The only thing better than going on any of the best hikes in Washington is going on an autumn hike in Washington, a time of year when the air is crisp and the foliage is plentiful. The hikes on this list are inviting, feature breathtaking views and perfect natural scenery, and won’t take up your entire day.

1. Blue Lake Trail, Stehekin
Blue Lake Trailhead, Winthrop, WA 98862, USA
Samantha Kaufman / alltrails.com
Located in the North Cascades near the remote town of Stehekin, Blue Lake Trail is known for its fall colors and sweeping lake views. Not only does this trail, which is one of the best hikes in Washington, begin with a boardwalk, but it is also only about 2.5 miles long.
2. Skyline Loop Trail, Mt. Rainier National Park
Skyline Loop Trail, Ashford, WA 98304, USA
Juli Murphy / alltrails.com
Fall is one of the best times to visit Mt. Rainier National Park. Once here, take the Skyline Loop to the notorious Paradise Park, which attracts outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world. The trail is 5.4 miles in length and is fairly simple to navigate. The views are infinitely rewarding, making it one of the best scenic hikes in Washington.
3. Silver Star Trail, Yacolt
Yacolt, WA 98675, USA
Charlotte S. / alltrails.com
This trail is popular well into November, and it's easy to see why. On a clear day, you can see views of Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, and Mount Hood from the top of the 4-mile trail.

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4. Iller Creek Conservation Area, Spokane
Iller Creek Conservation Area, 9001 E Holman Rd, Spokane Valley, WA 99206, USA
Lia Gaber / alltrails.com
This 5-mile loop in beautiful Spokane takes you through a shaded forest with plenty of colorful leaves to a ridge with perfect views of the Palouse. There are a few steep spots, but it's considered an overall easy hike.
5. Tolmie Peak Trail, Ashford
Tolmie Peak Trail, Washington 98304, USA
Ang Li / alltrails.com
This trail found in the town of Ashford stays crowded all summer, but the clusters of hikers start to disperse when the weather cools in the fall. The 5-mile loop features some of the best views you'll ever see at Mt. Rainier National Park... and that's really saying something. If you're searching for "hiking trails near me," this one will certainly rise near the top of the list!
6. Quinalt Loop Trail, Olympic Peninsula
Quinault Loop Trailhead, Quinault, WA 98575, USA
Jeff Kurtz / alltrails.com
This trail doesn't necessarily have one big payoff, but rather, it's the entire 3.9-mile loop that has enjoyable views. The diverse scenery of the Olympic Peninsula makes this spot a perfect pick in any season, but it's especially beautiful this time of year.
7. Skyline Divide Trail, Glacier
Skyline Divide Trailhead, Deming, WA 98244, USA
Sidney Jenkins / alltrails.com
Located in the Mt. Baker Wilderness, the 7-mile Skyline Divide Trail is especially wonderful in early October, when the leaves have changed and the bugs have dispersed. The first viewpoint is impressive, but hike all the way to the top for the most stunning North Cascades views you'll ever see. The Skyline Divide Trail is without a doubt one of the best hikes in Washington!

A quick note: It’s always advisable to check the Washington Trails Association website before you depart to see what the current status is on your hike of choice.

Have you been on any of these hikes? Which ones were your favorites? We’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences.

Washington is such a paradise for hikers. And when you’re short on time, you can always check out one of these trails under 5 miles.

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Best hikes in Washington

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