Seattle, known as the “Emerald City” of the Pacific Northwest, is not just famous for its unique coffee culture or vibrant urban life. It’s also a paradise for nature lovers, especially hikers. Surrounding Seattle are countless beautiful trails, from lush rainforests to majestic mountain peaks with breathtaking panoramic views. If you are a hiking enthusiast looking for memorable experiences near Seattle, don’t miss this curated list of the best hiking trails.
1. Mount Si Trail: Challenge Yourself on “The Giant”
Mount Si, a towering mountain less than an hour’s drive from Seattle, is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Washington. With an elevation of over 1,200 meters (approximately 4,000 feet), Mount Si offers a significant physical challenge, but the reward for conquering the summit is well worth it. From the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the picturesque Snoqualmie River Valley and the surrounding area stretching out like a watercolor painting.
The Mount Si Trail is approximately 12.7 km (7.9 miles) round trip, with a near-constant uphill climb. However, the trail is well-maintained and features several short flat sections to rest and recover. For the first 5.6 km (3.5 miles), you’ll wind through lush green forest, enjoying the fresh air and the cheerful songs of birds. As you emerge from the forest, the majestic natural scenery will gradually unfold before you, encouraging you to continue towards the summit.
Upon reaching the top of Mount Si, you have two options: stop at the flat rocky area to admire the view and turn back, or continue to conquer “Haystack” – the true summit of Mount Si. However, climbing Haystack is not easy and requires some rock climbing skills. If you are inexperienced or unsure of your abilities, consider carefully before attempting it. Regardless of your choice, the Mount Si hiking experience is sure to be an unforgettable memory in your Seattle nature exploration journey.
The best time to hike Mount Si is from March to October. In winter, the trail can be slippery due to ice and snow, so you need to be fully prepared with specialized equipment such as hiking poles, traction cleats, and warm clothing.
Hikers on Mount Si trail in Washington State, USA.
2. Rattlesnake Ledge Trail: Stunning Views of Rattlesnake Lake
If you’re looking for an easier hike that still guarantees beautiful scenery, Rattlesnake Ledge Trail is an excellent choice. Located near North Bend and only about a 45-minute drive from Seattle, Rattlesnake Ledge Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the area, especially suitable for beginners or families with young children.
This trail is approximately 6.4 km (4 miles) round trip and leads you to a rocky outcrop with panoramic views of the shimmering blue Rattlesnake Lake and the surrounding mountains. The slope of Rattlesnake Ledge Trail is relatively gentle, the path is wide and easy to navigate, mostly shaded by trees. It will take you about 2-3 hours to complete this trail, depending on your pace and how long you stop to enjoy the scenery.
The highlight of Rattlesnake Ledge Trail is the view from the Ledge viewpoint. From here, you can feast your eyes on the peaceful beauty of Rattlesnake Lake, surrounded by lush green forests and rolling mountains. On clear days, you can even see the majestic Mount Rainier in the distance. Rattlesnake Ledge Trail is an ideal spot to relax, enjoy the fresh air, and take stunning souvenir photos.
The best time to hike Rattlesnake Ledge is in spring, summer, and fall. Winter can bring snow and ice, making the trail slippery and more dangerous.
3. Discovery Park Loop Trail: Nature Escape in the Heart of Seattle
You don’t have to go far; right in the heart of Seattle, you can find a beautiful natural oasis called Discovery Park. Covering over 534 acres, Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest park, boasting diverse landscapes from forests, beaches, and cliffs to meadows. Discovery Park Loop Trail is the main and most popular trail in the park, offering you the opportunity to fully explore the beauty of this place.
Discovery Park Loop Trail is approximately 4.5 km (2.8 miles) long and forms a closed loop, starting and ending at the park’s visitor center. This trail has a moderate difficulty level, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The path is varied, with flat, easy-to-walk sections, gentle slopes, and wooden stairs. Throughout the journey, you’ll experience different terrains and landscapes: walking under ancient trees, crossing wildflower meadows, following cliffs overlooking the sea, and descending to a long sandy beach.
The special feature of Discovery Park Loop Trail is its biodiversity and scenic variety. You may encounter many species of birds, wildlife, and rare plants in the park. West Point Lighthouse beach is an ideal stop to rest, admire the scenery, and breathe in the fresh sea air. Discovery Park Loop Trail is a great choice for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find peace in nature.
Discovery Park is open year-round, and each season brings its own beauty. Spring is full of blooming flowers, summer is lush green, autumn is ablaze with golden leaves, and winter is covered in white snow.
4. Tiger Mountain Trail: Explore Diverse Trails on One Mountain
Tiger Mountain, located just east of Seattle, is a diverse hiking destination with countless trails, suitable for all levels and preferences. With over 100 miles of trails, Tiger Mountain offers you endless exploration options, from easy forest paths to challenging mountain climbs.
One of the most popular trails on Tiger Mountain is Poo Poo Point Trail, leading to a stunning viewpoint with views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. This trail is approximately 7.2 km (4.5 miles) round trip and has a moderate incline, suitable for families and beginner hikers. Another option is West Tiger 3 Trail, a shorter but steeper trail that takes you to the summit of West Tiger 3 with breathtaking 360-degree views.
If you want a greater challenge, choose the Tiger Mountain Trail, a longer and more difficult route that passes through various peaks and forests. This trail requires good fitness and hiking experience, but the reward is the pristine and majestic natural landscapes you’ll witness along the way. Tiger Mountain is an ideal destination for you to explore different trails on multiple visits, each time offering a fresh experience.
Tiger Mountain can be hiked year-round, but the best time is from spring to fall when the weather is drier and more pleasant. Winter can bring snow and ice, especially in higher areas.
5. Cougar Mountain: Hiking Paradise with Hidden Waterfalls
Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, located in Issaquah, about a 30-minute drive from Seattle, is a vast park with over 36 miles of hiking trails, offering you countless opportunities to explore the wilderness. This park is famous for its dense forests, babbling streams, and especially the hidden waterfalls deep in the woods.
One of the most popular hikes in Cougar Mountain is Coal Creek Falls Trail, an easy and short path leading you to the beautiful Coal Creek Falls waterfall. This trail is approximately 4 km (2.5 miles) round trip and suitable for all ages. Another option is Red Town Creek Trail, a longer and steeper trail that passes through old-growth forests and along the picturesque Red Town Creek.
If you want to explore more waterfalls, try the Wilderness Creek Trail, a longer and more difficult route that leads you to several waterfalls in the park, including the majestic Wilderness Falls. Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park is a paradise for those who love hiking and want to discover the unspoiled beauty of nature, especially the hidden waterfalls deep in the forest.
Cougar Mountain can be hiked year-round, but the best time is from spring to fall when the weather is drier and more pleasant. Spring is the best time for waterfalls when the snow melts and water flow is abundant.
Conclusion
Seattle and the surrounding area is a fantastic hiking destination with countless beautiful and diverse trails. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced hiker, you can find trails that suit your level and preferences. From majestic mountains with panoramic views to lush rainforests and hidden waterfalls, Seattle’s nature will surely not disappoint you. Pack your backpack and explore the best hiking trails in Seattle today to fully enjoy the wild beauty of the “Emerald City”!