Best Hiking Trails in Seattle, WA

Last Updated: January 31, 2026By Tags:

Best Hiking Trails In Seattle

Discover the best hiking trails in Seattle, WA, where lush evergreen forests, dramatic mountain vistas, and sparkling waterways create an unforgettable outdoor experience. Nestled between Puget Sound and the Cascade Range, Seattle offers hikers of all skill levels access to an impressive variety of scenic routes just a short drive from the city center. From family-friendly paths winding through moss-covered trees to more challenging ascents leading to panoramic viewpoints, each trail showcases the region’s unique Pacific Northwest charm. Moreover, Seattle’s well-maintained trail systems make it easy for both locals and visitors to explore safely and confidently. As you plan your next adventure, you’ll find that these top Seattle hiking trails provide not only exercise and fresh air, but also opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. In the following sections, we will highlight some of the most popular and rewarding hikes near Seattle to help you choose your ideal route.

Best Hiking Trails In Seattle WA

Seattle, Washington, is a premier destination for hiking enthusiasts, offering an impressive range of trails that showcase the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty. From lush urban parks to challenging mountain ascents, the region’s diverse landscapes cater to hikers of all experience levels. This guide highlights the best hiking trails in Seattle, WA, helping you plan your next outdoor adventure while optimizing your time on the trail.

Discovery Park Loop Trail

Located in the Magnolia neighborhood, the Discovery Park Loop Trail is one of Seattle’s most popular urban hikes. This 2.8-mile loop features forested paths, open meadows, and stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Because it is relatively flat and well-maintained, it is ideal for beginners, families, and visitors who want a quick escape into nature without leaving the city limits.

To help you compare key details, here is a helpful overview of the Discovery Park Loop Trail:

Feature Details
Distance Approx. 2.8 miles (loop)
Difficulty Easy
Highlights Beaches, bluffs, lighthouse, Puget Sound views
Best For Beginners, families, year-round hiking

Rattlesnake Ledge Trail

Just a short drive east of Seattle near North Bend, Rattlesnake Ledge is a must-hike trail for those seeking panoramic views. This 4-mile round-trip hike climbs steadily through evergreen forest before opening up to a rocky ledge with sweeping vistas of Rattlesnake Lake, Mount Si, and the surrounding Cascade foothills. Although heavily trafficked, it remains a favorite for its dramatic payoff and accessibility.

Feature Details
Distance Approx. 4 miles (out and back)
Difficulty Moderate
Elevation Gain ~1,160 feet
Best For Fitness hikes, sunrise and sunset views

Mount Si Trail

For a more strenuous challenge, the Mount Si Trail is one of Seattle’s classic hikes. Located about 45 minutes from downtown, this 8-mile round-trip trail gains nearly 3,200 feet in elevation. The route features dense forests, rocky switchbacks, and rewarding summit views of the Snoqualmie Valley and Mount Rainier on clear days. Because of its difficulty and popularity, it is often used as a training hike for larger Cascade climbs.

Comparing Top Seattle Area Hiking Trails

To choose the best trail for your needs, it is helpful to compare distance, difficulty, and key highlights. The table below summarizes some of the top hiking trails near Seattle so you can quickly identify the perfect option for your next outing.

Trail Distance Difficulty Main Highlights
Discovery Park Loop 2.8 miles Easy Urban park, beach access, bluff views
Rattlesnake Ledge 4 miles Moderate Lake overlook, forested climb, Cascade views
Mount Si 8 miles Challenging Significant elevation gain, summit vistas

Conclusion

From the coastal paths of Discovery Park to the rugged ascent of Mount Si, Seattle hiking trails offer something for every type of outdoor enthusiast. By considering factors such as distance, difficulty, and scenery, you can select the trail that best matches your goals and fitness level. As you explore the best hiking trails in Seattle, WA, remember to practice Leave No Trace principles, check weather and trail conditions in advance, and pack appropriate gear. With thoughtful preparation, your time on Seattle’s trails will be both safe and unforgettable.

Finding the Best Hiking Trails in Seattle, WA

How can I find the best hiking trails near Seattle for my skill level?

Start by using reputable trail resources such as Washington Trails Association (WTA), AllTrails, or local guidebooks focused on the Puget Sound region. Filter trails by distance, elevation gain, and difficulty to match your current fitness and hiking experience. Read recent trip reports to assess current trail conditions, crowd levels, and any closures or washouts. For beginners, look for trails under 5 miles round trip with less than 1,000 feet of elevation gain; intermediate hikers can target 5–10 miles and 1,000–2,500 feet of gain, while advanced hikers can consider steeper or longer routes in the Cascades accessible from Seattle. When in doubt, start with shorter, well-maintained trails and gradually progress to more challenging routes as you gain experience and confidence.

What are some popular hiking areas within a short drive of Seattle?

Several major hiking corridors are within 30–90 minutes of Seattle. To the east, the I-90 corridor offers popular trails such as Rattlesnake Ledge, Tiger Mountain, Cougar Mountain, and Mount Si, known for their accessibility and well-marked paths. Farther east along I-90 and I-5, you can access the Alpine Lakes Wilderness and Mount Baker–Snoqualmie National Forest for more rugged mountain hikes. To the north, the Highway 2 corridor near Stevens Pass provides scenic forest and alpine hikes in season. To the west across Puget Sound, the Kitsap Peninsula and the eastern Olympic foothills offer milder, lower-elevation trails with forest and coastal scenery. Each area has its own character, and checking maps, travel times, and seasonal conditions will help you choose the best destination for a day trip.

When is the best time of year to hike near Seattle?

Lower-elevation hikes around Seattle, such as those on Tiger Mountain, Cougar Mountain, Discovery Park, and the Snoqualmie Valley, are typically accessible year-round, though you should expect mud and rain in fall and winter. The prime hiking season for higher-elevation mountain trails in the Cascades usually runs from late June through early October, depending on snowpack and weather. Wildflower season in many alpine areas peaks in July and August, while larch and fall foliage hikes are best from late September to mid-October. Winter and early spring can still be excellent for hiking, but you may need traction devices or snowshoes for snowy routes, and you should check avalanche forecasts and road conditions before heading to higher terrain.

What permits or passes do I need for hiking around Seattle?

Many trailheads near Seattle require a parking pass rather than an individual hiking permit. For most Washington State-managed recreation areas, including many I-90 corridor trailheads such as Tiger Mountain and Rattlesnake Ledge, you need a Discover Pass, which can be purchased annually or for a single day. For U.S. Forest Service lands, including much of Mount Baker–Snoqualmie National Forest, a Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Interagency Pass is commonly required. Certain popular or sensitive destinations may have additional requirements, such as limited-entry permits or day-use reservations, especially in national parks like Mount Rainier or Olympic National Park. Always verify the latest pass and permit rules on official agency or land manager websites before you go, and ensure your pass is clearly displayed in your vehicle.

How can I stay safe while hiking on trails in the Seattle area?

Plan ahead by checking weather forecasts, daylight hours, and recent trail reports, and choose a route appropriate for your fitness and experience. Carry the Ten Essentials, including navigation, extra clothing, food, water, illumination, first-aid supplies, and emergency shelter, even on shorter hikes. Tell a trusted person your itinerary and expected return time, and avoid hiking alone in remote areas if you are inexperienced. Dress in layers suitable for rapidly changing Pacific Northwest weather and wear sturdy, grippy footwear. Be cautious of steep or wet terrain, stream crossings, and winter hazards such as ice and avalanches at higher elevations. Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment, and stay on established trails to prevent erosion and reduce your risk of getting lost.

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