Top 20 Hiking Trails Near Seattle

King County offers some of the best hiking trails in Washington. From city parks to alpine climbs, each trail gives you a unique outdoor experience. You don’t need to drive far from Seattle or Bellevue to find scenic views, waterfalls, and peaceful forests. This guide lists 20 of the best hiking trails near Seattle for all skill levels.

1. Rattlesnake Ledge

Rattlesnake Ledge is one of the most visited hiking trails in King County. The 4-mile round trip starts near Rattlesnake Lake in North Bend and climbs through a shaded forest. At the top, you’ll see open views of Mount Si, the lake, and surrounding peaks. The trail gains about 1,160 feet, making it moderately challenging. Go early for parking and quieter views. It’s accessible most of the year and ideal for beginners looking for a rewarding summit.

2. Mount Si Trail

Mount Si is a King County landmark and a top training hike for Mount Rainier. The 8-mile round trip climbs over 3,100 feet, offering a tough but scenic route. Forested sections give way to a rocky summit with wide views of the Snoqualmie Valley. The trail is well-marked but steep. Expect a workout and bring water. It’s one of the best hikes near Seattle Bellevue for experienced hikers who want elevation and classic Pacific Northwest scenery.

3. Twin Falls Trail

Twin Falls Trail near North Bend is a 2.6-mile round trip that follows the Snoqualmie River. The highlight is two large waterfalls visible from viewing platforms. The trail is easy to moderate, making it a good choice for families and casual hikers. The area is lush with moss-covered trees and strong water flow, especially in spring. It’s a short hike with high reward and one of the most photogenic spots in King County.

4. Little Si Trail

Little Si is perfect for hikers who want a shorter, moderate climb. The 4.7-mile trail gains about 1,300 feet and ends with views of Mount Si and North Bend Valley. The path is rocky but well-maintained. It’s great for training or quick weekend hikes. Dogs are allowed on leash, and the trail is open most of the year. Little Si combines accessibility and scenic value, making it one of the best local hiking trails in King County.

5. Tiger Mountain (Poo Poo Point Trail)

The Poo Poo Point Trail on Tiger Mountain is a favorite for both hikers and paragliders. The 7.2-mile round trip climbs steadily through forested terrain to a wide meadow. From the top, you’ll see views of Issaquah, Lake Sammamish, and the Seattle skyline. The trail gains about 1,800 feet and is considered moderate to challenging. It’s especially popular in spring and fall when the weather is cool. It’s one of the best hikes near Seattle for a quick mountain escape.

6. Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park

Cougar Mountain offers over 35 miles of trails close to Bellevue. The park features forest paths, small waterfalls, and wildlife. The Coal Creek Falls Trail is a 3-mile loop that showcases the best of the area. It’s a great local option for walking, running, or family hikes. Trails are open all year, and parking is easy to find. Cougar Mountain is ideal for those who want forest solitude without leaving the city.

7. Snoqualmie Falls Trail

Snoqualmie Falls is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in King County. The 1.5-mile trail offers several viewpoints of the 268-foot waterfall. It begins near Salish Lodge and descends gently to the base. The paved upper section is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. It’s an easy and rewarding stop for locals and tourists. Visit early in the morning or after rainfall for the best waterfall flow.

8. Discovery Park Loop Trail

Located in Seattle’s Magnolia neighborhood, Discovery Park offers a 2.8-mile loop that combines forest, beach, and bluff views. It’s the city’s largest park and a top choice for quick hikes. The trail is moderate with light elevation changes. Expect views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains along the way. Wildlife sightings are common. Discovery Park is a must for anyone who wants nature within city limits.

9. Coal Creek Trail

Coal Creek Trail runs 3.7 miles through forested terrain once used for coal mining. You’ll see remnants of historic structures and interpretive signs along the route. The trail follows the creek with minimal elevation gain, making it great for casual walks. It’s shaded year-round and less crowded than other trails. Start from the Red Town Trailhead near Bellevue. It’s a peaceful hike that combines nature and local history.

10. Denny Creek Trail

Denny Creek Trail near Snoqualmie Pass is a 6-mile round trip to Keekwulee Falls. The trail includes gentle climbs, rocky sections, and river crossings. It’s popular in summer for its cooling streams and shaded paths. Wildflowers bloom in late July, adding color to the route. With around 1,200 feet of elevation gain, it’s moderate and family-friendly. It’s one of the classic mountain hikes in King County.

11. Franklin Falls Trail

Franklin Falls Trail is a short 2-mile round trip near Snoqualmie Pass. It leads to a 70-foot waterfall surrounded by mossy cliffs. The trail is mostly flat with a few rocky steps near the end. It’s a favorite family hike and open most of the year, though it can be icy in winter. Bring waterproof shoes for mist near the waterfall. The trail’s easy access and high payoff make it one of the most loved hikes near Seattle.

12. Wallace Falls Trail

Wallace Falls State Park offers a 5.6-mile trail with multiple viewpoints of cascading waterfalls. The route climbs gradually through forest and ferns. It’s well-maintained and clearly marked. The upper viewpoint gives panoramic views of the Skykomish River valley. The trail is busy on weekends, so early mornings are best. It’s a solid year-round hike with consistent water flow and great photography spots.

13. Margaret’s Way Trail

Margaret’s Way on Cougar Mountain is a quieter alternative to Mount Si. The 6.5-mile round trip features gentle climbs through forest and ends at a viewpoint with mountain and valley vistas. It’s less crowded but just as scenic. The trail is moderate and takes about three hours to complete. Wildflowers and bird calls make it an enjoyable escape close to Bellevue.

14. Cedar Butte Trail

Cedar Butte is a 3.5-mile round trip hike near North Bend. The trail climbs gradually to a small summit with clear views of Mount Washington and Rattlesnake Ledge. It’s less crowded than nearby trails, making it peaceful and ideal for beginners. The trail is forested and offers shade year-round. It’s a good option for early spring or fall hiking.

15. Mailbox Peak Trail

Mailbox Peak is one of the toughest hikes in King County. The 9.4-mile round trip climbs more than 4,000 feet, making it a challenge even for experienced hikers. The new trail includes switchbacks and better footing. The summit mailbox is filled with small items left by visitors. On a clear day, you’ll see Mount Rainier and the Cascade range. Bring plenty of water and start early.

16. Lake 22 Trail

Lake 22 Trail is a 5.4-mile round trip to an alpine lake surrounded by cliffs. Located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, it’s a favorite for its mix of forest, waterfalls, and mountain views. The trail gains 1,350 feet and can be muddy in spring. The lake often holds snow into early summer. It’s a scenic and rewarding hike within two hours of Seattle.

17. Mount Teneriffe Trail

Mount Teneriffe offers a challenging 11.5-mile hike with steep climbs and panoramic views. It starts near North Bend and shares the same area as Mount Si. The trail gains over 3,800 feet and is suited for advanced hikers. The summit view includes Mount Rainier and the surrounding valley. It’s less crowded than Mount Si but just as impressive. Bring poles for the descent.

18. Green Lake Trail

Green Lake in central Seattle features a flat 2.8-mile paved loop. It’s popular for walking, jogging, and biking. The lake is surrounded by trees and has multiple access points for resting or birdwatching. It’s busy on weekends but perfect for short outings. The trail is accessible, easy, and family-friendly. It’s the most urban trail on this list, ideal for a quick outdoor break.

19. South Tiger Traverse

South Tiger Traverse is a 7-mile route across Tiger Mountain ridges. It’s quieter than other trails in the same area and offers forest views and a peaceful hike. The elevation gain is around 1,700 feet. It’s best in spring or fall for mild temperatures. Few people hike the full traverse, so you’ll have long stretches of solitude. It’s a hidden gem in King County.

20. Gold Creek Pond Trail

Gold Creek Pond Trail is a 1-mile loop near Snoqualmie Pass. It’s flat, ADA-accessible, and circles a reflective mountain pond. The views of the Cascades are stunning on clear days. The trail is open year-round and ideal for families, strollers, and photographers. It’s one of the easiest but most scenic hikes near Seattle and Bellevue.

Explore King County Trails

These hiking trails in King County offer everything from short walks to full-day climbs. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or mountain views, each trail gives you a reason to explore the outdoors. Start with one, plan your next, and see how close adventure is to Seattle.