What’s a better way to ring in fall in the PNW than with some hikes? You can take in breathtaking views, stretch your legs and enjoy some fresh, unadulterated air. Best of all, these spots are all within an hour or two of Seattle.
Here are 10 easy autumn hikes with amazing views near Seattle.
Evans Creek Preserve
For those of you who want something beautiful, accessible, and easy, Evans Creek is perfect. This hike or walk is actually an old 179-acre old farmstead off the Redmond-Fall City Road. That means you can enjoy about 2 miles of trails, a variety of habitats and of course some autumn colours.
Location: City of Sammamish
Length: 2.0 miles roundtrip
Cougar Mountain
It’s a local classic for a good reason, Cougar Mountain has tons of hiking options to check out and it’s just outside of Seattle. Not to mention you can see views of Mount Rainier, waterfalls, and all that fall goodness. Trust us, a trail hike on Cougar Mountain is well worth it.
Location: Issaquah Alps, Cougar Mountain
Length: Varies on trail
Cedar River Trail
If you’re looking for a stroll you can’t go wrong with 24-acre Cedar River Trail. The park is a great spot for viewing birds of all species and see the annual salmon migration into the Cedar River watershed. It’s a great place to witness nature doing what it does best in autumn.
Location: 1060 Nishiwaki Ln, Renton, WA
Length: 17 miles one way
Ira Spring Trail and Mason Lake
North Bend is one of the classic places to do some autumn hikes near Seattle. Ira Spring Trail which ends at Mason Lake is a beautiful spot to enjoy a moderate hike and take in the views. If you get really lucky you might just catch a glimpse of Mount Rainier!
Location: Ira Spring Memorial Trail, North Bend, WA
Length: 6.5 miles round trip
Discovery Park
It’s a no brainier but don’t sleep on Discovery Park. This local park has tons of hiking trails, is highly accessible, and will give you all the fall vibes and views you crave without venturing out of the city. Stick to the forested trails, enjoy the old buildings of Fort Lawton or head down to the beach.
Location: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd
Length: Varies on trail
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Washington Park Arboretum
Another local park that might not immediately come to mind when you think of hiking is the Arboretum. This local park is a great place to enjoy an easy stroll and also take in autumn views. You can enjoy the main park itself, adventure on Foster Island, or head over towards Madison Park for more of a neighborhood adventure.
Location: 2300 Arboretum Dr E
Length: Varies on trail
Gold Creek Pond
This highly accessible hike is located at Washington’s scenic Snoqualmie pass. It’s a great hike for folks of all ages who want to see the pass change colors and also a great leg stretching location if you’re on a longer drive in the area. Keep in mind that the area has different access requirements when snow is present.
Location: Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest
Length: 1-mile round trip
Mount Rainier
Why not visit Washington’s most iconic mountain at one of the most scenic times of the year? It may be a bit of a drive but there are plenty of ways to explore the mountain. You can pick a shorter trail or even spend a few days here, just be sure to come prepared.
Location: Mount Rainier National Park
Length: Varies on trail
Iron Goat Trail
Once the site of one of the nation’s worst railroad disasters, Iron Goat Trail is now a beautiful and heavily trafficked hiking area. This trail is on the moderate side with some steeper switchbacks but it’s well worth it for the views. Not to mention you also take a peek at the now abandoned train tunnels.
Location: Mount Baker Snoqualmie National Forest
Length: 6 miles roundtrip
Perry Creek
This moderate hike is one of those hikes that really has it all. Not only is Perry Creek absolutely stunning but it’s also home to 250 different species of plant life. Take in waterfalls, lakes, autumn colors and so much more on this hike.
Location: North Cascades, Mountain Loop Highway
Length: 10.5 miles roundtrip
The next day that you have some free time, consider treating yourself and some friends to a beautiful autumn hike near Seattle. Keep in mind, there’s also a free State Parks Day this October.
It should go without saying but be sure to be prepared when heading out for a hike. Bring water, food, and extra layers as well as a companion or two.
With that, have fun out there, stay safe and happy fall!
