04 Aug Best Hikes Near Seattle: All Levels + National Parks

If you know anything about Seattle and/or the state of Washington, then you probably already know there are literally so many hikes. You might be wondering, “how in the world can you narrow it down to the best hikes near Seattle?” Well, it was quite difficult. I have not hiked a “bad” trail in the Seattle area yet. Nevertheless, I narrowed down the best hikes near Seattle to 18 different hikes, all listed below. For convenience, I split them into six different categories: (1) easy (2) moderate (3) challenging (4) North Cascades (5) Mount Rainier (6) Olympic.

Contents:

1) Best Hikes Near Seattle – Easy

2) Best Hikes Near Seattle – Moderate

3) Best Hikes Near Seattle – Challenging

4) Best Hikes in North Cascades National Park

5) Best Hikes in Mount Rainier National Park

6) Best Hikes in Olympic National Park

Map key: (1) light blue = easy (2) gold = moderate (3) purple = challenging (4) red = North Cascades (5) dark blue = Mount Rainier (6) bright blue = Olympic

1) Best Hikes Near Seattle – Easy

Sometimes we need an easy hike. For example, I got diagnosed with patellar tendonitis shortly after arriving in Washington state on my year-long road trip around the U.S. I was so excited for all of the hiking I had planned, but then that all went out the window. Easy hikes then became my best friend because those were just about the only hikes I could do.

However, do not let the word “easy” make you think that the three hikes below are not as beautiful as the more challenging hikes listed later. Every single one of the easy hikes below has something unique to offer, from pond reflections to waterfalls to salmon jumping upstream.

Looking for even more easy hikes? Then check out this list of easy hikes in Glacier National Park. There are enough hikes on the list to fill multiple days of fun within the park.

Gold Creek Pond Trail

Let’s start off with some easy trails and work our way to the more challenging ones for this list of the best hikes near Seattle. First up is the Gold Creek Pond Trail. It is located in Snoqualmie Pass, which is approximately one hour east of downtown Seattle with little to no traffic. We completed this trail in the autumn season, and the colors were stunning. The state of Washington does not get too many autumn colors due to it being the evergreen state. However, there are a few trees around the pond that turn orange, yellow, red, and everything in between.

Information – Gold Creek Pond Trail

The Gold Creek Pond Trail is a 1.2 mile (~1.9 kilometer) loop trail with approximately 45 feet (~14 meters) in elevation gain. It is considered to be a moderate trail due to the fact it is fairly short and almost completely flat. An average hiker can complete the trail in around 25 minutes. That being said, this is definitely a family-friendly hike. In fact, we probably saw just as many children on this trail as we did adults.

If you want a hike that offers an excellent bang for your buck, then add this to your list. While it is incredibly easy, it still boasts amazing views. The pond is a beautiful turquoise color and sometimes offers reflections of the trees and mountains surrounding it. Moreover, you can visit in autumn to see some leaves with changing colors. My favorite part of the trail was actually not even part of the trail. It was a small little island that extended into the lake. Just take a quick detour from the official trail on the northern edge of the pond to check it out.

Mesmerized by the colors at Gold Creek Pond

Granite Falls Fish Ladder Trail

Have you always wanted to see salmon swim / jump upstream? Then you do not want to miss out on this trail. The Granite Falls Fish Ladder Trail is located in Granite Falls, Washington. It is one hour northeast of downtown Seattle when there is minimal traffic. I am sure you can tell how the trail received its name. First, Granite Falls is the name of the town. Second, the salmon use this part of the river as a ladder.

Information – Granite Falls Fish Ladder Trail

The Granite Falls Fish Ladder Trail is a 0.7 mile (~1.1 kilometer) out-and-back trail with approximately 100 feet (~30 meters) of elevation gain. It is considered to be an easy route due to its short length and minimal elevation gain. An average hiker can complete the trail in around 20 minutes. However, I imagine you might spend a fair amount of time at the fish ladder. I thus recommend you plan for at least 40 minutes.

The trail ends in a small overlook area where you can look out onto the river. This specific section of the river has multiple, short waterfalls. Salmon will swim and jump upstream here during their migrating season from late July through December. However, the month of September offers the best chance to see salmon jumping all around. Kids and adults alike can enjoy the jumping salmon. You might hear a lot of “oohs”, “ahhs”, and “woahs”.

Franklin Falls Trail – Best Hikes Near Seattle

Last up in the easy category for the best hikes near Seattle is the Franklin Falls Trail. The trailhead is located in North Bend, Washington. It is just under a one-hour drive from downtown Seattle. Moreover, it is located in close proximity to all of the three moderate hikes listed in the next section. Why not conquer the Franklin Falls Trail + one of the moderate hikes below on the same day? Moreover, keep in mind that a Northwest Forest Pass is required for the trail. An annual pass costs $30.

Information – Franklin Falls Trail

The Franklin Falls Trail is a two mile (~3.2 kilometer) out-and-back trail with an elevation gain of approximately 355 feet (~108 meters). Even though it has a bit more elevation gain than the two trails listed above, it is still considered to be an easy route. Moreover, an average hiker can complete the trail in around one hour.

The trail leads to Franklin Falls, which is a 70-foot (~21-meter) tall waterfall. In the summer season, you can walk right up to the base of the falls and go swimming. I do not know about you, but I love going for a quick dip after getting all hot and sweaty from hiking. (Just remember to bring along your bathing suit + microfiber towel). In the winter season, the area around the waterfall turns into a winter wonderland. While the water within the falls still flows, there are large icicles and chunks of ice all around. (Just remember to bring crampons for hiking the trail).

Did you know that Glacier National Park has a few waterfall trails as well? The most popular one is the St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail.

2) Best Hikes Near Seattle – Moderate

Moderate hikes might just be my favorite hikes in terms of difficulty rating. They are hard enough to give you a good workout and make your legs burn. On the other hand, the hikes are not so hard that you are questioning your life choice of starting the trail in the first place. The Seattle area is full of amazing hikes with a moderate difficulty rating. Honestly, the moderate category was the most difficult for me in terms of having to choose only three to include in this list of the best hikes near Seattle. Nevertheless, I think I chose some great hikes (if I do say so myself).

Snow Lake Trail

The Snow Lake Trail is located in North Bend, Washington. If you head from Seattle at a time with minimal traffic, you can arrive here within one hour. Such a short drive then gives you the opportunity to check out additional nearby attractions, for example Snoqualmie Falls. Why not plan an entire day trip outside of the city visiting the state’s most popular waterfall + one of its most gorgeous lakes? Just keep in mind that there is a $5 entrance fee for the trail, though the fee is waived if you have a Recreation Pass.

Information – Snow Lake Trail

The Snow Lake Trail is a 6.7 mile (~10.8 kilometer) out-and-back trail with approximately 1,700 feet (~518 meters) of elevation gain. It is considered to be a moderately challenging hike. Moreover, an average hiker can complete the trail in around three hours and 45 minutes. All of that being said, I would maybe leave the kids at home for this one since it is not a very family-friendly hike. Unless your kids are hiking pros – then bring them along for some family fun and maybe even a dip in the lake!

That is right, one of the best things about the Snow Lake Trail is that it leads to a beautiful blue lake where you can go for a swim. My partner and I found a quiet, private spot on the right side of the lake where we went swimming (but it felt more like a polar plunge). Do not worry, though, for the views make up for the cold temperature. The water is clear enough at the shoreline where you can see through to the lake floor below, and you are surrounded by mountains on almost all sides.

Article for more information: Snow Lake Trail: A Bucket List Hike Outside of Seattle, Washington.

Swimming around in Snow Lake

Rattlesnake Ledge Trail – Best Hikes Near Seattle

Next up on the list of the best moderate hikes near Seattle is the Rattlesnake Ledge Trail. Similar to the Snow Lake Trail above, it is also located in the town of North Bend, Washington. However, it is a bit more west. The drive from Seattle to the trailhead can be as low as 40 minutes if there is no traffic. There is no entrance fee or pass required for the trail. However, I do want to note that parking can be extremely competitive. My best recommendation is to arrive as early as possible if you are visiting on a weekend in the summer season.

Information – Rattlesnake Ledge Trail

The Rattlesnake Ledge Trail is a 5.3 mile (~8.5 kilometer) out-and-back trail with an elevation gain of approximately 1,500 feet (~457 meters). It is considered to be a moderate trail, and an average hiker can complete it within three hours. Again, this is not necessarily a trail you want to bring your kids on unless they have hiked trails of similar length and difficulty before. If you are set on bringing them, you can always opt to carry them in a hiking backpack. I have seen many people carry their kids in backpacks on trails, and I am sure it makes for a great leg workout.

What makes the Rattlesnake Ledge Trail so popular? The views at the top, of course! There is a rocky overlook area at the top of the trail (aka Rattlesnake Ledge) where you can enjoy views of the surrounding mountains as well as of Rattlesnake Lake below. The lake is a stunning color of blue, so do not be surprised if you become mesmerized. Moreover, you have the option to continue hiking if you are looking to increase your appetite even more before heading to KBBQ later in the evening. There are a few trails that continue past Rattlesnake Ledge for multiple miles – just look for the signs.

Article for more information: Rattlesnake Ledge Trail Outside of Seattle, WA.

Enjoying the views after reaching the top of the trail

Twin Falls Trail

Let’s switch it up from the lake trails and look at one of the best (in my opinion) waterfall trails near Seattle. The Twin Falls Trail is located in (you guessed it) the town of North Bend, Washington. North Bend swept the moderate category for the best hikes near Seattle, and you will understand why once you visit. The trailhead for Twin Falls is located pretty close to the trailhead for Rattlesnake Ledge, so it is only a 40-minute drive outside of downtown Seattle. Additionally, keep in mind that a Discover Pass is required for this trail. You can buy a one-time pass for $11.50 or an annual pass for $35.

Information – Twin Falls Trail

The Twin Falls Trail is a 2.5 mile (~four kilometer) out-and-back trail with approximately 615 feet (~187 meters) in elevation gain. It is considered to be a moderate route due to the amount of elevation gain in such a short distance. The trail will have your legs burning, that is for sure. An average hiker can complete the trail in around one and a half hours.

Moreover, the trail leads to not one, but TWO waterfalls. There is a wooden viewing platform where you can see the first waterfall and a wooden bridge where you can see the second waterfall. However, you can also get to the base of the first waterfall by scrambling upstream along the creek. Our favorite part of the entire trail was reaching the base of the first waterfall and going for a (very cold) swim.

Do you love waterfall trails? I am right there with you. Maine is one of the best states where you can go chasing waterfalls. For example, some of my personal favorites are The Cataracts (where you get three waterfalls for the price of one trail) and Smalls Falls (where you get four waterfalls for the price of one trail).

Admiring Twin Falls before jumping in for a swim

3) Best Hikes Near Seattle – Challenging

Have you checked all of the best easy and moderate hikes near Seattle off of your list? Time to move on to the challenging ones. The following three trails are not for beginner hikers, so please make sure you know your ability and experience level before committing. Once you start hiking, you have to make sure you have enough in the tank to finish (or at least turn around early and make it back to the trailhead).

Do you love challenging hiking trails? Then I have a few trails you might want to add to your list: Angels Landing in Zion National Park and Iceberg Lake in Glacier National Park.

Lake Serene Trail

The Lake Serene Trailhead is located in the town of Gold Bar, Washington. If you have ever driven the road US-2E to the town of Leavenworth, then you have passed by the town of Gold Bar. For reference, it is just a little bit over an hour northeast of downtown Seattle. Additionally, you do need a Northwest Forest Pass for the trail. An annual pass costs $30.

Information – Lake Serene Trail

The Lake Serene Trail is a 7.8 mile (~12.6 kilometer) out-and-back trail with approximately 2,740 (~835 meters) in elevation gain. It is considered to be a challenging trail due to the lengthy mileage as well as the vast amount of elevation gain. Moreover, an average hiker can complete the trail in around five hours. You will encounter switchback after switchback, step after step, and rocky inclines after rocky inclines. Who needs the gym when you have hiking trails?

One of the best things about this trail is that you can choose to hike a short side trail to reach Bridal Veil Falls before you reach the lake. At the 1.5 mile (~2.4 kilometer) mark, there is a fork in the path. Hike 0.5 miles (~1.6 kilometers) one way on the Bridal Veil Falls Trail to reach Bridal Veil Falls. If you have a little extra energy in your tank, I recommend you take the time to see the falls, for they are quite stunning. Moreover, you will understand the name once you arrive.

The main attraction of the hike, however, is Lake Serene. Lake Serene has beautiful blue waters surrounded by mountains. Take a close look, and you will most likely see some snow remaining on the mountains, even into the summertime. Think that is it? Nope! There is one more attraction left on the trail. Hike across the log bridge to Lunch Rock. People often jump into the lake from the rock and/or stop for a picnic lunch.

Colchuck Lake Trail

The trailhead for Colchuck Lake is located in Leavenworth, Washington. For reference, it is just under a three-hour drive from downtown Seattle. I know, the hike is a bit far. Some might say it should not even be on the list of the best hikes near Seattle because it is not “near Seattle.” I disagree. If you are from the east coast and are visiting the Seattle area for a couple of weeks, this is one hike you need to add to your bucket list. Who knows when you will be back in the area. Moreover, most people are not going to be searching for the “best hikes in Leavenworth” and thus would miss out on seeing the Colchuck Lake Trail otherwise.

One more quick note: there is a $5 entrance fee for the trail. However, the fee is waived if you have a Recreation Pass.

Information – Colchuck Lake Trail

The Colchuck Lake Trail is a 8.7 mile (~14 kilometer) out-and-back trail with approximately 2,340 feet (~713 meters) in elevation gain. I do not even have to explain why this trail is challenging. The distance and the elevation gain speak for themselves. Additionally, an average hiker can complete the trail in around five hours.

When you arrive at Colchuck Lake, you might feel as though you stepped foot into an enchanted Disney movie. Pinch yourself to make sure you are not just dreaming. The lake of turquoise-blue waters is surrounded by rugged mountains on almost all sides. For example, Dragontail Peak and Colchuck Peak stand higher than 3,000 feet (~914 meters) over the lake. Snow can remain on the mountains all year round, making you feel like you are walking in a winter wonderland in the middle of July. Jump in the lake, go camping for the night, have a picnic lunch – there are so many things to do at Colchuck Lake in addition to staring at the beautiful scenery.

Want to continue hiking past Colchuck Lake? Then keep reading below about The Enchantments, one of the most famous trails in the state of Washington as well as the entire U.S.

The Enchantments Trail

The trailhead for The Enchantments is located in Leavenworth, Washington. For reference, it is just under a three-hour drive from downtown Seattle. This information might sound familiar. Well, that is because the trailhead for The Enchantments is the same as the trailhead for Colchuck Lake. Keep in mind there is a $5 entrance fee for the trail. However, the fee is waived if you have a Recreation Pass. Additionally, you need a permit if you plan to camp overnight along the trail (which most people do). Only experienced hikers can complete the trail in one day due to its difficulty. The permit is required from May 15 to October 31. You can find more information on the Forest Service – The Enchantments webpage.

Information – The Enchantments Trail

The Enchantments Trail is a 18 mile (~29 kilometer) point-to-point trail with approximately 4,790 feet (~1,460 meters) in elevation gain. Of course I saved the most challenging trail for last – that way you can work your way up to it. Training your legs before conquering a trail with almost 5,000 feet (~1,524 meters) is probably a good idea. Otherwise you might wake up the next morning regretting every decision. An average hiker can complete the trail in around 13 hours.

You might have noticed something different about this trail compared to all of the others – it is a point-to-point trail. There is a shuttle you can take from the end of the trail back to the parking lot at the trailhead. Do not worry, you do not have to hike the entire trail back. That would take another one to two days.

The Enchantments Trail follows the same trail as Colchuck Lake until it reaches the shore of (you guessed it) Colchuck Lake. Enjoy the views here because you will need to use your memories of them as motivation to then conquer Aasgard Pass, one of the most difficult sections of the trail. After Aasgard Pass, you will be rewarded with not one, not two, but THREE lakes in the Lower Enchantments. The three lakes include Tranquil Lake, Inspiration Lake, and Perfection Lake. As you continue hiking along, you will pass by even more lakes as you near the end of the trail: Leprechaun Lake, Lake Viviane, and Snow Lakes. Oh, and did I mention mountain goat sightings are common in The Enchantments?

4) Best Hikes in North Cascades National Park

How could I talk about the best hikes near Seattle without talking about the best hikes within the three nearby national parks? The national park hikes might require more than just a day trip, but they are well worth your time to spend the entire weekend there. For example, North Cascades National Park is full of beautiful lakes, stunning overlooks, and so much more. While a day trip to North Cascades is possible, I recommend spending an entire weekend in the park if possible. Need some more convincing? The park does NOT require an entrance fee, and it often has less crowds compared to the other national parks in Washington state.

Blue Lake Trail

The trailhead for Blue Lake is located in Winthrop, Washington within North Cascades National Park. It is a three-hour drive from downtown Seattle with minimal to no traffic. However, please keep in mind that the best months to hike the trail are from July through September. The road leading to the Blue Lake Trailhead closes in the winter season. You are thus unable to access the trailhead at that time. You can find updates on road closures on the NPS or Washington Trails Association sites. Furthermore, a Northwest Forest Pass is required for the trail. An annual pass costs $30.

Information – Blue Lake Trail

The Blue Lake Trail is a 4.6 mile (~7.4 kilometer) out-and-back trail with approximately 915 feet (~279 meters) in elevation gain. It is considered to be a moderate trail. Moreover, an average hiker can complete the trail in around two hours and 15 minutes. In terms of distance + elevation gain, this is one of the best bang-for-your-buck trails in the park.

As you might have guessed, the trail leads to Blue Lake. The water is a beautiful blue color, and it is surrounded by the nearby mountains of Liberty Bell and Winter Spires. If you visit in autumn, you can also enjoy a few trees with leaves of changing colors. Moreover, sometimes the nearby mountains reflect in the water of Blue Lake. I personally love to play around with photography when I see a mountain reflection. If you capture the perfect picture, it can be difficult to tell which are the mountains vs. the mountain reflections.

Thunder Creek Trail – Best Hikes Near Seattle

Head to Rockport, Washington for the Thunder Creek Trailhead. It is located right next to the Colonial Creek South Campground, so you even have somewhere to stay for the night. Moreover, the trailhead is two and a half hours northeast from downtown Seattle. There is no entrance fee to North Cascades National Park, so add this to your list of free things to do!

Information – Thunder Creek Trail

The Thunder Creek Trail is a 39.2 mile (~63 kilometer) round trip trail with approximately 4,900 feet (~1,494 meters) in elevation gain. You might be thinking, “what?!” Did I just recommend almost a 40 mile (~64 kilometer) hike to you? Let me explain. That is the distance for the entire trail. HOWEVER, most people only hike a portion of the trail and turn around. If you decide to hike the entire trail, you will need to camp overnight at least once along the way.

For example, I recommend that you at least hike to the suspension bridge. The hike to the bridge runs through the forest alongside Thunder Creek. The suspension bridge then offers incredible views of Thunder Creek winding through the forest. For reference, the hike to the suspension bridge is around four miles (~6.4 kilometers) round trip with minimal elevation gain. Moreover, an average hiker can complete this portion of the trail in an hour and a half to two hours.

For more information: Thunder Creek Trail in North Cascades – Hike to the Suspension Bridge.

The suspension bridge along the Thunder Creek Trail

Maple Pass Trail

The trailhead for Maple Pass is located in Winthrop, Washington. You might recognize the name of that town, for the Blue Lake Trailhead is located just a few minutes down the road. That being said, it is important to keep in mind that road closures affect this trail just the same as the Blue Lake Trail. The road normally closes for the winter season sometime in the late fall and reopens in the spring. Check the NPS and/or Washington Trail Association websites for current information. Furthermore, a Northwest Forest Pass is required for the trail. An annual pass costs $30.

Information – Maple Pass Trail

The Maple Pass Trail is a 6.5 mile (~10.5 kilometer) loop trail with approximately 2,160 feet (~658 meters) in elevation gain. It is considered to be a challenging route due to the high amount of elevation gain. Additionally, an average hiker can complete the trail in around four hours and 15 minutes. Since it is a loop trail, you can choose to hike either way. However, I recommend that you hike counterclockwise in order to enjoy a more gradual ascent. Additionally, hiking counterclockwise offers better views of Black Peak.

The main attraction of the Maple Pass Trail is Lake Ann. Moreover, there are two ways to enjoy views of the lake. First, you can enjoy panoramic views of the lake from above on the Heather Pass portion of the trail. Second, you can take a short side trail to the shore of Lake Ann. The side trail is around 0.6 miles (~one kilometer) round trip with minimal elevation gain.

In addition to Lake Ann, you can also enjoy wildflowers along the trail. The wildflowers often make their debut in July and remain until August. While you might see them throughout the entire trail, there is a large meadow shortly after the beginning of the trail that holds the greatest quantities.

5) Best Hikes in Mount Rainier National Park

Want to hear something amazing? I think Mount Rainier National Park is my second favorite national park in the U.S. Glacier National Park has the number one spot, but Mount Rainier comes in at a close number two. Sure, I had seen pictures of Mount Rainier before I visited. However, nothing will compare to seeing Mount Rainier in person for the first time from the Skyline Loop Trail at sunrise.

Furthermore, there is an entrance fee for Mount Rainier National Park. The fee is $30 for a private vehicle. Trade $30 for beautiful views and peaceful nature? I would make that trade any day. Lastly, the park requires timed entry reservations for certain areas of the park through specific entrances. Make sure you head to the NPS website for the most updated information.

Skyline Loop Trail

The Skyline Loop Trail is one of the best hikes in Mount Rainier National Park in addition to one of the best hikes near Seattle. There are a few different sections of the national park, so please be aware that the trail is in the Paradise section. To help, Paradise is the southern section of the park. While the roads into Paradise are open year round, they can close at any time due to extreme weather conditions. Check the road status page on NPS for more information. Head two hours and 30 minutes southeast of downtown Seattle to reach the trailhead. Though be prepared for a bit of national park traffic during peak times.

Information – Skyline Loop Trail

The Skyline Loop Trail is a 5.7 mile (~9.2 kilometer) loop trail with approximately 1,770 feet (~539 meters) in elevation gain. An average hiker can complete the trail in three hours and 30 minutes. It is considered to be a challenging trail due to the high amount of elevation gain in just a few miles. Trust me when I say this is a challenging hike. Just about as soon as we started the hike, the path turned into a steep incline. This hike took the place of my leg workouts for a few days.

Maybe you are nervous about committing to the entire hike. No worries at all – the very beginning of the hike was my favorite part. Walking along the path and seeing Mount Rainier being lit up from the sunrise right in front of me is a memory that I will not soon forget. (I am a sucker for a good sunrise hike.) Moreover, this hike is a main reason as to why Mount Rainier skyrocketed to my second favorite national park.

I recommend hiking counterclockwise on the Skyline Loop Trail as the best views of Mount Rainier will be in front of you and at the beginning of the trail. Although, you will experience steeper elevation gain. On the other hand, hiking clockwise will grant you a more gradual elevation gain. However, the best views will be behind you at the end of the trail.

All in all, the trail loops close to Mount Rainier around the middle of the hike. At the beginning (if hiking counterclockwise), you can experience views of Mount Rainier from afar (but not too far, just the right amount of distance). Then at the end, you can pass by the famous Myrtle Falls.

Sunrise on Mount Rainier from the Skyline Loop Trail

Mount Fremont Trail – Best Hikes Near Seattle

Head to the Sunrise section of Mount Rainier National Park to hike the Mount Fremont Trail. For reference, the Sunrise section is the northeastern section of the park. Out of my friend group, a few people designated this trail as their favorite one in the park. The trailhead is just over two hours southeast of downtown Seattle. What does that mean? You can do this hike as a day trip! However, I recommend spending the night in the park to truly experience and appreciate all of its beauty.

While the roads into Sunrise are open year round, they can close at any time due to extreme weather conditions. Check the road status page on NPS for more information

Information – Mount Fremont Trail

The Mount Fremont Trail is a 5.7 mile (~9.2 kilometer) out and back trail with approximately 1,110 feet (~338 meters) in elevation gain. An average hiker can complete the trail in two hours and 50 minutes. It is considered to be a moderate trail due to the amount of mileage and elevation gain. While the hike had me breathing heavy a few times, it was easier than the Skyline Loop Trail mentioned above.

Now, let me tell you a bit about the trail and offer a few warnings (do not worry, nothing too intense). Overall, the trail winds through the mountains and valleys surrounding Mount Rainier. What does that mean? The views are truly never ending. You have a clear view of Mount Rainier, including some of its glaciers, for almost the entire trail. Once you reach the lookout, you can see Mount Rainier on one side and rolling mountains on the other.

Moving on to the warnings. First, the Sunrise section of Mount Rainier can be a bit chillier than the Paradise section. It is best to dress in layers to brace for the chill and also to remain comfortable while hiking. Second, it can be windy at the lookout. It was so windy that I was trying to find somewhere to hide from the wind. Not only was the wind beating against my back, but it was also making me cold. Third, the trail runs along the edge of a hill close to the lookout. It is not a complete drop off, but it still might make you a bit anxious if you have a fear of heights.

Mount Fremont Fire Lookout in front of Mount Rainier

Tolmie Peak Trail

The Tolmie Peak Trail is located in the Carbon River and Mowich Lake section of Mount Rainier. For reference, the Carbon River and Mowich Lake area lies in the northwestern section of the park. The trailhead is just over a two-hour drive from downtown Seattle. Plan a day trip, plan a weekend trip, plan a week-long trip. No matter what, this trail should be on your itinerary.

One important thing to note is that the road to the trailhead closes in the winter season. The park does not provide exact dates because the closure depends on weather conditions. Nevertheless, you can estimate that the road will close in late October and reopen in late June.

Information – Tolmie Peak Trail

The Tolmie Peak Trail is a 5.6 mile (~nine kilometer) out and back trail with approximately 1,555 feet (~474 meters) in elevation gain. An average hiker can complete the trail in three hours and 15 minutes. It is considered to be a moderate trail as the elevation gain is spread out over a couple of miles as the trail winds up the mountain. Nevertheless, this is still not a hike where I would want to be carting up children in one of those kid backpacks.

I am sure you can guess the highlight of the trail – Tolmie Peak Fire Lookout. Once you reach the lookout, you can enjoy panoramic views of your surroundings. But what are those surroundings? Let me draw a picture for you. You just reached the lookout after a challenging hike and now have stunning views of Mount Rainier with a bright blue lake just below it. I know, it is hard to imagine because how can you imagine something that beautiful? Sometimes you just need to go see for yourself in person.

Unfortunately I did not complete this hike myself as I had just recently been diagnosed with patellar tendonitis. Hiking for a week in Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier National Parks really did a number on my knee. (But I do not regret the intense hiking – just take a look at the Avalanche Lake Trail in Glacier, and you will understand). However, my partner hiked the trail for sunset and came home gushing all about it.

View from the top of Tolmie Peak at sunset

6) Best Hikes in Olympic National Park

Here we go, the last category for the best hikes near Seattle! Do not worry, we are not slowing down at the end. In fact, this section might just have one of the most famous hikes out of this entire list in the Hall of Mosses Trail. Moreover, we are rounding out all of the national parks near Seattle. We already hit the North Cascades and Mount Rainier, so let us dive into Olympic National Park.

Additionally, keep in mind there is an entrance fee for the park at $30 per private vehicle. However, if you plan to visit Olympic National Park plus one of the other parks mentioned above, maybe it is time to consider a national park annual pass. Otherwise, you can always head to the park on a fee-free day.

Hall of Mosses Trail

We are starting off strong with the Hall of Mosses Trail. Or, as my partner mistakenly called it, the Hall of Moses Trail. If you hike any trail in Olympic National Park, it should be this one. Unfortunately, this trail is a bit further out than most of the trails mentioned above. It is just over a four-hour drive northwest from downtown Seattle. Nevertheless, it still makes the list of the best hikes near Seattle as you could visit on a day trip if you really wanted. Moreover, this might surprise you, but the best season to visit is winter. Yes, it might be chilly. Yes, it might rain. BUT the winter season is when the vegetation is the most lush.

Information – Hall of Mosses Trail

The Hall of Mosses Trail is a 1.1 mile (~1.8 kilometer) out and back trail with approximately 80 feet (~24 meters) in elevation gain. An average hiker can complete the trail in approximately 25 minutes. It is considered to be an easy trail due to the short length and minimal elevation gain. An easy trail with peaceful moments where you are surrounded by 50 shades of green. What more could you ask for?

One important thing to note is that the vast majority of the trail is one-way. Therefore, be sure to start the trail in the correct direction and to take your time along the trail. Otherwise, you will have to go back to the entrance and do it all again if you felt as though you missed something the first time around. There are a few short, side trails here and there along the trail. Go down them all! Most of them lead to viewing areas where some of the most beautiful and lush trees are located.

Moreover, the Hall of Mosses Trail lies within the Hoh Rain Forest, which receives around 140 inches (~3.55 meters) of rainfall per year. To put that in perspective, Seattle receives approximately 39 inches (~one meter) of rainfall per year. You read that right. The Hoh Rain Forest receives almost four times the amount of rainfall that Seattle receives per year. And you thought your city was rainy!

All of that rain produces the beauty that you can then enjoy along the trail – maple trees completely covered in moss.

Getting lost in the forest along the Hall of Mosses Trail

Sol Duc Falls Trail – Best Hikes Near Seattle

The Sol Duc Falls Trail is arguably the second-best waterfall trail in Olympic National Park. This trail is a bit closer to downtown Seattle than the Hall of Mosses Trail mentioned above. It is a three hour and 30 minute drive northwest from downtown Seattle. That being said, it is even more reasonable to do this hike within a day trip from the city.

I did not need much convincing to add this hike to my itinerary. What can I say, I am a sucker for waterfall hikes. For example, the Running Eagle Falls Trail in Glacier National Park or the Skógafoss Waterfall Trail in Iceland.

Information – Sol Duc Falls Trail

The Sol Duc Falls Trail is a 1.8 mile (~2.9 kilometer) out and back trail with approximately 260 feet (~79 meters) in elevation gain. An average hiker can complete the trail in approximately 50 minutes. It is considered to be an easy trail as it does not have too much elevation gain compared to its mileage. This might be a good trail to consider conquering with the family, in addition to the Hall of Mosses Trail mentioned above.

As you hike to the main attraction of the trail, the waterfall, do not forget to appreciate the beauty all around you. Sometimes we rush through a hike to get to the “highlight”, but in reality there are highlights of the trail all around us. For example, the trail winds through a beautiful and serene forest. I found that pictures did not accurately capture the beauty that my eyes were witnessing.

Once you reach Sol Duc Falls, the best viewing spot in my opinion is on the bridge right in front of the falls. It is here that you can see the falls in all of their glory as well as power. Moreover, turn around to the other side of the bridge to see the gorge disappearing into the lush vegetation and forest in the distance.

Sol Duc Falls with slight traces of fall colors

Marymere Falls + Mount Storm King Trail

I mentioned above that the Sol Duc Falls Trail is generally considered the second-best waterfall trail in Olympic National Park. The Marymere Falls + Mount Storm King Trail takes the crown for the number one best waterfall trail in the park. And come on, I know you are not yet tired of hearing about the best waterfall hikes near Seattle.

The trailhead for the hike is approximately a three-hour drive northwest of downtown Seattle. If you are making the trek over here, I recommend you try to complete one or both of the hikes mentioned above as well. Make the drive worth it!

Information – Marymere Falls + Mount Storm King Trail

The Marymere Falls + Mount Storm King Trail is a 5.3 mile (~8.5 kilometer) out and back trail with approximately 2,400 feet (~731 meters) in elevation gain. An average hiker can complete the trail in approximately two hours and 30 minutes. It is considered to be a challenging trail due to the large amount of elevation gain. Unfortunately I could not hike this trail as my patellar tendonitis was acting up, but I urged my partner to go on without me. At least I can live vicariously through his photos.

Marymere Falls stands at a towering 90.5 feet (~27.6 meters) tall. If you want to see the waterfall but are not sure about completing the entire hike, then I have a solution for you. The waterfall is only one mile into the hike, and there is minimal elevation gain. You can thus always turn around after Marymere Falls and call it a day.

If you decide to continue, you will be graced with the beauty of Mount Storm King. Well, most likely. It is possible that fog will block your view at the top of the mountain. Nevertheless, sometimes life is all about taking risks. For those that enjoy the view at the top, they say the hike plus the risk was worth it as they marvel at the lake below.

One important thing to note – the last quarter mile of the trail is not maintained. The trail is steep and there are sections where you will need to use ropes to climb upward.

Bit of a foggy view at the top of Mount Storm King

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