Best Fall Hikes in Washington (from a local)

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Looking for epic larch marches and tons of autumn color… here are my favorite Washington Fall hikes!

Fall in Washington showcases an incredibly rich array of colors from golden larches to bright red blueberries. Hiking is a great way to experience the season’s beauty and enjoy that crisp Fall air we all love. Check out this list of the best fall hikes in Washington to soak in the season’s most colorful scenery.

North Cascades National Park – Highway 20 + Mazama

Cutthroat Pass

#1 of the Best Fall Hikes in Washington State.

This is hands down one of my favorite trails in North Cascades National Park in Washington. This North Cascades gem shines in mid to late fall when the larches light up in vibrant gold. At 9.8 miles, the hike offers an exceptional view of the mountain peaks, with fewer crowds than the nearby Maple Pass Loop. The fall landscape, especially when dusted with snow, feels like a fairytale. The drive to the trailhead is long, but the beauty makes it worth every mile.

Cutthroat Pass Overview

Wing Lake

#2 of the Best Fall Hikes in Washington State.

Wing Lake, accessed via the popular Maple Pass Loop, is a must-visit in late fall when the golden larches surround the lake. The 9-mile trail is a bit challenging, but the views along the way are more than worth it. As you near the lake, the sight of towering peaks mirrored in the alpine waters creates a scene you won’t soon forget. And be sure to head to the back of the lake and see what resembles an infinity pool.

If you ever find yourself with some extra time, this one is an epic backpacking spot. Be sure to wake up for sunrise and climb up a little behind the lake.

Wing Lake Overview

  • Location: North Cascades National Park
  • Distance: 9 miles (Varies if you add Black Peak)
  • Elevation: 2,100 ft
  • Difficulty Rating: Hard
  • Parking Pass: NW Forest Pass
  • Link to AllTrails: Wing Lake

Blue Lake

#3 of the Best Fall Hikes in Washington State.

Blue Lake’s 4.6-mile hike is a fan favorite, especially during peak larch season. The vibrant golden foliage surrounding the crystal-clear blue water creates one of the most picturesque views in the North Cascades. The trail is moderate, making it a great option for families or those seeking a short but rewarding hike with breathtaking views.

Blue Lake Overview

Harts Pass – Windy Pass via the PCT

#4 of the Best Fall Hikes in Washington State.

Harts Pass offers a peaceful escape with sweeping views and abundant larches, making it one of the best spots for fall hiking. This 11.3-mile trail, accessed via the Pacific Crest Trail, is mostly gentle, thanks to the high elevation of the starting point. As you hike, enjoy panoramic views of the rugged mountains and the chance to meet PCT thru-hikers nearing the end of their journey. It’s a quieter alternative to other nearby trails, offering solitude as well as stunning scenery.

Harts Pass – Windy Pass via the PCT Overview

Cascade Pass / Sahale Arm

#5 of the Best Fall Hikes in Washington State.

This is the kind of hike that remains on your favorite hikes list forever; you won’t ever regret choosing it.

Cascade Pass to Sahale Arm is one of the most scenic hikes in the North Cascades, and fall is the perfect time to experience it. The 12.1-mile trail offers a steady climb through meadows filled with autumn hues, eventually leading to sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. If you’re up for a longer adventure, you can extend the hike to Sahale Arm, where you’ll find even more spectacular vistas and the chance to spot mountain goats.

Black bear sightings are frequent in the alpine meadows. I personally rounded a corner to find a black bear just 14 feet in front of me—it was an incredible experience.

Cascade Pass Overview

  • Location: North Cascades National Park
  • Mileage: 12.1
  • Elevation Gain: 5,029 ft
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Parking Pass: America the Beautiful
  • Link to AllTrails: Cascade Pass

Goat Peak Lookout

#6 of the Best Fall Hikes in Washington State.

For sunset views and solitude, the Goat Peak Lookout is the perfect choice. The 3.5-mile trail to the fire lookout takes you through a forest of larches, culminating in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The lookout offers an incredible spot to watch the sunset, and if you’re hiking in the late afternoon, be sure to bring a headlamp for the descent.

Goat Peak Lookout Overview

East of the Cascades – Lake Chelan Area

Copper Glance Lake

#7 of the Best Fall Hikes in Washington State.

This 6.4-mile trail takes you to the stunning Copper Glance Lake, surrounded by golden larches in fall. The hike passes through a burned area with new growth and wildflowers, and you’ll find an old mine along the way. The lake’s blue-green waters are a highlight, especially when calm, offering perfect reflections.

Copper Glance Lake Overview

  • Location: Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest
  • Distance: 6.4 miles
  • Elevation Gain: 2,591 feet
  • Difficulty: Hard
  • Best Time to Visit: June to October
  • Permits: NW Forest Pass
  • Alltrails Link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/copper-glance-lake-trail

Golden Lakes Loop

#8 of the Best Fall Hikes in Washington State.

There is a reason this hike is called the Golden Lakes Loop: it truly lives up to its name in the fall. Without a doubt, it is one of the best hikes I have ever experienced during this season. Each corner of the trail reveals something stunning, from expansive vistas and sparkling lakes to majestic mountains and an abundance of larches. In fact, you might find more larches clustered together here than anywhere else in the state of Washington.

The Golden Lakes Loop is an epic 22-mile hike that takes you through some of the most beautiful fall scenery in Washington. If you’re short on time and can only visit one lake, I recommend prioritizing Upper Eagle Lake first, followed by Cooney Lake. I found the hike to Upper Eagle to be more captivating than the trek to Cooney.

Golden Lakes Loop Overview

Highway 2 – West of Stevens Pass

Minotaur Lake

#9 of the Best Fall Hikes in Washington State.

Short and steep, this hike is definitely a thigh burner, but it’s worth every step. Minotaur Lake is a short but steep hike that rewards you with some of the most stunning fall colors in the Cascades. At 3.2 miles, the trail offers a challenging ascent, but the view of the emerald lake surrounded by fiery red blueberries is worth the effort. For more of a challenge, you can extend your hike to Theseus Lake or Labyrinth Mountain for even more stunning vistas.

Minotaur Lake Overview

Lake Valhalla + Mount McCausland

#10 of the Best Fall Hikes in Washington State.

Lake Valhalla offers a serene alpine experience, perfect for a fall day hike. The 6.3-mile trail winds through lush forests, leading to the crystal-clear lake. The surrounding larches and vibrant foliage make this a top spot for autumn hiking. If you’re looking for a little extra adventure, hike partway up Mount McCausland for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Hike it on a clear day, and this spot will soon become a favorite!

Alpine Lakes Wilderness

The Enchantments

#11 of the Best Fall Hikes in Washington State.

For me, this hike is one of the absolute best fall hikes you can hike in Washington State. However, it’s also one of the most challenging.

Like many others, I applied for a permit to backpack in the Enchantments, only to face disappointment when I didn’t get one. With only 2% of applicants securing a permit, it’s a tough lottery. Nevertheless, this setback can turn into an opportunity, as you can opt to do a thru-hike instead.

The journey as a day hike is demanding and comes with its fair share of challenges, but every step is truly worth it. Hiking in October adds an extra layer of magic; the landscape transforms into a tapestry of gold. The larches glow a vibrant yellow, and the combination of golden foliage, rugged white mountains, and pristine blue lakes creates a spectacular scene.

It’s important to note that thru-hiking this trail requires both training and experience. The day is long and should not be taken lightly.

Enchantments Trail Overview

Lake Ingalls

#12 of the Best Fall Hikes in Washington State.

Lake Ingalls is a perfect spot for fall hiking, offering stunning views of Mount Stuart and vibrant golden larches along the 8.9-mile trail. The lake itself is a gem, and if you want a higher vantage point, you can hike up around the lake. This trail is ideal for a fall day hike, but it’s also a great place to backpack. There are several awesome campsites on your way to the lake in a place called Headlight Basin. No permit necessary!

Lake Ingalls Overview

Alta Mountain + Rampart Lakes

#13 of the Best Fall Hikes in Washington State.

The Rampart Lakes area is a fall hiker’s paradise, offering stunning mountain vistas, vibrant autumn colors, and ample swimming opportunities.

The 9.8-mile Alta Mountain + Rampart Lakes hike offers a variety of stunning fall scenery. Starting at the Rachel Lake Trailhead, you’ll hike through colorful forests, then climb to the alpine lakes. For a more challenging adventure, you can summit Alta Mountain for 360-degree views of the surrounding wilderness. Rampart Lakes is a beautiful spot to relax, with its calm waters reflecting the fall foliage.

Alta Mountain + Rampart Lakes Overview

I-90 Corridor

Granite Mountain

#14 of the Best Fall Hikes in Washington State.

If you are looking for a terrific and challenging hike in the fall, this one is truly a stunner! The second half of the hike is covered in vibrant color, creating an amazing spectacle. I was blown away by the color and how it contrasts all of the beautiful granite. However, it’s not easy; you’ll be climbing 3,700 feet in just over 3 miles. Its a leg burner and puts you to the test. Nevertheless, if you make it to the top, you will be rewarded with beautiful mountain views all around. I mean views for MILES!

This fire tower is conveniently located off the I-90 corridor, approximately 50 miles outside Seattle, making it an easy day hike to access.

Granite Mountain Overview

Conclusion

Getting out and going for a hike in the fall in Washington State is undoubtedly one of the best ways to embrace the season. I can’t recommend these hikes enough. Each one offers something unique, showcasing an impressive display of fall colors.

Moreover, for the most current updates on fall foliage, be sure to check the trip reports on AllTrails or the Washington Trails Association (WTA) websites. Happy hiking!

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