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7 Unforgettable Fall Hikes In Washington State: The Ultimate 2024 Larch And Foliage Guide

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The Pacific Northwest is arguably at its most spectacular during the autumn season, when the high alpine slopes ignite with a fiery mix of golden larches and crimson huckleberry bushes. As of late December 2025, hikers are already planning their trips to catch the breathtaking, ephemeral beauty of Washington's fall colors, which typically peak in the high country from late September through early October, with lowland colors extending well into late October.

This comprehensive guide cuts through the noise to deliver the most current and essential details on the state’s absolute best fall hikes. From the strenuous, high-reward trails of the North Cascades to the easy, family-friendly loops near Seattle, we cover the must-see destinations, the exact trail statistics, and the critical passes you need to avoid a fine and secure your spot among the golden trees.

The Golden Rush: Essential Larch Hikes in the Central and North Cascades

The Western Larch (Larix occidentalis) is a deciduous conifer, meaning its needles turn a brilliant, electric gold before dropping each fall. This phenomenon draws the largest crowds and creates the most iconic Washington State autumn photographs. Timing is everything; aim for the last week of September to the first two weeks of October for the best golden larches.

1. Maple Pass Loop (North Cascades National Park Complex)

The Maple Pass Loop is the undisputed king of Washington's larch hikes. It offers sweeping ridgeline views, a stunning alpine lake (Lake Ann), and an overwhelming concentration of golden larches and glowing red subalpine foliage. The trail is strenuous but offers a rewarding 360-degree panorama of the North Cascades.

  • Distance: 7.2 miles (Loop)
  • Elevation Gain: ~2,000 feet
  • Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass
  • Key Entities: North Cascades Highway (Hwy 20), Rainy Pass, Lake Ann, Heather Pass.

2. Lake Ingalls via Ingalls Way Trail (Alpine Lakes Wilderness)

For a more rugged and secluded experience than Maple Pass, Lake Ingalls is a legendary destination, famous for its golden larches and the possibility of spotting the resident mountain goats. The final approach to the lake is steep and rocky, but the view of the turquoise lake framed by larches and the majestic Mount Stuart is unparalleled.

  • Distance: 9 miles (Roundtrip)
  • Elevation Gain: ~2,600 feet
  • Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass
  • Key Entities: Teanaway area, Mount Stuart, Ingalls Pass, Headlight Basin, Alpine Lakes Wilderness.

3. Carne Mountain (Central Cascades)

Carne Mountain is a fantastic, though very strenuous, alternative for serious hikers seeking golden larches with fewer crowds than the Maple Pass area. The trail winds relentlessly upward but provides continuous, stunning views of the Entiat Mountains and the surrounding golden landscape. It is a true high-reward hike for those willing to put in the effort.

  • Distance: 8-16 miles (Roundtrip, depending on route)
  • Elevation Gain: 3,600–4,800 feet
  • Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass
  • Key Entities: Wenatchee National Forest, Stevens Pass, Entiat Mountains, High Route.

Mount Rainier & High Cascade Hues: Huckleberry Reds and Vista Trails

While the Eastern Cascades are known for larches, the trails around Mount Rainier and the Western Cascades are famous for the vibrant, deep-red hues of the low-lying huckleberry and blueberry bushes, creating a ground cover of fiery color against the backdrop of snow-dusted peaks. This foliage typically peaks slightly earlier than the larches.

4. Naches Peak Loop (Mount Rainier National Park)

The Naches Peak Loop is one of the most accessible and beautiful fall hikes in the Mount Rainier area. It offers a stunning perspective of Mount Rainier over Tipsoo Lake and is blanketed in the brilliant red and orange colors of the subalpine meadows. Hiking the loop in a clockwise direction is recommended for the best views.

  • Distance: 3.2 miles (Loop)
  • Elevation Gain: ~600 feet
  • Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass (at the trailhead)
  • Key Entities: Chinook Pass, Tipsoo Lake, Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), Mount Rainier, Highway 410.

5. Lewis Lake (North Cascades Alternative)

Often overlooked in favor of the nearby Maple Pass Loop, Lewis Lake offers a quieter, yet equally stunning, golden larch experience. This trail branches off the main route and is considered a fantastic, lesser-known option for those who want to escape the peak-season crowds. It's a challenging but rewarding detour for serious hikers.

  • Distance: 7.0 miles (Roundtrip)
  • Elevation Gain: ~1,800 feet
  • Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass (same as Maple Pass)
  • Key Entities: Heather Pass, Wing Lake, Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.

Lowland & Olympic Peninsula Trails: Easy Access and Mossy Greens

For those looking for a less strenuous adventure, or who prefer to hike later in the season when snow is dusting the high peaks, Washington’s lowland and western trails provide beautiful riverbank foliage, moss-draped forests, and easy access from major cities.

6. Barclay Lake Trail (Near Stevens Pass)

The Barclay Lake Trail is a perfect example of a low-elevation, high-reward hike near the Stevens Pass area. It's an excellent choice for beginner hikers or families, offering a gentle, forested walk to a serene lake surrounded by peaks. The trail is known for vibrant deciduous trees along the route, providing pops of yellow and orange amid the evergreens.

  • Distance: 4.4 miles (Roundtrip)
  • Elevation Gain: ~500 feet
  • Pass Required: Northwest Forest Pass
  • Key Entities: Skykomish, Wild Sky Wilderness, Mount Baring.

7. Sol Duc Falls & Hoh Rainforest (Olympic National Park)

The Olympic Peninsula provides a completely different fall experience. Instead of alpine larches, you'll find an explosion of mossy greens, giant ferns, and vibrant riverbank foliage. The Hoh Rainforest is magical in the fall mist, while the Sol Duc Falls Trail is a short, easy walk to a spectacular three-chute waterfall, framed by moss and autumn hues along the river.

  • Sol Duc Falls Distance: 1.6 miles (Roundtrip)
  • Pass Required: National Park Pass (or entrance fee)
  • Key Entities: Olympic National Park, Sol Duc River, Lover's Lane Loop, Marymere Falls, Hall of Mosses Trail.

Planning Your Washington Fall Hiking Trip: Essential Tips

To maximize your chances of seeing the coveted golden larches and vibrant fall colors in 2024 and beyond, keep these expert tips in mind:

  • Timing is Critical: High-country larches usually peak between September 20 and October 10. Lowland foliage (like the Puget Sound region) can last until the third week of October.
  • Check Trail Conditions: Always consult the Washington Trails Association (WTA) trip reports for the most current information on snow levels, road closures (especially for high mountain passes like Chinook Pass and Highway 20), and parking conditions.
  • Secure Your Pass: The majority of the best fall hikes require a Northwest Forest Pass ($5/day or $30/annual) or the America the Beautiful Pass. Do not rely on a Discover Pass for National Forest land.
  • Beat the Crowds: Trails like Maple Pass Loop and Lake Ingalls are extremely popular. Arrive before sunrise (5:30 AM to 6:00 AM) on weekends, or plan your trip for a weekday to secure parking and enjoy a quieter experience.

Washington State’s autumn is a fleeting, unforgettable spectacle. By planning ahead and targeting these specific trails, you are guaranteed to capture the season's most magnificent golden and crimson display.

7 Unforgettable Fall Hikes in Washington State: The Ultimate 2024 Larch and Foliage Guide
best fall hikes in washington state
best fall hikes in washington state

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