8 Epic Pacific Northwest Photo Spots as a Long Distance Runner

Carlie Penning @carliepenning

May 22, 2026

As a long-distance trail runner in the PNW, my camera roll is filled with thousands of photos from long days in the mountains. These are some of my favorite trails in Washington and Oregon to both run and photograph – all photos shot on iPhone!

1. The Enchantments

Leavenworth, WA

Whether you live in Washington or not, chances are you’ve seen photos of this area – probably lit up with neon-yellow larches, mountain goats nonchalantly making their up the rocky pass. It’s popular for good reason. If you’re lucky, you can score a permit to backpack here and stay the night, but if you’re like me (someone who has tried for 9 years in a row and failed), you can go full send and do the 19 mile loop in one day. Expect some of the best views of your life.

Notes for Photographers + Runners:

This is a very popular trail – don’t expect to be alone out there. If you can be flexible, I’d recommend going on a weekday and starting early to enjoy emptier trails and good light. This hike starts and ends at two different trailheads, so you’ll need two cars: one to park at the end and one at the start (or you can book a shuttle). Going in the summer is great, but peak larch season (late September - October) is best for photos.

2. Ice Lake Trail

Joseph, OR

The Wallowa-Whitman National Forest is one of the most underrated places in Oregon. I didn’t even know it existed until a few summers ago, and it quickly became one of my favorite areas in the entire country. Ice Lake Trail is my go-to for the best views. You’ll quickly understand why it’s called the Little Switzerland of America!

Notes for Photographers + Runners:

If you’re feeling adventurous, extend your run even further up the Matterhorn. The nearly 10,000ft summit will take your breath away with 360-degree panoramic views, and it’s likely you’ll share the vistas with no one but handful of mountain goats.

3. Kendall Katwalk

Snoqualmie Pass, WA

This is one of my favorite trails to both run and photograph. It’s on the PCT, meaning the trail is well maintained, generally pretty runnable, and has epic views. There’s a little bit of everything – lush forests, rocky peaks, wildflowers, you name it. Start early or a couple hours before sunset to get gorgeous filtered light through the trees and stunning colors at the top. Once you get up to the Katwalk, I recommend going just a bit further for even better views of the surrounding mountains.

Notes for Photographers + Runners:

This trail is best done from late June until October. I love it for both sunrise and sunset, the alpenglow is unmatched and you might get the trail mostly to yourself.

4. Goat Lake

Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

A classic Washington trail run that keeps you winding through the woods for miles, and just when you think it may never end you pop out at the most stunning ice-blue lake. I’ve snapped a ton of phone photos here, but I always kick myself for not packing my little point and shoot – it’s the perfect spot for atmospheric summer photos. Think friends jumping in to the water, snacks by the shore, laying out on a blanket…did you actually think I trail run for the running part?

Notes for Photographers + Runners:

Don’t try to get your fastest times here. The lake is practically begging to be dipped in, so take your time and enjoy a swim at the top before making your way back down.

5. High Divide and Seven Lakes Trail

Olympic National Park, WA

This should be on every trail runner’s bucket list. A 22-mile loop in the Olympic Mountains that will leave you in awe at every turn. Due to it being in a National Park, the trail is extremely well maintained and easy to navigate. Because of it’s length, it’s also not as busy as some other trails in the area; meaning lots of open, empty vistas to photograph.

Notes for Photographers + Runners:

I personally love this trail in the fall – there are lots of exposed sections, so it can be pretty hot in the summer. I’d recommend camping or staying near the park the night before and starting early to make the most of your day here.

6. Cape Meares Beach

Oregon Coast

I’m usually not a fan of running on the beach, but the Oregon Coast changed all that for me. Miles and miles of hardpacked sand with hardly another person in sight; it’s complete magic.

Notes for Photographers + Runners:

Go at sunrise or golden hour for hazy, filtered light that feels like a dream. Pick a warm sunny day, as the coastal weather can be brutal in the winter.

7. McKenzie River Trail

McKenzie Bridge, OR

A 26 mile point-to-point trail with endless photo spots along the way. You’ll pass stunning river views, massive waterfalls, and ice-blue pools of water all along an incredibly runnable and relatively flat trail.

Notes for Photographers + Runners:

There are tons of great campgrounds in the area – Paradise is one of my favorites, and you can hop on the trail straight from there. Don’t miss sights along the trail are Koosah/Sahalie Falls and Tamolitch Blue Pool!

8. Paradise Park Trail

Mt. Hood Wilderness

You might be cursing my name for the first 7 miles, but once you get above the tree line you’ll realize it was all worth it. The alpine meadows and mountain views are simply unmatched. As usual, I recommend starting early to get the best light on the mountain.

Notes for Photographers + Runners:

Pro tip: you have a friend who wants to hang out at Timberline Lodge for the morning, have them drop you off at the trailhead before driving up – then you can make your way over to the lodge on the PCT without having to backtrack the same way you came up.