Hikes in Seattle
Activities in Seattle
Seattle Hikes
Seattle hikes are a great past time, as they offer the chance to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of the surrounding area. However, in Seattle you don’t have to get out of the city to get outside! There are nearly 500 parks in the Seattle Parks and Recreation System, offering over 193.1 km of trails right within the city limits. Pair that with the miles upon miles of stunning coastline accessible in the city and you’ve got a metropolis fit for plenty of walking. If you do want to venture a little further, there are plenty of Seattle hikes located just outside of the city that provide a different (but just as wonderful) experience, trailing through old-growth forests and leading you up mountains with stellar viewpoints over the city below. Hikers in and around Seattle are spoiled for choice.
Seattle hikes within the city often cater to all crowds, covering flatter terrain with lower difficulty levels. Don’t think these city walks are a snooze, though! With carefully manicured gardens and wild urban forests alike, you’ll feel far without actually leaving the city. Those venturing further out can bag summits and challenge their skill levels with ease of access guaranteed by few urban centers. Whether you’re casual or committed, Seattle hikes will certainly deliver an amazing experience!
20 Amazing Hikes in and around Seattle
With so many parks and trails within reach, choosing a Seattle hikes can be a bit daunting. No worries, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to some of our favorite Seattle hikes to help kickstart your adventures.
There is a trail for every hiker in Seattle. There are family-friendly trails, ADA-accessible trails, and more challenging hikes on offer, so you’ll be able to pick the right one no matter what you’re seeking. Frequent your top picks on nice mornings or make a list of hikes to try if you’re just visiting. Check out state icons like Snoqualmie Falls and the Deception Pass Bridge or try quirky adventures like the Maple Valley Gnome Trail. The options are nearly endless, so you better choose a Seattle hike that suits your style and get out on the trail!
- Snoqualmie Falls Trail - The Snoqualmie Falls Trail takes you to see one of the most iconic waterfalls in Washington, a familiar sight for Twin Peaks fans. A visit to Snoqualmie is a worthwhile stop for any hiker in the area, and it’s one that allows you to discover the region’s ecosystem and Native American culture as you go.
- Deception Pass Bridge - Walking the Deception Pass Bridge and the nearby Beach Trail are a perfect way to spend an afternoon near Seattle. Kids love the bridge that spans over Deception Pass, and the history of the area can be appreciated at the monument on Pass Island.
- Discovery Park and Lighthouse Loop - The Discovery Park and Lighthouse Loop Trail is part of a designated National Recreation Trail that takes you through gorgeous forests and meadows. It’s a go-to for local runners and walkers, especially the portion of the trail that extends out to the beach where the West Point lighthouse is.
- Poo-Poo Point Trail - Poo-Poo Point is a frequently visited destination on the shoulder of West Tiger Mountain. The point has fabulous views of Mount Rainier and is easy enough for beginner hikers to get to. On a clear day, it’s the ideal overlook across the forest to Rainier.
- Seward Park Loop Trail - The Seward Park Loop Trail is a short and sweet route that loops around the perimeter of Seward Park on Bailey Peninsula. This simple route is frequented by walkers, runners, bikers, people with dogs, and families. It’s a quick escape from the city and it offers diverse flora and fauna despite its proximity to the city and humble size.
- Carkeek Park via Pipers Creek Trail - Carkeek Park via Pipers Creek Trail is a perfect way for hikers of all skill levels to get some fresh air. The forest offers a nice sense of tranquillity even on busier days. After you hike through the trees, you’ll be treated to views of Puget Sound.
- East Tiger Mountain Summit - The East Tiger Mountain summit is a popular pick with hikers and mountain bikers and one of two frequently trafficked trails in the Tiger Mountain area. This trail takes you to two viewpoints, the lower of which has a few picnic tables you can use.
- West Tiger Mountain Summit - West Tiger Mountain via West Tiger #3 the go-to hike in the Tiger Mountain area. It’s harder and steeper than East Tiger, but despite the challenges, it’s a very scenic and enjoyable trip. Travel a forested trail to a summit with even better views than the east side.
- Warren G. Magnuson Park Loop - Warren G. Magnuson Park is one of the most visited recreational areas in the Seattle area. The loop walk around the park is the ideal trail for those wanting to get acquainted with the park for the first time, and it’s easy enough for nearly anyone to enjoy.
- Washington Park Arboretum Trail - The Washington Park Arboretum is a wonderful park bursting with trees and flowers. It’s packed with magnolias, oaks, maples, and countless flowers. The highlight of the arboretum and one of the best parts of the trail is the stunning Azalea Way. There are also meadows, a Japanese Garden, greenhouses, and groves of trees to wander through.
- Nisqually Estuary Boardwalk - The Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, formerly known as the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, is an important estuary that provides a haven to countless bird and animal species. Walkers on the boardwalk trail can make use of the viewing platforms to look for herons, harbor seals, salmon, otters, and more.
- Cranberry Lake - The Cranberry Lake hike in Cama Beach State Park takes you from the shoreline to the lake on a very straightforward route. It’s a hike suitable for all skill levels, and in the springtime, the trail is lined with beautiful wildflowers. This route is also a good choice for birdwatchers.
- Cherry Creek Falls Trail - Cherry Creek Falls Trail is an easy hike that shows off the Marckworth Forest. This trail is suitable for all skill levels and good for hikers with dogs. The trail leads you through the forest to two waterfalls tucked into the mossy trees. This trail is also a good choice for birdwatchers and runners.
- Burke-Gilman Trail - Burke-Gilman Trail is a multi-use pathway in Seattle popular with walkers, runners, and bikers. This long route can be done in whole or in part, but the entire 32.2 km are paved, making it stroller-friendly. This trail is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors in Seattle.
- Cougar Mountain Indian Trail - The Cougar Mountain Indian Trail is one of the most-used trails on Cougar Mountain. It’s an ideal trip for those wanting classic hiking scenery without the work that’s usually required to earn them. Very close to Renton and Issaquah and easily reachable from Seattle, the cute waterfalls on this trail make for a great half-day adventure.
- Cedar River Trail - The Cedar River Trail is a 29.0 km point-to-point pathway that connects Renton and Landsburg. This path is used for walking, biking, and running. You can either bike the whole path or walk/run a portion of it, both offering a nice opportunity to enjoy the fresh air and the riverside.
- Seahurst Park Loop Trail - The Seahurst Park Loop Trail is a beautiful easy hike south of Seattle. While this trail is short, there are others in the park that allow you to customize your trip. This loop begins and ends along the coast and travels into a deep green forest with converging creeks.
- Swan Creek Park Trail - Swan Creek Trail a heavily trafficked trail near Tacoma that passes through Swan Creek Park, a pretty park with a variety of trails. Enjoy community gardens and babbling streams on a route easy enough for young kids.
- Ebey’s Landing Trail - Ebey's Landing is a stellar loop trail on Whidbey Island that provides incredible views from atop a high bluff over Puget Sound. Gaze over the water, keep an eye out for wildlife and birds, or spend some time observing the nearby working farms. Ebey’s Landing is especially nice at sunset!
- Flaming Geyser State Park - Flaming Geyser State Park Loop is a good choice for families with small children and those wanting a quick outing. The park itself boasts geyers and interesting natural history, and this loop is a good way to stretch your legs before or after exploring it.
Scroll down to see the full list of hiking trails in and around Seattle.
When is the Best Time to Hike in Seattle?
Seattle experiences warm, mild summers and cool winters with lots of precipitation. While you should be prepared for rain any time of the year, visiting in the summer months of July and August tend to give the warmest, driest weather. Consider summer visits for beach and lake walks so you have the option of a refreshing dip afterwards.
While the summer months offer the best weather, they do also bring the heaviest crowds. If you’re okay with occasionally cooler or wetter conditions, visiting in June or mid-September can give you more privacy on the trails while still offering suitable hiking weather.
Visitors in the winter can generally still enjoy all of the city parks and most of the trails near the city since the Seattle area receives relatively infrequent snow. You’ll want to be dressed for rain, though!
Other Outdoor Activities in and Around Seattle
Hiking and walking are some of the top ways to explore the Seattle area, but they’re definitely not the only way to spend your time here. Adventurers on two wheels can take advantage of the many biker-friendly paths in and around the city, both for road bikes and mountain bikes.
Campers can find sites not far from the city, and skiers and snowboarders can enjoy nearby Stevens Pass, Crystal Mountain, Mount Baker, or Summit at Snoqualmie.
How to Plan a Trip to Seattle
A trip to Seattle is a worthwhile adventure, but you’ll want to put enough time and energy into planning to make sure your trip runs smoothly. Most of the trails in the vicinity of the city are permitless, but you’ll want to double-check your itinerary to see if a Discover Pass is needed for any out of city hikes. If you plan on camping, make sure you plan out your campsites beforehand and check which ones are walk-up and which require advance booking.
We recommend booking your hotels early, especially in the summertime, since Seattle sees plenty of tourists and certain accommodations will book out in advance.
Seattle Adventure Tours
Not so excited about hashing out the details of your itinerary? Letting the pros plan your adventure near Seattle takes the stress out of your trip, letting you focus on your experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions About Seattle
Is Seattle safe?
Seattle is one of the safest of the larger cities in the United States. It does not experience a high level of violent or petty crime. That being said, exercise the same caution you would while visiting any other large city.
Is Seattle expensive?
Unfortunately, Seattle is an expensive city in many ways. The cost of living here is, on average, about 50% higher than the national average. Expect food, transportation, and accommodations to be a bit more costly than what you’d find in most other cities in the United States.
Is it cold in Seattle?
The temperature in Seattle typically varies from around 37°F to a pleasant 79°F. While you normally won’t experience extreme cold or extreme heat here, you should prepare for plenty of precipitation.
What do I need to see in Seattle?
First-time visitors to the city often visit Pike Place Market, the various movie and TV shooting locations around the city, the Gum Wall, the Space Needle, the aquarium, the Fremont Troll, the original Starbucks, and the plethora of excellent restaurants.
What can I do outdoors in Seattle?
The Emerald City has a thriving outdoors culture centered around hiking, kayaking, climbing and boulders, and cycling. You’ll fit right in if you’re seeking out any of these activities.
Do you need a car in Seattle?
We recommend either driving your own car, renting a car, or booking a tour that includes transportation. There are some public transportation options in the city but they are largely focused on the city itself and only select trailheads are accessible by bus.
Explore other great hiking regions in Washington State:
Or check out other amazing hiking regions in the United States.
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Route guides for Hiking in Seattle
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Snoqualmie Falls Trail Route Guide
Snoqualmie Falls Trail takes you along an easy 1.4mi route to see one of the most iconic waterfalls in Washington. This hike is family-friendly and very suitable for beginners, but it’s a worthwhile stop for any hiker in the area. Learn about the region’s ecosystem and Native American culture as you walk, then snap photos from the perfectly placed falls viewpoints. You can walk to each viewpoint for the full experience or keep it as easy as possible by just visiting the two viewpoints close to the parking area.
Dogs are allowed on this hike but must be kept on leash. This area gets quite busy on the weekends, so we recommend visiting early in the morning or during the week for the least crowded experience.
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Deception Pass Bridge and Beach Trail Route Guide
Deception Pass Bridge and the nearby Beach Trail are a great way to spend an afternoon near Seattle, or just take a quick break in nature if you haven’t got much time. This trail is 1.0mi in length and heavily trafficked. The bridge that spans over Deception Pass is fun for kids and adults alike, and the history of the area can be appreciated at the monument on Pass Island. After enjoying the bridge, you can walk down to the beach to relax.
Deception Pass is one of Washington’s busiest parks, and the trails can get crowded. Try visiting early in the morning or during the week for more solitude.
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Discovery Park and Lighthouse Loop Trail Route Guide
Discovery Park and Lighthouse Loop Trail is a 4.4mi hike in the Seattle-Tacoma area that is rated as easy. This hike is part of a designated National Recreation Trail that passes through beautiful forest and meadows. It’s popular with runners and walkers and can be enjoyed all year. This loop extends out to the beach where the West Point lighthouse stands watch. It’s a fantastic trip that requires very minimal elevation gain. Wildlife also frequent this area, making it a favorite for birdwatchers.
This trail gets busy, so if you prefer a quieter hike, try visiting early in the morning, later in the afternoon, or midweek.
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Chirico Trail to Poo-Poo Point Route Guide
Poo-Poo Point is a popular destination on the shoulder of West Tiger Mountain. The point has fabulous views of Mount Rainier and isn’t too difficult to reach. On a clear day, it’s the ideal overlook across the forest and to the mighty Tahoma. While there is more than one way to get to the point, this route follows the 4.5mi moderate Chirico Trail, which makes for a shorter hike. Expect heavy traffic on this hike.
While this hike isn’t too long or strenuous, it does have some steeper sections that where poles might be helpful to have.
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Poo-Poo Point Trail Route Guide
Poo-Poo Point is a heavily frequented destination on the shoulder of West Tiger Mountain. The point has clear views of Mount Rainier on sunny days and provides just enough of a challenge on the way up. On a good day, it’s the ideal overlook across the forest and to Tahoma. While there is more than one way to get to the point, this route follows the 6.9mi hard Poo-Poo Point Trail, which makes for a longer hike than the Chirico Trail approach. Expect heavy traffic on this hike.
While this hike isn’t exceptionally long or strenuous, it does have steep sections that where poles might be helpful to have.
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Seward Park Loop Trail Route Guide
The Seward Park Loop Trail is a short route that loops the perimeter of Seward Park on Bailey Peninsula. This easy route is frequented by walkers, runners, bikers, people with dogs, and families. It’s a quick escape from the urban atmosphere and offers diverse flora and fauna despite its proximity to the city and humble size. Seward Park is located southeast of downtown Seattle and boasts an impressive array of activities, including educational and cultural enrichments. Come enjoy the park!
This trail sees heavy traffic, so a visit in the morning or midweek is recommended if you want a bit more solitude.
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Carkeek Park via Pipers Creek Trail Route Guide
Carkeek Park via Pipers Creek Trail is a 3.2mi moderately trafficked loop trail near Seattle. This hike is easy for most adventurers and is used for running, dog walking, and hiking. This trail sees moderate traffic, but the forest offers a nice sense of tranquillity even on busier days. The forest gives way to views of Puget Sound as you reach the midway point of the loop. This route follows Pipers Creek Trail, but there are plenty of intersecting routes should you wish to modify your hike.
Note that the trail system is not well-marked and some users report having difficulty finding their way around. A downloaded GPS map is recommended to mitigate this challenge.
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East Tiger Mountain Summit Hike Route Guide
East Tiger Mountain Summit is a 7.7mi out and back hike in Tiger Mountain State Forest. This hike is moderately trafficked by hikers and very popular with mountain bikers, making it important to follow right of way practices as you hike. This trail provides access to two viewpoints, the lower of which has picnic tables you can use. Most of this hike follows an old gravel road, making it easy to follow but potentially a touch less scenic than some others. This trail is less popular than the West Tiger Mountain hike, giving you a better chance of a quieter trail.
This is a constant uphill climb, but you’ll be rewarded with great views of Mount Rainier and the South Sound.
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West Tiger #3 Trail Route Guide
West Tiger Mountain via West Tiger #3 is an 5.5mi out and back hike in Tiger Mountain State Forest. This hike is heavily trafficked compared to the East Tiger Mountain ascent. It’s also harder, requiring more elevation gain. Despite the challenges, this way up Tiger Mountain is definitely prettier, with a forested trail leading you to a summit that has better views than the east side. This trail is also popular with wildlife enthusiasts, who have spotted everything from owls to bears in the trees.
Logging operations on the mountain can occasionally lead to temporary trail closures. Check with the DNR before visiting for the current status of the trail.
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Warren G. Magnuson Park Loop Route Guide
Warren G. Magnuson Park is a frequently visited recreational area near Seattle. The Warren G. Magnuson Park Loop is a 2.3mi lightly trafficked walk that creates a circuit through the park. This is the perfect trail for those wanting to get acquainted with the park for the first time, and it’s easy enough for nearly anyone to enjoy. Dogs are permitted in the park but must be kept on a leash.
This park is loved for its calm atmosphere, making a visit any time of the day or week a pleasant experience. Expect to see young children enjoying day camps here in the summertime.
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Washington Park Arboretum Trail Route Guide
The Washington Park Arboretum is a stunning park filled to the brim with trees and flowers. It’s packed with magnolias, oaks, maples, and more flowers than you could count. A highlight of the arboretum is the stunning Azalea Way. There are meadows, a Japanese Garden, greenhouses, and groves of trees to see. A 3.8mi loop trail explores the park, and with only 66m of elevation gain, it’s easy enough for all skill levels. You can also extend your trip by checking out the other trails that traverse the arboretum. You’ll want to linger a while, we promise.
Dogs are allowed on this trail but must be kept on leash. The arboretum sees lots of visitors, so try visiting midweek or early in the morning for a quieter experience. Parts of the arboretum, including the Azalea Way, are ADA accessible.
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Nisqually Estuary Boardwalk Hike Route Guide
The Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, formerly known as the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, is a beautiful estuary that provides a haven to countless bird and animal species. Walkers on the boardwalk trail, which stretches 4.6mi through the refuge and back, can spot herons, harbor seals, salmon, otters, and more. The trail is flat and suitable for strollers and most wheelchairs, making this a wonderful walk for most adventurers. You’ll walk along the Nisqually River Delta to a viewpoint of Puget Sound, counting all the different species you see along the way.
Since it’s such a premier wildlife viewing and photographing location, expect fairly heavy traffic. Try visiting midweek or early in the morning to enjoy a quieter trail.
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Cherry Creek Falls Trail Route Guide
Cherry Creek Falls Trail is a 5.0mi easy hike in the Marckworth Forest. This trail is suitable for all skill levels and dogs are allowed on leash. The trail winds through the forest to two waterfalls tucked into the mossy trees. This trail is also used by birdwatchers and runners.
Note that the beginning of this hike passes through private property. It’s very important to stay on the trail, keep dogs leashed, and pack out your trash to ensure access remains granted for hikers after you. It’s also very important to park off the county road and off private property or you may be towed.
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Burke-Gilman Trail Route Guide
Burke-Gilman Trail is a well-known multi-use pathway in Seattle popular with walkers, runners, and bikers. Most adventurers make use of a shorter section of this trail, so don’t let the distance intimidate you. The whole 20.0mi are paved and the vast majority of the trail, save for one short section, is away from car traffic. While this obviously isn’t a hiking route in the traditional sense, it’s a wonderful way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors in Seattle.
There are lots of parks accessible from the path, which gives you the opportunity to break up your walk and enjoy other activities on the way.
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Cougar Mountain Indian Trail Route Guide
The Cougar Mountain Indian Trail is one of the most-used trails on Cougar Mountain. This hike is 3.0mi long but only involves 236ft of elevation gain, making it an ideal trip for those wanting classic hiking scenery without the work that’s usually required to earn them. Very close to Renton and Issaquah and easily reachable from Seattle, this trail is an easy quick trip for adventurers of all skill levels. Expect the Far Country Falls and the serene mossy forest to be the focal point of your adventure. Horses also use this trail, so remember to give horses the right of way whenever possible.
The falls can dry out significantly when there hasn’t been much rain, so we recommend visiting during a wetter week or earlier in the hiking season if you can.
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Cedar River Trail Route Guide
The Cedar River Trail is a 18.0mi point-to-point pathway that stretches between Renton and Landsburg. This path is used for walking, biking, and running. You can either bike the whole path or walk/run a portion of it, both offering a wonderful chance to enjoy the fresh air and the riverside. This trail is mostly flat, making it a suitable choice for all skill levels. It doesn’t see too much traffic and it’s very easy to follow.
This trail is paved, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
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Seahurst Park Loop Trail Route Guide
The Seahurst Park Loop Trail is a gorgeous easy hike south of Seattle that is suitable for all skill levels. This trail is less than 1.9mi long but the other trails in the park allow you to lengthen or shorten your trip according to your wants. This loop begins and ends along the coast and travels into an incredibly green forest with converging creeks.
This trail is accessible year-round and sees moderate traffic. Dogs are allowed on the trail but must be kept on a leash. As the network of trails in the park could be confusing to some, we recommend downloading your route ahead of time.
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Swan Creek Park Trail Route Guide
Swan Creek Trail is an 5.3mi heavily trafficked lollipop hike near Tacoma. This trail cuts through Swan Creek Park, a gorgeous park with lots of trails. The park also boasts community gardens and babbling streams, making it a lovely stop. This trail is easy enough for all skill levels and dogs are allowed on leash. Since the park does receive plenty of visitors, we recommend visiting during the week or early in the morning if you’re hoping for a quieter trail.
You can do this fairly quick out and back walk as is or use the other trails in the park to extend your adventure.
Some of the trail footing is paved and some is soft dirt, and there are bridge crossings that may require you to lift a stroller a modest height.
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Flaming Geyser State Park Loop Route Guide
Flaming Geyser State Park Loop is a 1.0mi easy nature walk in the park that is suitable for all skill levels. This brief walk passes through the lush forest on one side and the river and ponds on the other. It’s a good choice for families with small children and those wanting a quick outing. This trail can sometimes become busy, so try to arrive early on weekends. You could easily start with this loop and then spend the entire day exploring the park, including the geysers. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on one of the many benches along the path.
Note that the geyser is not on this trail, but it’s just a short walk from the east side of the loop. Additionally, this path can be a bit overgrown in spots.
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Meadowdale Beach Park Hike Route Guide
Meadowdale Beach Park is a wonderful destination for the whole family, offering an ecologically diverse area where a creek empties into Puget Sound. The Olympic Mountains, Brown’s Bay, and the surrounding islands make for a great view on this easy-moderate 2.3mi hike. This trail is heavily trafficked, so try to visit outside of peak hours if you’re able to.
This route follows Lund Gulch to the beach. The forest alongside the gulch is splendid, boasting lively green foliage and a babbling brook. This hike is a treat for the whole family, especially if you take some time to enjoy the beach before heading back up the gulch.
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Wapato Lake Trail Route Guide
Wapato Lake Trail is a 1.0mi easy hike in Wapato Lake Park that is suitable for all skill levels. This hike circles Wapato Lake, providing access to a picnic area and dog park on the way. This trail is very easy to follow and a great choice for dog walkers who want to take advantage of the park.
Once you’re done hiking, check out the pretty gardens and snap a photo in the gorgeous historic pergola.
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Penrose Point State Park Trail Route Guide
Penrose Point State Park Trail is a 2.3mi easy hike that loops around this family-friendly park near Lakebay. The hike is mostly flat and offers beach access and great views, making it a perfect outing for the whole family. The trail doesn’t get too busy, so it’s a good option for weekends where other nearby trails might be crowded.
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Coal Creek Trail Route Guide
Coal Creek Trail is an 5.3mi easy hiking trail in the Coal Creek Natural Area that is suitable for all skill levels. This hike explores the history of coal mining in the region, showing you artifacts from the mining days and allowing you to check out an old mine shaft. This is a fun choice for families with young children and history buffs.
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Bradley Lake Loop Trail Route Guide
The loop trail around Bradley Lake in Bradley Lake Park is a quick and easy 0.9mi trail that is suitable for all skill levels. With a mostly flat trail and plenty of shade on the way, it’s a popular hike for families and individuals wanting a quick and straightforward break in nature. The loop is dog-friendly (on leash). Expect moderate traffic on this trail.
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Paradise Valley Conservation Area Trail Route Guide
The Paradise Valley Conservation Area Trail is a 4.6mi easy hike on a pleasant wooded trail. This route is shared by hikers and cyclists. This trail is well-maintained and shaded most of the way. There are plenty of trails in the park that allow you to further explore if you wish. Watch out for exposed roots and cut trees.
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Green River Trail Tukwila Section Route Guide
The Tukwila section of the Green River Trail is a 6.2mi stretch of trail used by walkers, runners, and bikers. This trail is flat and easy to follow. While the scenery is more suburban than natural, it’s a great choice for those looking to stretch their legs without going far. The trail remains lightly used, even on weekends, and is paved the entire way.
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Green River Trail Route Guide
The Green River Trail is a 7.5mi multi-use trail used by walkers, runners, and bikers. This trail is flat and easy to follow. While the scenery is more suburban than natural, it’s a nice choice for those in the Kent area looking to stretch their legs without going far. The trail remains lightly used, even on weekends, and is paved the entire way.
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Coal Creek Falls via Nike Horse Trail Route Guide
The hike to Coal Creek Falls on the Nike Horse Trail is an easy-moderate adventure. This trail is 2.1mi long, making it an easy add-on to a day of hiking or a short trip on its own. For the best experience at the falls, try to visit in late spring or after a good rain. They can sometimes dry up in the late summertime.
Although this hike is suitable for all skill levels, it’s not stroller-friendly. Dogs are permitted, but remember to keep them on leash, especially with the potential for horse traffic on this route.
You can also take Cave Hole Trail to get to the falls.
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Coal Creek Falls via Cave Hole Trail Route Guide
The hike to Coal Creek Falls on the Cave Hole Trail is an enjoyable moderate hike. This trail is 2.6mi long and suitable for most skill levels with no major climbs and no technical challenges. For the best experience at the falls, try to visit in late spring or after a good rain. They can sometimes dry up in the late summertime.
Although this hike is suitable for all skill levels, it’s not stroller-friendly. Dogs are permitted, but remember to keep them on a leash, especially with the potential for horse traffic on the second half of this route.
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Kopachuck State Park Lower Loop Trail Route Guide
The Kopachuck State Park Lower Loop Trail is a very quick, simple walk in the Gig Harbor area. This loop is just over a quarter of a mile in length with hardly any elevation change, making it a walk suitable for all skill levels. You can also combine this loop with the Upper Loop Trail to make a longer trip out of it.
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Franklin Ghost Town Trail Route Guide
Franklin Falls Trail is a 2.0mi heavily trafficked out and back trail that takes you to the site of an abandoned mining town. The hike is 2.0mi long with very minimal elevation gain, so all ages and skill levels can enjoy it. There is also a waterfall on the trail. Note that the waterfall trail is on private property, so you will need to pay $5 to park in the lot and access the waterfall trail. Kids under 12 are free. If you park elsewhere and only hike on the state trails you do not need to pay.
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Volunteer Park Loop Route Guide
The volunteer Park Loop is a 1.1mi walk through a very well-maintained park with beautiful flower gardens and a skyline view of Seattle. This park also has the Seattle Asian Art Museum and an amphitheater. The walk mostly hugs the perimeter of the park, giving you the chance to appreciate every corner and unwind in its beautiful scenery.
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Lincoln Park Trail Route Guide
Lincoln Park in West Seattle boasts so much to enjoy. This multi-use park has this 2.0mi hiking trail in addition to a web of others, bike paths, sandy beaches and dramatic bluffs, picnic areas, and gorgeous views. You could spend a day in the park exploring, but this loop trail takes you through all corners of the park. It’s a great way to stretch your legs, get the dogs out, and enjoy a slice of nature in the city. This trail is easy and mostly flat, so it’s suitable for all skill levels.
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Tacoma Narrows Bridge Walk Route Guide
The walk across the Tacoma Narrows Bridge gets better every time. This 3.4mi out and back trek takes you over the bridge and back, where you can look out over the islands, the water, and Mount Rainier. It’s a fun walk for kids and anyone who likes an impressive viewpoint. The walk has a gentle incline and is stroller-friendly. There will be traffic next to you on the hike, but hopefully the views are enough to distract you.
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Luther Burbank Park Loop Route Guide
Luther Burbank Park is a multi-use park on the northern end of Mercer Island that offers great walking trails. This guide covers the 2.0mi loop trail in the park, which is the perfect way to enjoy the entire area. See lake views, scope out your future picnic spots, get the dogs out, or just stretch your legs on this easy, moderately trafficked trail.
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Lake Union Loop Route Guide
The Lake Union Loop is a heavily trafficked 6.4mi loop in Seattle that wraps around Lake Union, as the name suggests. This loop is paved and mostly flat, making it a good choice for strollers, bikers, joggers, and all ages and ability levels of walkers. Keep an eye out for others on this multi-use path, but otherwise, just enjoy the city and lake views.
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Lake Wilderness Trail Route Guide
The Lake Wilderness Trail is a 4.0mi moderately trafficked out and back trail in Maple Valley that is frequented by walkers, runners, and dog walkers. This multi-use path is a great choice for an easy stroll and it is suitable for all skill levels, and the view of the lake most of the way is a wonderful sight. The path is mostly gravel.
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Titlow Park Loop Route Guide
The Titlow Park Loop is a 1.6mi loop trail that takes you from one end of the park to another, offering the perfect way to enjoy the scenery and start your adventures in the park. This route is easy, flat, and suitable for all skill levels. After your walk, hit the beach or take the kids to the park’s playground.
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Pinnacle Peak Loop Trail Route Guide
The Pinnacle Peak Loop Trail is a 3.0mi hike in Pinnacle Peak Park that sees heavy traffic and is moderately difficult. This hike is steep but quite short, making it easy to complete in an hour or two for most hikers. While the first ⅔ of the trail is a bit less interesting, the views of Mount Rainier from the top make it a worthwhile adventure.
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Myrtle Edwards Park to Elliot Bay Park Walk Route Guide
The walk from Myrtle Edwards Park to Elliot Bay Park on this smooth, straightforward route. This 2.7mi walk is scenic, smooth, and straightforward, making it a popular choice for locals. Whether you're walking, running, or biking, you’ll enjoy the waterside views of this route. There are several parks along the way you can stop into, including Centennial Park and Olympic Sculpture Park.
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Hamlin Park Loop Route Guide
The Hamlin Park Loop is a 2.0mi trail that follows the perimeter of Hamlin Park. This trail is very easy and mostly flat, but there are many intersecting trails that can make navigation difficult. We recommend downloading a GPS track. Additionally, this park gets most of its traffic after the workday, so visit in the morning or midday for a quieter experience.
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Lighthouse Point via Rosario Beach Trail Route Guide
Lighthouse Point via Rosario Beach Trail is a 2.4mi heavily trafficked out and back trail with beautiful views of Deception Pass and the many coves on this stretch of coastline. This trail is a bit treacherous in its northern portion, but the southern portion is maintained and less challenging. Young children will require some help on this hike, but it’s a very rewarding hike for its length.
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Juanita Beach Loop Route Guide
The Juanita Beach Loop is a half-mile loop walk that takes you over the water on a unique boardwalk. This walk is very quick and easy enough for all skill levels. It’s perfect to pair with an afternoon at the beach. Parents may wish to hold youngsters’ hands on the boardwalk, but overall this is a very simple and enjoyable walk.
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Sammamish River Trail Route Guide
The Sammamish River Trail is a 9.5mi point-to-point trail that runs from Remond to Bothell. This trail is popular with cyclists and walkers and can be enjoyed in part as far as you like to tailor your adventure. It is mostly flat and entirely paved. Watch out for passing cyclists and runners, especially on the weekends when the trail gets quite busy.
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Maple Valley Gnome Trail Route Guide
The Maple Valley Gnome Trail is true to its name, having countless gnomes of all shapes and sizes hiding along a 0.7mi trail. This route is very easy and mostly flat, and the gnomes in the trees and bushes are delightful for all ages. Despite being a quick stop, this is a trail you’ll look back on fondly. Expect heavy traffic, especially on weekends.
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