If you're anything like me—craving epic peaks and fresh alpine air—you’re going to feel right at home in Washington State. I’ve stood in awe beneath glacier-draped summits and hiked trails that made me feel completely alive. These mountains of Washington State are the real deal. I wish I had time for more, but like you, I’m lucky to squeeze in even one or two before my vacation ends.

Highlights:

  • When I needed a challenge, I climbed the snow-capped summit of Mount Rainier—you should try it too, even just partway.
  • You’ll wander through wildflower meadows on Mount St. Helens, just like I did, soaking in every color and breeze.
  • I trekked past alpine lakes in the North Cascades, and I promise, you’ll want to linger there longer than you planned.
  • You can’t help but marvel at the jagged Olympic peaks. I still think about those views.
  • I laced up my boots for Mount Baker Wilderness, and if you love rugged beauty, you’ll be right there with me.

Unique Mountains of Washington State:

Conquer the Mythical Heights of Mount Olympus

Courtesy of Christopher Boswell - Fotolia.com

Conquer the Mythical Heights of Mount Olympus -                                     

If You Crave Rugged Beauty, Trek to Mount Shuksan

Courtesy of Bill Perry - Fotolia.com

If You Crave Rugged Beauty, Trek to Mount Shuksan -                                     

Ascend the Majestic Slopes of Mount Baker

Courtesy of Galyna Andrushko - Fotolia.com

Ascend the Majestic Slopes of Mount Baker -                                     

Challenge Yourself on the Remote Trails of Glacier Peak

Courtesy of Bill Perry - Fotolia.com

Challenge Yourself on the Remote Trails of Glacier Peak -                                     

Summit the Towering Granite of Eldorado Peak

Courtesy of cascoly2 - Fotolia.com

Summit the Towering Granite of Eldorado Peak -                                     

Hike to Panoramic Views atop Sahale Mountain

Courtesy of vlukas - Fotolia.com

Hike to Panoramic Views atop Sahale Mountain -                                     

Tackle the Dramatic Ridges of Dragontail Peak

Courtesy of Shakzu - Fotolia.com

Tackle the Dramatic Ridges of Dragontail Peak -                                     

Climb Toward the Sky on Sherman Peak

Courtesy of Sofi - Fotolia.com

Climb Toward the Sky on Sherman Peak -                                     

Find Hidden Wilderness Adventures at Lost Peak

Courtesy of prophoto24 - Fotolia.com

Find Hidden Wilderness Adventures at Lost Peak -                                     

Embrace the Alpine Majesty of Big Snow

Courtesy of Maks_ershov - Fotolia.com

Embrace the Alpine Majesty of Big Snow -                                     

In Summary...

(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)