Seattle, Washington
Easy Hikes
Near Seattle
Five day-trip trails within an hour of the city.
All Seattle Things to Do →beExploring / Seattle
Overview
Seattle's proximity to mountains and forests means there are plenty of easy hikes within a short drive of the city. Nearby state parks like Saint Edwards and Twin Falls offer great trails with modest mileage, while Cougar Mountain has a vast trail network with something for every level.
The five hikes below are all within about an hour of Seattle and range from short waterfall walks to longer forested loops. Some require a Discover Pass for parking — check the notes for each hike before you go.
Twin Falls
Why Go
Top of the list for easy hikes near Seattle. The trail follows the South Fork of the Snoqualmie River through old-growth Douglas fir and ends at a 132-foot waterfall, all in under 3 miles and about 30 minutes from Seattle. Extend the hike by crossing Twin Falls Bridge to view additional waterfalls upstream. The parking lot fills early on weekends — arrive before 9am or go on a weekday.
Statistics
- Length: 2.6 mi round trip
- Elevation Gain: 500 ft
Cougar Mountain — Red Town Trail
Why Go
A 3,000-acre park with four trailheads and an extensive trail network. The Red Town Trail is wide and relatively flat, ideal for all ages and abilities. Numerous intersecting trails create loop options; Coal Creek Falls is a popular destination via Indian and Quarry Trails off Red Town. The Red Town Trailhead has a large parking lot that fills up on nice-weather weekends, but every trail is clearly signed.
Statistics
- Length: 2.5 mi round trip
- Elevation Gain: 200 ft
Saint Edward State Park
Why Go
Many trails of varying lengths and difficulty, with several descending to Lake Washington and converging at Saint Edward Beach. The Beach Trail is a standout, paralleling the lake with multiple spots to step off and enjoy the water. Various trails can be combined into a loop. The Lodge at Saint Edwards — a converted seminary now housing a hotel, restaurant, and bars — provides the main parking area.
Statistics
- Length: 3.5 mi loop
- Elevation Gain: 400 ft
Shoreview and Boeing Creek Parks
Why Go
Located just north of Seattle with several short loop trails. The Boeing Creek Loop Trail follows its namesake creek and includes a couple of small waterfalls (note: washed out in a couple places). The Hidden Lake Loop Trail passes a pond aptly called Hidden Lake. Good access from NW 175th Street with parallel parking available on the street.
Statistics
- Length: 2.5 mi loop
- Elevation Gain: 150 ft
Franklin Falls
Why Go
2.5 miles roundtrip and 400 feet of elevation gain to a 70-foot waterfall less than an hour from Seattle. Very popular on nice weekends — the large parking lot often fills before lunch. The last stretch to the falls requires descending a rock ledge that is often wet and slippery, so worth noting for younger kids. No pass required for parking.
Statistics
- Length: 2.5 mi round trip
- Elevation Gain: 400 ft
beExploring / Seattle
Planning Tips
Twin Falls and Franklin Falls are extremely popular — both parking lots fill before noon on nice summer weekends. Arrive early or go on weekdays.
Twin Falls and Saint Edward State Park require a Discover Pass or paid day pass for parking. Cougar Mountain, Shoreview/Boeing Creek, and Franklin Falls are free to park.
Cougar Mountain Red Town Trail is the best option for families or beginners. Wide, flat, and well-signed with loop options at whatever distance you want.
The waterfall hikes (Twin Falls, Franklin Falls) are best in spring and early summer when flow is highest. Cougar Mountain and Shoreview/Boeing Creek are good year-round.
beExploring / Seattle
More Seattle Guides
More outdoor options in and around Seattle.
beExploring / Seattle
