by Sophia Mattice-Aldous
I stopped making New Year’s resolutions a long time ago when I finally admitted to myself that I like the creating of them more than I enjoy the execution. However, that doesn’t mean I don’t look forward to planning upcoming excursions. There are several hikes on my annual bucket list for 2026. Some I have already done and want to revisit, like old friends, and some, I am embarrassed to say, I haven’t embarked on, even though they are practically in my backyard. Here are a few of the hikes, with added information gleaned from the Washington Trails Association website (wta.org), which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year.
Indian Creek Community Forest – Arboretum Loop Trail
Length: 0.58 miles
This one is super easy to get to and walk, with barely any inclines and multiple trail options. I have yet to explore all those options, though, so I will be returning this year to do so. The area is accessible year-round from Indian Creek Community Forest in the summer, or from the Geophysical SnoPark in winter. The trails are open to hiking, skiing and snowshoes only (leave the bikes and horses at home this time). Indian Creek Community Forest is a 350-acre property managed by the Kalispel Tribe Natural Resources Department. According to WTA, “The Arboretum Loop Trail is slightly over a half mile with very little elevation change and was designed to be an easy hiking route to highlight the native tree and shrub varieties that call this ecosystem home. Interpretive signage is located along the route, so a hike here is easy, meditative, and educational.”
Gypsy Peak – Selkirk Range
Length: 16 miles, roundtrip
Going from the leisurely pace of Indian Creek Community Forest to the steep gains of Gypsy Peak, noted as the highest peak in eastern Washington at 7,325 feet, the top offers glorious views into Canada and northern Idaho. While it’s quite possible my parents hiked this carrying me along as a wee bairn, I don’t remember, so I feel comfortable saying I’ve never traversed Gypsy Peak before. The two trailheads that access the peak are Bear Pasture (which closes Aug. 15 to protect grizzly habitat, so be aware) and Crowell Ridge trailhead, which is considered an advanced trail where a compass and plentiful off-trail experience are highly advised. According to WTA, the road to Crowell Ridge trailhead is rough and rocky; high-clearance vehicles are recommended. As always, bring plenty of water.
Hall Mountain – Selkirk Range
Length: 14 miles, roundtrip
Maybe I’m a bit of a masochist, because this is another hike that has you ascend through several layers of forest before you’re rewarded with open meadows and wildflowers or vibrant fall foliage (depending on the time of year, of course). The foundation of a former fire lookout marks the top, with views that make you feel like you’re on top of the world. When the weather is good, the mountain is accessible via the Noisy Creek Trail, adjacent to Sullivan Lake, which I have hiked before. It’s a beautiful excursion, marred at the time only by some lazy litterbugs and a person who did not understand trail bathroom etiquette, but overall, it was a scenic experience. My party and I stopped and turned around just before the trail goes up to Hall Mountain, and since then, I have needed to scratch the itch of going all the way.
Sophia Mattice-Aldous is not a doctor, personal trainer or dietician, so if you’re looking for that kind of exercise and health column, it’s not this one. However, she is a lifelong Washington resident and reporter with an affinity for The Great Outdoors who thinks fitness should be fun, and that looks different for everyone. For her, it’s going outside. If you have questions and/or comments, including hiking suggestions, email [email protected].