Top Winter Hikes Near Seattle, Washington: Unforgettable Trails

Winters in Washington State can feel hard, with long, dark days that make you miss the summertime in the high mountains. When I first moved to Washington, I made it my goal to enjoy the winter season rather than dread it. Staying happy and sane during these months meant spending as much time outside as possible. For me, that meant exploring hiking trails, even in the colder months. In this post, I’ll share some of my favorite winter hiking trails in Washington State, all easily accessible from Seattle.

What Does “Near” Really Mean?

The term “near” can be subjective and often depends on how much time you have. For some, a 30-minute drive might feel near, while others might consider a 4-hour drive oneway still within reach. The hikes listed here cover a range of distances from the Seattle area, so you can pick one that suits your schedule. I’ve also grouped these hikes into different regions to help you jump ahead to the ones that interest you most. Whether you’re looking for a quick escape or a full-day adventure, there’s something for everyone.

Safety Tips for Winter Hiking

• Check Trail & Road Conditions: Always review trail reports and road conditions before heading out. Use reliable sources like the Washington Trails Association (WTA) and AllTrails for up-to-date trip reports and guides.
• Gear Up: Carry essential gear like snowshoes, microspikes, and avalanche safety equipment based on trail conditions.
• Avalanche Safety: Monitor avalanche conditions on the Northwest Avalanche Center website. Avoid avalanche-prone areas if there’s any risk, and never take your dog into these zones. Consider taking an Avalanche Safety Course.
• Be Prepared: Always pack the Ten Essentials for emergencies.
• Traction Matters: Bring microspikes on every winter hike to handle icy sections safely.

Leave No Trace Principles

1. Plan Ahead & Prepare: Always plan your trip ahead to ensure you’re ready for the conditions and have the right gear.
2. Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to established trails and camp on durable surfaces to protect natural spaces.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash and dispose of waste properly to keep the environment clean.
4. Leave What You Find: Avoid disturbing nature—leave rocks, plants, and artifacts as you find them.
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts: Use a camp stove instead of a campfire to minimize environmental impacts.
6. Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance and never feed them to respect wildlife.
7. Be Considerate of Others: Share the trails and be considerate of fellow hikers to ensure everyone enjoys the natural spaces.

Essential Gear for Winter Hiking

When preparing for a winter hike in Colorado, packing the right gear is crucial for both comfort and safety. Here’s a breakdown of what to bring:

1. Layers:
   • Base Layer Top and Base Layer Bottom to wick moisture.
   • Mid Layer Top and Mid Layer Bottom for added warmth.
   • Insulation Layer like a cozy down jacket.
   • Outer Shell Jacket and Outer Shell Pants to protect against wind and snow.
2. Footwear:
   • Sturdy Waterproof Hiking Boots for traction and warmth.
3. Accessories:
   • Backpack to carry your gear.
   • Hat or Beanie to keep your head warm.
   • Wool Socks for insulation.
   • Gloves and a Neck Gaiter to protect extremities.
   • Hand Warmers for extra comfort in freezing temperatures.
4. Gear:
   • Trekking Poles with Snow Baskets for stability.
   • Microspikes for icy trails.
   • Snowshoes if hiking in deep snow.
   • Sunscreen and Sunglasses to protect against sun glare.
   • Emergency Beacon for safety.
   • Headlamp for visibility in low light.
   • First Aid Kit for emergencies.
5. Navigation Tools:
   • AllTrails app for trail guidance.
   • Paper Maps and Compass as backups.
   • Portable Charger to keep devices powered.
6. Essentials:
   • Water in a durable Water Bottle.
   • Energy-boosting Snacks.
   • Emergency items like an Emergency Bivvy, Emergency Blanket, Swiss Army Knife, and Waterproof Matches.

Where to Stay for Washington Winter Hikes

• Leavenworth Cabin: This cabin is close to hikes in the Stevens Pass area and offers beautiful views of the region. Rates start at $147 per night.
• Cozy Snoqualmie Cabin: Perfect for hiking near Snoqualmie Pass, this cozy cabin is a great retreat. Rates start at $143 per night.
• Creekfront Mount Rainier Cabin: After a day of winter hiking at Mount Rainier, relax in this creekfront cabin. Rates start at $168 per night.
• Family-Friendly House: A 2-bedroom house ideal for small families or couples, it sleeps 5 and sits on a 1.5-acre lot, just minutes from the local grocery store. Rates start at $161 per night.
• Nisqually River House: This comfortable house along the Nisqually River bed sleeps six and features a fully equipped kitchen, fireplace, outdoor fire pit, and hot tub. Rates start at $222 per night.

Winter Hiking Trails Near Seattle, Washington

Rattlesnake Ledge

• Permit/Parking Pass/Fee Required: None
• Hike Length: 4.0 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 1,160 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash

Rattlesnake Ledge is a popular year-round hike, especially in winter and spring. The trail offers stunning views of the mountains in the distance, making it a great spot to dream about summer adventures. However, the trail can get icy, so bring microspikes for safety. It’s perfect for a quick after-work hike as the sun sets later in the day.

Tiger Mountain – West Tiger #3

• Permit/Parking Pass/Fee Required: Discover Pass
• Hike Length: 5.0 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 2,100 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate/Hard
• Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash

Tiger Mountain is a fantastic training hike with panoramic views of Mount Rainier, the Olympics, Mount Baker, and even the city of Seattle. On a clear day, the views are breathtaking. Be prepared for snow at the top during winter, and don’t forget your microspikes. This hike is also great for those preparing for a thru-hike, like the Continental Divide Trail.

Teneriffe Falls

• Permit/Parking Pass/Fee Required: Discover Pass
• Hike Length: 5.6 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 1,600 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate/Hard
• Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash

Teneriffe Falls is a beautiful waterfall hike through a lush forest. In winter, the trail can be snowy, adding to its charm. However, the snow can make the hike challenging, so microspikes are highly recommended. The falls are especially magical during the colder months.

Middle Fork Snoqualmie

• Permit/Parking Pass/Fee Required: Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Interagency Pass
• Hike Length: 12.0 miles roundtrip (adjustable)
• Elevation Gain: 1,650 ft
• Difficulty: Easy/Moderate (Hard if doing the full trail)
• Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash

This hike follows the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River, offering a chill and scenic experience through a classic PNW forest. The river’s blue color is stunning, and you can adjust the hike’s length to suit your preference. In winter, the trail can be snowy or icy, so bring microspikes.

Wallace Falls

• Permit/Parking Pass/Fee Required: Discover Pass
• Hike Length: 5.6 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 1,300 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash

Wallace Falls is a classic waterfall hike that’s especially beautiful in winter and spring. The Middle Falls Lookout is a highlight, offering stunning views. If there’s snow or freezing temperatures, microspikes are a must. This trail is perfect for those looking for a moderate adventure.

Heybrook Lookout

• Permit/Parking Pass/Fee Required: None
• Hike Length: 2 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 850 ft
• Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
• Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash

Heybrook Lookout is a short but rewarding hike to a lookout tower with great views of the mountains. Its proximity to Seattle makes it ideal for a quick winter hike. Depending on the weather, microspikes may be needed.

Lake 22

• Permit/Parking Pass/Fee Required: Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Interagency Pass
• Hike Length: 5.4 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 1,350 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash

Lake 22 is a stunning alpine lake hike that’s beautiful year-round. In winter, the lake may be frozen, creating a magical scene. However, this trail is in an avalanche zone, so check NWAC for conditions and bring microspikes.

Oyster Dome

• Permit/Parking Pass/Fee Required: Discover Pass
• Hike Length: 7 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 1,900 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash

Oyster Dome offers incredible views of Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands. It’s a popular winter hike with a mix of mountains and ocean scenery. After your hike, explore Bellingham for a bite to eat.

Panorama Point Snowshoe via Skyline Trail

• Permit/Parking Pass/Fee Required: America the Beautiful Interagency Pass
• Hike Length: 5 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 1,900 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate/Hard
• Dogs Allowed: No

This snowshoe hike in Mount Rainier National Park offers breathtaking views of Mount Rainier and the Cascade Mountains. Rent snowshoes from REI if needed, and always check NWAC for avalanche conditions.

Artist Point Snowshoe

• Permit/Parking Pass/Fee Required: None
• Hike Length: 4 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 1,000 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dogs Allowed: Yes, on a leash

Artist Point is a magical winter hike with 360-degree views of Mount Shuskan and Mount Baker. Rent snowshoes from REI if necessary, and check NWAC for avalanche conditions.

Marymere Falls

• Permit/Parking Pass/Fee Required: America the Beautiful Interagency Pass
• Hike Length: 1.8 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 330 ft
• Difficulty: Easy
• Dogs Allowed: No

This short and easy hike in Olympic National Park leads to the beautiful Marymere Falls. The trail is icy in winter, so microspikes are recommended.

Mount Storm King

• Permit/Parking Pass/Fee Required: America the Beautiful Interagency Pass
• Hike Length: 4.1 miles roundtrip
• Elevation Gain: 2,100 ft
• Difficulty: Hard
• Dogs Allowed: No

Mount Storm King offers one of the best views in Washington, overlooking Lake Crescent. The hike is challenging and steep, with a rope section near the top. In winter, microspikes are essential due to icy conditions.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Magic of Winter Hiking

Winter hiking near Seattle is a magical experience, offering a wide range of options to suit every adventurer. From peaceful forest walks to awe-inspiring snowy mountain views, each trail has its own unique charm. These opportunities allow you to fully embrace the beauty of Washington’s winter, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out.

To ensure a memorable and safe experience, remember to bundle up, pack the appropriate gear, and stay safe on the trails. Embark on a winter adventure that will leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the outdoors. Happy hiking!