Often called the Emerald City, Seattle is a vibrant metropolis surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Nestled between Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains, this Pacific Northwest gem is known for its iconic landmarks, thriving coffee culture, and proximity to outdoor adventures.
Seattle is a gateway to some of the most spectacular hiking destinations in Washington State, offering diverse trails for all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker seeking summit views or a beginner looking for an easy hike through old-growth forests, the Seattle area is packed with great hikes. From popular trails like Mount Si and Rattlesnake Ledge to hidden gems like Franklin Falls, keep reading to learn all about some of the best day hikes near Seattle.
Top Hikes Around Seattle
Mount Si
Mount Si is one of Washington’s most iconic hikes, offering stunning views of the Snoqualmie Valley and Puget Sound. With panoramic views, a well-maintained trail, and a challenging climb make Mount Si a perfect hike for those seeking a good workout. This trail features a steady elevation gain making it a great option for experienced hikers. The trail winds through old-growth forests and rocky switchbacks, with panoramic views awaiting at the summit. Plan for 4–6 hours to complete this hike. Located near North Bend, this popular trail attracts hikers year-round. Arrive early to secure a spot in the parking lot, especially during peak season (summer weekends)!
Distance: 8 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 3,150 feet
Rattlesnake Ledge
Rattlesnake Ledge is an excellent option for a short drive from downtown Seattle. Perfect for beginners and intermediate hikers, the trail ascends through dense forests to a rocky viewpoint that overlooks Rattlesnake Lake, the Snoqualmie Valley, and Mount Si in the distance. This is a popular hike, especially in summer, and typically takes about 2–3 hours to complete.
Distance: 4 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 1,160 feet
Discovery Park
Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest public park, with over 11 miles of walking trails through meadows, forests, and dramatic coastal bluffs. With views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, the Seattle skyline, and even bald eagles, these easy hikes are suitable for all ages and can be completed in 1–2 hours. It’s a great option for a coastal hike without leaving the city. There are multiple loops to take within the park, here are a few:
The Discovery Park Loop Trail is a 2.8-mile loop trail with an elevation change of 140 feet. This trail is suitable for hiking and jogging year-round.
The Discovery Park and Lighthouse Loop is a 4.5-mile loop trail with an elevation gain of 485 feet. This trail is considered easy and is popular for hiking, running, and birding.
The Discovery Park Beach and Highlands Loop is a 5.1-mile roundtrip trail with an elevation gain of 380 feet. This trail takes you to the South Meadow, beaches, and the West Point Lighthouse.
Distance: 2.8 – 5.1 mile hikes
Elevation Gain: 140 – 485 feet
Snow Lake
This trail is a favorite hike in the Pacific Northwest. On a clear day, the pristine lake reflects the surrounding peaks, creating breathtaking scenery. Nestled in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Snow Lake is a moderate-difficulty trail. The trail climbs through lush forests and alpine meadows before revealing breathtaking views of the crystal-clear lake surrounded by rugged peaks. It’s a favorite summer hike that takes about 3–5 hours to finish.
Distance: 7.2 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 1,800 feet
Twin Falls
This trail near North Bend is an easy-to-moderate hike that’s great for families. The trail follows the South Fork Snoqualmie River and leads to multiple cascading waterfalls surrounded by mossy trees and ferns. A well-maintained path and moderate elevation make this hike enjoyable year-round, with a total time of 1–2 hours.
Distance: 2.4 miles round-trip
Elevation Gain: 940 feet
Explore More of Washington State
Seattle’s proximity to national parks, islands, and wilderness areas makes it a fantastic starting point for day trips and hiking adventures. Here’s a closer look at five of the best hiking destinations near the city!
Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier, the iconic 14,410-foot peak, dominates the skyline and offers an array of hiking options. The park features old-growth forests, alpine meadows, and glacial vistas, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Top Hiking Options
Skyline Trail (5.5 miles round-trip): A moderate hike starting from Paradise, offering stunning views of Mount Rainier, wildflower meadows, and waterfalls.
Burroughs Mountain Trail (7 miles round-trip): This trail offers some of the best views of the mountain and its glaciers.
Grove of the Patriarchs (1.5 miles round-trip): An easy hike through an ancient forest of towering trees.
Explore Mount Rainer National Park with These Tours
Olympic National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Olympic National Park offers diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to rainforests and mountain ranges.
Top Hiking Options
Hurricane Hill Trail (3.2 miles round-trip): This easy hike offers panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound.
Hoh River Trail (up to 34 miles): Explore the enchanting moss-draped trees of the Hoh Rainforest.
Shi Shi Beach and Point of Arches (8 miles round-trip): A coastal hike featuring tidepools, sea stacks, and sandy beaches.
Check Out These Olympic National Park Tours
Whidbey Island
A short drive and ferry ride from Seattle, Whidbey Island is known for its picturesque scenery, charming towns, and tranquil hiking trails.
Top Hiking Options
Ebey’s Landing (5.6 miles round-trip): A coastal hike with views of Puget Sound, farmland, and the Olympic Mountains.
Deception Pass State Park Trails: Miles of trails winding through forests and along dramatic cliffs with views of Deception Pass Bridge.
Fort Ebey State Park: Trails meander through forested areas, leading to bluff-top views and historical World War II bunkers.
Check Out These Whidbey Island Tours
Bainbridge Island
Easily accessible via a short ferry ride from downtown Seattle, Bainbridge Island combines lush forests with seaside charm.
Top Hiking Options
Grand Forest East and West (3 miles): A serene trail system through towering trees and mossy terrain.
Gazzam Lake Nature Preserve (3 miles): A peaceful forest hike ending at a tranquil lake.
Fort Ward State Park (4 miles): Trails with sweeping views of Puget Sound and opportunities to spot marine wildlife.
Explore Bainbridge Island with These Tours
North Cascades National Park
Nicknamed the “American Alps,” the North Cascades are home to rugged peaks, turquoise lakes, and miles of trails.
Top Hiking Options
Cascade Pass and Sahale Arm (12 miles round-trip): A challenging hike with breathtaking views of alpine meadows, glacial valleys, and mountain goats.
Blue Lake Trail (4.6 miles round-trip): A moderate hike to a crystal-clear alpine lake surrounded by dramatic peaks.
Thunder Knob Trail (3.6 miles round-trip): An easier hike offering sweeping views of Diablo Lake.
These destinations showcase the natural beauty of Washington State, offering everything from leisurely coastal walks to challenging alpine climbs. Learn about these hikes and discover more on the Washington Trail Association website.
Hiking Passes
Washington State is a hiker’s paradise, but many trails and parks require specific passes for access. Knowing which pass you’ll need ensures a smooth trip and helps support trail maintenance and park operations. Here’s an overview of the most common passes and where they apply:
Discover Pass
The Discover Pass is required for accessing Washington State Parks, as well as state-managed lands like trailheads, forests, and recreation areas.
Northwest Forest Pass
This pass is required for most trailheads on U.S. Forest Service land, including many popular hikes in the Cascades and Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.
America the Beautiful Pass (National Parks Pass)
This pass provides access to all national parks and federal recreation lands across the United States. It’s ideal for those planning to visit multiple national parks or monuments.
Sno-Park Permit
If you’re hiking or snowshoeing at a trailhead with winter snow removal (typically during winter months), you may need a Sno-Park permit.
By understanding and obtaining the necessary passes, you’ll be prepared to explore Washington’s trails responsibly and enjoy the natural beauty near Seattle without worry!
Tips for Enjoying Seattle-Area Hikes
Plan Ahead: Check trail conditions with the Washington Trails Association (WTA) and pack essentials like a water bottle and snacks.
Passes: Make sure to research the trail you’re visiting to confirm the required pass. Websites like the Washington Trails Association (WTA) often include this information.
Be Prepared: Bring layers, as the weather in the Pacific Northwest can change rapidly.
Seasonal Highlights: Summer weekends are ideal for alpine hikes, while winter offers peaceful, snow-covered trails.
It’s important to note that some trails may be inaccessible during the winter months, so spring, summer and early fall are ideal for most hikes.
Some Other Great Things To Do in Seattle
Besides hitting the trails, take some time to explore Seattle itself. The city offers an array of must-see attractions.
Pike Place Market: One of the oldest farmers’ markets in the U.S., it’s a great spot to grab fresh produce, unique crafts, and a cup of local coffee.
Space Needle: This iconic landmark provides breathtaking views of the city, Mount Rainier, and the surrounding waterways.
Chihuly Garden and Glass: A must-visit for art lovers, featuring intricate glass installations.
Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP): Celebrate music, film, and gaming in this one-of-a-kind museum.
Seattle Waterfront: Take a stroll along Elliott Bay, visit the Seattle Aquarium, or hop on a ferry to Bainbridge Island.
Check Out These Seattle Tours
Best Time to Visit Seattle
Seattle is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests:
Spring (March-May): Early spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, perfect for urban trails and low-elevation hikes.
Summer (June-August): The summer months are ideal for outdoor adventures, offering clear days and warm temperatures for alpine hikes and panoramic views.
Fall (September-November): Crisp air and vibrant foliage make this season a great time for hiking and exploring the city.
Winter (December-February): While the city may experience some rain, winter hikes like Twin Falls and Franklin Falls are magical with snow-dusted landscapes.
With Seattle as your base, you’re perfectly positioned to explore some of the best hikes in Washington State. From the towering peaks of Mount Rainier to the serene coastline of Whidbey Island, the Emerald City truly offers something for everyone.
Seattle is a hiker’s paradise, with miles of trails that showcase the natural beauty of Washington State. From the iconic Mount Si to the tranquil National Parks, these day hikes are a great way to experience the Pacific Northwest. Grab your hiking boots, a day pass or an annual pass, and explore the best places to hike near Seattle!
Whether you’re chasing panoramic views or enjoying a short-distance stroll, these trails provide great ideas for every outdoor enthusiast. Which of these hikes will you explore next?
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