Boots On The Ground: Top Hiking Trails Near Seattle
Green leather boots on women legs decorated with fall autumn foliage leaves on brown tree background. Design, Shoes concept, advertising.
Seattle is a city defined by its relationship with nature, and there’s no better way to experience the stunning Pacific Northwest landscape than by hitting the trails. The great thing about living here is the sheer variety of hikes just a short drive from the city, from peaceful forest walks to rugged alpine climbs. No matter your fitness level, there’s a trail waiting for you. Here is a breakdown of top hikes for every skill level, all easily accessible from the Seattle area.
Easy Hikes: Perfect for a Casual Stroll or Family Outing
These trails offer high reward for minimal effort, making them ideal for beginners, families with children, or anyone looking for a relaxing day outdoors.
- Gold Creek Pond: Located near Snoqualmie Pass, this is a beautiful, easy, and ADA-accessible 1-mile loop trail around a serene pond. The views of the surrounding mountains reflecting on the water are spectacular, and it’s a popular spot for snowshoeing in the winter.
- Franklin Falls: This classic Snoqualmie Pass hike is a short, 2-mile round trip to a beautiful, powerful waterfall. The trail is well-maintained and follows a gentle path, making it perfect for a leisurely walk. In the winter, the falls can freeze into a stunning wall of ice, creating a magical wonderland.
- Discovery Park Loop: Seattle’s largest park is a treasure trove of trails right in the city. The main loop is about 2.8 miles and takes you through forests, meadows, and along the bluff with breathtaking views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. It’s a great way to feel miles from the city without ever leaving it.
Moderate Hikes: A Solid Challenge with Great Views
Ready for a little more elevation and distance? These trails offer a good workout and lead to some of the most iconic and rewarding views in the Cascades.
- Rattlesnake Ledge: Arguably one of the most popular hikes in the area, this 5.3-mile round trip trail climbs steadily to a dramatic rocky outcrop overlooking Rattlesnake Lake and the surrounding mountains. The view is a fantastic payoff, but be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends.
- Wallace Falls: Located in Wallace Falls State Park, this 5-mile round trip hike is a PNW classic. The trail winds through a lush forest, crossing charming bridges and offering multiple viewpoints of the spectacular Wallace Falls as it cascades down a series of rocky drops. The views from the upper falls are well worth the effort.
- Lake 22: This hike, located off the Mountain Loop Highway, is a true stunner. The 5.4-mile round trip trail takes you through an ancient forest and across boardwalks over a bog before arriving at a pristine alpine lake tucked beneath Mount Pilchuck. The views are incredible, and the trail itself is a work of art.
young hipster man traveling with backpack in autumn forest wearing warm jacket and hat, active tourist, exploring nature in cold season
Challenging Hikes: For the Seasoned Hiker Seeking Adventure
These trails are not for the faint of heart, featuring significant elevation gain and rugged terrain. They require preparation but offer unparalleled panoramic views and a genuine sense of accomplishment.
- Mount Si: A rite of passage for many Seattle-area hikers, the Mount Si trail is a relentless 8-mile round trip with over 3,100 feet of elevation gain. The trail is a long series of switchbacks, but the views from the top, including Mount Rainier on a clear day, are simply epic.
- Mailbox Peak: If Mount Si is the rite of passage, Mailbox Peak is the ultimate test. The old trail is a grueling, steep climb, while the new trail is longer but more forgiving. Regardless of which path you take, the reward at the top is panoramic views and the iconic mailbox filled with fun treasures left by fellow hikers.
- Poo Poo Point: Don’t let the name fool you. This is a challenging 7.2-mile round trip hike up Tiger Mountain, famous for being a launch site for paragliders and hang gliders. The hike offers a great workout and the summit provides a unique, thrilling view of the paragliders launching over the Snoqualmie Valley.