Seattle offers an enticing gateway to some of the Northwest’s finest hiking experiences. Just beyond the city limits, trails range from easy walks through lush, moss-draped forests to challenging ascents rewarding hikers with expansive mountain and water views. Whether you’re a casual walker or a seasoned trekker, hiking near Seattle delivers a practical and invigorating outdoor escape.

Key hiking spots like Rattlesnake Ledge offer a 4-mile round trip trail with a 1,160-foot elevation gain, bringing hikers face-to-face with a rock outcropping overlooking a bright blue reservoir daring you onward. For longer adventures, Mount Si’s 8-mile climb tests endurance but pushes hikers through dense firs and towering cedars to a summit commanding sweeping views of the Cascade Mountains.

The Mt. Rainier foothills add variety, with routes featuring varied terrain—from root-laced forest floors to slippery granite slabs. Each trail carries a character of its own: rivers rush alongside, challenging your pace, while ancient trees stand firm, witnessing your effort.

Preparing for these hikes means thoughtful planning. Sturdy footwear with good traction is a must, especially on steeper or damp trails. Bring layered clothing as weather can shift rapidly, particularly higher up. Carry enough water to stay hydrated, given that many trails lack reliable springs or filling stations. Start early to avoid peak crowds and give yourself plenty of daylight for return.

Overall, hiking near Seattle invites you to engage with a land fiercely itself—open, inviting, yet commanding respect. Trails challenge and refresh, each step a balance between effort and the reward of fresh air, green shade, and wide views.

Explore Seattle’s hiking scene to discover a balance of adventure and accessibility, where the trails are waiting—and the wilderness calls.