20 Best Hikes Near Seattle with Epic Views! (2024)

Mount Baker National Forest

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!

Olympic National Park is one of the best places to hike near Seattle

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

✏️ Post content

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. 

Mt Baker National Forest

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. 

Mount Rainier National Park

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

Columbia River Gorge

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. 

Gold Creek Pond

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

Nisqually Vista Trail during winter

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

Mount Baker

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

Snoqualmie Falls Waterfall View Washington, USA

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

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

Bridal Veil Falls

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. 

Sol Duc Falls

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

Myrtle Falls, a 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. 

Fremont Lookout overlooking the snowy mountains

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. 

Hole in the Wall hike near Seattle arera

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. 

Skyline Loop

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. 

Naches Peak Loop Trail

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. 

Lake Ingalls Larches, one of the best Fall hikes near Seattle

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. 

Heather Maple Pass Loop Trail during Spring

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

Blue Lake in North Cascades

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

Tolmie Peak with incredible lake and forest views

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. 

Summit Lake

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.

Summit at Snoqualmie Pass during winter

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.  

Oyster Dome Trail, one of the top hikes near Seattle

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. 

Rattlesnake Ledge and lake

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.

Snoqualmie Pass during fall with the autumn-colored trees
  • 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. 
Lake Quinault Lodge located on the shores of Lake Quinault for the best hiking near Seattle

👉 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.

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.
Paradise Inn in Winter with snow-capped mountains in the background
  • 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.
Luxury resort located near Snoqualmie Pass, one of the best hikes near 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. 

Views of the Pacific Northwest along the water

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

  1. Does Seattle have good hiking?

    Yes, Seattle has great hiking options with beautiful scenery, ranging from coastal trails to mountain peaks.

  2. Is there good hiking in Seattle?

    Yes, Seattle has some of the best hiking in the Pacific Northwest, offering a variety of trails with stunning views and challenging terrain.

  3. Is there good hiking near Seattle?

    Absolutely! Seattle is surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests, offering some of the best hiking trails in the Pacific Northwest.

  4. Are there hikes Near Seattle?

    Yes, there are plenty of hikes near Seattle, ranging from easy strolls to challenging mountain hikes. The Pacific Northwest is a hiker's paradise!

  5. What are some good hikes around Seattle?

    Most popular hikes around Seattle include Rattlesnake Ledge, Mount Si, Snow Lake, and the Hoh River Trail in Olympic National Park.

  6. What are the must do hikes near Seattle?

    Some of the must-do hikes near Seattle include Mount Si, Rattlesnake Lake, Mailbox Peak, and the Skyline Trail at Mount Rainier National Park.

  7. How many hiking trails are in Seattle?

    There are numerous hiking trails in and around Seattle, with estimates ranging from several hundred to over a thousand.

  8. What are the best hikes near Seattle in September?

    Some of the best hikes near Seattle in September include the Heather-Maple Pass Loop in North Cascades National Park, the Mount Pilchuck Trail, and the Dungeness Spit Trail on the Olympic Peninsula.

  9. What are the best hikes near Seattle in May?

    Some of the best hikes near Seattle in May include the Mount Si Trail, the Cherry Creek Falls Trail, and the Ebey's Landing Trail on Whidbey Island.

  10. What are the best hikes near Seattle in winter?

    Some of the best hikes near Seattle in winter include the Franklin Falls Trail, the Snow Lake Trail, and the Hurricane Hill Trail in Olympic National Park (accessible by snowshoe or cross-country skiing). 

  11. What are the hikes near Seattle with waterfalls?

    Some hikes near Seattle with waterfalls include the Franklin Falls Trail, the Snoqualmie Falls Trail, the Twin Falls Trail, and the Wallace Falls Trail.

  12. What are the different types of hiking trails in Seattle?

    Seattle has a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging mountain hikes. The different types of hiking trails in Seattle include coastal trails, forested trails, mountain trails, waterfall trails, and alpine lake trails.

  13. What is the closest lake hike to Seattle?

    The closest lake hike to Seattle is the Green Lake Loop, located in the heart of the Emerald City. 

  14. What are the best months to hike in Seattle?

    The best months to hike in Seattle are June through September when the weather is mild and the trails are generally snow-free. However, spring and fall can also be good times to hike, depending on the trail and weather conditions.

  15. Do you need hiking boots for Seattle?

    While hiking boots are not always necessary for all the trails near Seattle, they are highly recommended for many of the more challenging hikes. 

  16. Is Portland or Seattle better for hiking?

    Both Portland and Seattle offer excellent hiking opportunities, with access to beautiful natural areas. 

  17. Where is best hiking Pacific Northwest?

    Some of the best hiking spots in the Pacific Northwest include Mount Rainier National Park, Olympic National Park, North Cascades National Park, and the Columbia River Gorge.

  18. Can you swim at Mount Rainier?

    Swimming is not allowed in most bodies of water in Mount Rainier National Park due to safety concerns. However, there are a few designated swimming areas in the park, such as the swimming beach at the Cougar Rock Campground.

  19. What time of year is best to see Mount Rainier?

    The best time of year to see Mount Rainier is from mid-July to mid-September when the weather is typically clearer, and wildflowers are in bloom. 

  20. Is Seattle good for outdoorsy people?

    Yes, Seattle is a great destination for outdoorsy people, as it offers access to a wide range of outdoor activities and natural areas. 

  21. What to pack for hiking in Seattle?

    For hiking in Seattle pack comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, a rain jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water and snacks.

  22. Which national park is closest to Seattle?

    The closest national park to Seattle is Mount Rainier National Park, which is located about 70 miles southeast of the city.

  23. Where is Poo Poo point?

    Poo Poo Point is a popular hiking destination located in the Issaquah Alps, a mountain range east of Seattle, Washington. 

  24. Where is Puget Sound in Seattle?

    Puget Sound is not in the city proper, but it is located near Downtown Seattle. Puget Sound is a large body of water that is part of the Salish Sea, and it borders the western edge of the city of Seattle. 


Like this post? Pin it!

Best Hikes Near Seattle with Epic Views

Sara Rodríguez

A passionate traveler with a mission: Help you plan your next trip easily and enjoy it to the fullest.

In this travel blog you will find everything you need to get inspired and organize your next adventure. Read more about my story here.

Únete a la comunidad viajera. ¡Ya somos más de 300 mil viajeros!


He leído y acepto la Privacy Policy