From the warm aroma of coffee at Pike Place Market to the busy waterfront harbors, Seattle is a diverse hub of things to do. Whether you’re looking to tour the vibrant city, visit the iconic 605-foot tall Space Needle for dinner or set sail through the beautiful Puget Sound, Seattle is an ideal destination for families, groups of friends, couples and more. With almost 34 million visitors a year, Seattle has quickly become one of the most popular vacation destinations in the US.
Seattle is also home to many day hikes, campgrounds, gorgeous waterfalls and other ways to escape into the lush, misty outdoors. Seattle day hikes are both scenic and invigorating, setting the tone for memorable explorations in nature just right outside the city. Take a look at the best day hikes from Seattle.
Wikimedia Commons / Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust
Mount Si Trail
An iconic trail with rewarding views of the Snoqualmie Valley, Mount Si Trail has a challenging ascent that is incredibly worth it when you reach the panoramic vista at the top. Mount Si Trail is popular with locals and visitors alike, so be prepared to see some fellow hikers on your adventure. It’s an 8-mile out-and-back trail with a 3,200-foot elevation gain that is considered moderately challenging overall.
One of the most popular and well-known trails in the area, Mount Si can get very busy at peak times, especially as it's only 45 minutes outside of Seattle. This trail is also a popular training trail for adventurous hikers looking to try their hand at summiting Mount Rainier.
istockphoto.com / july7th
Rattlesnake Ledge Trail
Rattlesnake Ledge Trail takes you along the gorgeous Rattlesnake Lake for breathtaking views 1,500 feet above the blue water. Generally considered a moderate hike, the trail is 5.3 miles out and back along a well-maintained path. It’s a popular choice for families with young kids or hikers seeking a shorter adventure, so expect it to be busy during peak times. If you’re headed there on a weekend, plan to arrive early for parking.
Also, despite its name, Rattlesnake Ledge Trail is not known for its abundance of rattlesnakes. Be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles, bringing trash out with you and taking care not to disturb natural wildlife.
Wikimedia / Michael Cline / CC BY-SA 2.0
Mailbox Peak Trail
About a 45-minute drive from Seattle, Mailbox Peak Trail is a strenuous trail well-known for its steep incline. Hikers gain a challenging 4,000 feet of elevation for a 6-mile round trip. This trail takes several hours but is well worth it for the sweeping views of the rocky Cascade Mountains at the summit. Plus, the trail was named for the mailbox at the summit where hikers would leave notes and little trinkets for their fellow adventurers. Bring your sturdiest hiking boots for this one and leave a message at the top.
Wikimedia / Mark A. Taff / CC BY-SA 3.0
Lake 22 Trail
Lake 22 Trail is a moderately challenging 6-mile hike with 1,500 feet of elevation gain in Mount Pilchuck State Park. The lake itself was formed by a melting glacier during the last ice age, creating one of the most beautiful alpine landscapes in the area. Surrounded by lush forests with waterfalls and wooden bridges, the glacial lake is surrounded by dramatic cliffs.
There is also a shorter 1-mile loop trail around a beautiful scenic alpine lake nestled in the North Cascades. Colorful wildflowers grow abundantly during the warmer months, making this a popular day hike in the area. We recommend you get there as early in the day as possible to take advantage of the parking and to be sure to bring bug spray. Dogs are also allowed on if on a leash.
istockphoto.com / RomanKhomlyak
Tiger Mountain Trail
Tiger Mountain Trail resides in Tiger Mountain State Forest, about 35 miles east of Seattle. With an extensive network of trails for various skill levels, hikers can take their pick of adventure. The Tiger Mountain trail meanders through dense forests and along tranquil creeks, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Throughout early spring and summer, the trail is alive with forest wildflowers. Plus, you can enjoy horseback riding and mountain biking. If you’re looking for a unique adventure, this area is also popular with paragliders and hang gliders, thanks to its consistent winds and large open areas.
istockphoto.com / july7th
Ebey's Landing Loop Trail
About two hours outside of Seattle lies Ebey’s Landing, a stunning national historical reserve. Across 554 acres, there are several hikes within this park. The Ebey’s Landing Loop Trail is a majestic, 3.6-mile loop coastal hike on Whidbey Island with views of Puget Sound, the large saltwater estuary fed by the Olympic and Cascade Mountain watersheds. On this hike, you’ll explore historic farmland and cliffs and participate in birdwatching opportunities. This day hike in Seattle is considered moderate and dogs are allowed if on a leash.
istockphoto.com / RyanCSlimakPhoto
Lighthouse Trail Loop
If you’re limited on transportation or just looking to go for a walk within the city limits, the Lighthouse Loop is a popular 4.5-mile loop. You can reach this coastal walk via the Metro Bus system and this easy-going loop trail takes you along some of the most beautiful sights in Seattle. Across fields, through forests and along the majestic coastline, Lighthouse Trail Loop is popular with families and large groups.
Wikimedia / Peter Stevens / CC BY 2.0
Annette Lake Trail
A little less than an hour outside of Seattle, the Annette Lake Trail is a more challenging destination for experienced hikers. Across 7.5 miles of out-and-back trails, hikers gain about 1,800 feet. Dogs are also allowed here on leash and the lake itself is surrounded by stunning, alpine trees and offers crystal clear water that is perfect for swimming. Thanks to its sandy bottom, the water is a gorgeous turquoise color and even offers a dock to jump in from.
Whether you’re an experienced trailblazer or just getting your first pair of hiking boots dirty, there are plenty of outdoor adventures await those who embark on Seattle’s top-rated day hikes. Take your time out in nature and reflect and recharge away from the busy, loud downtown of Seattle. The breathtaking Pacific Northwest landscape is just waiting to be explored, whether you’re ready for the strenuous Mailbox Peak Trail or a serene coastal hike on Ebey's Landing Loop Trail.
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