The Best Off-The-Beaten-Path Hiking Trails In Washington State

Washington State is packed with famous trails that draw crowds year-round, but some of the most stunning hikes remain hidden from the masses.

For those who crave solitude, wildflowers, and jaw-dropping views without the bumper-to-bumper trailhead chaos, you’re in the right place.

After exploring countless paths across this beautiful state, I’ve come to appreciate the quiet corners that truly highlight the diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to serene mountain lakes.

These ten hidden gems are perfect for those who want an unforgettable adventure, far from the typical tourist routes and well-trodden paths.

1. Hidden Lakes Trail (Pasayten Wilderness)

Deep in the Pasayten Wilderness, this trail winds through meadows bursting with wildflowers before reaching a series of pristine alpine lakes.

You’ll hike about eight miles one-way, gaining roughly 3,000 feet in elevation, but the effort pays off with solitude and scenery that feels untouched.

Expect to see marmots sunbathing on rocks and possibly even mountain goats grazing nearby.

The trail can be challenging, especially with creek crossings early in the season, so bring sturdy boots and trekking poles.

Most hikers skip this gem for easier options, meaning you might have entire lakeshores to yourself on a summer weekday.

2. Melakwa Lake Via Denny Creek Trail (Alpine Lakes Wilderness)

Starting from Denny Creek, this route takes you through old-growth forest and past cascading waterfalls before climbing steadily toward Melakwa Lake.

The trail stretches about four and a half miles one-way with around 2,300 feet of elevation gain, making it moderate but totally doable for most hikers.

Once you reach the lake, you’ll find turquoise water framed by towering peaks and granite slabs perfect for a picnic.

Early summer brings snowmelt that makes the waterfalls especially dramatic.

Because it requires a bit more effort than nearby trails, Melakwa stays quieter even on busy weekends.

3. Dirty Harry’s Peak (Middle Fork Snoqualmie Area)

With a name like Dirty Harry’s, you know this hike has character.

Climbing roughly 2,900 feet over just three miles, the trail is steep and relentless, but the panoramic summit views make every switchback worthwhile.

From the top, you’ll see Mount Rainier, Mount Si, and endless forested ridges stretching in every direction.

Spring wildflowers carpet the upper slopes, adding splashes of color to the green landscape.

This trail flies under the radar compared to nearby favorites, so you can enjoy big views without the big crowds that pack other Snoqualmie hikes.

4. Big Heart Lake (Alpine Lakes Wilderness)

Tucked away in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Big Heart Lake lives up to its romantic name with a distinctive heart-shaped shoreline.

The hike spans roughly six miles one-way with about 2,500 feet of elevation gain, offering a solid workout without being overly brutal.

You’ll pass through dense forest before breaking into open alpine terrain where the lake sparkles below rugged ridges.

Camping spots near the shore make this an excellent overnight destination if you want to watch the stars reflect off the water.

Few people venture this far in, so solitude seekers will feel right at home here.

5. Cougar, First, Middle & Big Hidden Lakes (Pasayten Chain)

This ambitious adventure strings together multiple pristine lakes in the remote Pasayten Wilderness, creating a backpacking trip you’ll never forget.

The full loop covers over twenty miles, but you can customize your route to visit just a few lakes if you prefer a shorter trip.

Each lake has its own personality, from the deep blue waters of Cougar to the secluded shores of Big Hidden.

Wildlife sightings are common, including deer, bears, and countless bird species.

Because of the distance and effort required, these lakes remain blissfully uncrowded even during peak hiking season.

6. Clear Creek Trail (Silverdale)

Over on the Olympic Peninsula near Silverdale, Clear Creek Trail offers a peaceful woodland walk that feels worlds away from city life.

The trail meanders about three miles through dense forest alongside a babbling creek, with minimal elevation gain making it perfect for families or anyone seeking an easy escape.

Moss drapes the trees like green curtains, and ferns carpet the forest floor in every shade of emerald.

Listen for woodpeckers and watch for salamanders near the water’s edge.

This trail rarely appears on popular hiking lists, so you can enjoy nature’s quiet beauty without tripping over other hikers.

7. Trails Around Olympic’s Remote Areas (Olympic National Park)

Olympic National Park’s famous spots get packed, but venture into the park’s remote corners and you’ll discover trails that see only a handful of visitors each week.

Areas like the Queets River Valley and the North Fork Skokomish offer incredible old-growth forests and river scenery without the crowds.

These trails often require longer drives on gravel roads, which keeps most tourists away.

You’ll need to prepare for potentially muddy conditions and bring the Ten Essentials since help is far away.

The reward is experiencing Olympic’s magic in near-total solitude, surrounded by ancient trees and pristine wilderness.

8. Trails Near Diablo Lake (North Cascades)

While Diablo Lake itself draws photographers by the carload, lesser-known trails in the area offer equally stunning views with far fewer people.

Routes like Sourdough Mountain and Thunder Knob provide breathtaking perspectives of the electric-blue water and surrounding peaks.

Sourdough is particularly challenging with over 5,000 feet of elevation gain, but Thunder Knob offers a gentler two-mile option that’s perfect for families.

Both trails showcase the glacial waters that make this area so special.

Arrive early or hike on weekdays to maximize your chances of peaceful moments overlooking one of Washington’s most photogenic landscapes.

9. Olympic Backcountry Paths (Olympic National Park)

Beyond the day-use trails, Olympic’s backcountry paths lead adventurous souls into some of the wildest terrain in the lower 48 states.

Routes through the Bailey Range or up Mount Olympus require serious preparation, navigation skills, and backcountry permits, but they reward experienced hikers with unforgettable wilderness experiences.

Expect challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and the kind of solitude that makes you feel like an explorer discovering new lands.

Glacier-carved valleys, alpine meadows, and wildlife encounters await those willing to go the distance.

These paths aren’t for beginners, but seasoned backpackers will find endless adventure in Olympic’s remote interior.

10. Goat Lake (Goat Rocks Wilderness)

Nestled in the Goat Rocks Wilderness, this trail climbs about five miles one-way with 1,500 feet of elevation gain to reach a stunning alpine lake.

True to the area’s name, mountain goats frequently roam the rocky slopes above the water, offering incredible wildlife viewing opportunities.

The trail passes through meadows painted with lupine and Indian paintbrush in summer, then opens to reveal the lake cradled between towering ridges.

Camping is available near the shore for those wanting to extend their adventure.

Because it requires a longer drive than more accessible trails, Goat Lake remains a peaceful sanctuary for those seeking mountain solitude.