20 Best Hikes Near Seattle with Epic Views! (2023)

Looking for the best hikes near Seattle? I’ve got you covered!

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for stunning views, challenging trails, and an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, you’re in the right place. 

In this post, I’ve compiled a list of the most breathtaking hikes around Seattle that you can easily reach within a two-hour drive. 

So get ready to lace up your boots and hit the trail!

If you want to explore all that these epic Seattle hikes have to offer, Tammi, a travel and health enthusiast that spends most of her time outdoors and runs the travel site Wander Healthy, will show you some of her favorite day hikes near Seattle!

From stunning hiking trails, and rugged mountain peaks to serene coastal forests, here’s everything you can’t miss in the Seattle area! 

Hiking near Seattle Guide

Washington State is known for its beautiful landscapes, spectacular water sports, and an enormous diversity of epic hiking trails. 

The state has a variety of trails ranging from easy to strenuous, from mountains to forests, beaches, waterfalls, and rivers. 

The best hikes near Seattle, based on years of experience hiking here, are the most memorable and the most jaw-droppingly beautiful in some way and are scattered throughout the state.

Where to hike around Seattle

There are several regions for hiking in Washington state: 

Mt Baker National Forest and the Central Cascades

Closest to Seattle are Mt Baker National Forest and the Central Cascades, known for their beautiful scenery, diverse trails, and stunning mountain views. 

They are within a half-hour to an hour’s driving distance, depending on where and when you go. In addition to hiking, there are a variety of other outdoor activities to enjoy in this area, including paddling, climbing, and biking.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is west of Seattle, approximately 2 hours driving depending on the route and traffic. 

Olympic mountains have a wide range of terrain for hiking, from coastal beaches and rainforests to rugged mountains and glaciers, providing a variety of scenic landscapes to explore.  

This park is famous for its beaches, beach-combing, and impressive sea stacks the length of the coast.

Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is approximately 2 hours southeast of Seattle and is known for its stunning mountain views, alpine meadows, wildflower fields, and fantastic wildlife opportunities. 

This park also offers many fantastic ranger-led activities, as well as camping and fishing. 

The North Cascades

The North Cascades are close to the Canadian border and are a top-rated destination for hiking and backpacking. 

These trails offer amazing views of the rugged mountains, alpine lakes, and glaciers that are characteristic only of the North Cascades.

Columbia River Gorge area, one of the best hikes near Seattle

Furthest from Seattle is the Columbia River Gorge area, close to the Oregon border. 

These hikes are known for their stunning wildflowers and waterfalls but offer a range of terrain for every level and interest.

Best Hikes Near Seattle, Washington

From easy to challenging, beach to mountain, summer, fall, or winter, the best hiking trails are largely a matter of personal taste, abilities, and time. 

What follows are the best hikes close to Seattle, from a local’s perspective.

Easy Hikes near Seattle

There are several easy hikes that make for wonderful day hikes near Seattle and one of the top things to do in Seattle with kids.

These hikes are the best ones for beginners or families with children.

1. Gold Creek Pond

• Location: Snoqualmie Pass, Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest
• Distance from Seattle: 55 miles
• Distance hiking: 1.2 miles
• Feet of elevation gain: 45 feet
• When to go: best late May through October
• Parking permit: Northwest Forest Pass
• Dog friendly: Yes, on a leash

This hike is a great hike for beginning hikers and families with small children. Mostly flat, the trail loops around a beautiful lake with a charming bridge at the far end. 

There are several picnic tables right by the water, perfect for family day trips. 

It’s a very great place for stargazing, as well as graduation and engagement photos, and a family-friendly hike.

2. Nisqually Vista Trail

• Location: Paradise, Mount Rainier National Park
• Distance from Seattle: 110 miles
• Distance hiking: 1.1 miles
• Elevation gain: 180 feet
• When to go: Summer is best
• Parking permit: National Park Pass
• Dogs friendly: No

The Nisqually Vista Trail is a gorgeous little trail suitable for all skill levels. 

It starts at the Paradise Jackson Visitor Center and ends with stunning views of the Nisqually Glacier, the surrounding mountains, and the Paradise Valley. 

The trail passes through subalpine meadows filled with colorful wildflowers during the summer months and is generally accessible from late May to October. 

3. Heather Meadows to Artist Point

• Location: near Deming, North Cascades
• Distance from Seattle: 91 miles
• Distance hiking: 2.9 miles
• Elevation gain: 853 feet
• When to go: Summer is best
• Parking permit: Northwest Forest Pass
• Dog friendly: Yes, on leash

The hike from Heather Meadows to Artist Point seems quite steep at times but is absolutely gorgeous at the top. 

It’s a beautiful and fantastic hike offering stunning panoramic views of Mount Baker, Mount Shuksan, and the surrounding mountain ranges. 

This is also a popular place during the winter, for snowshoeing, split-boarding, and capturing dramatic sunrises that contrast so well with the snowy landscape.

Best Waterfall Hikes Near Seattle

4. Snoqualmie Falls

• Location: Snoqualmie
• Distance from Seattle: 25 miles
• Distance hiking: 100 feet or 1.4 miles
• Elevation gain: 0 or 334 feet
• When to go: year-round
• Parking permit: free parking across the street
• Dog friendly: Yes, on leash

Snoqualmie Falls are easily accessible via a short walk from the parking lot. 

The falls themselves are a beautiful sight to behold, with a dramatic 268-foot drop and cold mist rising up from the base that you can feel from the viewing platform on days with heavy flow. 

There is also a viewing platform at the base of the falls, which requires a downhill hike of approximately ½ mile and provides a closer look at the falls and surrounding area. 

There is also a third option to view the falls from the opposite side of the river, which requires a longer hike. 

5. Wallace Falls Trail

• Location: Gold Bar
• Distance from Seattle:  58 miles
• Distance hiking: 4.9 miles
• Elevation gain: 1489 feet
• When to go: year-round
• Parking permit: Discover Pass
• Dog friendly: Yes, on leash

Wallace Falls Trail is a well-maintained, easy-to-follow trail in Wallace Falls State Park. 

It offers several different falls following the Wallace river – lower, middle, and upper, as well as a few convenient benches, charming bridges, and enchanting walkways. 

It’s one of those hikes in which time flies by because there are so many delightful things to see along the way.

6. Bridal Veil Falls

• Location: Index
• Distance from Seattle: 53 miles
• Distance hiking: 4.2 miles
• Elevation gain: 1043 feet
• Parking permit: Northwest Forest Pass
• When to go: year-round
• Dogs friendly: Yes, on leash

Bridal Veil Falls Trail is a well-maintained, if often muddy trail, that is easy to follow and suitable for most skill levels. 

The falls are the most beautiful waterfall in Washington, in my opinion. 

There’s also a viewing platform at the base of the falls that provides a great vantage point for photos, though you are close enough to get wet even on a day without wind.

7. Sol Duc Falls

• Location: Olympic National Park
• Distance from Seattle: 125 miles
• Distance hiking: 1.6 miles
• Elevation gain: 200 feet
• When to go: Summer is best
• Parking permit: National Park Pass
• Dog friendly: no

The trail to the falls follows along the Sol Duc River, providing delightful views of the river and surrounding old-growth forest. 

The highlight, however, is the Sol Duc Falls, which is a stunning waterfall that drops about 50 feet into a narrow gorge. 

It can be pretty muddy on this trail and it frequently closes for trail maintenance, so check with the ranger before heading out.

8. Myrtle Falls

• Location: Paradise, Mt Rainier National Park
• Distance from Seattle: 108 miles
• Distance hiking: 0.8 miles
• Elevation gain: 150 feet
• When to go: late spring, summer, early fall
• Parking permit: National Park Pass
• Dog friendly: No

The hike to Myrtle Falls in Mount Rainier National Park is a beautiful and popular hike near Seattle. 

The well-maintained and mostly paved trail is relatively short and is considered an easy hike suitable for most skill levels. 

Marmot-filled alpine meadows surround the waterfall and provide breathtaking views of Mount Rainier in the background.

Best Summer Hikes

9. Fremont Lookout

• Location: Sunrise Visitor Center, Mount Rainier National Park
• Distance from Seattle: 100 miles
• Miles: 5.7 miles
• Elevation gain: 1112 feet
• When to go: summer
• Parking permit: National Park Pass
• Dog friendly: No

The hike to Fremont Lookout, a very well-known landmark, offers absolutely breathtaking, all-encompassing vistas of Mount Rainier, the Emmons Glacier, and the Cascade Range that surrounds it. 

The trail meanders through diverse landscapes, including alpine meadows, subalpine forests, and rocky terrain. 

Additionally, it’s a fantastic area for seeing wildlife, including marmots, foxes, deer, black bears, and mountain goats.

10. Hole in the Wall from Rialto Beach

• Location: Olympic National Park
• Miles: 3.3 miles
• Elevation gain: 108 feet
• When to go: year-round
• Parking permit: none
• Dog friendly: no

The Hole in the Wall hike from Rialto Beach is a unique and enjoyable Seattle hike that offers stunning views of the rugged coastline. 

It’s an opportunity to explore a natural arch carved into the rocks, referred to as Hole in the Wall and is located at the end of the trail.

This is one of those hikes where you will see so much more the slower you go. If you plan ahead for low tide, you’ll pass by tidal pools filled with colorful sea life. 

Seals and sea otters are also commonly seen along the way, and occasionally a bear or two.

11. Skyline Trail Mt Rainier

• Location: Paradise, Mt Rainier National Park
• Distance from Seattle: 108 miles
• Distance hiking: 6.2 miles
• Elevation: 1788 feet
• When to go: Summer for hiking
• Parking permit: National Park Pass winter for snowshoeing
• Dog friendly: no

The Skyline Loop Trail is a lovely mixture of marmot sightings, unforgettable mountain views, and even a waterfall. 

Myrtle Falls, mentioned earlier, is perhaps one of the most photographed waterfalls in Washington state. 

Be sure to take the short detour to Glacier Vista, on the other end of the hike, for even more stunning views.

This hike is possibly the most popular, and most crowded, hike at Paradise. My best advice for getting away from the masses is to go on a weekday, at sunrise, and in a counter-clockwise direction.

Best Fall Hikes Near Seattle

Fall is a beautiful time of year to hike and enjoy the changing colors of the leaves, especially in the mountains of Washington state.  

Several hikes also offer the opportunity to see the magnificent larch tree, a deciduous conifer whose soft needles turn an unbelievably beautiful golden color in the fall.

12. Naches Peak Loop

• Location: Mt Rainier National Park
• Distance hiking: 3.3 miles
• Elevation gain: 640 feet
• When to go: Summer or Fall
• Parking permit:  Northwest Forest Pass
• Dog friendly: No

The Naches Peak Loop follows the PCT trail for a short distance, allowing one to meet up with some thru-hikers before it splits off in another direction. 

The trail is a lovely loop through wildflower-filled meadows, beautiful little lakes, and stunning views of the surrounding mountain peaks, including the ever-impressive Mount Rainier. 

In the fall, the meadows are covered with berries and every shade of autumn imaginable.

13. Lake Ingalls

• Location: Salmon la Sac
• Distance from Seattle: 114 miles
• Distance hiking: 8.4
• Elevation gain: 2939 feet
• When to go: Summer or Fall
• Parking permit: Northwest Forest Pass
• Dogs friendly: No

Lake Ingalls is a great hike near Seattle to do in the fall, as the colors of the alpine larches change to a beautiful golden hue. 

You pass through the larches, which is also the area where camping is allowed and hike between the boulders and around the basin to the lake itself. 

While there aren’t any larches at the lake itself, the lake’s color is particularly beautiful and there are often mountain goats enjoying the view as well.

14. Heather Maple Pass

• Location: North Cascades
• Distance from Seattle: 100 miles
• Distance hiked: 7.2 miles
• Elevation gain: 2020 feet
• When to go: Summer or Fall
• Parking permit: Northwest Forest Pass
• Dogs friendly: no

The Heather Maple Pass Loop is an excellent fall hike, with stunning fall foliage, and vibrant colors of heather, maples, and larch trees in all directions. 

This is one of the more popular hikes near Seattle in the fall, so best to arrive early and on a weekday if at all possible. 

15. Blue Lake

• Location: near Stehekin, North Cascades
• Distance from Seattle: 124 miles
• Miles: 4.4 miles
• Elevation gain: 2050 feet
• When to go: Summer
• Parking permit: Northwest Forest Pass
• Dog friendly: Yes, on leash

This short trek takes you through charming woodlands and beautiful wildflowers and ends in one of the bluest lakes in Washington. 

This hike is also one of the easiest hikes around Seattle for viewing the golden larches in the fall. 

There are often fish feeding on the many bugs in the area, and many people fishing too.

Less Crowded Hikes Near Seattle

Seattle and the surrounding areas have many popular hiking trails, especially during peak season. 

However, there are still some less crowded trails that offer beautiful scenery and a peaceful hiking experience.  

16. Tolmie Peak

• Location: Mowich, Mt Rainier National Park
• Distance from Seattle: 72 miles
• Distance hiked: 5.6 miles
• Elevation gain: 1540 feet
• When to go: summer
• Parking permit: National Park Pass
• Dog friendly: No

The Tolmie Peak hike is a popular trail from the Mowich Lake Campground. 

The biggest challenge of this trail is driving to the trailhead, which is rough, steep, and winding. 

The trail is worth it though, taking you through meadows of wildflowers and ending with stunning views of Mount Rainier, Eunice Lake, and the surrounding mountain range. 

It’s not quite so crowded, due to the difficulty of the road on the way in.

17. Summit Lake

• Location: Carbonado, WA
• Distance from Seattle: 79 miles
• Distance hiked: 6.2 miles
• Elevation gain: 1420 feet
• When to go: Summer
• Parking permit: Northwest Forest Pass
• Dog friendly: Yes, on leash

Summit Lake is by far one of the most beautiful lakes in Mount Rainier National Park, with epic views of Mt Rainier and the surrounding mountain peaks along the way. 

The trail passes through alpine meadows, subalpine forests, and several small streams. 

This one tends to have a few more bugs than your average trail, perhaps because the trail is less maintained and not as popular as some others in the area.

18. Silver Peak

• Location: Snoqualmie Pass
• Distance from Seattle: 59 miles
• Distance hiked: 5.4 miles
• Elevation gain: 1938 feet
• When to go: Summer
• Parking permit: Northwest Forest Pass
• Dog friendly: No

The highlight of this hike is in addition to the huge diversity of landscape you travel through to get to the peak, the panoramic views from the summit of Silver Peak, which offers breathtaking views of Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, and other surrounding peaks.

The trail is only sometimes well maintained and sometimes requires using your basic navigation skills to stay on the path. 

Be sure to download your Google Maps before leaving home, as there is no Wi-fi for most of this hike.

Best Winter Hikes Near Seattle

Winter in Seattle and the surrounding areas can be a great time to enjoy the outdoors and explore some beautiful trails. 

Many of the hiking trails turn into snowshoe trails, although some have added distance due to snow closures of the roads getting there. 

These hikes generally do not have snow in the winter, although they may have ice at times and require micro-spikes.

19. Oyster Dome from Samish Lookout

• Location: near Bow, WA
• Distance from Seattle: 76 miles
• Distance hiking:  7.3 miles
• Elevation gain:  1879
• When to go: year-round
• Parking permit: Discover Pass
• Dogs friendly: Yes, on leash

Oyster Dome from Samish Lookout is a great hike in the Chuckanut Mountains with beautiful views of the San Juan Islands, especially it’s a great spot for sunset.  

Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful forests, meadows, and streams. It can be pretty muddy in the winter but is a well-maintained trail year-round.

20. Rattlesnake Ledge Trail

• Location: near North Bend, WA
• Distance from Seattle: 35 miles
• Distance hiking: 5.3 miles
• Elevation gain:  1459 feet
• Parking permit: none
• Dog friendly: Yes, on leash

Rattlesnake Ledge is a very popular and scenic hike near Seattle, beginning at the lake itself and ending with a fantastic view of the lake from the top. 

The highlight of the hike is the stunning view from the top of Rattlesnake Ledge, which offers panoramic views of the Snoqualmie Valley, Mount Si, and other nearby peaks. 

It’s an extremely popular sunrise hike, whatever the season.

Hiking around Seattle Map

This guide has inspired you to get out and explore the fantastic hikes near Seattle! 

And to make your planning even easier, I’ve also included a map showcasing all of the above-mentioned best places to hike around Seattle. 

📌 Click here for the interactive version of this Seattle hiking map

How to Get to the Hikes near Seattle WA

There are several ways to get to the top hikes near Seattle, depending on your preference and budget.

• Personal vehicle or car rental is by far your best option. Most trailheads are accessible by regular vehicles.
• It’s best to rent a car for the day if you’re planning to hike near Seattle instead of relying on public transportation and ridesharing apps.

👉 You can use Rental Cars to quickly compare your rental options.

• Seattle has an okay public transportation system that will take you to the most popular hiking destinations near North Bend and Snoqualmie Pass.
• Services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Seattle and can be a convenient way to get to hiking trails if you don’t have your own vehicle. Keep in mind however that Wi-fi service at many of the trailheads is limited and you will need to plan ahead for your return trip.
• If you prefer a more organized experience, there are several guided tour companies that offer transportation to and from popular hiking trails, along with a guided hike.

Important Tips for Hiking Near Seattle

Hiking in Washington State can be a beautiful and rewarding experience, especially if you plan ahead and come prepared. 

Let’s chat about some important tips to help you stay safe and have fun:

• Washington can be unpredictable when it comes to weather, especially in the mountains. Before you head out on your hike, check the weather forecast and trail conditions to ensure that you are prepared for the conditions.
• Even if the weather is warm when you start your hike, it can get colder and windier as you gain elevation. It’s important to bring layers and rain gear, even if you think you won’t need it.
• It’s essential to stay on designated trails to protect the natural environment and avoid getting lost.
• Bring plenty of water and food to stay hydrated and fueled for whatever hike you choose. And don’t forget sunscreen!
• Be honest with yourself about your physical abilities and choose hikes that are appropriate for your fitness level.
• Washington State is home to many sensitive ecosystems, so it’s important to practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all your trash. Even the food items you think are biodegradable.

Where to Stay for Seattle Hiking

There are several options for places to stay near Olympic National Park, Mt. Rainier National Parks, and Snoqualmie Pass.

Stay near Olympic National Park

• Lake Quinault Lodge: This historic lodge is located on the shores of Lake Quinault and offers cozy accommodations, a restaurant, and access to hiking trails. 

👉 Check rates and availability here. 

• Kalaloch Lodge: This rustic lodge is situated on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean and offers guest rooms and cabins, as well as a restaurant and gift shop.

• Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort: This resort offers cabins and hot springs pools in a secluded forested setting.

Stay near Mount Rainier National Park

• Paradise Inn: This historic inn is located in the park at an elevation of 5,420 feet and offers guest rooms, a restaurant, and a gift shop.

• National Park Inn: This rustic inn is located at Longmire in the park and offers guest rooms, a restaurant, and a gift shop.

Stay near Snoqualmie Pass

• Salish Lodge & Spa: This luxury resort is located near the pass and offers guest rooms, a spa, and several restaurants. It sits right next to Snoqualmie Falls and makes for a stunning weekend or day trip from Seattle.

👉 Check rates and availability here. 

Where to Eat while Hiking Around Seattle

As for dining options, there are several restaurants and cafes in the nearby towns of the various hikes that offer a variety of dining options. 

Here are some of my favorites: 

• Buffalo Run Restaurant in Marblemount, North Cascades
• Cascade Burgers in Concrete, North Cascades
• Rocking Horse Bakery in Winthrop, North Cascades
• Paradise Inn Dining Room, Mt Rainier National Park
• National Park Inn Dining Room, Mt Rainier National Park
• Summit House Restaurant, Enumclaw (near MRNP)
• North Bend Bar & Grill, North Bend
• Little Si Restaurant & Lounge, North Bend
• Lake Crescent Lodge, Olympic National Park
• Nourish Sequim, Sequim (near ONP)
• The Sultan Bakery, Sultan (near Gold Bar and Index)

Final Thoughts: Best Hikes within 2 hours of Seattle

Exploring the best hikes near Seattle is an incredible way to experience the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Washington State is renowned for its huge range of impressive hiking opportunities. 

Whether it’s mountains, beaches, or waterfalls you’re looking for, there is a hike for every interest and every level of experience, all year round. 

I hope that this guide has given you plenty of inspiration to plan your next hiking adventure and explore all that this region has to offer. 

Remember to always pack the essentials, stay safe, and leave no trace.

Be safe, be smart and happy hiking! 

FAQS about Seattle Hiking

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