Seattle-hiking-areas

Hiking in Seattle: The Best Trails to Explore

Seattle is a hiker’s paradise, with its proximity to mountains, forests, and waterways offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. From easy strolls through city parks to more challenging climbs up steep peaks, there’s something for every level of experience and interest. Here are some of the best hiking areas in Seattle:

Discovery Park

  • Location: 3800 Discovery Park Blvd NW, Seattle, WA 98199
  • Trail Length: 2-3 miles
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate

This popular park offers several trails that wind through beautiful forests and meadows. The Discovery Park Loop is a great introduction to hiking in the area, with stunning views of the Olympic Mountains on clear days.

Gas Works Park

  • Location: 2101 N Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98103
  • Trail Length: 0.5-2 miles
  • Difficulty: Easy

This unique park is built around a decommissioned gas plant and offers great views of Lake Union and the city skyline. The trails are relatively flat and suitable for families or beginners.

Rattlesnake Ridge

  • Location: Off SR 202, North Bend, WA (about 45 minutes east of Seattle)
  • Trail Length: 3-4 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

For a more significant challenge, head to Rattlesnake Ridge for stunning views of the Cascades and Puget Sound. The trail includes steep inclines and declines, but the scenery is well worth it.

Twin Falls

  • Location: Off SE 152nd St, Issaquah, WA (about 30 minutes east of Seattle)
  • Trail Length: 2-3 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate

This scenic trail takes you through lush forests and eventually leads to the stunning Twin Falls. A short hike to the lower falls is a great introduction to the area.

Snoqualmie Valley

  • Location: Off SE 132nd St, North Bend, WA (about 45 minutes east of Seattle)
  • Trail Length: 2-5 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

Explore the Snoqualmie Valley and its many trails, which range from easy strolls through farmland to more challenging climbs up steep hills. The scenery is beautiful, with views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

These are just a few of the best hiking areas in Seattle. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, there’s sure to be something for everyone in this amazing city!