Washington State’s Department of Natural Resources collects and publishes LiDAR data covering much of the state. LiDAR imagery is created by flying specially-equipped aircraft over areas of interest and using light pulses to determine the precise distance to the ground. This data is later assembled into elevation maps. You can browse the maps using the DNR LiDAR Portal interactive viewer.

The LiDAR maps are very high resolution (about 2 meters per pixel). In addition, LiDAR penetrates tree cover to reveal the shape of the ground hidden underneath. These attributes make LiDAR data a great resource for mapping streams, hiking trails, and forest roads.

Above: Clark Mountain area, showing glaciers and streams

Below: Paradise in Mount Rainier National Park, showing roads, parking lot and hiking trails.

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