Top 5 Hikes to Do in Granite Falls, WA
Whether you’re an avid hiker, or prefer an unhurried walk in nature, it won’t be hard to find the perfect trail to explore in Washington State. Known for its lush greenery and renown outdoor opportunities, Washington’s hiking scene offers abundant trails for all ages & skill levels. If you’re having trouble choosing between them all, we’ve compiled a list of our Top 5 Trails in Granite Falls, WA to help get you started.
1. Lake Twenty-Two Trail
The curiously named Lake Twenty-Two is the center of an oasis of alpine wetland nestled on the northern shoulder of Mount Pilchuck. The hike to the lake combines the best of mountain rainforests, old-growth, wetlands, and mountain views, yet it is readily accessible. Marvel at the sheer northern face of Mount Pilchuck, with its waterfalls and (sometimes) booming avalanches in winter and spring. Take in the reflections of rock, sky, and evergreens on the surface of a pristine alpine cirque.
5.4 Miles, Roundtrip
2. Heather Lake Trail
After you have explored a few easy, flat trails with your little one, the Heather Lake trail makes a wonderful next step. With just a bit more elevation gain, and slightly more rugged terrain, it is the perfect place to take children on their first ‘real’ hike. The trail is short, but steep and challenging -it will give a child a real sense of accomplishment once they reach the lake. The lake itself is a scenic little lake located on the northeastern slope of Mount Pilchuck.
4.6 Miles, Roundtrip
3. Big Four Ice Caves
This is an easy walk on a wide gravel and boardwalk path to views of Big Four Mountain and the caves beneath the snow. Hikers of all ages and abilities can enjoy this trail. Formed by melting snow, waterfalls from the above cliff, and wind; they are really snow caves under an avalanche chute. Inviting as they look on a warm day, there are signs everywhere warning of the danger. Do not go into or climb on top of the caves! On your way back to the car, take the boardwalk across the marsh, watching for birds, dragonflies’ frogs, or to enjoy a picnic.
2.2 Miles, Roundtrip
4. Mount Pilchuck
Despite its intermediate difficulty, Mount Pilchuck sees a slew of visitors each year, as hikers flock to the trail for its grand panoramic views and historic restored fire lookout. Easily one of the most rewarding hikes in the area, its relatively short 2.7-mile, 2,300 feet ascent gifts you 360-degree views of Mount Baker, Mount Rainier, and the Olympics from its shelter lookout, which sits nestled on a summit that tops out around 5,300 feet. Once at the top, sit, eat, and enjoy your time in the shelter that was constructed in 1921.
5.4 Miles, Roundtrip
5. Lime Kiln Trail
Here is an unusual hike through a very mossy forest and along a narrow river canyon, past sites that were important in local history. A railroad once ran along the canyon, passing through small communities. Logging was done in the area, and lime once was produced from limestone here, in a kiln that still stands. The railroad and communities are gone now, and much has disappeared over the past eighty years, but a few artifacts remain and can be seen near the trail. Signs along the grade offer bits of history, including the route and dates of the Everett and Monte Cristo Railroad, the location of the former community of Cutoff Junction, and the site of a former logging spur railroad. Artifacts of various kinds appear near the trail. Some are easily identified, including remnants of a cast iron stove, broken pieces of rotary saw blades, old bricks, and a bent length of steel rail. Many of these items are quite photogenic so feel free to take photos, but please leave the artifacts for future hikers to enjoy.
7 Miles, Roundtrip
Trail Descriptions & Information Source: https://www.wta.org/
With its close proximity to the above trails and many more, the City of Granite Falls, WA offers residents small town charm, lush surroundings & unparalleled access to some of the best outdoor recreation in the state. We are excited to be building in the heart of it all at Highland Sunrise Estates. Explore the community here and discover why it is one of our most highly anticipated communities.
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