Top 14 Hiking Adventures in Redmond, Washington
Redmond's hiking scene is compact but richly varied: wide, paved river corridors for easy family outings; singletrack and ridge scrambles in the low Cascade foothills for runners and day hikers; and urban greenways that thread neighborhoods into parks and lakes. This guide curates the best hikes inside and just beyond city limits—walks for sunrise, loops for dog-owners, and longer out-and-back routes that open to forested overlooks and quiet creeks.
Top Hiking Trips in Redmond
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Why Redmond Is a Standout Hiking Destination
Redmond sits at a comfortable intersection: suburban streets give way to river corridors, pocket parks, and the gentle first rises of the Cascade foothills. That geographic transition creates a hiking palette that appeals to a wide range of walkers—parents pushing strollers on flat, paved greenways; trail-runners hunting for technical singletrack; and day hikers seeking the quiet of mossy second-growth forest without a long drive. Marymoor Park anchors the city's outdoor life, a huge urban green space with riverside loops and access to the Sammamish River Trail, a multi-use corridor that runs like an open artery through the region. From there, well-signed links push into Idylwood and the small but characterful ridgelines that form Redmond’s backyard.
Beyond accessibility, Redmond's trails are shaped by water: creeks thread through old industrial land, wetlands bloom with migratory birds, and the Sammamish River widens into slow, reflective channels that are as much habitat as recreation corridor. Hikers here witness seasonal shifts in intimate ways—dogwoods and cherry trees in spring, a dense green canopy in summer, and a quieter, rain-sketched world in the shoulder seasons. For those who want longer days, the city's trail network connects to larger systems—Tiger and Cougar Mountain are a short drive away—so a Redmond-based trip can easily combine mellow river walking with full-sun ridge miles or mountain summit objectives.
Culturally, Redmond balances tech-era energy with community outdoor programming. Local trail stewards, volunteer groups, and the city parks department maintain a surprising variety of routes and amenities: dog parks, trailheads with parking, bike-friendly surfaces, and interpretive signage about local ecology. That infrastructure makes planning straightforward—no major permit bureaucracy for day hiking inside city limits—and it opens space for complementary activities. Pair a morning hike with an afternoon paddle on Lake Sammamish, or bookend a forest run with a coffee in downtown Redmond. The result is a place where short trips feel rich and longer outings are approachable, a gateway for urban residents who want nature within reach.
The spectrum of trail types is the draw: paved river trails for easy fitness walks, shaded creek loops for families, and short ridge climbs that offer the sensation of wilderness without long approaches.
Seasonal variety changes the mood—early spring floods flush waterfalls and migratory birds; summer brings long green-canopied days; fall colors and quieter winters reward early-morning solitude.
Best Time to Visit
Best Months
Weather Notes
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable hiking temperatures with lower precipitation in late spring. Summer brings long daylight and warm afternoons but occasional smoke from regional wildfires and late-afternoon showers. Winters are wet and cool—trails remain accessible but can be muddy and slippery; rare freezing spells create icy patches on exposed ridges.
Peak Season
Late spring through early fall (May–September) sees the highest local use, with weekends busiest at Marymoor and river-access trailheads.
Off-Season Opportunities
Winter and early spring provide solitude, migrating birdwatching, and dramatic water flows in creeks; bring traction and expect muddy conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need permits for most hikes?
No. Most day hikes and greenway walks within Redmond do not require permits. Regional trail systems outside city limits may have separate rules—check specific park pages before heading out.
Are trails dog-friendly?
Yes—many routes, including Marymoor Park and the Sammamish River Trail, are very dog-friendly. Dogs must follow local leash rules; several areas have off-leash dog parks nearby.
How do I get to trailheads without a car?
Some trailheads are reachable via King County Metro routes or by biking from downtown Redmond; however, many suburban trailheads are easiest to reach by car or bike. Look up transit connections in advance.
Choose Your Experience Level
Beginner
Flat, paved paths and short, shaded loops ideal for families, new hikers, and accessible outings.
- Sammamish River Trail riverside walk
- Marymoor Park loop and birding
- Idylwood Park short nature trails
Intermediate
Longer multi-use routes, gentle elevation gain, and mixed singletrack—good for half-day hikes and trail runs.
- Redmond Ridge singletrack loops
- Connectors to nearby Sammamish wetlands
- Out-and-back to local viewpoint ridges
Advanced
Steeper routes and longer days that may require navigation, stronger footing, and a higher fitness level; typically accessed with a short drive to nearby Cougar or Tiger Mountain systems.
- All-day ridge linkups into the Cascade foothills
- Technical singletrack segments on nearby climbs
- Long trail-run routes combining multiple preserves
Insider Tips & Local Knowledge
Check local trail reports and Marymoor Park notices before going; closures or maintenance work can change access. Respect leash rules and seasonal habitat protections.
Start early on weekends to secure parking at popular access points like Marymoor and the Sammamish River Trailheads. Bring layers—even milder days can feel cool in shaded forest corridors and near the river. Expect mud during and after rainy periods; gaiters are helpful in shoulder seasons. Combine a short Redmond hike with kayaking on Lake Sammamish or a post-hike coffee and snack in downtown Redmond to round out the day. If you want more solitude or steeper terrain, plan a quick drive to Cougar or Tiger Mountain where long, demanding routes await. Finally, volunteer trail days are common—participating is a great way to learn local route nuances while supporting trail maintenance.
What to Bring
Essential
- Sturdy trail shoes or hiking shoes (paved and singletrack options)
- Water and high-energy snacks
- Layered clothing and a lightweight rain shell
- Phone with downloaded trail map or a printed route
- Sun protection and insect repellent in warmer months
Recommended
- Trekking poles for steeper foothill descents
- Small first-aid kit and blister care
- Headlamp for early starts or late returns
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
Optional
- Binoculars for birding along the Sammamish River
- Light camera for riverscapes and fall color
- Microspikes for icy sections in rare winter freezes
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