Backpacking in Washington (Pacific, Snoqualmie: association, park, area)

[zdogg]

We are planning a backpacking trip in Washington sometime around early August. We are beginners and only know of a handful of places to go, mostly near Snoqualmie and Dosewallips. We are looking for ideas from experienced people. We are not opposed to going to any part of the state so if your favorite place is in the SE corner of the state we'd be open to hearing about it. We would be going for about 3-4 days. Any information is appreciated.

[rainforest338]

There's so many, but since you mentioned Dosewallips.... You can follow the Dose up to the meadows, then cross Anderson Pass down into Enchanted Valley and out the E fork of the Quinault River. Don't know if you are looking to return to the same spot (car).

[Andy]

What types of places do you enjoy? I you like the ocean, try Ozette. If you like alpine lakes, try the William O. Douglas Wilderness area around the Pacific Crest trail north of White Pass. If you like dense forested river valleys, try Enchanted Valley. Tell me what you like and I can give you more details.

[st33lcas3]

So many options, it's difficult to nail it down to one. However, the Pacific Northwest Trail cuts across the northern part of WA, then drops down into the middle of the state and ends up on the peninsula. There are many trails in the North Cascades Wilderness too.

[Transmition]

Washington Trails Association is a good place to start. All their books are good too, but I think that it is all on their website.
Hiking Guide — Washington Trails Association

[StealthRabbit]

Consider Olympic National Park as a good AUG destination (and fairly close). You can pretty well choose your terrain and be gone for a few days on a loop trail.