Sometimes I’m asked about hiking in the Cascades or Olympics. There an incredible hiking web site from the Washington Trails Association, http://www.wta.org/. This gives you all the information you need: easy hike? elevation gain? trail condition and recent reports? It will also give you suggestions based on your interest. Here’s a nearby one I can recommend if you’re in reasonable hiking shape for 6 miles and 2400 ft elevation gain – it’s the Ira Spring Trail to Mason Lake (off of I-90 before the summit). My dog really enjoyed the cool lake waters for a brief swim (and half of my peanut butter sandwich). There are numerous easier day hikes also on the WTA site. Please send me your favorites. Maybe a Skyline group of hikers can happen!
After hiking to Mason Lake a couple weeks ago, I wanted a gentler trail. (It’s a mob scene on a weekend.) The Talapus Trail, past Talapus Lake, ending at Olallie Lake is easier, softer underfoot, and includes good beaches for wading/swimming.