Look, it’s cold, it’s winter, the idea of going outside is not ideal, we get it. But that being said, if you are going to get out in the world you might as well go big. Why not take a hike? Washington has a ton of them and we’ve found some of the best to help you have the most memorable winter yet.
Here are 15 gorgeous winter hikes near Seattle to check out this year.
Green Mountain
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Green Mountain is an easy choice as it’s relatively close to the city and it happens to be on the easier side so people of all hiking abilities can check it out. Plus it’s very likely that you’ll get to see some snow and who can say no to that?
Where: Olympic Peninsula, Hood Canal
Length: 5 miles roundtrip
Mount Rainier
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Washington’s most iconic mountain also happens to be a great place to hike in the winter. With tons of amazing trails to choose from you’ll have no shortage of hikes to enjoy. And if you really know what you’re doing you can enjoy some backcountry skiing.
Where: Mount Rainier National Park
Length: Varies on trail
Evans Creek Preserve
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For those of you who want something beautiful, accessible, and on the easy side, Evans Creek is perfect. This hike or walk is actually an old 179-acre old farmstead off the Redmond-Fall City Road. So you can enjoy about 2 miles of trails and also a variety of habitats.
Location: City of Sammamish
Length: 2.0 miles roundtrip
Beckler Peak
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If you want to get a bit higher you can check out Beckler Peak which will give you about 2200 feet of elevation. From the top, you’ll be able to enjoy some snow as well as views of Glacier Peak, Evergreen Mountain, and the Monte Cristo range. If you want a hike with views this is a great option.
Location: Central Cascades, Stevens Pass
Length: 7.6 miles roundtrip
Deception Pass
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In need of some glorious water views? You can’t go wrong with Deception Pass. Whether you’re wandering the tree-covered trails, walking the high bridge, or combing the beach, there’s something for everyone. It also happens to be highly accessible and close to the city.
Location: Deception Pass State Park
Length: Varies
Cougar Mountain
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There’s a reason why this spot is so popular and it’s because it has so many hiking trails to check out and it’s quite close to the city. Not to mention you can see views of Mount Rainier, waterfalls, and tons of ferns. Trust us, a trail hike on Cougar Mountain is well worth it.
Location: Issaquah Alps, Cougar Mountain
Length: 4 miles roundtrip
Cedar and Pine Lakes
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Lakes are a great hiking destination no matter what time of year. So if you happen to live up North or are planning on heading to the Bellingham area be sure to check out Cedar and Pine Lakes. This hike will take you by two lakes and also give you views of Mount Baker and the Puget Sound.
Location: Bellingham Area
Length: 5 miles roundtrip
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Oyster Dome
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If you’re looking for something more difficult with a rewarding end then you should consider Oyster Dome. It’s located in Bow so you’ll be near Bellingham. And while the hike up may be grueling, once you get to the top, the views you see will be well worth it.
Where: Blanchard State Forest
Length: 5 miles round trip
Lake Wenatchee State Park
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Lake Wenatchee is a prime spot to try new things. The 492-acre camping park has 12,623 feet of waterfront on glacier-fed Lake Wenatchee and the Wenatchee River. You can hike, camp, ride horses and swim if you’re feeling extremely brave.
Location: Lake Wenatchee State Park
Length: Varies
Lower Big Quilcene
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If you’re up for snowshoeing and a bit of drive then this hike is well worth it. You get to see beautiful old-growth trees as well as a 30 food bridge built by WTA volunteers. But if you decide to add this one to your list be sure to check conditions before heading out.
Location: Olympic Peninsula, Hood Canal
Mileage: 12.9 miles, roundtrip
Skookum Flats
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If you feel like heading all the way up to Mount Rainier then you should check out Skookum Flats. This trail gives you beautiful river views and takes you through old-growth forests. Plus you get views of Skookum Falls after a few miles. And heading up to the mountain is always fun.
Location: Mount Rainier, Highway 410
Mileage: 11 miles roundtrip
Franklin Falls
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Waterfalls are spectacular in their own right but how about frozen waterfalls? Franklin Falls is great for enjoying year-round but winter has to be the best time to visit it. See water stopped in time and experience a true wonder of nature.
Location: Snoqualmie Pass
Length: 2 miles roundtrip
Whatcom Falls Park
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On the topic of bridges, you can also check out an amazing late 1930s bridge built by the WPA at Whatcom Falls. And this can either be a short and sweet trip by just checking out the bridge view or walking down to explore. The choice is yours.
Location: Puget Sound, Bellingham Area
Mileage: 4 miles roundtrip
Snoqualmie Falls
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Of course, a list of winter hikes near Seattle wouldn’t be complete without the iconic Snoqualmie Falls. The falls are beautiful year-round and who doesn’t want to relive a bit of Twin Peaks? Plus they’re pretty dang easy to get to and very rewarding to check out.
Location: Snoqualmie Pass, North Bend Area
Mileage: 3 miles roundtrip
Cowiche Mountain Trail
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This one is a bit more out of the way but it’s well worth checking out. This trail is located on Snow Mountain Ranch. So you’ll be able to see relics of the old cattle ranch as well as opportunities to see some amazing wildlife. It’s a great way to see one of Washington’s more unique landscapes.
Location: Central Washington, Spokane
Length: 7 miles, roundtrip
Now before we get chewed out for some of the hikes that are a few hours away, near is relative, and getting out of the house is good and good for you. So grab your gear, bring extra layers, plenty of water, and food, and enjoy a gorgeous winter hike. You won’t regret it.
