Looking for hikes in Montana and Washington

Hey Eric,

It's going to be an interesting hiking season here in Washington. We've had record snows and it even added a few inches last weekend. This means that early July will still have lots of snow in the mountains.

This might be a good year to plan some lowland backpacks in Olympic NP. Take a look at the Hoh Rain Forest or Enchanted Valley for some great rainforest walking. Incredible. Or get out to the coast for a spectacular wilderness backpack. The Ozette loop trail is amazing, although popular. You can go further south and leave the people behind- or north as well. Get your permit early for this one!

Here's a great secret hike that few know about. Goldmyer Hot Springs is up the Middle Fork of the Snoqualmie River. Nice trail up to the hot springs with beautiful camping and an extremely unique soak. Permits required here.

If you have a road bike with you and you don't mind the snow, ride past the gate about 8 miles to the trailhead of Williams Lake. Then hike above the lake to the stunning subalpine environment of the La Bohn Lakes. That is my favorite place in the world, but it's sure to have snow and it's definitely off trail. Williams is lower and also beautiful- you could always day trip through the snow if you wanted…

Feel free to PM me with specific questions!

La Bohn Lakes

Erik,
There's a great day hike/backpack option from the Holland Lake trailhead about 90 minutes from Missoula. From Milltown (just east of Missoula), follow Route 200 east to a well-marked junction with Route 83 and drive north for about 35 miles. There's a big sign at the Holland Lake turnoff (marked as Holland Lake Recreation Area), on the east side of the road. Take the trail to Upper Holland Lake (about six miles), then look for the trrail to Sapphire Lake, a great camping spot. Or you can head into the Bob Marshall Wilderness just above Sapphire and follow the trail down to one of the Necklace Lakes. Would be a great 3 or 4 day trip with many loop and day trip options.