Looking to get out and explore this summer? Here’s a list of great summer hiking destinations in the Pacific Northwest, as recommended by Whitman Outdoor Program Director Brien Sheedy.
Sheedy encourages any and all potential hikers to stop into the OP office and take advantage of its extensive trip planning resources, including maps, logs from past trips, permit information and much more.

1. Olympic Coast
Boasting the longest stretch of natural coastline in the 48 contiguous states, this extensive beach area stretches 73 miles along the scenic shores of the Pacific Ocean. The coastline features trails of varying lengths, the most popular of which is the Ozette Loop, a nine-mile trek consisting of three separate three-mile legs.
Certain segments of this loop have been enhanced by boardwalks, which have in turn increased the trail’s popularity. Hikers on most other portions of the coastal route, however, should take heed of the often slippery, sandy or overgrown terrain. Sources actually recommend doubling one’s standard hiking times for the allotted distances.
These coastal trails are part of Olympic National Park, which provides a vast array of other hiking and camping excursions. The park includes dozens of inland trails through the protected Olympic Wilderness, ranging in estimated time from under an hour to multiple days.
When to go: Anytime during the summer.

2. Wonderland Trail
The name effectively describes the grandeur of this environment and what its travelers will experience along their way.
Traversing the full length of the Wonderland Trail entails a 93-mile circumnavigation of Mt. Rainier, a journey for which most hikers should budget ten to fourteen days. The trail remains entirely within Mt. Rainier National Park, and passes through a variety of the park’s different life zones, from dense forests to sprawling wildflower meadows.
And for those not quite so ambitious as to pursue the two-week-long adventure, Mt. Rainier National Park features five day-hike areas, with trails as short as .3 miles and as long as twelve.
When to go: If hiking it in its entirety, the Wonderland Trail should be undertaken during the late summer, in August or September.

3. Pasayten Wilderness
Choices abound for visitors to this locale. With over 600 miles of trails, hikers may select from a plethora of pathways through this protected area of Okanogan National Forest.
The Boundary Trail serves as the Wilderness’s longest single route, meandering near the Canadian border for more than 73 miles. This track also links up briefly with the Pacific Crest Trail, which runs between the northern and southern borders of the United States.
Trekkers can expect to find a diverse company of vegetation and, though perhaps mostly unseen, an established animal population as well.
When to go: Earlier part of the summer.

4. Wallowa-Whitman National Forest
This vibrant natural expanse sits closest out of the group to Whitman College. Home to the Wallowa Mountains, Hells Canyon and the Eagle Cap Wilderness, it offers plenty of diverse recreational options.
Hikers may access 66 different trails, with several loops that wind at least 35 miles or a variety of shorter day hikes. From the Main Eagle Trailhead one can set out in several directions, including a path along the wild Eagle Creek and up into Eagle Cap Wilderness.
When to go: Middle to late summer.

5. Timberline Trail
Another picturesque mountain hike, this trail encircles Mt. Hood, also a popular location for climbers. Although significantly shorter than the Wonderland at 40.7 miles (meaning a three to five-day excursion), the route brings some additional challenges and hazards: multiple sections of the trail, particularly at Sandy River and Eliot Creek, have been prone to washouts or landslides.
As with any trails with a record of potential danger, always make sure to contact the ranger station for updated information before setting out.
When to go: Middle to late summer.