Fall in Washington is a breathtaking time when the landscape transforms into a vibrant display of color. Reds, oranges, and yellows take over the trails as the leaves and ground cover change. But the real highlight? The incredible larch trees that glow golden, making fall hiking in Washington an unforgettable experience.

We’ve curated a list of 15 fall hikes in Washington, each offering something special—from easy, beginner-friendly trails to more challenging adventures that are well worth the effort. Whether you’re exploring the best trails near Seattle or heading out to see those glowing larch trees, this list has something for everyone. And as we continue to explore, we’ll keep adding to this collection, ensuring you always have great options for your autumn adventures.

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates on new places we visit!

So what are larches?

Larches may look like pine trees, but they’re actually a unique type of deciduous tree, meaning they shed their needles in late fall. Unlike most evergreens, which stay green year-round, larches put on a stunning display as their needles transform from green to a vibrant golden yellow, a change that only lasts for a few short weeks. This brief but brilliant show is why people go crazy for these special trees. Spend much time in the Pacific Northwest, and you’ll quickly hear chatter about “larch madness” or see hikers embarking on a “larch march,” eager to catch a glimpse of this fleeting seasonal highlight.

When is the best time to see fall color and larches in Washington?

It depends! Generally, you can enjoy fall colors in Washington throughout October. From our experience, we’ve found that the larches in the Winthrop area tend to turn golden first, followed by those in the North Cascades, with Blewett Pass and the Teanaway area turning later. No matter when you head out, though, you’ll be treated to beautiful scenery. You might just find that some larches are still green while others are starting to turn yellow.

Tips for Fall Hiking in Washington

Check the Weather and Trip Reports: Fall is a transition season, so be prepared for everything from sunshine to rain, or even snow and ice on the trails. Trip reports on WTA.org and AllTrails provide valuable information about current trail conditions, helping you decide what to wear and whether to bring additional gear like hiking poles or microspikes. They also give insights into when fall colors and larches are at their peak.

Layer Up! Temperatures can vary widely while hiking, especially during the fall shoulder season. You might feel warm climbing uphill but cool down quickly once you stop or head back downhill. One of my favorite items for fall hiking is a Smartwool base-layer pullover, which keeps you just warm enough without being too hot (men’s option here).

Be Prepared: Always bring the 10 essentials, even if you feel it’s just a short or easy hike. You never know when something might go wrong!

What to Wear for Fall Hiking in Washington

Fall is a season of transition, making it tricky to plan your hiking wardrobe. After hundreds of hikes, we’ve found a system that keeps us comfortable, no matter the conditions. The secret? Layers and the right fabrics.

Footwear

• Socks: You can’t go wrong with Merino wool (women | men). It wicks moisture and helps prevent blisters. I also love WrightSock double-layer socks for extra comfort.

• Hiking Boots: Fall trails can be unpredictable, so sturdy, waterproof boots are key. Shane loves the Keen Targhee boots, while I’m a fan of Merrell Moab 3s.

Top Layers

• Base Layer: I prefer Smartwool as my main shirt (women  |  men). It’s moisture-wicking and cozy, keeping me warm without overheating. Depending on the weather, I’ll choose either short or long sleeves. Polyester is also a good option, but avoid cotton since it absorbs and holds onto moisture.

• Mid-Layer: For extra warmth, I pack a fleece or a lightweight water-resistant jacket. This layer stays in my pack until I need it, often when we stop for a break or on the way down. It’s perfect for chilly moments or light drizzle when a full raincoat might feel too warm. I’m currently loving this cute fleece and water-resistant fleece jacket from Kuhl!

• Outer Layer: A down puffy jacket is a must—it’s super warm and packs small. If there’s rain in the forecast, don’t forget a rain shell to stay dry as well.

Bottoms

I often wear leggings—either regular or water-resistant if there’s a chance of rain. If you tend to run really cold, you may even opt for fleece-lined leggings later in the season. 

Shane practically lives in his Kuhl Renegade Rock Pants, which offer great flexibility and have built-in vents.

Accessories

It seems like a hat and gloves are always the main thing we forget to pack, but they’re so important for fall hiking! While you might not need them on the uphill, they’re a lifesaver when you stop or head downhill and your hands and ears start to get cold. A buff is also handy for those windy fall hikes, adding extra protection for your neck and face.

As fall progresses and snow or ice becomes more common, it’s smart to pack microspikes and hiking poles for added stability on the trail.

Our Favorite Fall Hikes in Washington

Below is a roundup of our favorite fall hikes in Washington that we’ve done, including many with larches and a few others that don’t have larches, but still have incredible fall colors. We’ve generally ranked these fall hikes from easiest to most difficult. 

You can find extensive trail descriptions, driving directions, trip reports, and a link to the weather forecast on WTA.org using the links we’ve provided. Please be sure to do your research, plan, and prepare before heading out on the trails!

Blue Lake

Stats: 4.4 miles roundtrip, 1,050 feet elevation gain
Area: North Cascades
Distance from Seattle: 3 hours
Parking Pass: Northwest Forest Pass
Larches? Yes

Learn more: Blue Lake on WTA

Goat Peak Lookout

Stats: 3.7 miles roundtrip, 1,400 feet elevation gain (short, but very steep!)
Area: North Cascades – Methow / Sawtooth
Distance from Seattle: 4 hours
Parking Pass: Northwest Forest Pass
Larches? Yes

Learn more: Goat Peak Lookout on WTA

Please know that some of the links in this post are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We appreciate your support, which helps us create more free content for our readers!

---

We hope this post inspires you to get out and enjoy the gorgeous scenery of a fall hike near Seattle! We’d love to know where you go — connect with us on Instagram @the.egresis and tag us in your adventures!

---