Seattle, USA-hiking-areas

Discover the Best Hiking Areas in Seattle, USA

Seattle, surrounded by mountains and waterways, offers a plethora of hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. From easy strolls to challenging climbs, there’s something for every level of hiker. Here are some of the best hiking areas in and around Seattle:

1. Discovery Park

  • Location: Magnolia neighborhood, Seattle
  • Distance: 7.2 miles of trails
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  • Features: Old-growth forest, meadows, bluffs with Puget Sound views

Discovery Park is a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Its varied trails take you through forests, across streams, and along the coastline.

2. Gas Works Park

  • Location: Wallingford neighborhood, Seattle
  • Distance: 1.5 miles of trails
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  • Features: Panoramic views of Lake Union, gasification plant-turned-landmark

This unique park offers stunning views of the city skyline and Lake Union. The trails are relatively short but offer a great workout.

3. Mount Si

  • Location: North Bend, WA (30 miles east of Seattle)
  • Distance: 8 miles round-trip
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Features: Iconic mountain views, old-growth forest

Mount Si, made famous by the TV show “Twin Peaks,” is a must-hike for Seattleites. The trail is steep and rocky, but the payoff is breathtaking views of the Cascade Range.

4. Rattlesnake Ridge Trail

  • Location: North Bend, WA (30 miles east of Seattle)
  • Distance: 4 miles round-trip
  • Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
  • Features: Panoramic views of the Cascades, wildflower meadows

This trail offers stunning views of Mount Si and the surrounding mountains. Be prepared for a moderate climb with some steep sections.

5. Twin Falls

  • Location: Olallie State Park, North Bend, WA (30 miles east of Seattle)
  • Distance: 3.5 miles round-trip
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Features: Two waterfalls, old-growth forest

Twin Falls is a hidden gem in the Pacific Northwest. The trail takes you through a lush forest to two stunning waterfalls.

6. Carkeek Park

  • Location: Broadview neighborhood, Seattle
  • Distance: 3 miles of trails
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  • Features: Creekside walks, old-growth forest, beach access

Carkeek Park is a lesser-known gem in Seattle’s park system. Its varied trails offer something for everyone, from easy strolls to more challenging climbs.

7. Tiger Mountain State Forest

  • Location: Issaquah, WA (20 miles east of Seattle)
  • Distance: Multiple trails with varying distances
  • Difficulty: Easy to challenging
  • Features: Old-growth forest, mountain vistas, wildlife viewing

Tiger Mountain offers a range of trails for all skill levels. From easy walks to more challenging climbs, this forest has something for everyone.

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