As the warm weather begins to vanish, Seattlites retreat into their homes. However, cold weather doesn’t have to be the end of outdoor activities! If anything, the arrival of autumn can make hikes even more enjoyable.
Perhaps one of the most iconic fall hikes in Washington is Cutthroat Pass. While the three-hour drive may feel exhausting, the 11-mile hike, with 2,300 feet of elevation, is surrounded by beautiful fall birches showing the full gradient of fall colors. On this beautiful trail, hikers pass by multiple waterfalls and massive boulders covered in a gradient of lichen and moss. If the 11-mile hike is too long, there is a mini version called Cutthroat Lake, which is just under four miles.
If you’re looking for something less strenuous, Old Sauk trail is a great option at a total of six miles round-trip with very little elevation gain. The Old Sauk’s path is well maintained, but the surroundings are covered in beautiful fall foliage and a sea of mushrooms. This hike is great for a rainy day. Its thick foliage blocks most of the incoming rain while still letting the weather cool you down. The trail follows the Sauk River, which is inhabited by steel-head salmon. The bountiful fish comes with the thrilling sights of many ospreys and herons along the trail.
The Spruce Railroad Trail is an up to ten mile hike depending on when you want to turn back. The larches, giant maples, and spruce trees make the lake’s backdrop a colorful one. This hike is five to ten miles long depending on how far you want to walk. The path mostly follows the lake with beach access all around it. Spruce Railroad Trail’s main attraction comes about a mile into the hike—a bridge crossing over a large section of the lake. The bridge itself is cool enough but right next to it is a brilliant still pool labeled “the punchbowl”.
Lake Valhalla is a seven-mile round trip that is often dubbed the best fall hike in Washington. With an elevation gain of 1,500 feet and an elevation peak of over 5,000 feet, the views from the top are gorgeous. Lake Valhalla itself is beautiful as well. Surrounded by larches, Lake Valhalla’s crystal clear water provides a scenic backdrop and an excellent place to eat lunch at the top.
