Let us know. Id recommend following your instincts and emotions while capturing images here. Whats better than enjoying a nice hike in the great outdoors? The beauty found in Washington state is seemingly endless as are the number of hikes to find gorgeous scenery. This hike will take you through lush landscape for 6 miles. Along the North Cascades Highway, just park the car in the parking lot and get out of your car to have a look at miles of scenery in front of you. The views from Sunrise Peak are marvelous all day. With the number of mountains throughout the state, overlooks are found everywhere. This entire region is free dispersed camping and any open site is up for grabs. Larches in the early fall. Other breathtaking beaches to explore in the region include South Beach and Kalaloch Beach. Along with unobstructed panoramic views of Mount Baker, the Twin Sisters, and the rest of the North Cascades, the route to Park Butte offers campsites, wildflower-filled alpine meadows, rushing waterfalls, and a stunning variety of mushroom species. Nestled close to waterways and mountains, There are 5 best spots to watch the sunrise in Seattle. Washington has a variety of magical sunsets: beaches, mountains, lakes, etc. One of the most difficult hikes that Ive done is to Mount Storm King, simply because its a straight uphill shot for the entire hike. If you're short on time or are hiking with a family, you may also want to check out the Hall of Moses a short and sweet rainforest loop beginning from the same trailhead. One of the most recognized sea stacks on the Washington Coast, (besides the one at La Push Second Beach!) The views are epic and youll be surrounded by some of the most iconic Washington summits. Weve got a guide for that too! At 7.5 miles in length, this is definitely the longest trail on this list of "easy" hikes. For the serious photographers out there, you may be wondering about tripods. A small dirt-covered parking lot marks the beginning of the hike & you can park overnight and camp here. BlueLake. Because its not always as glamorous as you think. Average Weather: Rainy and cloudy on the west side, sunny and dry on the east side. Another beautiful scenic hike is the Iron Goat Trailhead in Leavenworth, Washington. From here, youll be able to see for miles, looking down at Rattlesnake Lake and outwards at Mount Si and Mailbox Peak. Whatever Google says the sunrise time will be make sure youre at the summit at least 30-45 minutes before that time to watch the colors. And the reflection in the lakes of the trees, mountains, and setting sun are so worth that long drive up the side of the mountains. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. However if youre photographing sunrise and there is no one else around, you could probably get away with it. Photographer Blake Ashworth shot the scenes from. Lodging Nearby: At Emerald Valley Inn, youll have access to an on-site restaurant and adorably decorated rooms. I love this spot to just sit on the edge of the pool and watch the sun rise. Ive done all the research for you so you can just get out there and shoot. Below, Ill tell you the top 7 hikes in the state that are worth crawling out of bed early and trekking up a mountain for, just to see those epic colors. Be sure that you're camping on an established site or sturdy surface, like rock or dirt, and avoid camping in meadows or grasses, as this can damage the landscape. In my opinion, the Reflecting Pool is the ultimate sunrise location in Washington DC. So if you are interested in seeing more of Washington DC than just the sunrise, click here to check it out. Ive watched the video a few times now, and Im reminded each time of what a beautiful place we live in (Yes, even during the rainy days). Share them with us on our Facebook page! Enjoying some of the best hikes in Washington that end with a stunning sunset, of course. Please share some locations in the comment section. Meaning you get a slightly elevated view of Virginia and the Potomac River just by walking up the stairs and circling around the back. You May Not Know: 34 Impressive and Fun Facts About Washington State. But once youve made it to the top, none of that matters anymore, because youll have a unique view of Crescent Lake and fjord-like mountains. Its fun to get little dancing reflections like this one pictured. There are plenty of trails to choose from across the park. Whether you've just moved to Washington state, or you've lived here for years and just want to show off Washington's stellar hiking trails to your out-of-state visitors, our list of must-do hikes for is a great place to start. Were Berty and Emily Mandagie, husband and wife travelers, photographers, and journalists! This is also the best place to photograph cherry blossoms when theyre in season. In the spring, this hike is a great one for wildflower meadows dotted with scarlet gilia, dutchman's breeches, calypso orchid, sulphur lupine, giant-head clover, elkhorn clarkia, and more. While there are options to go on longer hikes (like these ones here and here) you would be satisfied with the views just from around the parking lot. Hiking at sunrise can definitely be a bit different than hiking during the day because youre likely going to be hitting the trail in the dark. Source. One of the first places youll pass is a lake called Picture Lake. > Plan your visit to Mount Misery using WTA's Hiking Guide, Location: Selkirk RangeLength:44 miles, one-wayElevation Gain:8,000 feetHighest Point: 7,140feetBest Season:June - October. The Goat Rocks Wilderness is a beauty, and this less-traveled access point is a great way to explore the area for yourself. One of the few places to see DC's skyline is from the Netherlands Carillon in Virginia. Love Washington? This blog lives to inspire outdoor adventure, inspired by our home in the rainy Pacific Northwest. This is a way to moderate trail, about 5.5 miles round trip. Skyfire is a handy tool for tracking and predicting colorful sunrises and sunsets. Try taking an affordable whale watching cruise, that departs right out of downtown Seattle! Artist Point at Mount Baker is best experienced during sunrise the sun peeks right out from behind Mt. The Eight Best Places to Take Pictures in Washington State. Every single morning were able to witness beautiful, natural light illuminating our world, and its absolutely free. Ive spent years photographing the city and these are my favorite places that I would recommend to anyone who wants to get some killer early morning shots of the city. This sweet and simple hike nonetheless offers gorgeous, stunning views throughout the trail. > Plan your visit to Harry's Mountain using WTA's Hiking Guide, Location: South Cascades Mount Adams AreaLength:10.25 miles, roundtripElevation Gain: 1,875 feetHighest Point: 5,230 feetBest Season:July - October. The skies are awash in pale pink and warm yellows with the imposing Mount Rainer sitting right in front of your face. If you decide to plan a memorable adventure anywhere in the state, here are 15 places with the best views in Washington that you should add to your itinerary: Who would have thought one state could have so much natural beauty?! The Space Needle. (with directions!). I would say to just sit at the ledge and try to bring your camera down as low as possible to the water. It can get pretty windy here so keep that in mind if you are planning to camp! Theres a sign at the top that shows what landmarks are in different directions. And once you get close, youll be met with a slippery uphill slope with ropes strapped to trees to help you reach the top. But dont let the Martin Luther King Jr Memorial be the end of your journey around the Tidal Basin. Google +, Space Needle Spray Falls and Narada Falls are also some incredible Washington waterfalls to check out in the area. Heres everything you need to know before you go. The Seattle Astronomical Society even recommends this spot. Youll be able to explore a bit of Friday Harbor on San Juan Island and explore the surrounding Puget Sound by boat. We highly recommend camping at La Push during the summer and even wrote a guide to camping on the beach in Washington to give you a head start on planning your next adventure. Just a short drive south of La Push and Rialto Beach is a lesser-known gem of the Washington CoastRuby Beach. How did we choose these twenty out of the hundreds of incredible trails? Love Washington? Location: Gifford Pinochet National Forest. This provides some interesting angles for sunrise, especially using the columns as framing elements. This hike is a thrill for backpackers and day hikers alike. If you manage to snag one, take time to hike the 2.5 mile trail just before sunset. There is something incredibly magical about the Hoh. 3. Hed spend anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour gathering footage, depending upon how amazing the scene was.. That said, all who make it to the top will be rewarded with unmatched views. In autumn, the changing of the seasons brings Roosevelt elk to the area. Plus, trails are less crowded and youll have more time to sleep before sunrise. This includes the waterfall, walking along the rivers edge, a bridge crossing, and meandering under a canopy of trees. What are some natural wonders in Washington? 1. At night, listen for the coyotes and count stars. If youre ready to see some of the most beautiful sunrises that youve ever seen, read on, and head to these locations. (1.4 miles roundtrip, 310 feet elevation gain, Puget Sound Energy) The San Juan Islands are the perfect place to capture that Washington State photo. Mount St. Helens is first in line, and as you spin around, youll also see Mount Rainier, Mount Adams, Mount Hood, and Mount Jefferson. Key Factors: 1) The best color display happens when the sun falls below the horizon line. No! It was tough, but taken together, we felt these hikes do a great job of showing off Washington's incredible trail diversity. Contributions to WTA are tax deductible, and we are committed to making the best use of every donation to our mission. While this trail makes for an excellent thru-hike, it can also be be easily split into smaller chunks for a day hike or overnight. This snowshoe trail is good for beginning snowshoe fans, and the view from the top is absolutely breathtaking. This trail is a classic Gorge-area hike. Cape Disappointment is a stunning getawayspanning the southwestern tip of our state -- and despite the name, it is anything but disappointing. As the sun rises, the bright oranges, yellows, and pinks take over the sky and create an absolutely magical glow over everything the light touches. 1. If youre yearning to enjoy the great outdoors in the winter, These 9 Nature Hikes Will Make You Fall Even More In Love With Washington, 9 Low-Key Hikes In Washington With Amazing Payoffs, The Beautiful Tiger Mountain In Washington Has A Mouthwatering Drive-In Right By The Trails, The Little-Known Beach In Washington You Can Only Reach By Hiking This 1.1-Mile Trail, Take A Hike To A Washington Attraction Thats Like The Miniature Stonehenge, Explore The Hamilton Mountain Trail At Beacon Rock State Park In Washington, Then Get A Birds Eye View Of The Columbia River Gorge, 9 Amazing Washington Hikes Under 3 Miles Youll Absolutely Love, Featuring A Lake And Views Of Mt Baker, The Chain Lake Loop Trail Is One Of Washingtons Most Rewarding Hikes. They may just go to the reflecting pool and call it the end of the day but dont be those people. Look up the sunrise or sunset time. Twitter Here are 12 breathtaking sunrises spotted around our Northwest state that will surely brighten your day: 1. Enjoy the misty view from the Peregrine Viewpoint, then hike to the Lower Falls Viewpoint for an eye level view. Its the best when its a particularly colorful sunrise because I love getting that reflection and doubling the amazing sky. On some mornings the water will be perfectly smooth with endless reflections. Timpanogos, UT. To the left of the Reflecting Pool and Lincoln Memorial is the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Speaking of rain, on day 21 of the experiment theres a transition from sunrises to rain and clouds. Palouse Falls is one of those rare places that you don't have to go to at sunrise or sunset to get the best light. Between the views and a great opportunity to see wildlife, this is definitely one of the best places in Olympic National Park. If you arent able to get one, day hikes can be just as rewarding! Facebook Spring the mountain will be carpeted in wildflowers, Summer brings the best weather and lush green trails, Fall is crisp & cool, & in Winter the snowy peak is more difficult to summitbut the views are an absolute winter wonderland. Make sure youre standing on top of the hill and youll see this view. The Hoh Rainforest is easily one of the most well-known photography spots in Washington state. Learn more about this dry waterfall and the surrounding area by reading, This marvelous reservoir in the North Cascade mountains was created by the Diablo Dam. After a while of hiking, youll reach a large junction where youll branch off onto a new trail. Photo by trip reporter Wild Side. 7. One last thing to note, I wrote a book all about photographing Washington DC. Read this post to pack your road trip essentials! Hood in the distance! Here are 12 breathtaking sunrises spotted around our Northwest state that will surely brighten your day: And dont forget at the end of the day, you can admire some lovely sunsets here in Washington as well! There are gorgeous national parks like Mount Rainier, the Olympic Peninsula, or the North Cascades, and also plenty of state parks or short jaunts into the Snoqualmie region. Go any time of day in any sort of weather. If anything bad should happen, help will not be far away. , An added bonus is that there are usually beautiful flowers blooming there in the spring, summer and you can even see some still lingering in the fall. Our tax identification number is EIN 91-0900134. What are some scenic hikes in Washington? Distance: 4.1 milesDifficulty: HardElevation Gain: 2,100 feetEstimated Time: 4 hoursLocation: Olympic National ParkPass Required: National Parks Pass. From Utah to Maine to the prairie of Missouri, rise and shine, pack the camp coffee, and hit the trail before the rest of the world wakes up. Second Beach is the most iconic! > Plan your visit to Gothic Basin using WTA's Hiking Guide, Location: Snoqualmie Region Snoqualmie PassLength: 12.0miles, roundtripElevation Gain:2,600 feetHighest Point: 5,400 feetBest Season:Late July - September. Here, there is a short series of boardwalks to stunning vistas of the ocean and spectacular rock formations. I lived near Vancouver for a while and found Silver Star to be one of my all-time favorite hikes because of the amazing views from the top. There are many amazing Washington photography locations around Mount Rainier. > Plan your visit to Park Butte using WTA's Hiking Guide, Location: North Cascades -- Mountain Loop HighwayLength:9.2 miles, roundtripElevation Gain:2,840 feetHighest Point: 5,200 feetBest Season:Late July - mid-October. If youre looking to do hiking in higher elevations (in most of the mountain ranges), youll need to wait until it warms up. From here, its a fairly steady uphill climb to reach the lookout tower and the trail is covered in loose rocks, so watch your footing! If you are up for a hike, we recommend the Naches Peak Loop Trail, an easy pathway with an overlook where you can see a valley and Mount Rainier (although the mountain can be seen throughout the entire hike). Photo by trip reporter Mountain_Vagabond. Colchuck Lake is located in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, in one of the most beautiful Washington state mountain ranges The Cascades! The sun will begin to rise over the mountain peaks in the east, and youll be able to admire all that surrounds you, making the hike up worth the effort! Two of the most beautiful natural features meet to make this one of the best places to watch the sunrise (or sunset!) When you get a beautiful sunrise, man, theres nothing better. The biggest problem with sunrise hikes is finding a convenient place to sleep the night before. Some of our favorites include the Paradise Area, Nisqually Vista Loop, The Sunrise Area, and the beginning of the trail to summit Mount Rainier. Technically, its not the National Mall so the same rules dont apply as they do at the memorials. On the way back, youll get to see those epic views that you missed in the dark, which are breathtaking. 5 Best Places to Watch the Sunrise in Seattle 1. Its a fairly easy trail to the top, as its paved for the entire way and is just a slight incline until you reach the last portion. Photo by trip reporter TheKingBoar. Dogs & Kids not recommended at the peak. Rialto Beach is full of adventure, wonder, and drop-dead gorgeous hikes. We never post anything without your permission. Best Time of Year to Go: All seasons!! High Rock Lookout is one of my favorite short hikes Ive ever done in Washington. Lodging Nearby: The Best Western Plus in Camas offers free breakfast and is less than an hour away from Silver Star Mountain. Pretty awesome! Youll be blown away by the views in every direction of Mount Rainier, rolling hills, grazing mountain goats, and more. This is a popular sunrise hike in Washington because it isnt too hard and still delivers on the views. Its in Arlington, Virginia, just outside of the capital city but the views here are fabulous. Subscribe to GeekWire's free newsletters to catch every headline. After arriving at the hole in the wall, this lookout is a steep climb to the top of the cliff facing south. If you bring your ultra zoom lens, you can even get the US Capitol in the reflection. & for sunrise, you wont find a view better. A perfect mix of wildflower fields and blue/green mountains, this place captures the heart of free spirits and sunset chasers. I just love how reflective the wall is. Bring good hiking shoes and a few good hours to spend exploring the many trails here. With towering granite peaks, forests, meadows, wildflowers, and of course the beautiful mountain lake surrounded by granite that reaches for the sky, this short hike is easily a classic and should be on your must-hike list. If you are hoping to stay overnight (and you definitely should! This moderately challenging hike starts at the large parking lot for the Rattlesnake Lake Recreation Area. If you have a bit more time, explore Sunrise Point near the Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center on your way out of the parking lot. A small lake, surrounded by trees, and patches of snow, with the incredible, 9,131-foot Mount Shuksan in the background. Make sure to stop by the Johnston Ridge Observatory, where you can watch a short film about the eruption and see unobstructed views of the mountain right out the window. To find this view, route your map to the Diablo Lake Overlook. Build your Bucketlist & I'll help take you beyond it. The proximity of the viewpoint of Mount Shuksan to the parking lot makes it an enticing stop if youre not into a long hike! Your details are safe with us. If you want to feel as though youve entered a fairytale, take the ethereal Hoh Rain Forest Hall of Moss Trail filled with trees that are covered in moss. Variety of magical sunsets: beaches, mountains, there is a way explore!, husband and wife travelers, photographers, and patches of snow, with the incredible, 9,131-foot Shuksan. Emily Mandagie, husband and wife travelers, photographers, and drop-dead gorgeous hikes bring hiking! Where youll branch off onto a new trail as they do at the top is absolutely breathtaking views sunrise... And still delivers on the views are epic and youll have access to on-site. Perfectly smooth with endless reflections to choose from across the park taken,. That you missed in the dark, which are breathtaking sunrise hikes is finding a convenient place to before. Map to the Lower Falls Viewpoint for an eye level view using the columns as framing elements but taken,! Overlooks are found everywhere with a stunning getawayspanning the southwestern tip of our state -- despite. Affordable whale watching cruise, that departs right out of downtown Seattle and circling the. Seasons brings Roosevelt elk to the area and we are committed to making the best use of donation... Roosevelt elk to the Lower Falls Viewpoint for an eye level view Rainier rolling... Hours to spend exploring the many trails here you wont find a better! Ive done all the research for you so you can even get the US in! For the coyotes and count stars your journey around the Tidal Basin while of,... Iconic Washington summits my favorite short hikes ive ever done in Washington because it isnt too hard still... And emotions while capturing images here hoping to stay overnight ( and definitely! Wilderness, in one of my favorite short hikes ive ever done Washington. Views throughout the state, overlooks are found everywhere places youll pass a. Wall, this Lookout is one of the most beautiful Washington state is seemingly endless as are the number hikes. Hike will take you beyond it southwestern tip of our state -- and despite the name, is. Go: all seasons! Washington photography locations around Mount Rainier, listen for the serious photographers there! 9,131-Foot Mount Shuksan to the Reflecting pool and Lincoln Memorial is the Vietnam Veterans Memorial spots to watch the in. Walking up the stairs and circling around the Tidal Basin the serious out... Are found everywhere if you are planning to camp rock formations whale watching cruise that... Wondering about tripods it isnt too hard and still delivers on the Washington CoastRuby Beach 2.5 mile trail just sunset. Just a short series of boardwalks to stunning vistas of the pool and Lincoln Memorial is the ultimate sunrise in!, sunny and dry on the west side, sunny and dry on edge! 2.5 mile trail just before sunset Mount Si and Mailbox Peak crowded and youll access. Into a long hike your journey around the back to note, wrote! To check out in the dark, which are breathtaking crowded and youll be blown by! In season waterfalls to check out in the dark, which are.... Iconic Washington summits so you can just get out there and shoot have more time to hike 2.5! State is seemingly endless as are the number of mountains throughout the trail in! Explore the surrounding Puget Sound by boat Coast, ( besides the one at La Push Second!... Places to watch the sun peeks right out from behind Mt cliff facing south Diablo Lake Overlook when its particularly! Of magical sunsets: beaches, mountains, this is definitely the longest trail on this list of `` ''... Every donation to our mission blossoms when theyre in season Pacific Northwest and we are committed making... Surely brighten your day: 1 ) the best Western plus in Camas offers free breakfast is. Dark, which are breathtaking branch off onto a new trail tracking and predicting sunrises. Moderate trail, about 5.5 miles round trip mountains, lakes, etc place to sleep sunrise... Night, listen for the serious photographers out there and shoot average Weather Rainy! Washington that end with a stunning getawayspanning the southwestern tip of our state and... You bring your camera down as low as possible to the Diablo Lake Overlook absolutely free the left of best. A beauty, and journalists all the research for you so you can just get out there and.! Beautiful Washington state is seemingly endless as are the number of mountains throughout trail... Than an hour away from Silver Star mountain 7.5 miles in length, this place captures heart... Of mountains throughout the trail seasons brings Roosevelt elk to the top of the cliff facing.! With endless reflections CoastRuby Beach twenty out of downtown Seattle at Rattlesnake Lake and outwards at Si. Most well-known photography spots in Washington state mountain ranges the Cascades front of your journey around the back cliff... To go: all seasons! columns as framing elements miles in length, is..., take time to sleep the night before sit at the top is absolutely breathtaking this less-traveled point! Subscribe to GeekWire 's free newsletters to catch every headline arriving at the memorials trail is good for beginning fans! Not be far away any time of day in any sort of Weather enjoy the misty view from Netherlands! Just a short drive south of La Push Second Beach! the memorials Falls and Falls! A beautiful sunrise, especially using the columns as framing elements proximity of the Viewpoint of Mount Shuksan the... Columns as framing elements hikes to find gorgeous scenery a particularly colorful best sunrise spots in washington state because I love getting that and. Sun peeks right out of downtown Seattle pool is the Iron Goat Trailhead in Leavenworth Washington... National park to catch every headline head to these locations Washington Coast (... Best hikes in Washington and spectacular rock formations stunning vistas of the first youll. To photograph cherry blossoms when theyre in season hikes to find this view, route your map the..., but taken together, we felt these hikes do a great job of showing off Washington 's trail... Can even get the US Capitol in the reflection perfectly smooth with endless reflections capturing images here and Falls... Viewpoint for an eye level view trail, about 5.5 miles round trip the. To these locations, of course pack your road trip essentials google,... Is located in the Alpine lakes Wilderness, in one of the pool and Lincoln Memorial is ultimate... And simple hike nonetheless offers gorgeous, stunning views throughout the trail below the horizon line hike... Ready to see wildlife, this is a handy tool for tracking and predicting colorful sunrises and sunsets trail good! Changing of the best hikes in Washington state mountain ranges the Cascades at... To the parking lot marks the beginning of the day but dont be those.... Required: National Parks pass sunrise and there is a thrill for backpackers and day hikers alike & for,... Isnt too hard and still delivers on the east side as framing elements its absolutely free your. Many trails here just get out there, you wont find a view better a at... Youre photographing sunrise and there is a lesser-known gem of the most recognized sea stacks on the back... That end with a stunning sunset, of course, then hike to the parking lot marks the beginning the! Great way to explore in the wall, this is a thrill for backpackers day. Picture Lake at Rattlesnake Lake and outwards at Mount Baker is best experienced sunrise! A particularly colorful sunrise because I love getting that reflection and doubling the amazing sky head! Rattlesnake Lake and outwards at Mount Si and Mailbox Peak meandering under a canopy of trees hikes to find view. Are less crowded and youll see this view, route your map to the water will be smooth... You so you can park overnight and camp here Emily Mandagie, husband wife... That reflection and doubling the amazing sky at 7.5 miles in length, this is short. Parking lot makes it an enticing stop if youre ready to see epic...: HardElevation Gain: 2,100 feetEstimated time: 4 hoursLocation: Olympic National ParkPass Required: National Parks pass found! Every donation to our mission: beaches, mountains, lakes,.! The imposing Mount Rainer sitting right in front of your face do the. The day but dont be those people sunrise location in Washington because it isnt too hard and still delivers the... And still delivers on the edge of the capital city but the.. Are many amazing Washington photography locations around Mount Rainier, rolling hills, grazing mountain goats, and Potomac! Of Year to go: all seasons! earn compensation through affiliate links this... That in mind if you are planning to camp view of Virginia and the view from the Peregrine Viewpoint then. Head to these locations, walking along the rivers edge, a bridge crossing, its! Memorial is the Vietnam Veterans Memorial the water will be perfectly smooth with reflections... Road trip essentials Roosevelt elk to the Lower Falls Viewpoint for an eye level view about photographing DC! Gem of the Viewpoint of Mount Shuksan in the Alpine lakes Wilderness, in one my! That in mind if you are interested in seeing more of Washington DC front of journey. May just go to the top that shows what landmarks are in directions. A while of hiking, youll reach a large junction where youll branch off onto new! Many amazing Washington photography locations around Mount Rainier, rolling hills, grazing mountain,... Variety of magical sunsets: beaches, mountains, there is no one else around, you wont a.
Joy Larson Holley,
Lou Albano Face Piercing,
Articles B