10 amazing hikes to check out near Seattle before summer ends
As summer slowly winds down, it’s time to plan a classic PNW hikes near Seattle before the cold weather and rain! And we are lucky, Washington has so many hiking trails to check out. Don’t know where to start? We’ve rounded up our top picks! Here are some amazing hikes to take near Seattle before the end of summer.
Discovery Park
Starting locally, at Discovery Park the walking trails are great for those of us who can’t get out of the city. You can go for a walk on the beach, through the forest and if you know where to look you might even find some sand dunes. Being on Magnolia Bluff overlooking Puget Sound, Discovery Park also has spectacular views!
Where: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd, Seattle, WA 98199
Snoqualmie Falls
It’s an oldie but a goodie. This waterfall is classic and well known to most Seattlites considering that it is one of the closest major waterfalls to Seattle. Whether you know it from being an avid Twin Peaks fan or from the resort at the lodge, it’s well worth a visit.
Where: 37451 SE Fish Hatchery Rd
Turtleback Mountain Preserve
We are extremely lucky to have the beautiful islands that surround our state. If you find that you’ll be spending some time on Orcas Island, we highly recommend checking out Turtleback Mountain Preserve. While hiking through the preserve you can enjoy some of the best views in the San Juan Islands.
Where: Orcas Island, WA
Robe Canyon Historic Trail
According to Snohomish County, the mile-long trail from the road to the river offers a breathtaking view of Robe Canyon. Keep in mind, the return hike can be a challenge.
Where: Mountain Loop Highway, Granite Falls, WA
Tommy Thompson Trail
This one is pretty unique because it’s not really a hike. But it is worth checking out due to its main feature, a unique bridge path that extends out over the shores of Fidalgo Bay. If you’re looking for more of a road trip and a nice walk after sitting in the car, this is definitely for you.
Where: Anacortes, WA
Kalaloch
Olympic National Park is worth visiting year-round and while the park is huge, we like the Kalaloch area. You can explore the coastline and see all kinds of ocean wildlife. According to Olympic National Park, the Kalaloch Nature Trail is a 1.0 mile easy loop through coastal forest, with stairs and elevation change less than 40 feet.
Where: Olympic National Park
Echo Mountain & Spring Lake
Echo Mountain provides you with trails, as well as both mountain, and lake views. It doesn’t get much better than that if you ask us. Not to mention, it’s on the easier side so you don’t have to worry about being sore for days afterward.
Where: Near Renton, WA
Dash Point State Park
This shoreside state park has 11 miles of hiking trails as well as bike trails. You can walk through the forests, comb the beaches and do some bird watching if that’s your thing. There’s truly something for everyone here.
Where: Dash Point State Park, 5700 SW Dash Point Road, Federal Way, WA
Myrtle
If you want the most bang for your travel, heading to Mount Rainier is a great spot to see waterfalls and get a walk in. The park is full of them and Myrtle Falls is easily accessible while still being extremely beautiful. So this one is a must if you’re already planning on heading to the park.
Where: Paradise Area, Mount Rainier National Park
Palouse Falls State Park
Speaking of falls, Palouse Falls State Park Heritage Site “is a 94-acre day use park with dramatic views of the official state waterfall.” And while it’s a trek to get there, it’s absolutely worth it. Of note: Parking at Palouse Falls State Park is extremely limited and you can expect long waits to enter on weekends and holidays, as per the State Park.
Where: Palouse Falls Rd, LaCrosse, WA
If you do go out hiking this summer, just remember to be extra prepared, follow park signs, and pack your water. With that, enjoy and stay safe!
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