In 1910, Washington suffered one of the worst tragedies in its history. The Wellington disaster sent a huge wave of snow thundering down to a train depot, rolling the waiting cars over 150 feet down into the Tye River Valley. Nearly 100 people lost their lives, and it was promptly named the deadliest avalanche in Washington — and American — history. These days, the town of Wellington (which was later named Tye) no longer exists. But if you hike the Iron Goat Trail, you can still spot bits of the wreckage. One of the best and most intriguing hikes in Washington, the Iron Goat Trail is definitely one that belongs on your bucket list. Let’s take a look.
The Iron Goat Trail is a six-mile hike located in the Central Cascades near Skykomish, Washington.
Caroline Hinchliff / alltrails.com You’ll start out at the Martin Creek trailhead and follow the signs.
The first few miles of the trail are ADA accessible and the hike is ranked as moderate.
Alana Prohaska / alltrails.com While the trail isn’t exceptionally challenging, you’ll want to make sure to stay out of the tunnels and off the snowsheds. They are not structurally safe and could collapse at any time.
Most of the tunnels and snowsheds were actually built after the avalanche to help protect the trains from snow, as you’ll see by the dates stamped on the concrete.
Emily Whalen / alltrails.com While it’s not considered safe to go inside, it’s still fascinating to see them up close.
Interpretive signs along the way tell of the people that built the railway.
Vladimir Shatilov / alltrails.com This trail is basically a walking history tour for those interested in Washington’s railroad past and it’s one we think everyone ought to take.
Of course, there are rumors that this area is haunted.
Aaron Gordon / alltrails.com Some claim that if you’re very quiet, you’ll hear the screams from the poor train passengers or the sounds of train whistles. That being said, you’re most likely to just hear the peaceful sounds of nature.
The Iron Goat Trail is a favorite among Washington hikers.
Amy McDowell / alltrails.com As tragic as the avalanche was, it’s pretty amazing to see the remnants of the old railroad industry.
The beauty of Washington is immense and immeasurable, and the best way to enjoy it is to immerse yourself in the wondrous wilds, out on the trail! You can learn more about the Iron Goat Trail in Washington on AllTrails. And, for more of the best hikes in Washington to add to your bucket list, these low-key hikes lead to some amazing scenic payoffs!
Caroline Hinchliff / alltrails.com
You’ll start out at the Martin Creek trailhead and follow the signs.
Alana Prohaska / alltrails.com
While the trail isn’t exceptionally challenging, you’ll want to make sure to stay out of the tunnels and off the snowsheds. They are not structurally safe and could collapse at any time.
Emily Whalen / alltrails.com
While it’s not considered safe to go inside, it’s still fascinating to see them up close.
Vladimir Shatilov / alltrails.com
This trail is basically a walking history tour for those interested in Washington’s railroad past and it’s one we think everyone ought to take.
Aaron Gordon / alltrails.com
Some claim that if you’re very quiet, you’ll hear the screams from the poor train passengers or the sounds of train whistles. That being said, you’re most likely to just hear the peaceful sounds of nature.
Amy McDowell / alltrails.com
As tragic as the avalanche was, it’s pretty amazing to see the remnants of the old railroad industry.
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Address: Iron Goat Trail, Washington 98826, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
best hikes in Washington April 01, 2022 Sarah M. What’s the most iconic hike in Washington? Mount Rainier National Park is Washington’s most famous and iconic national park and home to the state’s most (in)famous active volcano. Hiking opportunities abound in this national park, but we’re partial to the Burroughs Mountain Trail. At over 7,800 feet, Burroughs Mountain sets right up against the northeastern face of Mount Rainier, adjacent to Winthrop Glacier, and offers the most extraordinary view of Washington’s largest volcano. Mount Rainier rises 14,410 feet above sea level straight into the clouds – and this hike, a loop trail that’s nearly 10 miles long – is the best way to experience this commanding, intimidating, wholly grand natural wonder. This is an iconic Washington hike that absolutely belongs on your bucket list! What are some scenic hikes in Washington? Whether you’re looking to hike up mountains (or inactive volcanoes – see above!), through gorges, alongside rivers, in rain forests, old-growth forests, and even coastal forests, Washington is full of some truly scenic hikes. We’re partial to the waterfall hikes, however, which traverse much of the above landscapes and include the added bonus of beautiful cascades! Some of our favorite waterfall trails in Washington include the Wallace Falls Trail, Lewis River Falls Trail, Panther Creek Falls Trail, and Deception Falls Interpretive Trail … but there are many, many more we love as well!
The OIYS Visitor Center
best hikes in Washington
April 01, 2022
Sarah M.
What’s the most iconic hike in Washington? Mount Rainier National Park is Washington’s most famous and iconic national park and home to the state’s most (in)famous active volcano. Hiking opportunities abound in this national park, but we’re partial to the Burroughs Mountain Trail. At over 7,800 feet, Burroughs Mountain sets right up against the northeastern face of Mount Rainier, adjacent to Winthrop Glacier, and offers the most extraordinary view of Washington’s largest volcano. Mount Rainier rises 14,410 feet above sea level straight into the clouds – and this hike, a loop trail that’s nearly 10 miles long – is the best way to experience this commanding, intimidating, wholly grand natural wonder. This is an iconic Washington hike that absolutely belongs on your bucket list! What are some scenic hikes in Washington? Whether you’re looking to hike up mountains (or inactive volcanoes – see above!), through gorges, alongside rivers, in rain forests, old-growth forests, and even coastal forests, Washington is full of some truly scenic hikes. We’re partial to the waterfall hikes, however, which traverse much of the above landscapes and include the added bonus of beautiful cascades! Some of our favorite waterfall trails in Washington include the Wallace Falls Trail, Lewis River Falls Trail, Panther Creek Falls Trail, and Deception Falls Interpretive Trail … but there are many, many more we love as well!
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
Mount Rainier National Park is Washington’s most famous and iconic national park and home to the state’s most (in)famous active volcano. Hiking opportunities abound in this national park, but we’re partial to the Burroughs Mountain Trail. At over 7,800 feet, Burroughs Mountain sets right up against the northeastern face of Mount Rainier, adjacent to Winthrop Glacier, and offers the most extraordinary view of Washington’s largest volcano. Mount Rainier rises 14,410 feet above sea level straight into the clouds – and this hike, a loop trail that’s nearly 10 miles long – is the best way to experience this commanding, intimidating, wholly grand natural wonder. This is an iconic Washington hike that absolutely belongs on your bucket list!
What are some scenic hikes in Washington?
Whether you’re looking to hike up mountains (or inactive volcanoes – see above!), through gorges, alongside rivers, in rain forests, old-growth forests, and even coastal forests, Washington is full of some truly scenic hikes. We’re partial to the waterfall hikes, however, which traverse much of the above landscapes and include the added bonus of beautiful cascades! Some of our favorite waterfall trails in Washington include the Wallace Falls Trail, Lewis River Falls Trail, Panther Creek Falls Trail, and Deception Falls Interpretive Trail … but there are many, many more we love as well!
