Hikes 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. Check out some incredible adventure tours in the Pacific Northwest.
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:
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Best Hikes in Seattle
Flaming Geyser State Park Loop
Flaming Geyser State Park Loop is a 1.6 km 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
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 3.7 km 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
Wapato Lake Trail is a 1.6 km 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
Penrose Point State Park Trail is a 3.7 km 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
Coal Creek Trail is an 8.5 km 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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Nolte State Park Deep Lake Loop Trail
The loop trail around Deep Lake in Nolte State Park is a quick and easy 2.3 km trail that is suitable for all skill levels. With a mostly flat trail and plenty of benches on the way, this is a good choice for those who need frequent rest breaks as they walk. The loop is dog-friendly (on leash) and a popular stop for families visiting the park. Expect higher traffic on this trail.
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Bradley Lake Loop Trail
The loop trail around Bradley Lake in Bradley Lake Park is a quick and easy 1.4 km 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
The Paradise Valley Conservation Area Trail is a 7.4 km 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
The Tukwila section of the Green River Trail is a 10.0 km 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
The Green River Trail is a 12.1 km 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
The hike to Coal Creek Falls on the Nike Horse Trail is an easy-moderate adventure. This trail is 3.4 km 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
The hike to Coal Creek Falls on the Cave Hole Trail is an enjoyable moderate hike. This trail is 4.2 km 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
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
Franklin Falls Trail is a 3.2 km heavily trafficked out and back trail that takes you to the site of an abandoned mining town. The hike is 3.2 km 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
The volunteer Park Loop is a 1.8 km 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
Lincoln Park in West Seattle boasts so much to enjoy. This multi-use park has this 3.2 km 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
The walk across the Tacoma Narrows Bridge gets better every time. This 5.5 km 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
Luther Burbank Park is a multi-use park on the northern end of Mercer Island that offers great walking trails. This guide covers the 3.2 km 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
The Lake Union Loop is a heavily trafficked 10.3 km 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
The Lake Wilderness Trail is a 6.4 km 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.