10 of the Best Hiking Trails near Seattle
Fill up on Seattle’s famous coffee before you head out to explore these trails in and outside the city. From beginner routes to challenging inclines, here are 10 of the best trails you’ll find for hikes around Seattle.
1. Discovery Park Loop Trail
Puget Sound and Islands/Seattle-Tacoma Area
Distance: 4.5 km loop
Elevation Gain: 43 m
Why it’s awesome: Opportunity to see wildlife within the city limits
Description: Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest urban park, yet this all-season trail is surrounded by forest and meadows. Keep an eye out for snowy owls in the winter and great blue herons in the summer.
How do I get to the Discovery Park Loop trailhead? Directions
Read more: wta.org
Distance from Seattle: 0 km
2. Cedar River Trail
Puget Sound and Islands/Seattle-Tacoma Area
Distance: 27.8 km one-way
Elevation Gain: 250 m
Why it’s awesome: Urban trail following a historic railroad route
Description: This leisurely path travels upstream along Cedar River from Renton to Landsburg Park. There are numerous bridges to cross back-and-forth over the fast-moving river.
How do I get to the trailhead? Directions
Read more: wta.org
Distance from Seattle: 21.5 km
3. Camp Long
West Seattle
Distance: 2.6 km loop
Elevation Gain: 73 m
Why it’s awesome: A city hiking trail close to the beach
Description: This dog and family friendly trail is within reach of downtown Seattle. The gentle route is great for beginners, and you’re only a short trek away from adding a stroll along Alki Beach in West Seattle.
How do I get to the trailhead? Directions
Read more: wta.org
Distance from Seattle: 0 km
4. Soaring Eagle Regional Park
Sammamish, Washington
Distance: 19 km loop
Why it’s awesome: A mixture of forests, wetlands, and wildlife habitat
Description: This family friendly trail is home to hikers, cyclists, runners, and equestrians. With maps placed throughout the park, this is a great trail for beginners.
How do I get to the trailhead? Directions
Read more: kingcounty.gov
Distance from Seattle: 38 km
5. Heliotrope Ridge
North Cascades/Mount Baker Area
Distance: 8.9 km loop
Elevation Gain: 427 m
Why it’s awesome: A challenging variety of terrain with great mountain views
Description: This North Cascades trail rewards you with close-up views of Mount Baker. The trail is packed with wildflowers, waterfalls, streams, and a view of Coleman Glacier.
How do I get to the trailhead? Directions
Read more: fs.usda.gov
Distance from Seattle: 199 km
6. Crystal Lakes
Mt. Rainier National Park
Distance: 9.7 km loop
Elevation Gain: 700 m
Why it’s awesome: Rugged forest trail with views of Mount Rainier
Description: This route follows a series of steep switchbacks that pass two lakes and lead to rewarding views of Mount Rainier.
How do I get to the trailhead? Directions
Read more: nps.gov
Distance from Seattle: 125 km
7. Rattlesnake Ledge
Snoqualmie Valley
Distance: 8.2 km one-way
Elevation Gain: 448 m
Why it’s awesome: Panoramic views of mountains and lakes
Description: Push your adrenaline on this well-maintained trail with mossy boulders and exposed cliffs. You’ll take in eagle-eye views of Cedar River Watershed backed by views of Mount Si and Mount Washington.
How do I get to the trailhead? Directions
Read more: alltrails.com
Distance from Seattle: 67.5 km
8. Mount Si
Snoqualmie Region/North Bend Area
Distance: 13 km loop
Elevation Gain: 960 m
Why it’s awesome: Brag-worthy trail for serious hikers
Description: Often considered training ground for climbing Mount Rainier’s summit, Mount Si is a serious hike for adrenaline-seekers. You’ll gain elevation fast, so be sure to pause and say hello to mountain goats as you take in views of Mount Rainier.
How do I get to the trailhead? Directions
Read more: wta.org
Distance from Seattle: 51 km
9. Ebey’s Landing via the Bluff Trail
Fort Ebey State Park/Whidbey Island
Distance: 9 km loop
Elevation Gain: 79 m
Why it’s awesome: Waterfront trail along Puget Sound
Description: Take a ferry to Whidbey Island to explore the leisurely trails of Ebey’s Landing, a National Historic Reserve. Enjoy waterfront and mountain views, with Mount Baker to the east and the Olympics to the west.
How do I get to the trailhead? Directions
Read more: parks.state.wa.us
Distance from Seattle: 100 km
10. Mount Constitution
Puget Sound and Islands/Orcas Island
Distance: 11 km loop
Elevation Gain: 457 m
Why it’s awesome: Highest point in the San Juan Islands
Description: From the trailhead in Moran State Park, follow a challenging trail with switchbacks. Throughout this tough workout, you’ll find great views of the San Juan Islands and see the peaks of Mount Baker and the Olympic mountain range.
How do I get to the trailhead? Directions
Read more: wta.org
Distance from Seattle: 189 km
Have you been hiking in Seattle?
What’s your favourite trail?
Comment below!
