Pacific
Northwest
Ancient temperate rainforests, volcanic peaks, and coastline trails through some of North America's most biodiverse wilderness.
Where Rainforest Meets Volcano
The Pacific Northwest is one of the most ecologically diverse regions on earth. Within a single day's drive you can move from old-growth temperate rainforest receiving four metres of annual rainfall to the rain shadow of the Cascades — a landscape of ponderosa pine and basalt desert. Between them rise the volcanic peaks: Rainier, Baker, St. Helens, Hood.
What makes the PNW exceptional for trekkers is the sheer variety of terrain compressed into a relatively small area. The Olympic Peninsula alone contains three distinct ecosystems — rainforest, subalpine, and wild coast — all within a single national park. The North Cascades are the most heavily glaciated mountains in the lower 48 states, with over 300 active glaciers.
The trade-off is weather. The region's extraordinary biodiversity is powered by extraordinary rainfall. Plan for wet conditions at any time of year below 1,500 m. The window of reliable dry weather runs from late June to mid-September — and even then, afternoon thunderstorms are common on the high routes.
- National Parks
- Olympic, North Cascades, Mt. Rainier
- Annual Rainfall (Hoh)
- Up to 4,000 mm
- Active Glaciers
- 300+ in North Cascades
- Highest Point
- Mt. Rainier, 4,392 m
- Permit System
- Recreation.gov (book early)
- Nearest Hub
- Seattle, WA
| Trail | Distance | Elevation Gain | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hoh River Trail | 31 km one way | 550 m | Moderate |
| Hurricane Hill | 8 km return | 370 m | Easy |
| Ozette Triangle | 13 km loop | 60 m | Easy |
☀ Dry · ☂ Rain likely · ❄ Snow at elevation · Amber border = peak season
Wilderness permits required for overnight stays in Olympic and North Cascades NP. Book via Recreation.gov months in advance for Jul–Aug.
Black bears are active throughout. Carry bear spray and use bear canisters for all food storage.
Coastal routes require tide table navigation. Some headlands are impassable at high tide — check tables before departure.
Weather changes rapidly. Hypothermia risk even in summer. Carry waterproof layers regardless of forecast.
Go With a Guide
We run small-group guided trips into the Olympic backcountry and North Cascades each summer. Permits, logistics, and local expertise handled.