Seattle’s reputation for rain often overshadows one simple truth: when the clouds part, the surrounding landscape offers some of the most dramatic and accessible hiking in the United States. From dense, moss-covered old-growth forests to rugged alpine peaks and windswept coastal bluffs, the variety of terrain within a two-hour drive is staggering.
Whether you are a local looking for a quick after-work leg stretch or a visitor hoping to experience the Pacific Northwest’s iconic wilderness, the trailheads surrounding the Emerald City serve as gateways to profound natural beauty.
The unique geography of Puget Sound means you can transition from urban coffee shops to silent, fern-lined paths with surprising speed. The Cascade Range to the east provides a rugged spine of granite and volcanic peaks, while the Olympic Peninsula to the west offers a damp, primeval ecosystem unlike anywhere else in the country.
This proximity to such diverse microclimates allows hikers to choose their adventure based on the weather forecast, often finding sunshine east of the mountains when the coast is socked in with marine layer clouds.
Navigating the permitting and parking requirements is an essential part of planning a successful outing in this region. Many of the most popular trails now require a Northwest Forest Pass, a Discover Pass, or an America the Beautiful Pass, and trailhead parking lots often fill up before sunrise on summer weekends.
Understanding the specific access requirements for each area—such as the timed entry reservations for Mount Rainier National Park or the shuttle systems in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness—can mean the difference between a smooth start and a frustrating morning.
Safety in the Pacific Northwest backcountry requires a level of preparation that goes beyond packing enough water. The weather can shift from clear skies to freezing fog within an hour, particularly at elevation, making layered clothing and navigation tools non-negotiable.
Additionally, the region is home to active wildlife, including black bears and cougars, and many trails traverse steep, exposed slopes where traction devices or trekking poles are invaluable well into the early summer months.
For visitors planning a multi-day hiking itinerary, the concept of “home base” matters greatly. Staying in neighborhoods like Ballard, Fremont, or Capitol Hill offers easy access to Interstate 90 and Highway 2, the primary arteries leading to the Cascades.
Alternatively, spending a night in towns such as North Bend, Issaquah, or Enumclaw can shave an hour off your morning drive, allowing you to hit the trail before the crowds and the heat of the day settle in. The list below represents a curated selection of the most rewarding trails near Seattle, balancing accessibility with the kind of scenery that makes the Pacific Northwest legendary.
Each entry has been chosen for its distinct character—some are gentle rambles suitable for families, while others demand serious elevation gain and physical endurance. What follows are the best day hikes that consistently deliver unforgettable experiences, regardless of your fitness level or time constraints.
Wallace Falls State Park
| Address | 14503 Wallace Lake Road, Gold Bar, WA 98251 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (360) 793-0420 |
Absolutely stunning hike! The waterfalls were unreal. Went with my husband, our dogs, and our four kids (ages 9–16), and it quickly became one of my favorites. Such a great workout and truly breathtaking from start to finish. Huge parking lot. Highly recommend.
The hike to the upper falls is a bit of a workout, but the views along the way make every step worth it. There are plenty of scenic viewpoints and spots to rest, so you can really take your time and soak it all in. Whether you're an avid hiker or just looking for a refreshing nature escape, this park delivers. Parking and facilities are well organized, and the park feels clean and cared for. It’s a perfect destination for a day trip—close enough to the city, yet it feels like a true retreat into nature. We did this twice, yet it remains a favourite hike, will definitely be coming back.
Beautiful place!! Would definitely recommend getting there early in the morning!! We went on a cloudy day, high 60s, slight breeze, but over all perfect weather for this type of hike. Kinda cool at the beginning of the hike you can hear electricity from the power towers as you walk up to the first trail. Overall, you will definitely feel this hike in your calves, and we only made it to the lower falls. We will definitely be coming back!!
Visited Wallace Falls on Thursday (04/17/2026). We arrived at the trailhead around 11am, and the large parking lot was only about 1/4 full.
I hadn’t been here in almost four years and mostly just remembered the waterfalls. The forest trail is clean, beautiful, and full of fresh spring colors. It rained during the first half of the hike, and near the upper falls there was a light layer of snow. The last part of the trail we hiked was a bit muddy and wet, with some slushy sections.
We liked the Middle Falls the most. Overall, it’s a great hike—about 7.3 miles round trip with ~1,900 ft elevation gain.
I’d recommend avoiding weekends if you prefer a quieter experience.
First time here. There was parking in the parking lot. We started around 1 toward the lower falls. The trail is very popular lots of people but didn't feel over crowded. The trail is a good mix of easy/medium level of hiking. It took us about 55 mins to get to the lower falls at a pretty lax pace. The lower falls did not disappoint.Next time we will go all the way to the upper falls!
Twin Falls Trailhead
| Address | SE 159th St, North Bend, WA 98045 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | (425) 455-7010 |
Beautiful and rewarding hike! The views of the waterfalls along the trail are stunning, and listening to the rushing water makes the trek so refreshing. Overall, the trail is very well-maintained and perfect for nature lovers.
Useful tips for fellow hikers:
Trail Condition & Gear: The downhill sections can be a bit tricky on the knees and balance, so I’d highly recommend bringing trekking poles for extra stability. Good hiking shoes are a plus!
Hydration: Make sure to bring plenty of water (a larger water bottle is best), especially on warmer days, as you'll sweat more than you think.
Navigation: Cell service can be spotty, so it helps to download an offline map beforehand or bring a detailed paper map.
Parking: The parking lot can fill up quickly on weekends, so coming early is recommended.
Twin Falls Trailhead is a great easy-to-moderate hike and perfect for a relaxed outing. The one-way hike to the falls takes about 50 minutes to an hour, with a short section of gentle elevation gain along the way. The round trip is roughly 4–4.5 km (about 2.5–3 miles), making it very manageable.
The forest scenery is beautiful throughout the trail, with lots of tall trees and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s especially suitable for families with kids or anyone looking for a pleasant hike that isn’t too challenging.
A Discover Pass is required for parking. Overall, a really enjoyable and accessible trail that I’d happily recommend! 🌲🥾
Nice Sunday hike. Arrived by 830am & parking lot was already pretty ful, we got lucky. Easy to pay on sight at the kiosk for a day pass, $10. Restrooms available at the trail head. Great opportunity for wholesome quality time. Family friendly if you're not on a time schedule.
Beautiful trail, friendly to all kinds of hikers, families, children, pets. Easy to find parking if you arrive early, otherwise be prepared to walk from overflow during weekends.
Waterfall is worth the hike, you can continue on beyond or see the waterfall and then turn back.
Gorgeous! The trail is very uneven, so this one isnt good for strollers. However, able-bodied folks will enjoy the Gorgeous old growth forest and dramatic mosses, mushrooms, and flora. The falls are very pretty, the hike has several steep sections that will get you breathing hard and working those legs! We saw lots of spry kids running and jumping ogf of logs and rocks along the way, but the elders will definitely want to bring walking sticks. Several spots were there to step off thw trail and enjoy a pretty view of the water.
Cherry Creek Falls
| Address | Duvall, WA 98019 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | (206) 625-1367 |
We had a wonderful hike with our kids and family. It was about a 2.5-hour round trip with beautiful views, peaceful nature, and small waterfalls along the way. A great place to enjoy fresh air, spend quality family time, and make great memories together. Highly recommend for families who love nature and an easy outdoor adventure.
Awesome experience and a very well maintained hiking trail. It is definitely a medium category hike and bit hectic for beginner hikers. Although the falls at the end make all the hike tiredness go away and you can spend amazing time just sitting besides the falls and dipping legs in just the right temperature water. The parking can be a hassle as almost all are roadside parking so you have to wait to get a turn. Carry lots of fluids and food if travelling with kids
Very well maintained trail, easy inclines and declines, the last 1/4 of a mile was a bit more muddy, narrow and had steeper small short hills but we went in February after a snowstorm melted. Definitely beginner & kid friendly, just enough of a challenge for beginners. In and out took just under 2.5 hours, definitely plan to stay a little while to enjoy the view though. No parking lot, you have to park on the side of the road, but all vehicles should have no problem. The falls were absolutely stunning and may be a great swim spot come warmer weather.
The falls are nice but I didn’t expect the hike to be sooo long. It wasn’t a difficult hike though.
To be expected there is a lot of mud on the trail during spring but did not expect the hundreds of mud death pits we came across. Although many were simple to step around, there are a few that are tricky unless you come prepared with tall mud boots- which honestly I'd recommend for this trail because you also have to pass over streams. Unfortunately near the end you have to go through knee high water or go over a log and since we had a dog on leash we had to turn around and never got to the falls at the end which was disappointing.
Franklin Falls Trailhead
| Address | Parking lot, Denny Creek Trail, North Bend, WA 98045 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (800) 627-0062 |
The trail is fairly easy, but there are a lot of steps, which are not so friendly for strollers, bikes or wagons.. if you bring kiddos, expect they can walk or be carried on this one. There were quite a few people here and I had to circle the lot about 3 times before parking became available, but it was a good trip and lil hike. I expected the falls to be larger than they were, but still a pretty cool spot to check out!
Easy to get to, not complicated. I recommend getting there early so you dont struggle with parking (like by 9am lol). You can easily buy a $5 day pass at a machine to put on your dashboard. (YES! they give tickets). There is a couple sites for restrooms BEFORE you start the hike. During hike there is NONE, until you return to the entrance. This is my happy place... even if you take kids and you go a chill speed you can do this roundtrip in about 2-3 hours. I would say its a mild- medium hike... not bad though... plenty of spots to stop and site see. You can get pretty close to the stream and waterfall during the walk. The path to the waterfall and back is well -CANT get lost.
My family and I just went to this beautiful trail including my teen daughter, two elementary kids, hubby, and our toddler. We all had fun walking this beautiful trail. So much to see from trees, birds, and creek, little waterfalls leading to the big waterfall.
Lovely little hike just an hour outside of Seattle. Right next to Denny Creek camp so no shortage of people. There are multiple parking lots and one pay station (CC only, debit did not work) if you don't have a NW Forest pass, though they were busy on this particular weekend. Grateful for nice parking lots, multiple bathrooms, trash bins and well-kept trails and signage. Once you hit the part of the trail to the Falls, it's a down slope with big steps, narrow path, no rails, and lots of jagged rocks (see photos). Be prepared if you have littles. Fortunately the rocks were not as slippery as one would assume. However, we had toddler in arms and thank goodness he was not too squirmy, but next time we will bring the baby carrier. The Falls are magnificent to stand right in front of. No dry spots to sit. We took the wagon trail back to the parking lot and it was a peaceful reprieve from the busy main trail. Very cool plants and flowers I have not seen before.
Such a fun beautiful hike! Enjoyed it with my 6yo. It was nice and easy, a little steep on some areas but still doable for kiddos 🥰 Waterful was BEAUTIFUL! We went ahead and did some exploring on the way there and back the trail to make it more fun. Parking was easy to find and pay (we did go on a Tuesday morning).
Discovery Park
| Address | Seattle, WA 98199 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 4:30 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 4:30 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 4:30 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 4:30 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 4:30 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 4:30 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 4:30 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (206) 684-4075 |
A beautiful park and a great place to spend a sunny day! So nice to be in nature so close to the city. We attempted the main loop with a stroller which did fairly well until the Bird Nest area and then we went back on the paved path. So not sure if a stroller could do the whole thing but I won’t be attempting again. It wasn’t terrible but a hiking carrier would’ve been easier.
This ended up being my favorite place in Seattle. Walking through the forest and down to the beach felt like leaving the city behind completely. The combination of tall trees, quiet trails, Puget Sound, and the lighthouse makes it a truly special place. The walk back uphill is a bit of a workout, but it’s absolutely worth it. If you enjoy nature, this park is a must-visit.
Discovery Park: Seattle’s Urban Oasis
Spanning 534 acres, Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest city park, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling downtown area. Built on the grounds of the former Fort Lawton military base, it features a diverse landscape of coastal bluffs, open meadows, dense forest trails, and sand dunes.
The park’s main highlight is the loop trail that leads visitors down to a scenic beach on Puget Sound, complete with views of the Olympic Mountains and the iconic West Point Lighthouse. It is a prime spot for hiking, bird watching, and catching stunning sunsets. Facilities include a visitor center, children's play areas, and paved paths suitable for walking or running.
While parking at the beach is limited to pass holders (such as families with young children or seniors), anyone can enjoy the scenic walk down from the main parking lots. Discovery Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers looking to experience the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty without leaving the city.
The trail leading up to the lighthouse had beautiful views and pristine flora and fauna, was dog-friendly, felt easy on the legs and refreshing overall. There’s quite a lot of history to this park highlighted by the information plaques about WW2 and old buildings. Went there on a weekend evening and there were plenty parking spots. The only catch is some paths can be quite muddy after the rain and there’s sand walkways so better to wear suitable shoes. There’s a sewage treatment plant which can make some spots smell a tad funny.
Get there early for ease of parking, it can get difficult especially on a sunny weekend. Well marked trails that are beautiful and relatively easy (except for maybe the south beach trail which is steeper). Excellent place to hike, jog, enjoy the scenery. Went for birding and was not disappointed.
Rattlesnake Ledge
| Address | North Bend, WA 98045 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Amazing hike of about 2 miles to the ledge from the parking lot. Not difficult but can be steep in some sections.
Takes about 50 minutes to 60 mins depending on fitness level. Coming down is 10 minutes less usually.
Views are amazing. Emerald lake. So serene. So clean.
To be frank, the hike was quite remarkable and certainly worthwhile. There may be occasional slippery sections due to loose gravel or water, but aside from that, the hike is relatively straightforward and typically takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour to reach the summit. However, the panoramic view from the top is truly rewarding, and if you have some additional time, I recommend spending a few moments by the lake.
I did this hike today and it was absolutely worth every step — five stars without a doubt!
We reached the parking lot around 12:30 PM and it was already pretty busy (even on a weekday!), so I highly recommend starting early. The best part? No pass required and no fee, which makes it such an easy and accessible adventure. Just keep in mind the parking lot closes at 6:30 PM.
I did this hike with my three-year-old nephew for his very first hike ever — and he made it to the top without any assistance! 🥹 We started around 12:30 and reached the top at about 2:30, which felt like a great pace. The trail is very doable and family-friendly, though you’ll definitely feel the incline.
It was sunny and beautiful, and the top was packed with people soaking in the views. And honestly — the views from the top are out of this world. Absolutely breathtaking and 100% worth the climb.
This trail is very popular, especially with college students and groups, so expect a lively vibe at the summit. Bring plenty of water, wear good shoes, and start early if you can.
Such a memorable experience — especially watching my little nephew complete his first hike like a champ. Highly, highly recommend! 🌄🥾
Rattlesnake Ledge is a solid hike, I’d call it moderate, but the views at the top are so worth it (on a clear day, so definitely check the forecast before you go).
The trail itself goes through the forest with a bunch of switchbacks, so you’re mostly in the shade, which is nice. Then you get to the top and it just opens up, big views over the lake and mountains. Please be careful up there, it’s exposed and there are steep edges, so don’t get too close.
The trail is dog-friendly, well maintained, and pretty busy, especially in summer. You’ll see a lot of groups and even families with kids. I’d go early in the morning or closer to sunset (sunsets up there are unreal when it’s clear).
Parking: the lot right by the trailhead is pretty small (maybe 10–15 cars). There’s a huge parking lot nearby for Rattlesnake Lake visitors, but if you’re planning to stay up at the ledge for sunset, park at the small trailhead lot only. The lake lot gate closes at dusk, and you can get ticketed if you come back after.
Also, the chipmunks at the top are very bold because people keep feeding them (please don’t). I’m an elopement photographer and shoot here pretty often, once I was just leaning my hand on a rock and one ran up and bit me, probably thinking I had food. It was bad enough that I ended up in the ER (rabies risk is low here, but still not something you want to mess with). So yeah, amazing hike, just don’t feed the wildlife!!!!!
Excellent view! Slightly difficult climb for an average person who doesn't hike ever, but nothing a couple small stops couldn't cure. Totally worth it.
Mount Rainier National Park
| Address | Washington |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | (360) 569-2211 |
Mt. Rainier has stunning views! I highly recommend the Skyline Trail Loop, which is about 5.7 miles total. The views are absolutely gorgeous! The glacier is melting, and the water 💦 was incredibly cold and crystal clear! 🧊💧 Such a beautiful and refreshing sight.
🏔️🌲 Bring plenty of snacks and drinks, especially if you plan to take your time and enjoy the scenery.
Visited Mount Rainier National Park on 08/28/26. Unfortunately, the weather didn’t cooperate enough to get a clear view of Mount Rainier, but the Skyline Loop Trail was absolutely amazing, with spectacular 360° views throughout the hike. We even spotted a brown bear down in the valley while descending!
Luckily, I finally got a beautiful, clear view of Mount Rainier from the air while flying back to Sacramento from Seattle. Definitely an unforgettable experience!
Absolutely beautiful place! Great views of the mountain, untouched meadows, huge old-growth trees, and majestic waterfalls on bright blue rivers! I cannot say much concerning spending the night inside the park as I stayed just outside the park, but I would still highly recommend this place! Also note that traffic will probably be heavy at places like Paradise and Longmire, and you will have to pay a fee to drive Paradise Road/Stevens Canyon Road through the park.
This is one of the most picturesque parks we have visited. The wild flowers in July are beautiful and the views of the glacier are amazing. Perfect temperature for hiking. Most important, it's not overcrowded like Yosemite and Yellowstone. Well maintained trail system and facilities.
Absolutely beautiful place! 🏔️ Mount Rainier is breathtaking, with stunning mountain views, peaceful trails, wildflowers, and fresh mountain air. The scenery is incredible from every angle, and it’s a perfect place to relax, hike, and connect with nature. Definitely a must-visit destination in Washington!
Coal Creek Falls
| Address | Coal Creek Falls Trail, Bellevue, WA 98006 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (206) 296-0100 |
Nice trails. Moderate hike from the Red town trailhead across from the parking lot. Beautiful creek & liked learning about the mining and railroad in the area historically. The trail maps have lots of room for improvement. All Trails app had the best info and maps. Maybe only a 479ft elev gain but you'll do it a few times on the full loop 😆
This was our first hike to Coal Creek Falls with my son, and we were pleasantly surprised to see so many families with small kids on the trail. The hike is easy and takes less than an hour to reach the falls from the parking lot. While the waterfall isn’t very large, you can get quite close to it, which makes the experience enjoyable—especially for kids.
Was beautiful. Nice hike from northwest parking lot. Closer entrance is by the fish hatchery. GPS not helpful in finding the falls or parking lots on Google maps.
Perfect for new hikers!
Our family came here on one of the hottest days and the trees kept it super cool!
We didn’t know that there’s no waterfall in August but there is in April. Even so, it was still super enjoyable!!
The boys got to catch 4 frogs and saw an owl bathing. Even saw chipmunks and salamanders!
Best thing was it’s not overly crowded either! We are definitely going to come back!!
Coal Creek Falls is a beautiful, peaceful hike with a great mix of forest scenery and a rewarding waterfall at the end. The trail is well-maintained, not too difficult, and perfect for a quick nature escape. Best to visit after rainfall for a more impressive flow!
Tiger Mountain State Forest
| Address | Issaquah, WA 98027 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (360) 902-1375 |
This is PNW mountain biking at its finest. Side Hustle may be the most fun trail I've ridden. FYI - the MTB parking lot renovation is still not complete, so the temporary dirt lot does fill up, even on weekdays.
Great hike! Not steep at all so recommend for families! Big parking! There is plenty of bike trails from easy to really hard!
Still a lot of snow on the top! So be prepared! Very fun, beautiful trails. Not crowded.
I think when it will get warmer there will be much more bikers, but because of snow trails are empty now.
Great, easy uphill-downhill trail away from major highways and noise. Refreshing views. It is a muddy trail.
Update: After a few weeks, the vegetation have grown quickly and the trail is now very narrow and you have to battle to stay on the trail. I still like the hike.
Amazing view! Glory to God for the fresh air and pleasant environment! The weather was on point and this has been the first hike I've done in a long time! Come and try it out! Definitely good for a "date" or hangout to have a conversation and realize the incredible creations around in nature! I remain grateful daily for a the things I enjoy!
Tiger Mountain trails are great! Swamp trail was a great hike. Started out on the connector to the NW timber trail then on to Rd 5500. After 2 miles took a quick left and found the Silent Swamp trail. Continued on through the snow to the Joy Ride trail up to the Inside Passage trail and down the master link back to the parking lot. Good 10 mile hike , not too hard except for the snow.
Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park
| Address | 18201 SE Cougar Mountain Dr, Renton, WA 98059 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (425) 643-5306 |
This is a huge wildlife park. Many other parks , trailheads, falls and creeks are inside this area. Ex: Coal Creek Falls, Sky county trail and red barn trail ( red something trail) are inside this location . Radar park picnic area. The walkways are gravel some are wide and they’re mostly uphill. The trails get harder for experienced hikers. Lots of bicyclists 🚴 come here. There was a race here few weekends ago. The dog wanted to run and sniff the wild smells but I know he wouldn’t come back. It’s easy to get lost or tired here.
Beautiful trail network with lots of options for easy to hard hikes. You can do short or long hikes
We started at the Licorice Fern crossing and hiked to Indian Trail, Marshall's Hill Tail, Ford Slope Mine, followed Rainbow Town Trail around to connect to Red Town Trail. Back to Indain Trail. Took a side trail to see a waterfall. Small hike off the main trail. Then we headed to the Far County Trail to Shy Bear Trail. Which leads us up to Cougar Mt. Lookout. There was so much beauty everywhere. When we got back to our vehicles tired. If you do these trails be sure to take plenty of water and snacks. You will need them.
This is an awesome spot for a short hike and a waterfall close to Bellevue and Seattle. I’ve come here every season and it’s always given a nice reset.
Beautiful park! The trailhead we were at had a trash and restroom. Big moss covered rocks and trees everywhere! Some minor switchbacks on this steeper climb, though nothing crazy. A few bridges and a nice little creek.
Poo Poo Point
| Address | Issaquah, WA 98027 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 6:00 AM – 9:30 PM Sunday: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (360) 825-1631 |
A great start for the year doing this moderate 4 mile round trip hike. The hike is an in and out with all up hill there and all down hill back. I love that the trail head is fairly close off I-90 exit. Hike has great trails with a great view at the top.
The perfect training/ramp-up hike (with rewarding views to boot) for the more challenging/longer hikes located throughout the Central Cascades. Tip: try to start 30 min before sunrise or 60 min before sunset for the best views; YMMV with paragliding photo ops.
We've enjoyed hiking here on several occasions. Great for hike with wonderful views. Did this one a couple of Mondays ago. It was foggy initially, but it lifted to reveal Mt. Ranier. But my favorite was as the sun shone through the trees! Highly recommend.
Parking does fill up quickly.
Great workout for a couple of hours, if you run that is. Pretty rocky initially for the first half. Make sure you have good traction for your shoes. Trail running shoes are best.
Well-known hiking trail close to downtown Issaquah. Not too long and not too steep as far as hikes go in Washington State. It is best known for being a popular parasailing launch, and on nice days, people parasail off the runway at the top! You can watch them jump when you’re at the top with them, but can still see them hovering in the sky from quite a distance away!
Snoqualmie Falls
| Address | 6501 Railroad Ave, Snoqualmie, WA 98065 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | (425) 326-2563 |
Snoqualmie falls is very pretty and more so if you tkme your visit based on the season or time of day. Must visit during the sunrise/sunset times.
The upper viewing deck is easisly accessible, the lower viewpoint is a good 2000ft hike. This hike is also very beautiful, you will be walking in the woods - the path is good and you dont need any special hiking gear. Just bring water and you are good to go.
Lovely park completely free (even parking)! The trail from the upper viewing deck to the boardwalk near the river is short but steep. I loved learning about all the flora and their various uses. I also loved learning about the ecosystem and the old vs new growth. Lastly, I loved learning about the plants generating hydro electricity. Great activity to pass the time as a tourist or a local looking for a daily walk.
Beautiful waterfall and trail! Perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a peaceful hike. We got there early before the crowds and got to take some pictures without everyone in the background.
Highly recommend this place! Free parking and no entrance fee, which is a big plus. It was pretty busy on the weekend, but the waterfall view is absolutely stunning! You can park and walk across the bridge, and it leads straight to the waterfall. There’s a nice, well-kept trail that takes you down closer to the river and waterfall views. It’s not a long hike, but it is pretty steep, so just be careful if it’s wet. There are public restrooms, dog waste bags, and plenty of seating areas for relaxing or having a picnic. Everything is really well maintained. We later found out there’s also a River Access parking lot, which makes it even easier—just a short walk and you’re right by the river and waterfall. Definitely coming back!!
Such an incredible sight these falls, and of course for Twin Peaks fans an iconic image. These are a must visit, with views of the falls from various levels, capturing both the falls and the Great Northern (Salish Lodge).
A really simple trail to navigate with both path and steps, pretty easy for most to navigate.
If your not a twin peaks fan and in the area you have to go anyway, they are an incredible view/
Essential Tips for Hiking Near Seattle
Before you lace up your boots and head for the hills, there are several local nuances that can dramatically improve your experience. The following tips are drawn from years of navigating the specific challenges of the Puget Sound trail systems, from parking logistics to microclimate quirks. Taking a few minutes to internalize these practical recommendations will help you hike more safely, comfortably, and responsibly.
Start early, not just to secure parking, but to avoid afternoon cloud buildup that obscures summit views. In the summer, aim to be at the trailhead by 7:00 AM or earlier, especially for popular destinations like Mount Si or Lake Serene. This also reduces your risk of being caught on an exposed ridgeline during the afternoon thunderstorms that frequently roll through the Cascades in July and August.
Always carry the Ten Essentials, even on short, well-traveled trails. A sudden temperature drop, a wrong turn, or an unexpected injury can turn a casual two-hour walk into an overnight ordeal. A headlamp, extra insulation, a first aid kit, and a paper map are not optional extras—they are baseline requirements for responsible hiking in this terrain.
Check trail conditions on the Washington Trails Association (WTA) website within 48 hours of your hike. Recent trip reports provide real-time information on snow levels, blowdowns, washed-out bridges, and wildlife activity. Relying on outdated guidebooks or social media posts can lead you to a trailhead that is inaccessible or a route that is still buried under spring snowpack.
Respect the permitting system and carry the correct pass for your destination. A Northwest Forest Pass covers most US Forest Service trailheads, while a Discover Pass is required for Washington State Parks. If you are hiking in Mount Rainier National Park, you will need to pay an entrance fee or display an America the Beautiful pass, and timed entry reservations are now required during peak season for certain entrances.
Practice Leave No Trace principles with extra vigilance in this fragile ecosystem. Stay on the trail to protect delicate alpine meadows, pack out all food scraps, and never feed wildlife. The popularity of trails near Seattle means that cumulative human impact is the single greatest threat to these landscapes, and every hiker has a role to play in preserving them for future generations.
The trails surrounding Seattle are more than just a collection of scenic viewpoints—they are a defining part of the region’s identity. They offer a necessary counterbalance to the fast pace of city life, a place where the noise of traffic is replaced by the rush of glacial rivers and the wind through hemlock branches. For many residents, these paths become annual rituals, revisited season after season to witness the wildflowers emerge, the snow recede, and the autumn colors transform the forest floor.
Whether you are standing on a rocky summit watching the sun rise over a sea of clouds or sitting beside a quiet alpine lake with a thermos of coffee, the reward for your effort is always the same: a profound sense of scale and stillness. The mountains, forests, and coastlines near Seattle do not just offer a place to exercise—they offer a place to remember what it feels like to be fully present. So pick a trail from the list above, pack your gear with intention, and go find the version of the Pacific Northwest that belongs to you.
