Seattle-hiking-areas

Discover the Best Hiking Areas in Seattle

Seattle, a city surrounded by mountains and waterways, offers numerous hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. From easy day hikes to more challenging multi-day treks, there’s something for everyone in this Pacific Northwest gem. Here are some of the best hiking areas in Seattle:

1. Discovery Park

  • Location: Magnolia neighborhood
  • Distance: 7 miles of trails
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate

This 740-acre park offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. With several trails to choose from, you can hike through old-growth forest, meadows, and along bluffs overlooking the sound.

2. Gas Works Park

  • Location: Wallingford neighborhood
  • Distance: 1.5 miles of trails
  • Difficulty: Easy

This unique park features a former gas plant turned into a public space with great views of Lake Union and the Seattle skyline. Take a short hike around the perimeter trail or explore the off-leash dog area.

3. Rattlesnake Ridge Trail

  • Location: North Bend, WA (45 minutes from Seattle)
  • Distance: 4 miles round trip
  • Difficulty: Moderate

This popular trail offers breathtaking views of the Cascades and Puget Sound. Hike through old-growth forest and enjoy wildflowers in the spring.

4. Twin Falls

  • Location: Olallie State Park (45 minutes from Seattle)
  • Distance: 3.5 miles round trip
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Hike to the scenic Twin Falls, a hidden gem in the Cascades. The trail takes you through old-growth forest and along the Snoqualmie River.

5. Mount Si

  • Location: North Bend, WA (45 minutes from Seattle)
  • Distance: 8 miles round trip
  • Difficulty: Challenging

For experienced hikers, Mount Si offers a strenuous but rewarding hike with stunning views of the Cascades and Puget Sound.

6. Carkeek Park

  • Location: Broadview neighborhood
  • Distance: 3 miles of trails
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate

This park features hiking trails, a creek, and a beach along Puget Sound. Explore the forest and meadows or hike down to the beach for stunning views.

7. Washington Park Arboretum

  • Location: University District
  • Distance: 3 miles of trails
  • Difficulty: Easy

This beautiful arboretum features walking trails through forests, wetlands, and gardens. A peaceful escape from the city bustle.

8. Tiger Mountain State Forest

  • Location: Issaquah, WA (30 minutes from Seattle)
  • Distance: Various trails up to 12 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

For a more rugged hike, head to Tiger Mountain with its numerous trails offering stunning views of the Cascades and Puget Sound.

Get ready to lace up your hiking boots and explore the best hiking areas in Seattle!