PC: Connor Willgress
Washington is known for having four very prominent seasons, each having their own little perks. Spring’s #1 flex is the wildflowers that bloom and cover our already beautiful mountains every year. As April-June comes around the lower elevation hikes start popping with colorful blossoms. The window is short and varies year to year but the reward is insane. I can’t tell you exactly when these areas will be at full bloom, but I can tell you my top wildflower hikes in Washington State. Now grab your hiking boots and your most colorful sundress and get out there!
1. Dog Mountain
Area: SouthWest Washington, Columbia River Gorge
Distance: 6 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 2,800ft
Time of Year: May to June for wildflowers
Out of my top three wildflower hikes in Washington State Dog Mountain has the most intense hike up. With that being said, it also has one of the most scenic views. Not only do you get the rolling hills of wildflowers, but on a clear day you get to see Mount Hood and the Columbia River. I recommend going early on a weekday to avoid the crowds, but keep in mind during peak wildflower season this hike is busy all the time. The first mile and a half you hike up through a wooded area, soon after you start to see views of the Columbia River and if you are here during peak wildflower season this is where the wildflowers start to pop out on the hillside. Continue on for more panoramic views and to visit the old Dog Mountain Fire Lookout Tower. Remember to be respectful of nature and other hikers, and enjoy what Mother Earth has gave us!
Thank you to the lovely Megan Moore for allowing me to use her photos of Dog Mountain.
Things to Note:
Permit required for anyone hiking on Saturdays/Sundays between April 23rd-June 12th as well as Memorial day (May 30th)
- Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area requires a $5 day pass per vehicle or Northwest Forest Pass.
- Dogs are allowed
2. Sage Hills
Area: Central Washington, Wenatchee
Distance: 5.5 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 650ft
Time of Year: April to June for wildflowers
Now for the most mellow hike with the most insane views, I introduce you to Sage Hills. Just 30 minutes outside of Leavenworth, WA this hike is in my opinion the all time best Spring wildflower hike in Washington. Not even half a mile in the colorful blooming flowers start to surround you, but don’t stop there, it just keeps getting better. As you hike up, over, and around the hills the flower patches get fuller. When you stop for photos (because I know you will) be sure to look around for mountain bikers cause they can zoom around corners very fast (may or may not be speaking from experience). The photos above are from May 14th 2021 and it was just as the flowers were wilting and starting to die. Keep in mind that every year is different depending on weather, the best way to know when they are in full bloom is by looking at reviews on AllTrails and WTA to see what people are saying. Goodluck friends!
Things to Note:
Parking is very limited
- Watch out for mountain bikers
- No bathroom at trailhead
- Dogs are allowed
3. Icicle Ridge Trail
Area: Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest
Distance: 5.1 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,755ft
Time of Year: April to June for wildflowers
Right on the edge of the cute lil town of Leavenworth, is Icicle Ridge Trail. Not only do wildflowers thrive here, but on top of that you get crazy views of the surrounding areas. The first couple miles of the trail you will have the majority of the wildflower mini fields. After the steep switchback climb through trees and wildflowers you reach the ridge. Once on the ridge you have panoramic views, on one side you see the adorable town of Leavenworth and on the other you get mountains, valleys, and waterfalls. On the ridge itself you will have patches of wildflowers but not in tighter fields like you had on the way up. I recommend bringing a hammock, book, and lunch and enjoying the views for a while. There is plenty of space along the ridge line to find a spot to sit back and relax.
Things to Note:
No permit required
- Dogs are allowed
- Poison ivy on trail, avoid contact
Love your descriptions but I wanted to add – make sure you stay on trails so that the wildflowers don’t get trampled and are there for everyone to enjoy! Take your pictures in little patches between flowers to make sure they aren’t damaged in the process. I look forward to more posts, Amanda!
Absolutely stunning photos!! 💛💛💛