“Challenging” can mean many things to many people, but in this case I’ve determined hike length, elevation gain/loss, and terrain to be the most important factors. Read on to find out what trails inspire the adventurer in us!
The Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail (British Columbia through Mexico) - Only around 200 people a year attempt to hike the whole thing, and those that do are treated to sights ranging from glaciers to deserts. It ranges through some very extreme wilderness and in the Washington section alone goes from sea level up to 7,126 feet at the Lakeview Ridge crossing.
Hike distance: 2,650 miles one way
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The Wonderland Trail (Mount Rainier National Park) - It’s not just a hike, it’s an adventure! This trail will bring you all the way around Mount Rainier and through subalpine to lowland environments. The massive length of the trail guarantees solitude, so be sure to be completely prepared for your journey and pack a lot of safety equipment. Camping permits are required and make sure to sign up early for this popular trail!
Hike distance: 93 miles round trip, usually hiked over 10-14 days
IMPORTANT NOTE: This trail is currently closed for the 2007 season due to massive flooding in November 2006. Restoration efforts are underway, and hopefully next year we once again will be able to explore its beauty.
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Hoh Trail (Olympic National Park) - See the rain forest, along with meadows, glaciers, wild elk, and ice formations. Glacier meadows is the end point (at 17.5 miles), but there is much to see for those wishing to make it a shorter trip as well.
Hike Distance: 36 miles round trip
Elevation gain: 5500 feet
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Chetwood Lake (Alpine Lakes Wilderness) - Ever wonder what it would feel like to climb 2000 feet in 2 miles, followed by shorter jumps of 300, 200 and 800 feet in a mile? Do you enjoy climbing rockslides and taking in alpine beauty that few others dare to seek? This might be the trail for you. Climb to the lake and enjoy the day hikes that are also in the area, and bask in the knowledge that you truly made an effort for your natural recreation.
Hike distance: 10 miles round trip
Elevation gain: 4500-5000 feet
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Vesper Peak (North of Granite Falls on the Mountain Loop Highway) - What may seem like a short hike turns out to be a challenging climb up to a snow-covered peak. Bring your ice axe and crampons and be knowledgeable about ice/snow climbing before attempting this one. The view is completely worth the effort, however.
Hike distance: 5.5 miles round trip
Elevation gain: 4100 feet
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