Seattle's Best Easy Hiking Trails: Your Expert Guide to Exploring the Outdoors Near the Emerald City

Seattle is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, surrounded by lush forests, serene lakes, and breathtaking views of the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges. If you're looking to enjoy the natural beauty in and around Seattle without committing to a strenuous hike, you're in luck. This guide features some of the best hiking trails that are approximately 4 miles in length and cater to beginners and those seeking a leisurely outdoor experience. Each trail offers unique features, history, and tips to make your visit memorable.

---

1. Discovery Park Loop Trail

Overview

Discovery Park is Seattle's largest green space, spanning over 500 acres in the Magnolia neighborhood. Its Loop Trail is a well-maintained, 2.8-mile loop that can be extended to approximately 4 miles with side trails to scenic viewpoints. This easy path offers spectacular views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and Mount Rainier on clear days, along with the chance to experience old-growth forests, open meadows, and coastal beaches—all within city limits.

Why You’ll Love It

• Views: The trail provides incredible lookouts over the iconic West Point Lighthouse and the waters of Elliott Bay.
• Wildlife: Keep an eye out for bald eagles, great blue herons, and seals in the nearby Sound.
• Cultural History: Discovery Park occupies the former Fort Lawton site, a military base established in the late 1800s. You’ll pass remnants of this historical site along the way.

What to Know

• Parking: Free parking is available at the Visitor Center (3801 Discovery Park Blvd). Arrive early on weekends, as this is one of Seattle’s most popular parks.
• Terrain: The trail is well-marked and mostly flat, with slight inclines. Comfortable walking shoes are more than sufficient.
• Trail Extensions: For a longer hike, explore the side paths down to the beach area, which may add an additional mile or so to your outing.

Getting There

From downtown Seattle, drive approximately 15 minutes via Elliott Ave W and 15th Ave W to reach Discovery Park. Public transit is also available by taking Metro Bus Route 33.

---

2. Carkeek Park—Piper’s Creek Trail

Overview

Carkeek Park, located in the northern Ballard/Crown Hill area of Seattle, combines forested trails, beach access, and urban streams. The Piper’s Creek Trail winds for 3.5 miles through gentle woodland terrain and is ideal for all ages.

Highlights

• Salmon Viewing: Visit in late fall to watch salmon returning to Piper’s Creek to spawn. Interpretive signs explain the lifecycle and the habitat restoration work in progress.
• Play Areas: Families will love the play structure near the parking area, making this a great pick if you're visiting with kids.
• Beach: After your hike, spend time at the park’s beach for views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.

Important Tips

• Dogs are welcome but must be leashed.
• Plan for an additional mile of walking if you include exploring the streamside detours or low-tide beach areas.
• Carkeek Park offers picnic shelters and restrooms, perfect for post-hike relaxation.

Getting There

Drive 20 minutes north from downtown Seattle via Aurora Ave N (Highway 99). Once at the park, parking is free.

---

3. Seward Park Loop Trail

Overview

Seward Park, located in South Seattle, is home to a magnificent 2.4-mile paved loop trail that encircles the peninsula jutting into Lake Washington. You can add small detours on dirt paths through the forested interior of the park to create a 4-mile route. The trail offers serene water views and is accessible throughout the year.

What Makes It Unique

• Old-Growth Forest: Seward Park contains one of the last remaining pockets of old-growth forest within city boundaries, including massive Douglas fir and Western red cedar trees.
• Water Recreation: The park also boasts a swimming beach, boat launch, and walking access to nearby marina sights.
• Wildlife: Ducks, geese, and bald eagles are commonly sighted.

Visitor Tips

• Restrooms are located near the parking lot.
• For early risers, sunrise over Lake Washington from the east side of the loop is stunning.
• Consider combining a morning hike with brunch at nearby eateries in Columbia City.

Driving Directions

Seward Park is about 20 minutes southeast of downtown Seattle via I-5 South and S Genesee St. Public transit options include King County Metro Route 50.

---

4. Twin Falls Trail

Overview

Located 35 minutes east of Seattle near North Bend, the Twin Falls Trail in Olallie State Park offers a 3.6-mile route leading to striking waterfalls. While it’s slightly outside Seattle, the drive is well worth it for the scenic beauty. This hike is beginner-friendly with only a modest incline.

Highlights

• Waterfall Views: Two gorgeous cascading waterfalls await you, and the viewing platforms provide stellar opportunities for photos.
• Unique Wooden Bridges: A series of picturesque bridges enhance the experience, offering close-up views of the rushing South Fork Snoqualmie River.
• Proximity to Other Trails: If you want to extend your day, nearby trails in the Snoqualmie Region offer diverse options.

Need-to-Know Info

• Washington State’s Discover Pass is required for parking.
• The trail is popular, so weekdays or early mornings are the best times to visit.
• The ground can get slippery near the falls—wear sturdy, traction-friendly footwear.

Getting There

From Seattle, take I-90 East to Exit 34 and follow SE 159th St to reach the trailhead. Parking fees apply.

---

5. Coal Creek Trail

Overview

For an easy hike with a touch of history, the Coal Creek Trail in Bellevue offers a fascinating look into the area’s coal-mining past. This 4-mile out-and-back trail meanders through lush greenery, crossing small creeks and giving hikers glimpses of old mining artifacts, like carts and stove tunnels.

Key Features

• Historical Sites: Interpretative signage explains Coal Creek’s role in the mid-19th-century coal mining boom.
• Quiet Refuge: Despite being located in the city of Bellevue, this trail feels secluded and tranquil.
• Year-Round Accessibility: Thanks to its low elevation and forest cover, the trail remains open and enjoyable in all seasons.

Helpful Details

• Restrooms are unavailable at the trailhead, so plan accordingly.
• While still considered easy, some sections can get muddy during rainy months.
• Dogs are welcome on leash.

Directions

Drive 20 minutes east from Seattle via I-90 E to reach the Coal Creek Natural Area trailhead off Coal Creek Parkway SE.

---

Each of these trails offers a perfect combination of ease, scenery, and accessibility, making them excellent introductions to the outdoors for beginners or casual hikers. Be sure to bring water, wear comfortable footwear, and always practice Leave No Trace principles to keep these trails pristine for future visitors. With its blend of urban and natural landscapes, Seattle truly offers some of the best hiking opportunities for every level.