The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Henry M. Jackson Hydroelectric Project

If you're looking for a quick and easy nature fix, the Greider/Boulder Lakes Trail offers a pleasant hiking experience. This route takes you through a serene forest environment, providing a gentle walk rather than a strenuous climb. You'll encounter varied terrain, but it's generally manageable, making it a good choice for a relaxed outing to enjoy the natural surroundings and perhaps catch a glimpse of the View of Spada Lake.

Planning your visit to the Greider/Boulder Lakes Trail is straightforward. The area is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your leashed canine companion along. While the broader Greider Lakes Trail system can be quite challenging, this specific route is rated easy, covering 2.6 miles (4.2 km) with only 103 feet (31 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 6 minutes. Always check for current conditions, especially if you plan to explore further into the more difficult sections of the Greider Lakes Trail hiking area.

This trail is part of the Morning Star Natural Resources Conservation Area, which protected the Greider Ridge from logging, preserving its old-growth forests. While the full system is known for its subalpine lakes and potential for bear sightings, this particular easy section provides a taste of the natural beauty without the commitment of the longer, more advanced hiking routes. It's a great way to experience the area's conservation efforts and enjoy a peaceful walk.

The Wallace Lake via Greg Ball Trail offers a peaceful journey through a lush, maturing forest, leading to the tranquil Wallace Lake. You'll hike past sword ferns and mossy vine maples, enjoying the sounds of the North Fork Wallace River, with occasional views of Mount Index and Baring Mountain early on. The trail is a moderate 5.8-mile (9.3 km) hike with 1035 feet (315 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 2 hours and 51 minutes, making it a rewarding option for those seeking natural beauty and a good workout.

Planning your visit to this trail means opting for a quieter experience compared to the more frequented Wallace Falls routes. It's a year-round hiking option, though conditions will vary seasonally, so check forecasts before you go. While specific parking information isn't detailed, arriving early is always a smart move for popular trails to secure a spot and enjoy the serenity before others arrive.

This route is part of a well-maintained network, named for Greg Ball, a key organizer with the Washington Trails Association, highlighting its importance to the local hiking community. Wallace Lake itself is described as super serene, offering reflections of Zeke's Hill and Stickney Ridge, and there are even camping areas near Wallace and Jay lakes for those interested in an overnight stay.

The Boardman Lake/Lake Evan Trail offers a delightful escape into an ancient forest, leading you to two picturesque lakes. You'll wander through groves of gargantuan ancient cedars, firs, and hemlocks, feeling truly immersed in nature. The path itself is varied, with roots and rocks underfoot, but the reward of the peaceful, blue-green waters of Boardman Lake, complete with a sandy beach, makes this easy 2.1-mile (3.3 km) hike, with its gentle 341 feet (104 metres) of elevation gain, a memorable experience that takes just under an hour.

Planning your trip means being prepared for the drive to the trailhead; Forest Service Road 4020 is notoriously rough, riddled with potholes and ruts, so a high-clearance vehicle is often a good idea. While the trail is generally easy, sturdy, waterproof footwear will serve you well, especially if you encounter muddy patches. This trail is a fantastic option for families or anyone new to hiking, offering a genuine wilderness feel without being too far off the beaten path.

What makes this trail stand out is its accessibility combined with a true sense of seclusion. It's an excellent choice for introductory backpacking, thanks to established campsites, and it's home to rare plants, so staying on designated paths is important. Keep an eye out for wildlife like fish, swans, and ducks, adding to the natural charm of this family-friendly route that provides a perfect taste of the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.

The Woody Trail offers a delightful, easy escape into the verdant forests of Wallace Falls State Park. This 2.6-mile (4.2 km) hiking route, with a gentle 91 feet (28 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through a landscape rich with Douglas firs and western hemlocks, accompanied by the tranquil sounds of the Wallace River. It's a perfect, low-effort way to immerse yourself in nature, taking approximately 1 hour and 17 minutes to complete, and is well-suited for families or those new to hiking.

Planning your visit to the Woody Trail is straightforward, with amenities like bathrooms and a picnic area available at the trailhead within Wallace Falls State Park. Given its popularity, especially on weekends, arriving early is a good strategy to secure parking and enjoy a quieter experience. Dogs are welcome on the trail, provided they remain on a leash, making it a great option for a walk with your furry friend.

This particular Woody Trail provides a serene introduction to the natural beauty of Snohomish County, Washington, offering a glimpse into the larger Wallace Falls State Park. While it's a short and easy path, it connects you to a region known for its stunning waterfalls and lush Pacific Northwest ecosystems. It's a fantastic choice if you're looking for a quick, accessible outdoor adventure without the strenuous demands of longer, more challenging routes.

Embark on the Ashland Lakes Trail, a moderate hike spanning 5.4 miles (8.6 km) with a total elevation gain of 639 feet (195 metres), typically completed in about 2 hours and 27 minutes. You will transition from an old logging road into a traditional path winding through an old-growth forest. Expect to see moss-covered rocks and lush undergrowth as you make your way towards the lakes. The route features an extensive system of wooden boardwalks and puncheons, keeping your feet dry over marshy areas and sensitive wetlands.

Before you go, be aware that accessing the trailhead can be challenging. Forest Service Road 4020 is known for potholes and loose gravel, often requiring a high-clearance vehicle to navigate comfortably. Due to significant annual rainfall, you should prepare for potentially muddy and slippery conditions, especially on the wooden boardwalks. Beyond Lower Ashland Lake, the trail to Twin Falls is unmaintained and currently closed due to hazardous conditions.

This trail is notable for its unique progression through different environments, from an old logging road to a dense forest. A key feature is the system of wooden boardwalks that protect sensitive wetlands and keep your feet dry. You will eventually reach three distinct lakes, including Beaver Plant Lake, which is a sensitive sphagnum bog, and Lower Ashland Lake, ruggedly nestled among cliffs and talus.