Washington Trails & Taps Weekly Recap: August 11–17, 2025
Summer’s pulse continues across Washington’s trails, pulsing with wildflower hum and late-season light. But as the week wore on, broken bridges, washed-out crossings, and a lingering blaze in the North Cascades reminded us that the wild isn’t without its rough edges. Here’s what recounted boots and ranger radios revealed from the trail.
⛰ WTA Trip Report Highlights
- Desolation Peak — Hiked Aug. 8. Trail in excellent shape, snow-free, and bug-free, with expansive views over Ross Lake.
- Golden Horn – Snowy Lakes — Backpack Aug. 8. Meadows blooming, berries ripe, washouts navigable with care. Golden Horn scramble rewarded hikers with clear panoramas.
- Queets River — Backpack Aug. 8 (+2 nights). Expect overgrowth, mudslides, downed trees, and a blown-out bridge—challenging but passable for the determined.
- Gunn Peak — Hiked Aug. 11. Snow-free, minor obstacles, and wildflower-lined switchbacks. Bugs present, but views made it worthwhile.
🛡️ Park & Ranger Updates
- Olympic National Park & Forest — Strict campfire ban remains in effect (no wood, charcoal, or ash). Propane/gas stoves only.
🌳 Regional Burn Bans & Alerts
- Washington State Parks remain under Level 3 burn bans (propane/gas only).
- Snohomish County — Stage 1 burn ban active through Aug. 31.
🔥 Wildfire & Smoke Watch
- Sourdough Fire — ~6,369 acres burned, 25% contained. SR-20 closures, hazy skies, and smoky air remain concerns.
🚓 Ranger & Trail Patrol Notes
- Trailheads in the Cascades filled by early morning; expect overflow and enforcement.
- Drones prohibited — fines issued for violations.
🔔 Notes for Hikers
- Campfires: Not permitted anywhere in Olympic NP or state parks under Level 3 bans.
- Trail hazards: Queets River backpackers reported washouts and unstable bridges.
- Air quality: Smoke from the Sourdough Fire is affecting visibility—check the AQI before heading out.
- Wildlife: Bears reported in alpine zones; store food properly and carry spray.
🍻 Crowler Pairing of the Week
Outer Range Brewing – Bangarang!
A raucous, hazy riot in a Peaks & Pints Campfire Crowler—Outer Range Brewing‘s Bangarang! bursts with juicy citrus, ripe mango, and tropical hop swagger. It’s the liquid equivalent of a trail party at 6,000 feet: loud, bright, and unapologetically alive. Perfect for capping off a sweaty summit push or toasting the marmots who yelled louder than you on the ridgeline.
Sources: Washington Trails Association trip reports; Washington State Parks alerts; National Park Service & Forest Service notices; wildfire and air quality updates.
