Even though the Winter/early Spring season in Washington often brings rain, darkness, and colder days, many students continue to go on and enjoy outdoor hikes. Some choose to stay local, however others often travel further distances to experience new scenery. Many of these hikes can bring snow, slush, and or ice, which is not always wanted, but there are still options without.
Up in Issaquah, there is a hike called “The bus trail” which is a 1.1-mile trail that is easy for those who want to start hiking, or just looking for something easy. On this hike, there are many different scenic views such as waterfalls, streams, and an abundance of greenery.
If you choose to stay more local, down in Index which is around 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic from Snohomish, there are three year-round popular hikes. Lake Serene and Bridal Veil Falls are a combined hike however there is a point after the waterfall where you can choose to return or continue on the hike.
Round trip hike to Lake Serene is around 7 miles but many opt to detour and see Bridal Veil Falls. The alpine lake boasts views of bright blue glacier water and beautiful snow-capped mountains all around, in the Winter many plants are covered by feet of snow however the rocky trail is still very accessible. It often is muddy and there is possible ice so take precautions when attempting this hike. In the later Spring, many flowers and new plants bloom. Some even attempt to fish or even swim in the lake even with the frigid water temperatures.
Bridal Veil Falls stands around 1,300 feet tall and the four-tier waterfall is directly sourced from Lake Serene. Most hiking beginners tend to finish these hikes around the four-hour mark but more intermediate/experienced ones take 2 and a half hours to three. Overall there are many options nearby or at a further distance depending on your interests.