Washington state is a diverse area that offers wonderful Alpine meadows and mountains. The beauty of the state is unforgettable. Winter time hiking is very popular in the state and its a wonderful time of year to see the area from a different angle.
Here is a guide to three top hiking destinations to enjoy this winter season.
1) Boulder River Trail
This lovely trail will take you past waterfalls and through a lovely forest settings that is home to many old growth trees. Hopefully you will be able to enjoy a few wildlife sightings while you are out and about. Along the way there are few benches to relax on and enjoy the surroundings. This trail is wonderful for a family to spend the afternoon enjoying. The trail is nine miles. You will head in 4.5 miles and head out 4.5 miles.
To reach this trail head out of Darrington Washington onto the I5. Head to Hwy 530 to mile marker 41. Turn right on French Creek Road FS # 2010 and go for approximately 4 miles until you reach a parking area that is quite large. This the start of the trail head.
2) Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
This lovely refuge is a must visit during the winter time when the wildlife is the most active. It is lovely and offers many diverse day hikes that are all well marked. You will also be able to enjoy the wooden boardwalks so you don’t get your feet wet while traversing the wetlands. You will see a diverse range of wildlife and birds. Be sure to bring your camera and binoculars to truly enjoy the region. Also be sure to pack rain gear because during the winter months it does to tend to rain often. Also try to wear water proof boots.
The refuge is located at the southern end of Puget Sound. To reach the park head down I5 to exit 114. Simply follow the signs from there. It is very easy to locate.
Remember to pack rain gear because the area does tend to rain often during the winter months.
3) Beacon Rock Trail
Beacon Rock is the core from prehistoric volcano. The ancient monolith is made up entirely of basalt rocks
The Lewis and Clark expedition named this stunning landmark when they first discovered it on their expedition. It truly is breathtaking and well worth a visit.
You can walk to the top of the Rock with ease. It is 600 feet to the top. The views are breathtaking. You can see all across the Columbia River Gorge and the surrounding area. The trail is an easy 2 miles round trip and its a wonderful adventure for a family. It is recommend that you do not take young children on the hike because of the sheer drop offs. There are handrails to provide safety and a good handhold. This trail is not handicap accessible. The trail will take you through wonderful forest, across areas of rock that have been blown out to form a trail and across giant rock catwalks. When you reach the top you will be able to truly enjoy yourself with the breathtaking views.
To reach the trail head south from Vancouver Washington on I205 to the Hwy 14 exit. Head down Hwy 14 east. The entrance to the park and Beacon Rock are are located at mile marker 35.
If you are trying to reach the trail head from Portland Oregon head down I84 east. At the town of Cascade Locks take the toll bridge across into Washington State. Turn left onto Hwy 14 and go approximately eight miles to the entrance to the park and Beacon Rock.
These trails are a wonderful way to spend an afternoon in the wintertime hiking and soaking up some much needed fresh air. Washington state offers many trails and outdoor adventures for the enthusiast to enjoy.
