Here in the Pacific Northwest, we LIVE for hiking. Easily one of the biggest perks of being stationed at JBLM is the incredible variety of hiking just a short drive from home. Whether you’re looking for a short loop with the family, or something more intense to get the adrenaline pumping, this area has the perfect trails for you.

Our Community Coordinator Cheryl Lingenfelter is an avid hiking enthusiast. She has put together a great list of trails to get you started on your outdoor adventures!

Before you hit the trails, we recommend gauging what level of activity you’re going to be partaking in and packing accordingly. It is always advisable to carry a first aid kit in your pack, as well as plenty of water. Bug spray, sunscreen, a hat, bear spray, and snacks are also a must. We recommend stopping by REI  to purchase all of your hiking essentials. We also recommend checking out the outdoor book section at The Summit Shoppe on base (Joint Base Lewis-McChord) for a deeper dive into everything the PNW has to offer! And last but not least, the All Trails app will be your best friend when it comes to planning your outdoor adventures.

Let’s get started!

Staircase Rapids Loop: Olympic National Park

Difficulty Level: Easy

Length: 2.1mi loop

Great for all hikers new and seasoned, young and old, this trail is perfect for the whole family! This trail has spectacular views that are absolutely worth seeing (we don’t want to spoil it for you, so you’re just going to have to get out there and see for yourself!) A few things to consider: This trail does not allow dogs, so unfortunately Fido will have to sit this one out. Olympic National Park does charge a fee to enter ( more info on fees can be found here: https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/fees.htm ). This trail is accessible year-round. More information about this trail here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/staircase-rapids-nature-loop-trail-four-stream-to-north-fork?sh=hmixuv

Cape Flattery Trail: Makah Indian Reservation

Difficulty Level: Easy

Length: 1.2mi out & back

This hike is short and sweet but the views are absolutely INCREDIBLE. The golden hour and sunsets here are world famous and a must see. This trail is also considered the most northwestern point in the contiguous US. Wild flowers and wildlife are abundant here so be sure to pack your camera! This trail is accessible year round and dogs are welcome but should be leashed. A recreation permit is required for visitors (more information here: https://makah.com/activities/ ). More information about this trail here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/cape-flattery-trail?sh=hmixuv

Silver Falls Loop: Mount Rainier National Park

Difficulty Level: Easy

Length: 2.9mi loop

We love an easy trail with rewarding views! This trail is a great way for all skill levels to experience the magic of the Pacific Northwest. There are beautiful tree canopies and breathtaking views of the waterfall. Dogs are not allowed on this trail. Mount Rainier National Park charges a fee to access this trail ( more info on fee can be found here: https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/fees.htm ) Best time to visit is June through September. More information about this trail here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/silver-falls-trail?p=62269661&sh=hmixuv

Sequalitchew Creek Trail: Dupont

Difficulty Level: Easy

Length: 3mi out & back

This trail is close to home and great for the whole family! This trail is quick, easy, and very gentle in terms of incline; making it a great option when you’re looking to get out of the house and into nature for a few. Highlights include the opportunity to check out some old train tracks, and some gorgeous beach views at the end of the trail. Hikers have also reported seeing seals out in the water! This trail is best to visit from March through October. Dogs are welcome and should be leashed. More information about this trail here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/sequalitchew-creek-trail?sh=hmixuv

Naches Peak Loop Trail: Mount Rainier National Park

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Length: 3.5mi loop

Though moderately difficult in nature, this trail would still be suitable for families with older kids that have some experience, as it is not a terribly long hike. When the mountain is out, this is a great place to see it! Lake views and wildflowers are always spectacular here as well. The mosquitos here can be relentless so be sure to pack bug repellent. Dogs are not allowed on this trail. Mount Rainier National Park charges a fee to access this trail ( more info on fee can be found here: https://www.nps.gov/mora/planyourvisit/fees.htm ) Best time to visit is June through September. More information about this trail here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/naches-peak-loop-trail?sh=hmixuv

Pinnacle Peak Loop Trail: Pinnacle Peak Park

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Length: 3mi loop

If you’re looking for some solid incline and have about 2 hours to spare, this trail is for you! Quick but intense, this trail is steep and rocky in spots, but still very doable for those comfortable with these conditions. The trail is pretty wide in most spots ( making it a good trail for those with dogs or larger parties) and thickly forested, with a nice lookout tower at the top. This trail is best visited from March through October (a lot of people snowshoe here though!) and dogs are welcome. More information about this trail here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/pinnacle-peak-loop-trail?sh=hmixuv

Little Mashel Falls Trail via Bud Blancher: Charles L Pack Experimental Forest

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Length: 4.6mi out & back

We know the song says, “don’t go chasing waterfalls”... but we’re about to tell you otherwise. These falls are nothing short of magical and absolutely worth seeing. Though it’s a bit longer of a trek, this trail is definitely doable for older kiddos and amateur hikers. This is a great place for birding (if you’re into that kinda thing, which you should be, because birds are pretty cool) and trail running. This trail is accessible year round and dogs are welcome (on a leash, of course!) More information on this trail here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/little-mashel-falls-trail-via-bud-blancher-trail?p=62258624&sh=hmixuv

Mailbox Peak Trail: Middle Fork Snoqualmie Natural Resources Conservation Area

Difficulty Level: Hard

Length: 10.3mi out & back

Time to kick it up a notch! This challenging route is for experienced hikers. The average hike time is about 7 hours total, so you will absolutely need to plan and pack accordingly for this adventure. There are some tough inclines that make for a great workout! This is a great trail to see wildlife and wildflowers… and maybe even a mailbox. Dogs are welcome but should be leashed. You will need a Discover Pass to park here ( more info on Discover Pass can be found here: https://discoverpass.wa.gov/ ) Best time to visit is April through October. More information about this trail here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/mailbox-peak-new-trail--2?p=62248585&sh=hmixuv

Take it from us; you don’t want to miss the opportunity to experience the incredible nature around us. If you’re looking for more trail recommendations, or tips and tricks for hiking in the area, feel free to email cheryl@basehubs.com and our Community Coordinator would be happy to lend her expertise.

If you visit any of these trails make sure to snap a pic and use the #BaseHubsExplores hashtag! You’ll also want to download the BaseHubs app ( link to download: https://www.flowcode.com/page/basehubs ) to stay up to speed on all the happenings in the JBLM area. Happy hiking!