One of Seattle’s biggest perks is how quickly you can go from sipping coffee in a downtown café to hiking through dense forests or reaching alpine lakes. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, and within 30 to 90 minutes, you’ll find a huge variety of hiking options—whether you want an easy nature walk or a more challenging mountain climb. Here’s a curated guide to some of the best hiking spots near Seattle for every type of hiker.
1. Rattlesnake Ledge: The Iconic Starter Trail
Just 45 minutes from Seattle, Rattlesnake Ledge in North Bend is one of the region’s most popular hikes—and for good reason. The 4-mile round trip is relatively easy for beginners and rewards hikers with a panoramic view of Rattlesnake Lake and surrounding peaks.
Why Go:
Well-maintained and accessible year-round
Perfect for sunrise hikes and quick escapes
Free parking and no pass required
2. Discovery Park Loop Trail: Within City Limits
Yes, there’s excellent hiking right inside Seattle. Discovery Park in Magnolia offers a 2.8-mile loop that takes you through forests, meadows, and down to a scenic beach with views of the Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains.
Best For:
Quick nature immersion without leaving the city
Birdwatching and sunset views
Easy terrain for all skill levels
3. Mount Si: A Classic Pacific Northwest Challenge
If you want a serious workout with a big payoff, Mount Si is your go-to. Located about an hour from Seattle, this 8-mile round-trip trail climbs over 3,000 feet and delivers sweeping views of the Snoqualmie Valley and beyond.
Bring Your Energy:
Very popular on weekends—arrive early
Great training ground for Mount Rainier
Discover hidden mountain goats near the summit (if you’re lucky)
4. Twin Falls Trail: Waterfall Lover’s Favorite
Nestled in the Snoqualmie Pass region, the Twin Falls hike is a relatively short 3.6-mile round-trip trail that packs a lot of scenic punch. Think lush forest, river views, and multiple waterfalls along the way.
Why It’s Great:
Kid- and dog-friendly
Especially beautiful in spring after snowmelt
Feels like a rainforest adventure
5. Snow Lake: For Stunning Alpine Views
If you’re up for something a bit more moderate and want to venture into alpine country, Snow Lake is your reward. Just over 7 miles round trip, this hike near Snoqualmie Pass offers crystal-clear lake views surrounded by rocky peaks.
Best Time to Go:
Late summer to early fall (when snow has melted)
Bring lunch—it’s perfect for lakeside picnicking
Prepare for crowds; this spot is no secret
6. Wallace Falls: The Waterfall Wonderland
Located in Gold Bar about 1.5 hours from Seattle, Wallace Falls offers multiple hiking distances and incredible views of nine cascading waterfalls. The 5.6-mile round trip to the Middle Falls is the most popular route.
What You’ll Love:
Lush greenery and forest all year round
Plenty of benches and photo stops
A perfect balance of beauty and effort
7. Mount Pilchuck: Adventure With a View
Mount Pilchuck is a bit more rugged but delivers an epic 360-degree view from an old fire lookout at the summit. The hike is about 5.4 miles round trip and moderately difficult, with some rocky sections.
Why It Stands Out:
Old fire lookout makes for epic photos
Popular for sunrise or sunset treks
Trail is snow-covered into early summer—bring proper gear if going early
8. Cougar Mountain: Urban Wild Vibes
Located just 30 minutes from the city, Cougar Mountain has a network of trails totaling over 35 miles through forests, wetlands, and waterfalls. You can choose a quick 2-mile loop or a longer 6+ mile outing.
Why It’s Handy:
Great weekday option close to Seattle
Trails for all levels, and well-marked
A peaceful break from urban buzz
9. Lake 22: Misty Magic in the Mountains
Another fan favorite, Lake 22 is a 5.4-mile round-trip hike that leads you through old-growth forest, waterfalls, and finally to a stunning alpine lake surrounded by cliffs and often shrouded in fog.
Hiker Highlights:
Popular but not too intense
Interpretive signs along the way
Great year-round, but microspikes are recommended in winter
10. Ebey’s Landing: Coastal Beauty on Whidbey Island
Looking for coastal views and less elevation gain? Ebey’s Landing, a 3.5-mile loop on Whidbey Island, combines beach walks, bluff views, and quiet charm. Accessible via a scenic ferry ride from Seattle.
Why It’s a Must-Do:
Ideal for solo hikers and photographers
Historical farms and open prairie landscapes
A peaceful, wind-in-your-hair kind of trail
Conclusion: Hike Your Way Through Seattle’s Backyard
Seattle is surrounded by one of the most hiker-friendly landscapes in the country, and you don’t need to be an expert mountaineer to enjoy it. Whether you’re looking for a light nature stroll or a summit challenge, you’ll find your perfect trail just a short drive (or ferry ride) from the city. So pack some snacks, lace up your boots, and let Seattle’s great outdoors lead the way—the adventure is always closer than it seems.