatively, if you prefer camping by the lake, be sure to set an early alarm. Head up the hill to catch the sunrise—it’s definitely worth the early wake-up call.

Summit Lake Overview

Pete Lake

#7 of the Easy backpacking trips for families in Washington.

The hike to Pete Lake is ideal for kids, thanks to its manageable 7-mile round trip and a well-maintained, gentle trail. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming forests, bubbling streams, and wildlife, and if the timing is right, you might even spot some tasty berries. We visited with friends and found it to be a fantastic spot for families to enjoy together.

Moreover, the lake itself is perfect for a couple of days, offering ample opportunities for easy exploration and fun. The kids loved hopping on the rocks jutting into the water, while the parents took a refreshing swim. Additionally, we all enjoyed some relaxing time reading by the lake.

Furthermore, on the east side of the lake, you’ll find plenty of campsites with stunning views. On clear days, the vistas of the western mountains are absolutely breathtaking. Add this hike to your list; it’s well worth the trek. And if you’re up for more adventure, consider a day hike up to Spectacle Lake—it’s quite the spectacle!

Pete Lake Overview

  • Location: Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest
  • Distance: 9.1 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 777 feet
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Best Time to Visit: July to October
  • Permits: Northwest Forest Pass required for parking
  • Alltrails Link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/pete-lake

Rialto Beach

#8 of the Easy backpacking trips for families in Washington.

This iconic Washington beach on the Olympic Peninsula is a must-visit destination, offering stunning scenery and a unique experience. However, if you’re looking to elevate your adventure, consider spending the night on the beach itself.

The drive to this remote beach is likely the most challenging part of the trip, especially depending on your starting point, as it’s quite off the beaten path. Yet, the journey is well worth it for the rewards.

Once you arrive, you’ll find the soft sand a perfect place to sleep under the stars. The playful waves provide endless fun during the day, and as night falls, the beach transforms into a spectacular stargazing spot. You can also enjoy cozy (and huge) campfires made from driftwood, enhancing the beachside experience. The area offers several campsites, including some right on the sand and others tucked away in the surrounding woods, allowing you to choose between a more secluded or beachfront camping experience.

If you are looking for more info on backpacking the beaches of the peninsula, check out this article I wrote for Run Wild My Child: https://runwildmychild.com/olympic-backpacking/https://runwildmychild.com/olympic-backpacking/

Rialto Beach Overview

Shi Shi Beach

#9 of the Easy backpacking trips for families in Washington.

Similar to Rialto Beach, Shi Shi Beach provides an incredible beach camping experience. However, the trail to Shi Shi starts off differently, beginning in a lush, magical forest. This forest features fun boardwalks and bridges that are especially enjoyable for kids.

What sets Shi Shi Beach apart is its sense of seclusion. The hike through the enchanting woods and the lack of crowds create a feeling of truly getting away from it all. This combination of a captivating forest approach and a more remote, less trafficked beach makes Shi Shi a great backpacking destination.

Make sure to check out the Point of Arches at the end of the beach during low tide. So much to explore!

Shi Shi Beach Overview

Tips for a Successful Trip

  1. Start Early: Begin your hike early in the morning to give yourself plenty of time to complete the loop and set up camp.
  2. Stay Hydrated: Ensure you carry enough water and have a reliable method of water purification.
  3. Trail Etiquette: Yield to uphill hikers, stay on designated trails, and respect the natural environment.
  4. Plan for the Weather: Be prepared for varying weather conditions, even in the summer.

Conclusion

Happy hiking!

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