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5 Washington Hikes to Help You Reconnect This Summer

You don’t have to summit a mountain to reconnect with yourself. Around here, just a short drive and a steady walk can shift your whole nervous system. Whether you're starting fresh or looking for a little more adventure, these five Washington hikes are perfect for reflecting, moving, and soaking up summer in the Pacific Northwest.


Each one builds in challenge, so you can choose the pace that fits you best.


1. Watershed Park – Olympia, WA

A local gem tucked right into town. This peaceful forested loop feels worlds away without ever leaving Olympia. Great for everyday walks, podcast listening, or clearing your head between errands.


Trail type: Loop

Distance: 1.5–2 miles (with options to explore more)

Elevation gain: Minimal

Great for: a breath of fresh air, midweek resets, stroller-friendly strolls


2. Point Defiance Park Trails – Tacoma, WA

A mix of paved and dirt paths through coastal forest, gardens, and scenic waterfronts. Choose your own adventure with several short trails and views of the Sound.


Trail type: Multiple interconnected trails

Distance: 1–4 miles depending on route

Elevation gain: Gentle

Great for: forest-meets-ocean energy, casual exploring, family walks


3. Priest Point Trails – Dupont, WA

These tucked-away forest trails offer a quiet, grounding space for a longer loop with gentle inclines. You’ll walk through shaded woods with moments of open sky and soft silence.

Trail type: Loop

Distance: ~4 miles

Elevation gain: ~200 feet

Great for: solo hikes, peaceful mornings, low-key movement with intention


4. Staircase Rapids Loop – Near Union, WA (Olympic National Park)

This lush riverside trail delivers big PNW energy with old-growth trees, river crossings, and footbridges. It’s a moderate challenge with all the magic of the Olympics.

Trail type: Loop

Distance: 4 miles

Elevation gain: ~250 feet

Great for: adventure vibes, forest bathing, destination day hikes


5. Rattlesnake Ledge – North Bend, WA

A short but steep climb with a view that makes it all worth it. This one gets your heart rate up and your spirit lifted. We’ll be near here during the Summer Retreat in July—come see it for yourself.


Trail type: Out and back

Distance: 4 miles

Elevation gain: ~1,160 feet

Great for: building strength, shifting perspective, retreat warm-ups


Want to hike with us?

Come move, rest, and connect at the HartsSpace Summer Retreat, July 7–9 in North Bend. Registration closes June 16.



Bonus: Ebey’s Landing – Whidbey Island, WA

A bluff-side trail with sweeping views of Puget Sound and a salty breeze that clears your head. You can loop down to the beach for a full coastal loop.


Trail type: Loop

Distance: ~5.5 miles

Elevation gain: ~300 feet

Great for: ocean air, weekend getaways, wide-open beauty


Want More Trails? Try These Resources!


Here are our go-to tools when planning a walk, hike, or retreat adventure:

Whether you're looking for a quiet stroll or something that kicks up a little dust, there’s a trail waiting for you. Let us know if you try any of these—we’d love to hear what you discover.



 
 
 

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