The Best Late Fall Hikes in Washington
Late October through November in Washington can feel like an in-between season for hiking. And it is…. the leaves in the North have fallen or are past peak, snow can be covering the the fringes of the higher elevations. The rain has started but snowshoeing isn’t quite available because there isn’t that much snow in the low lands. So where do you go if you’re not ready to pack up your hiking gear for the season? Read on for the best late fall hikes in Washigton – you can still hit the trails durning shoulder season and find epic places!
ALWAYS PREPARE FOR COLD WEATHER HIKES
Mountain weather can shift quickly, and unexpected things do happen. Packing the essentials, dressing appropriately, and bringing plenty of layers can make a huge difference in staying safe and comfortable. Please think twice before you head out into the snow with just sneakers, sweatpants, and a single water bottle in hand!
If you are new to hiking and need some help, please check out my article on What to Pack for a Day Hike. It goes over all thats needed for to be prepared to head out in both warmer and colder weather!
BEFORE YOU GO IN THE SNOW
Hiking in the snow can have its dangers and its important to be informed before you head out. The Northwest Avalanche Center (NWAC) offers a free hour long class that gives you some valuable information on navigating their avalanche forecasts. You can check them out here: https://nwac.us/ If you want to learn even more, I recommend taking an AIARE Level 1 class.
In addition to avalanches the snow can be cold and wet. Wearing proper gear and staying dry is so important. A good rule of thumb is to pack like you have to spend the night. Packing an emergency bivy, extra food and water and having the ability to contact SAR. Its better to have something and not need it than need it and not have it!
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Best Late Fall Hikes in Washington
Frog Mountain
Frog Mountain is the perfect late-fall hike with amazing views and an easy-to-navigate trail. Thanks to recent upgrades in 2024, the trail is smooth, and the parking lot has fresh gravel—making it easier on both feet and tires! At the top, you’ll get stunning views of big peaks like Keyes and Glacier Peak. Between the crisp fall air and vibrant foliage, it’s a fantastic spot to soak up the season and enjoy some serious PNW beauty. Add this to your list of best late fall hikes in Washington!
Distance: 7.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 2,185 feet
Location: Wild SkyWilderness | Highway 2
Why it made the list: late season color in the meadows + miles of mountains.
Snow Lake
Snow Lake might be popular, but it’s still a total gem—especially if you can sneak in on a weekday to avoid the crowds. Less than an hour from Seattle, it’s got that unbeatable mix of pristine, clear water and a stunning mountain backdrop. The real magic for me comes in late fall when there’s a dusting of snow, but it’s still safe to hike. Snow Lake’s avalanche chutes make it risky in winter, but that first snowfall is a dream. The tall peaks dusted in white seem to dive straight into the lake, making for a seriously epic view.
Distance: 6.7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet
Location: Alpine Lakes Wilderness | I-90 on Snoqualmie Pass
Why it made the list: unbeatable views, clear water + potential early dusting of snow.
* regardless of the time of year please always do your homework regarding snow travel and access if its safe to go.
Gem Lake
If you LOVE Snow Lake but want just a little more then continue to Gem Lake. Its a real gem and you will leave the Snow Lake crowds behind. Its a little slice of paradise up there. I also like it because it feels warmer but maybe thats because it sits higher and compared to Snow Lake seems to get more sun. If you hike this after the first snowfall you wont be disappointed!
Distance: miles round trip
Elevation Gain:
Location: Alpine Lakes Wilderness | I-90 on Snoqualmie Pass
Why it made the list: unbeatable views + potential early dusting of snow.
Mt.Pilchuck
If you’re looking for incredible summit views without an extensive hike, Mount Pilchuck is ideal. The fire lookout at the top provides sweeping views of the Cascades and, on clear days, glimpses of the Olympics. But get that early snow and its just incredible, a serious winter wonderland. The road closes before winter so if you want to see it in snow make sure to get out in early fall.
Distance: 6.7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet
Location: Alpine Lakes Wilderness | I-90 on Snoqualmie Pass
Why it made the list: unbeatable views, clear water + potential early dusting of snow.
Mailbox Peak
Mailbox Peak is one of the most iconic hikes near North Bend, Washington, known for its intense elevation gain and rewarding summit views. The trail offers two options: the Old Trail, a steep, rugged 2.5-mile route that’s demanding and direct, and the New Trail, a 5-mile switchback route that’s easier on the knees but still challenging. I recommend taking the old trail up and the new trail down. I added this hike because it is BEAUTIFUL in the snow. And if you are going for an early season snow fix this one often delivers!
Distance: 7.7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 4,009 feet
Location: Middle Fork Snoqualmie Natural Resources Conservation Area| I-90 on Snoqualmie Pass
Why it made the list: unbeatable views that go on for miles.
Franklin Falls
This is one of my absolute favorite winter hikes—and it’s just as amazing in late fall! If the falls start to freeze early, you can still reach them on the shorter summer route, which is much easier than the snowshoe route. There’s something magical about the mix of green with icicles, before the snow fully sets in.
Distance: 2.0 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 344 feet
Location: Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest | I-90 on Snoqualmie Pass
Why it made the list: gorgeous waterfall framed with icicles.
High Rock Lookout
This is a classic. The views of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest are just incredible especially at sunrise. Mount Rainier is front and center at the end of this hike and it feels like you could just reach out and touch it. Although the lookout has been removed for restoration, the platform still remains. It is a great place to hang out with friends and watch the sunrise or sunset! I have only seen the sunrise but I have heard sunset is pretty epic too!
Distance: 3.2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,328 feet
Location: Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Why it made the list: unbeatable views of Mount Rainier. Best seen at sunrise + sunset.
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