“Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.” – John Muir

One of the best things about living in Seattle, Snohomish County, and King County is that you’re never far from a fantastic hiking trail. Whether you’re after a quick after-work stroll, a family-friendly trek, or a serious quad-burner, there’s something nearby that’ll fit the bill — and you won’t need to pack a week’s worth of trail mix to get there.

For Seattle homeowners thinking about selling, it’s worth noting that proximity to local hiking trails is a sneaky selling point. Buyers relocating to the Pacific Northwest often rank outdoor access high on their wish list, which makes a home near these trails even more appealing.

Below, we’ve updated and preserved our list of 29 local hiking trails in Snohomish and King Counties, complete with trail maps, tips, and a little extra flavor to show why these hikes — and the homes near them — are worth exploring.

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What to Expect in This Post

• Updated list of local hiking trails in Snohomish and King Counties, with maps and key details.
• Family-friendly trails, challenging climbs, and everything in between.
• Why homebuyers care about nearby outdoor recreation.
• How highlighting local trails can help when selling your home in Seattle.
• Tips for combining trails with post-hike eats and drinks.

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29 Local Hiking Trails in Snohomish and King Counties (With Maps & Details)

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Snohomish County Hiking Trails

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EDMONDS

1.Meadowdale Beach Park Trail

6026 156th St SW
Edmonds, WA 98026

2.5 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 425 ft.
Highest Point: 425.0 ft.
Rating: 3.43

Meadowdale Beach Trail is my personal go-to getaway.  When my wife and I are in the mood for a fun little hike and we are short on time this is the one.  It is a backward hike, as most are on this list, meaning you go downhill first and uphill on the way back. The tail is well groomed and wanders next to the Lunds Gulch Creek.  There are a couple of benches along the trail where you can stop and enjoy the woods or take a quick break.  

At the bottom of the trail, you will hit a small park with a volleyball net, horseshoe pits, a covered shelter, picnic tables, and porta-potties.  There is a tunnel that goes under the train tracks that leads you safely to the Meadowdale Beach.  

If you hit the beach at low tide you can extend your hike by 1 mile by heading south along the beach line.  You can get as far as Sunset Wharf if the tide is low enough.  There is hardly a better spot to enjoy a sunset than sitting on a log on Meadowdale Beach. 

When you get to the park you will go down a steep drive into a small parking lot.  No parking pass is required but the parking lot is almost always full during peak times, try to come during off hours.  If it is full be very careful if you decide to park nearby and walk in.  There are no parking tow-away signs all over the place. Once you get parked and make it to the parking lot the trailhead is on the south side. 

 

EVERETT

2. Green Lantern Trail

Hauge Homestead Park: 1819 121st St SE Everett, WA 98208

2.8 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 33 ft.
Highest Point: 463.0 ft.
Rating: 3.00

The Green Lantern Trail mostly follows the shores of Silver Lake in South Everett, perfect for those looking to stretch their legs and experience the outdoors without having to leave the city.

Start your journey at the Hauge Homestead Park and end it at the Thornton A. Sullivan park. You will also pass by the Green Lantern Park where the trail gets its name.

With a multitude of attractions including passing through three parks with water access, this trail is ready to please! Disc golfers, beach-goers, kids, birders, and fishermen alike may all find something here.

3. Spencer Island Trail

4th St SE,
Everett, WA 98201

4.0 miles, roundtrip
Gain: Minimal
Highest Point: 10 ft.
Rating: 3.5

Tucked into the Snohomish River Estuary, this flat and peaceful trail offers some of the area’s best birdwatching. A favorite among nature photographers and those who want an easy walk near the water.

GOLD BAR

4. Lake Serene & Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls Trailhead,
US-2, Gold Bar, WA 98251

8.2 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 2000 ft.
Highest Point: 2520 ft.
Rating: 4.7

This challenging but rewarding hike features not only one of Snohomish County’s most stunning alpine lakes, but also the dramatic Bridal Veil Falls. Perfect for experienced hikers looking for an all-day adventure.

GRANITE FALLS

5. Heather Lake

Heather Lake Trailhead
Mt. Pilchuck State Forest
Mountain Loop Hwy, Granite Falls, WA 98252

4.6 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 1,034 ft.
Highest Point: 2,440 ft.
Rating: 4.3

Tucked into the foothills of Mount Pilchuck, Heather Lake is a moderate hike that leads to a stunning alpine lake surrounded by old-growth forest and rugged peaks. It’s a great option if you want big scenery without committing to a full-day trek.

INDEX

6. Heybrook Lookout

9600 Mukilteo Speedway
Mukilteo, WA 98275

2.6 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 300 ft.
Highest Point: 460.0 ft.
Rating: 3.33

Big Gulch includes a system of forested trails in Mukilteo.

 

8. Japanese Gulch

1101-1599 5th St
Mukilteo, WA 98275

4.0 miles of trails
Gain: 174 ft.
Highest Point: 363.0 ft.
Rating: 3.75

Lots of access points to this network of trails right in the heart of Mukilteo makes for great hiking for all ages.

SNOHOMISH

9. Lord Hill Regional Park

12921 150th St SE
Snohomish, WA 98290

10.0 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 200 ft.
Rating: 3.12

This is a wonderful wild park right in the backyard of those who live in the Everett area. Covering 1,463 acres of forest, ponds, and meadows, the area is named for homesteader Mitchell Lord who farmed the area in the late 1880s. Hikers can roam all day on the network of trails leading through the forest, down to the Snohomish River, and up to views of the Cascades and Snohomish Valley. Explore, and keep an eye out for the wildlife that lives in these woods.

10. Centennial Trail

Trail Access Points in Snohomish, Lake Stevens, and Arlington, WA

Up to 30 miles, roundtrip
Gain: Minimal
Highest Point: Varies
Rating: 3.8

This multi-use trail follows a former rail line and is popular for walking, running, cycling, and horseback riding. Sections near Snohomish and Lake Stevens offer beautiful farmland and forest views, making it a versatile outdoor option close to home.

 SULTAN

11. Skyline Lake Trail

US-2,
Sultan, WA 98294

5.0 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 1200 ft.
Highest Point: 5100 ft.
Rating: 4.2

This moderate trail offers sweeping views of the Skykomish Valley and Cascade Mountains. Best done in the summer or early fall, Skyline Lake is a quieter alternative to the more popular Lake Serene.

WOODINVILLE

12. Paradise Valley Conservation Area

23210 Paradise Lake Rd
Woodinville, WA 98077

5.0 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 150 ft.
Highest Point: 450.0 ft.
Rating: 3.31

Come hike the headwaters of the Bear Creek watershed in this close Snohomish County Park near Woodinville. Here you will find a mature second-growth forest, a wetland that plays a vital role in the health of this salmon stream plus a network of trails for any fitness level.

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King County Hiking Trails

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CARNATION

13. Tolt MacDonald Park

31020 NE 40th St
Carnation, WA 98014

4.0 miles, roundtrip
Gain: Minimal
Highest Point: 120 ft.
Rating: 3.8

This family-friendly park features a fun suspension bridge, peaceful river views, and easy forest trails. It’s a great spot for picnics, camping, and beginner-friendly hikes.

14. DUWAMISH-GREEN RIVER TRAIL

Multiple trailheads from Tukwila to Kent, WA

19.6 miles, roundtrip
Gain: Minimal
Highest Point: Varies
Rating: 3.7

This paved urban trail follows the Green River, offering excellent biking, walking, and jogging routes right in the heart of King County. A fantastic low-effort option for locals looking for a long, scenic stroll.

ISSAQUAH

15. Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park

18201 SE Cougar Mountain Dr
Issaquah, WA 98027

35+ miles of trails
Gain: Varies
Highest Point: 1600 ft.
Rating: 4.3

Cougar Mountain offers a sprawling network of forested trails, including quiet loops, viewpoints, and historical mining remnants. This King County gem is perfect for trail runners, families, and anyone who wants a quick escape from the city.

16. Squak Mountain May Valley Loop Trail

13201 Squak Mountain Rd SE

Issaquah, WA 98027

6.6 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 1,684 ft.
Highest Point: 2,024 ft.
Rating: 3

This forested park, a wilderness with glimpses of Issaquah below, has miles of winding trails alongside bubbling creeks and narrow ravines. There are several trail loop options on this 2,024-foot-high mountain. With multi-use trails and a natural area, hikers have plenty to explore in this quiet sanctuary outside of Issaquah.

For those visiting for the first time, or those looking for a new way to experience this side of the mountain, try the May Valley Loop, which climbs through the lush forest on the south side of the mountain to Central Peak, then back down to the Squak Mountain State Park trailhead.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Bullitt Fireplace. All that remains of the vacation cabin that was owned by the Bullitt family.

17. Poo Poo Point

11400 Issaquah-Hobart Road Southeast Issaquah, WA 98027

7.2 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 1,748 ft.
Highest Point: 2,021 ft.
Rating: 4

Poo Poo Point lies on the shoulder of West Tiger Mountain, and a small knoll there is topped by a mast with a windsock. The knoll is only a few feet higher than the surrounding area, but it qualifies Poo Poo Point – if minimally – as one of West Tiger’s summits.

This hike reaches Poo Poo Point via a forested route, beginning from either of two trailheads near Issaquah High School. For the very different hike that reaches Poo Poo Point via a steep, rocky trail beginning near the glider field, see our entry for the Chirico Trail.

KENMORE

18. Saint Edward State Park

14445 Juanita Drive NE
Kenmore, WA 98028

3.0 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 400 ft.
Highest Point: 400.0 ft.
Rating:3.83

Hike through a diverse century-old second-growth forest with a dense canopy to the undeveloped shoreline of Lake Washington. This historic 316-acre state park, nestled amid the Seattle metropolitan area, has playground facilities for children, picnic areas, trails for mountain bikers, and fields for sports teams as well.

 

KIRKLAND

19. Big Finn Hill Park

8106 NE 138th St
Kirkland, WA 98034

9.5 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 100 ft.
Highest Point: 450.0 ft.
Rating: 4.00

Big Finn Hill Park is the lesser-known cousin to the adjoining Saint Edwards State Park in Kirkland. Its expansive 220 acres are worth exploring and getting to know for its miles of meandering trails fit for mountain biking and casual strolling. Chock-full of tall Douglas firs, ferns, and bright green mosses, it offers possibilities to spot eagles, deer, and owls.

 

 NORTH BEND

20. Mount Si

Mt Si Trailhead,
North Bend, WA 98045

8.0 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 3150 ft.
Highest Point: 4167 ft.
Rating: 4.5

Mount Si is the ultimate Seattle-area training hike, giving you a relentless climb, gorgeous summit views, and serious bragging rights when you reach the top.

21. Twin Falls Trail

43900 SE Tanner Rd
North Bend, WA 98045

3.6 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 500 ft.
Highest Point: 1020 ft.
Rating: 4.4

This gentle, waterfall-filled hike along the South Fork of the Snoqualmie River is one of the most accessible and family-friendly trails near North Bend.

22. Rattlesnake Ledge

Rattlesnake Lake Recreation Area
Cedar Falls Rd SE
North Bend, WA 98045

4.0 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 1,160 ft.
Highest Point: 2,078 ft.
Rating: 4.5

Rattlesnake Ledge is one of the most popular hikes near Seattle, and for good reason — the view from the top is jaw-dropping. With a moderate climb and an easy-to-follow trail, it’s a favorite for weekend hikers and visitors alike. Arrive early, especially on sunny weekends, as parking fills up fast.

REDMOND

23. Evans Creek Preserve

4001 224th Ave NE
Redmond, WA 98053

4.2 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 325 ft.
Highest Point: 480.0 ft.
Rating: 4.00

Evans Creek Preserve features a WTA-built trail system in an ecologically diverse enclave. Wetlands, meadows, and hillside forests can be found in this 179-acre farmstead-turned-suburban nature preserve that will thrill both the hiker and the birdwatcher. Not only that, this gem has ADA-accessible trails and is reachable by public transportation.

 

SEATTLE

24. Camp Long

5200 35th Ave SW
Seattle, WA 98126

1.6 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 240 ft.
Highest Point: 350.0 ft.
Rating: 3.25

Camp Long is a hidden gem, a 68-acre enclave in West Seattle featuring old-growth forests, wildlife, a variety of hiking trails, rock climbing, ropes courses, camping, and environmental education.

 

25. Washington Park Arboretum

2300 Arboretum Dr
Seattle, WA 98112

5.0 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 50 ft.
Highest Point: 150.0 ft.
Rating: 3.20
The 230-acre Washington Park Arboretum offers miles of trails that wind through forests of maples, magnolias, oaks, salmonberry, and the famous Azalea Way. Visit the Pacific Connections Gardens to see a variety of plant life from various countries that border the Pacific Ocean, or lose yourself in the many groves of trees that line the paths in the park.

 

26. Discovery Park Loop Trail

3801 Discovery Park Blvd
Seattle, WA 98199

2.8 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 140 ft.
Highest Point: 325.0 ft.
Rating:3.41

Seattle’s Discovery Park Loop Trail is a designated National Recreation Trail, 2.8 miles long with an elevation change of just 140 feet. It passes through both forest and open meadows, offers extensive views, and good prospects for bird watchers, and can be hiked or jogged year-round.

 

27. Lincoln Park

8011 Fauntleroy Way SW
Seattle, WA 98136

1.85 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 160 ft.
Highest Point: 160.0 ft.
Rating: 4.00

Located on the western edge of West Seattle, Lincoln Park offers 5 miles of trails, including a loop hike with bluff and beachfront views of Puget Sound, Vashon Island, and the Olympic Mountains.

 

28. Cowen and Ravenna Parks

5849 15th Ave NE
Seattle, WA 98105

4.5 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 115 ft.
Highest Point: 200.0 ft.
Rating: 3.00

Cowen and Ravenna Parks form a contiguous urban nature area and green space, containing Ravenna Ravine and Ravenna Creek, in the middle of North Seattle. They contain 4.5 miles of trails that traverse a 0.75-mile stretch of Ravenna Ravine.

 

29. Golden Gardens Park

8498 Seaview Pl NW
Seattle, WA 98117

2.5 miles, roundtrip
Gain: 300 ft.
Highest Point: 300.0 ft.
Rating: 3.00

Seattle’s Golden Gardens Park is best known for its wide sandy beach; on summer weekends, the large parking lot may be full and the beach crowded. Less well-known is the extensive trail system on the steep slopes east of the railroad tracks, constructed as a WPA project in the 1930s, with wide trails and stone staircases. Today, some of the stonework shows signs of age but the main trails still are well-maintained and in good condition.

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Tips for Combining Trails with Post-Hike Eats

One of the underrated perks of living in Snohomish County or Seattle is how easy it is to follow up a solid hike with an even better meal (or a cold beer). Whether you’re craving a burger, a wood-fired pizza, or a full-on feast, there’s no shortage of local spots to refuel after your adventure. Here are a few classic hike-and-eat combos worth trying:

Snohomish County Trail Pairings

• Wallace Falls + Prospector’s Pizzeria in Gold Bar
  Nothing hits better after chasing waterfalls than a cheesy pizza and a pint at this Gold Bar staple.
• Heybrook Lookout + Zeke’s Drive-In in Gold Bar
  Old-school burgers and shakes served up roadside — because sometimes you just want fries with your views.
• Heather Lake + Timber Monster Brewing in Sultan
  Rustic, laid-back, and always rotating their taps, Timber Monster’s the perfect place to toast your successful hike.
• Lord Hill Regional Park + Trails End Taphouse in Snohomish
  Whether you want a post-hike IPA or a burger big enough to need both hands, Trails End has you covered.
• Centennial Trail (Snohomish Section) + Andy’s Fish House in Snohomish
  If you prefer your post-hike meal with a side of seafood, Andy’s Fish House serves up some of the best fish & chips in town.

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King County Trail Pairings

• Rattlesnake Ledge + North Bend Bar & Grill
  It’s a North Bend classic — burgers, sandwiches, and local brews that taste even better after that climb.
• Twin Falls + Volition Brewing in North Bend
  A newer spot that’s quickly becoming a local favorite for its rotating taps and relaxed vibe.
• Poo Poo Point + Issaquah Brew House
  Located in downtown Issaquah, this pub from Rogue Ales delivers solid pub grub and local beers, perfect for post-hike carb loading.
• Cougar Mountain Trails + Big Block Brewing in Sammamish
  Big Block’s casual, family-friendly vibe makes it a great spot to kick back after exploring Cougar Mountain’s many trails.
• Saint Edward State Park + Cairn Brewing in Kenmore
  Just a short hop from the park, Cairn specializes in small-batch brews and has a great outdoor seating area when the sun’s out.

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Seattle Trail Pairings

• Discovery Park + Magnuson Café & Brewery
  Located right on Lake Washington, this spot offers great views and even better beer flights.
• Washington Park Arboretum + Café Flora
  One of Seattle’s best vegetarian spots, Café Flora is a solid choice for a lighter post-hike meal.
• Golden Gardens Park + Un Bien
  If you’ve got sand in your shoes and a craving for Caribbean roast pork sandwiches, Un Bien is an essential stop.
• Camp Long + West Seattle Brewing Co.
  Casual, dog-friendly, and usually buzzing with locals fresh off the trails — West Seattle Brewing is where hikers and neighbors collide.
• Lincoln Park + Marination Ma Kai
  Tacos, sliders, and Hawaiian-Korean fusion served with one of the best waterfront views in the city — it doesn’t get much better than that.

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How Hiking Trails Boost Seattle Real Estate Value

If you’re thinking about selling a house in WA State, proximity to outdoor recreation could be part of your marketing strategy. Many buyers moving to Seattle from out of state are drawn to the lifestyle — and that includes quick access to local hiking trails.

In fact, when creating your pre-listing strategy, it’s worth highlighting nearby trails in your listing description and any marketing materials.

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Final Thoughts on Local Hiking Trails in Snohomish and King Counties

Living in Snohomish County or Seattle isn’t just about finding the perfect house — it’s about finding a home that lets you enjoy the Pacific Northwest lifestyle. And let’s face it, there’s no better way to soak up that lifestyle than by exploring the endless local hiking trails right outside your front door.

Whether you’re in the mood for an easy family walk along Silver Lake in Everett, a quick sunset hike to Heybrook Lookout, or an all-day adventure up Mount Si, there’s a trail within easy driving distance that fits the bill. That easy access to outdoor recreation is a big deal — not just for your weekend plans, but for your home’s value too.

For anyone thinking about selling a home in Seattle, proximity to local hiking trails isn’t just a footnote in your listing — it’s a serious selling point. Many buyers (especially those relocating from out of state) are drawn to Seattle real estate specifically for that unique blend of urban amenities and outdoor adventure. By showcasing nearby trails in your home marketing materials, you’re not just selling a house — you’re selling the whole lifestyle.

If you’ve got questions about how to position your home in the current Seattle real estate market, The Madrona Group is always ready to chat. Whether you need advice on pricing strategies, pre-listing prep, or just want to know how your neighborhood compares to others in terms of outdoor access, we’ve got your back.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best family-friendly hiking trails in Snohomish County?

There’s no shortage of kid-friendly trails in Snohomish County, but Lord Hill Regional Park stands out for its wide, gentle paths and easy access from Snohomish. If you’re up for a bit of a drive, Centennial Trail offers miles of paved and gravel trails perfect for strollers, bikes, and little legs.

How do hiking trails impact home values in Seattle?

Believe it or not, living near a popular hiking trail can absolutely boost your home’s value. Buyers moving to Seattle or Snohomish County love the idea of having trails just minutes from their front door. It’s the ultimate lifestyle upgrade and a powerful draw for out-of-state buyers who want to enjoy the best of the Pacific Northwest.

Are there easy hikes near Seattle for beginners?

Absolutely! Coal Creek Falls in Newcastle offers a super accessible trail with a waterfall payoff, and Ravenna Park in North Seattle serves up a forest escape right in the city. For those looking for something a bit longer but still beginner-friendly, the Snoqualmie Valley Trail offers beautiful scenery with very little elevation gain.

What are some of the best waterfall hikes in Snohomish and King Counties?

For a quick waterfall fix, check out Twin Falls in North Bend. If you’re ready to earn your views, Bridal Veil Falls along the Lake Serene Trail is one of the most stunning cascades in the region.

Do homes near trails sell faster in Seattle?

It’s not a guarantee, but homes that offer easy access to outdoor recreation tend to get more attention from buyers, especially those relocating to the Seattle area from other parts of the country. Highlighting nearby trails can help set your listing apart from others on the market.

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Takeaways

• Living near local hiking trails is a valuable perk for homeowners in Seattle and Snohomish County, especially for buyers moving to the area for the Pacific Northwest lifestyle.
• Homes close to popular trails often see more interest from outdoor enthusiasts and families looking for convenient weekend adventures.
• Highlighting nearby hiking trails in your listing can help attract more buyers and possibly even boost your home’s value.
• Whether you prefer easy lakeside strolls, family-friendly forest walks, or challenging summit climbs, Snohomish County and King County offer something for everyone.

If you’re thinking about selling your home and wondering how to highlight its proximity to local hiking trails, reach out to The Madrona Group for expert advice on prepping your home for sale and making the most of your location perks.

List Of Local Hiking Trails Within Snohomish and King Counties Summary

We have included 17 different trails and paths that you can get out and explore that are all a short drive from Snohomish County and Seattle.

Now get out there and stretch your legs, breathe that air and let the sunshine hit your face.

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List of Local Hiking Trails Ratings and Info Courtesy of:  Washington Trail Association