Henry M. Jackson Wilderness, Protected wilderness area in King County, United States
The Henry M. Jackson Wilderness is a protected area covering over 100,000 acres with steep slopes, sharp ridges, and many river valleys across Washington State. Forests of Douglas fir and western redcedar give way to alpine meadows and rocky terrain as elevation increases.
The area was officially designated as protected wilderness in 1984 under the Washington Wilderness Act and named for Senator Henry M. Jackson, who advocated for preservation of wild lands. This legal protection came after growing recognition of the need to safeguard the region's natural character.
Indigenous peoples traveled through this land following river valleys and mountain passes for centuries before European settlement. Visitors walking the trails today follow paths that connect to this deep history of movement and inhabitation.
The Pacific Crest Trail runs through the southern section with connections to several east-west routes, allowing hikers to design varied trips. Visitors should prepare for mountainous terrain, steep climbs, and weather that changes rapidly with elevation and season.
Blanca Lake stands out for its distinctive turquoise-green water, surrounded by thick forests that contrast with the bare alpine landscape beyond. The lake owes its unusual color to glacial melt and suspended minerals, making it a striking feature within the reserve.
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