Hiking Trails in Seattle with Scenic Lookouts

Seattle, nestled between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, is not only a hub for tech and coffee but also a paradise for hikers of all levels. The city and its surroundings boast a plethora of trails that offer breathtaking scenic lookouts, from sweeping vistas of the Olympic Mountains to panoramic views of the Cascade Range. Here, we explore some of the best hiking trails near Seattle that feature stunning scenic lookouts.

Discovery Park Loop Trail

• Location: Discovery Park, Seattle
• Distance: 2.8 miles
• Level of Difficulty: Easy
• Interesting Facts: Discovery Park is Seattle's largest city park, offering over 11 miles of walking trails. The Loop Trail, in particular, provides hikers with beautiful views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. The park is also home to the historic West Point Lighthouse.
• What to Know: The Loop Trail includes a section of beach that can be inaccessible at high tide, so check tide tables before you go.
• Directions: Discovery Park is located within Seattle, making it easily accessible by car or public transportation with no significant driving required.

Rattlesnake Ledge

• Location: North Bend, WA
• Distance: 4 miles round trip
• Level of Difficulty: Moderate
• Interesting Facts: Rattlesnake Ledge offers one of the most rewarding views for the effort in the Seattle area. The trailhead is just a 30-minute drive from Seattle, making it a popular spot for both sunrise and sunset hikes.
• What to Know: The trail can get very crowded, especially on weekends. Plan to hike early in the morning or on a weekday if possible.
• Directions: From Seattle, take I-90 East to exit 32 for 436th Ave SE. Turn right onto 436th Ave SE, which becomes Cedar Falls Rd SE. Continue straight to the Rattlesnake Lake parking area.

Mount Si

• Location: North Bend, WA
• Distance: 8 miles round trip
• Level of Difficulty: Strenuous
• Interesting Facts: Mount Si is a classic hike in the Seattle area, offering a challenging ascent with a payoff of spectacular views of the Snoqualmie Valley, Seattle skyline, and Mount Rainier. It's estimated that over 100,000 people hike Mount Si each year.
• What to Know: A Discover Pass is required for parking at the trailhead. The last mile to the top is particularly steep.
• Directions: From Seattle, take I-90 East to exit 32. Turn left onto 436th Ave SE, then left again onto SE North Bend Way. Turn right onto SE Mt. Si Road, and the trailhead will be on your left.

Poo Poo Point

• Location: Issaquah, WA
• Distance: 7.2 miles round trip (Chirico Trail) / 3.8 miles round trip (High School Trail)
• Level of Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
• Interesting Facts: Poo Poo Point offers stunning views of Lake Sammamish, Bellevue, and the Cascade Mountains. It's also a popular spot for paragliders to take off.
• What to Know: There are two main trails to reach the point: the shorter, steeper High School Trail and the longer, more gradual Chirico Trail.
• Directions: For the Chirico Trail, drive east on I-90 to exit 17 for Front St and continue to the paraglider landing field parking lot on the left. For the High School Trail, continue on Front St, turn left on 2nd Ave, which becomes Issaquah-Hobart Rd, then left on SE 104th St to the trailhead.

Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking to explore the natural beauty around Seattle, these trails offer something for everyone. Remember to pack plenty of water, dress in layers, and leave no trace to preserve these beautiful areas for future generations.