How to avoid the crowds on your summer hiking adventures

It's summer time in Seattle, which means many popular trails are bound to be packed — but don't be discouraged!

Surprisingly back country trails are not more crowded than previous years, but more introductory trails have seen an increase in attendance due to the recent growth in the Seattle area.

Those in the parks and recreation fields and outdoor industries see this as a positive.

"I personally think it's great news. And a lot of other people in the outdoor community are celebrating this as well, " said Douglas Scott, hiker and national park expert. "It's creating an awareness of the public lands around us, and of nature."

The Record's Bill Radke spoke with Scott, who offered insider tips on how to steer clear of the crowds and maximize your enjoyment of trails in the area this summer.

We have thousands of miles of trails, but everybody congregates on a few," Scott said.

Get past the first mile

By hiking consistently, you not only experience the benefits of nature, but you build endurance. That endurance prepares you for the next, potentially longer — and less crowded —hike.

"While the crowding is occurring, if you hike more than a mile at most places you are going to miss the crowds, " Scott said. "Sure you are going to have your crowded trails right around Snoqualmie, or outside of [trail head] parking lots, but that's just the tip of the trail iceberg."

Embrace the weekdays

For those with flexible schedules, heading to the trails mid-week will provide a respite from the crowds on even the most popular hikes, like Mount Rainier.

"If you go out on a Friday, Saturday, Sunday or Monday, you are going to hit crowds. You go Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, you are pretty much there by yourself," Scott said.

Arrive early or late

Starting before sunrise or later in the afternoon can result in trail tranquility. You can catch the sun rising on your way up, or stay to watch the sunset before your decent.

In each scenario, plan for the elements.

"Be prepared, bring a headlamp, know the route and make sure you know when sunset is," said Scott.

Embrace the weather

If you are not opposed to getting out in the elements, then learn to enjoy days outdoors that aren't strictly bluebird skies.

"There is something magical about going out to the rain forest in the rain," Scott said.

If you can't beat em'....

You can join them, but don't forget to bring a fresh and patient perspective.

"You can celebrate that so many people are enjoying these majestic sites all around the region," Scott said.

Produced for the web by Amanda Gomes.