Washington’s Mountain Ranges
Washington is a state that is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, and much of that beauty comes from its mountain ranges. There are numerous mountain ranges scattered throughout the state, each with its own unique features and attractions. From the rugged peaks of the Cascades to the rolling hills of the Blue Mountains, Washington’s mountain ranges offer something for everyone.
The Cascades: The Backbone of Washington
The Cascade Range is perhaps the most iconic mountain range in Washington, stretching more than 700 miles from the Canadian border down to California. This range is the backbone of the state, with numerous peaks exceeding 10,000 feet in elevation. Among the most famous is Mount Rainier, a towering stratovolcano that stands at 14,411 feet and is visible from much of western Washington. Other notable peaks in the range include Mount Baker, Glacier Peak, and Mount Adams. The Cascades are also home to numerous glaciers, alpine lakes, and subalpine meadows, making it a popular destination for hiking, camping, and skiing.
The Olympic Mountains: A Unique Coastal Range
The Olympic Mountains are a unique range that is located on the Olympic Peninsula, separating the Pacific Ocean from the rest of Washington. This range is unusual in that it is a coastal range, with rugged peaks rising directly from the sea. Among the most famous peaks in the range is Mount Olympus, a glaciated peak that stands at 7,980 feet. The Olympic Mountains are also home to numerous other peaks, as well as lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and stunning coastal vistas. The range is protected as part of Olympic National Park, which draws millions of visitors each year. Hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering are all popular activities in the Olympic Mountains.
The Kettle Range: A Hidden Gem in Northeast Washington
The Kettle Range is a little-known range that is located in northeastern Washington, near the Idaho border. This range is relatively small, stretching only about 50 miles, but it is notable for its unique geology. The Kettle Range is named for the numerous "kettle" lakes that dot its landscape, formed by melting ice blocks left behind by retreating glaciers. The range is also home to numerous other interesting geological features, including canyons, cliffs, and hoodoos. The Kettle Range is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and birdwatching.
The Selkirk Mountains: A Panhandle Playground
The Selkirk Mountains are located in the panhandle of Idaho, but they also extend into northeastern Washington and southeastern British Columbia. This range is known for its rugged peaks, deep valleys, and abundant wildlife. Among the most famous peaks in the range is Mount Spokane, which is a popular skiing destination in the winter. The Selkirk Mountains are also home to grizzly bears, wolves, elk, and other large mammals, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Hiking, backpacking, and skiing are all popular activities in the Selkirk Mountains.
The North Cascades: A Wilderness Wonderland
The North Cascades are a subrange of the larger Cascade Range, located in northwestern Washington. This range is known for its wild and rugged terrain, with numerous glaciated peaks, deep valleys, and pristine lakes. Among the most famous peaks in the range is Mount Shuksan, a dramatic peak that is often compared to the Matterhorn. The North Cascades are also home to numerous other notable peaks, including Mount Baker, Glacier Peak, and Mount Rainier. The range is protected as part of North Cascades National Park, which draws visitors from around the world. Hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering are all popular activities in the North Cascades.
The Blue Mountains: Rolling Hills in Southeast Washington
The Blue Mountains are a low-lying range that is located in southeastern Washington, near the border with Oregon and Idaho. This range is known for its rolling hills, grassy meadows, and dense forests. Among the most popular destinations in the range is the Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness, which covers more than 170,000 acres of rugged terrain. The Blue Mountains are also home to numerous rivers and streams, making it a popular destination for fishing and boating.
The Okanogan Range: A Rugged and Remote Landscape
The Okanogan Range is a remote range that is located in north-central Washington, near the Canadian border. This range is known for its rugged terrain, with numerous peaks exceeding 8,000 feet in elevation. Among the most famous peaks in the range is Silver Star Mountain, which stands at 8,875 feet and is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers. The Okanogan Range is also home to numerous lakes, streams, and forests, making it a popular destination for camping and fishing.
The Stuart Range: A Popular Climbing Destination
The Stuart Range is a subrange of the larger Cascade Range, located in central Washington. This range is known for its rugged peaks, including Mount Stuart, which is the highest non-volcanic peak in Washington at 9,415 feet. The Stuart Range is a popular destination for rock climbers, with numerous challenging routes available on its steep granite faces. The range is also home to numerous alpine lakes and subalpine meadows, making it a popular destination for hiking and backpacking.
The Chelan Mountains: Lakes and Peaks in One
The Chelan Mountains are a small range that is located in north-central Washington, near Lake Chelan. This range is known for its stunning peaks, including the iconic Goat Mountain, which offers stunning views of Lake Chelan and the surrounding landscape. The Chelan Mountains are also home to numerous alpine lakes and subalpine meadows, making it a popular destination for hiking and camping.
The Tatoosh Range: A Scenic Hike Near Mount Rainier
The Tatoosh Range is a small range that is located near Mount Rainier, in the southern part of Washington. This range is known for its stunning views of Mount Rainier, as well as its own rugged peaks and alpine lakes. Among the most popular hikes in the range is the Tatoosh Traverse, a 15-mile trek that offers stunning views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding landscape.
The Sawtooth Range: A Rocky Ridge in Central Washington
The Sawtooth Range is a small range that is located in central Washington, near Ellensburg. This range is known for its rocky ridges and dramatic peaks, including the iconic Manastash Ridge. The Sawtooth Range is a popular destination for hiking and rock climbing, with numerous challenging routes available on its steep faces. The range is also home to numerous caves and other geologic features, making it a popular destination for spelunkers.
