Discover Your Next Pacific Northwest Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable adventure in the Pacific Northwest! From the rugged peaks of Washington to the serene wildflower meadows of Bend, Oregon, this curated list of my top 4 backpacking trips of 2023 offers a diverse range of experiences for backpackers of all skill levels.

Traversing some of the most breathtaking wilderness I’ve ever encountered, these trips promise an unforgettable journey. So grab your essentials, gear up, and let’s explore the great outdoors of Washington and Oregon together. Let the inspiration from my past trips ignite your passion for outdoor exploration this summer.

1. Alpine Lakes High Route, Washington

LENGTH	ELEVATION	DIFFICULTY	SEASON	PERMITS	TRAILHEAD
26+ mile loop	8,400+ feet	Extreme	Late Summer	Northwest Forest Pass	Maps Location

Nestled among snow-capped peaks, the Alpine Lakes Wilderness boasts over 700 mesmerizing mountain lakes, making it a coveted destination for adventurers seeking unparalleled beauty and diverse terrain close to Seattle.

While its scenic allure draws hikers of all levels, the Alpine Lakes High Route presents an exhilarating challenge. With off-trail elements, including route-finding through miles of granite boulders and steep elevation changes, this route demands physical stamina and navigation skills.

Embarking on the Alpine Lakes High Route typically begins at either the West Fork Foss Lakes Trailhead or the Necklace Valley Trailhead. For optimal experience, I recommend starting at the West Fork Foss Lakes Trailhead and hiking the loop clockwise, concluding at the Necklace Valley Trailhead.

Navigating the Alpine Lakes High Route mandates a thorough understanding of maps or GPS tracks and excellent physical conditioning. Due to the demanding off-trail sections, it’s advised for experienced hikers only. Alternatively, backpacking to Big Heart Lake, Tank Lakes, or Chetwoot Lake offers an equally rewarding excursion for those seeking a less challenging option.

2. Seven Lakes Basin High Divide Loop, Washington

LENGTH	ELEVATION	DIFFICULTY	SEASON	PERMITS	TRAILHEAD
20-24 mile loop	5,400-6,000+ feet	Moderate	Summer through Fall	Olympic Wilderness Permit	Maps Location

Get ready to experience the best high country Olympic National Park has to offer with the Seven Lakes Basin / High Divide Loop. This must-do 1-3 night backpacking trip will take you through stunning alpine meadows, pristine mountain lakes perfect for a refreshing swim, and abundant wildlife.

If you’re staying overnight, make sure to book an Olympic National Park wilderness permit, and read the Olympic National Park’s food storage regulations before arriving.

The hike starts at the Sol Duc Trailhead, around 3.5 hours from Seattle, and 5.5 hours from Portland. The trailhead is popular for backpackers and day hikers alike, so expect competition for parking by mid-morning. When the main lot fills, find additional parallel parking on the entry road.

Accessing Sol Duc trailhead requires a National Parks Pass in addition to any overnight wilderness permits, payable upon entry at the guard station.

The High Divide Loop can be hiked in either direction, but I recommend going clockwise for easier access to the best campsites. The first mile is an easy hike through the forest, leading you to the start of the loop just before Sol Duc Falls. Stay right at the fork to hike the loop clockwise, descending to Sol Duc Falls.

Get all the details on this backpacking trip below…

Seven Lakes Basin High Divide Loop

3. Broken Top Loop, Oregon

LENGTH	ELEVATION	DIFFICULTY	SEASON	PERMITS	TRAILHEAD
26+ mile loop	8,400+ feet	Very hard	Late Summer	1. Central Cascades Overnight Permit 2. Northwest Forest Pass	Maps Location

For a challenging yet immensely rewarding multi-day backpacking adventure in Oregon, look no further than the Broken Top loop. This trail showcases some of Central Oregon’s most breathtaking scenery, featuring alpine meadows, pristine lakes, and unparalleled views of the surrounding cascade peaks. In fact, some (I) might argue it surpasses the popular Three Sisters Loop in terms of scenic beauty.

For the best experience, plan your hike in mid-summer to witness the stunning wildflower display, typically at its peak bloom by mid to late July. While this isn’t an easy hike, with numerous trail hazards including downed trees and rocky slopes of scree, conquering these obstacles rewards you with an unforgettable adventure.

The Broken Top Loop is best started from the Tam McArthur Rim Trailhead, at Three Creek Lake. The gravel road to Three Creek Lake was rebuilt in 2023 and should be passable to all vehicles. Keep in mind that Three Creek Lake is a popular recreation area for camping, fishing, and day hiking.

Ensure you have your NW Forest Pass for parking at the trailhead, as well as a Central Cascades Permit for camping within the wilderness boundary. While you can start the hike from other trailheads like Park Meadows, Todd Lake, or Green Lake, be prepared for a longer and more challenging loop.

I recommend hiking the loop clockwise from the Tam McArthur Rim Trailhead. This distributes the mileage more evenly and provides access to the best campsites along the way.

Please note that the Three Sisters permit season runs from June 15th to October 15th and becomes highly competitive during peak summer months. Overnight permits are released on a first-come, first-served basis, with 40% available on April 2nd, 2024, at 7AM PDT, and the remaining 60% on a 7-day rolling window from June through October. Day use permits are also available on 10-day and 2-day rolling windows.

To improve your chances of securing a permit, log into recreation.gov by 7AM the week before your desired backpacking trip and select your preferred trailhead as soon as permits become available. Keep in mind that permits for popular trailheads sell out quickly, so act fast!

4. Jefferson Park, Oregon

LENGTH	ELEVATION	DIFFICULTY	SEASON	PERMITS	TRAILHEAD
12+ miles out-and-back	2,200 feet	Moderate	Summer through Fall	1. Central Cascades Overnight Permit 2. Northwest Forest Pass	Maps Location

Experience the enchanting beauty of Jefferson Park, nestled within the majestic Mt. Jefferson Wilderness. This stunning backcountry camping area boasts vibrant wildflowers, pristine lakes, and awe-inspiring mountain vistas, offering the perfect backdrop for a memorable outdoor getaway.

Following its reopening in 2022, Jefferson Park largely escaped the devastation of the 2020 Lionshead Fire, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its natural splendor. While a few burn scars may be visible, the alpine meadow remains a picturesque haven, beckoning adventurers to explore its tranquil landscapes and five swimmable lakes.

For convenient access to Jefferson Park, kick off your hike at the Woodpecker Trailhead near Detroit, Oregon. Don’t forget to secure a current wilderness permit to camp in this pristine area. Alternatively, you can start your adventure at the Pamelia Lake Trailhead, albeit with a longer 22+ mile round trip journey. Please note that trailheads such as Whitewater, Triangulation Peak, and Breitenbush are currently closed due to the 2020 Lionshead Fire.

Numerous campsites dot the landscape of Jefferson Park, but for the ultimate experience, consider setting up camp by Scout Lake or Russel Lake. Both locations offer unparalleled views of Mt. Jefferson, ensuring a truly unforgettable outdoor experience.