The 6 Best Beginner Backpacking Trips Within 3 Hours of Seattle
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 6 best beginner backpacking trips within 3 hours of Seattle that I can say are worth your while.
✅ 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
Distance: 9 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: ~500 ft
Permit: NW Forest Pass
Kid-Friendly? Yes
This is one of my favorite true beginner-friendly overnights. The hike follows the Cooper River through old-growth forest, across log bridges and gentle trail, until you reach the beautiful alpine Pete Lake. There are multiple campsites along the lake and near the outlet stream, making it easy to find a peaceful place to pitch your tent. My kids loved this one.
🌲 2. Goat Lake (Mountain Loop Highway)
Distance: 10.5 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: ~1,400 ft
Permit: NW Forest Pass
Kid-Friendly? Yes (ages 8+ recommended)
A PNW favorite with an easygoing grade and rewarding scenery. Hike up through old forest alongside waterfalls to reach a wide alpine lake surrounded by peaks. The trail never feels too steep, and there are plenty of good camping spots. Bonus: do the loop version (Upper Trail in, Lower Trail out) to vary the scenery.
3. Watson Lakes (North Cascades)
Distance: ~6 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: ~1,200 ft
Permit: NW Forest Pass
Kid-Friendly? Yes
Gorgeous twin lakes tucked high in the North Cascades. The trail is short and scenic, with camping options near both lakes. Great wildflowers in summer. Just take it slow on the bumpy forest road to the trailhead.
4. Baker Lake Trail
Distance: ~4–5 miles out-and-back (to Anderson Point)
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Permit: None required
Kid-Friendly? Very
A choose-your-own-adventure trail along the shores of Baker Lake. For a beginner trip, aim for the Anderson Point campsites—about 2 miles in from the trailhead. This one’s flat, forested, and full of creek crossings and lake access. Great for hot summer nights.
5. Barclay Lake (Stevens Pass Area)
Distance: 4.4 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: ~500 ft
Permit: NW Forest Pass
Kid-Friendly? 100% yes
Link to Alltrails
Possibly the easiest true backpacking trip in the Cascades. The trail is flat, wide, and ends at a crystal-clear lake beneath Baring Mountain. Campsites are right at the water, and it’s a favorite of mine for a spontaneous overnight with kids.
6. Waptus Lake
Distance: ~14 miles round-trip (can be broken into shorter days)
Elevation Gain: ~2,500 ft (gradual)
Permit: NW Forest Pass + self-issued Alpine Lakes Wilderness permit
Kid-Friendly? For older kids or strong beginners
A long but mellow trail through peaceful forest, with plenty of opportunities to camp along the river if you don’t want to hike all the way in on day one. Waptus Lake has some of the best beach campsites in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and is one of the most swimmable alpine lakes in Washington. Best from late June through early October.
7. Bonus – Lake Ann (Mount Baker Area)
Distance: ~8.2 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: ~1,900 ft
Permit: NW Forest Pass
Kid-Friendly? For older or more experienced hikers
Technically just over 3 hours from Seattle, but worth the stretch. This one is a stunner, with close-up views of Mount Shuksan and alpine meadows. Campsites are scattered around the lake basin. Best hiked July–September.
🗺️ Map of Trailheads
(Embed Google My Maps showing all 5 locations with drive times)
🤓 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
📆 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.
Before you go, check out:
