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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

This is another trail that’s quite popular, and during peak season it can feel a little crowded. If you can, I’d recommend going on a weekday and starting early.

There’s not a lot of tree coverage on this trail, so be sure to bring lots of water and sunscreen. The stark, open views make for some great photo ops.