The most easily accessible from Seattle, these comely Cascade foothills have dozens of day trails frequented by both hikers and horses. The high trails in this area are richly rewarding, reaching glaciers and old lookout shelters as well as offering majestic panoramas of this magnificent, brooding mountain range. Seekers of solitude will find it here. Take your pick of glaciers, waterfalls, and mossy rain forests. Wildlife is abundant - you'll probably spot goats, deer, marmots, grouse, and, if you're lucky, a cougar or a bear.
Rainfall is plentiful over the Olympic Range, so go prepared.
The rest of the South Cascades are a stunning contrast to the rugged northern peaks. The more arid landscapes here are in many places reminiscent of Montana or the Southwest. Sadly, clearcuts dominate the views, including those on the South Cascades segment of the Pacific Crest Trail. All rights reserved. Fabulous big city stuff.