Spring is here, which means we can count on seeing more sunny days here in Washington! Now if you’re anything like me, the idea of hiking seems daunting and tiring. Fortunately, I have friends who will literally force me away from my Netflix binges to give me my much needed fix of fresh air. Here are some easy hikes that even a couch potato like me did!
Snoqualmie Falls
Round trip: 1.4 miles
Parking: Free
Pets: Allowed on leashes
Good for kids: Yes
Directions to Snoqualmie Falls
- 34 miles SE of University of Washington Bothell (42 min)
- 29 miles E of Seattle (36 min)
- 42 miles NE of Tacoma (52 min)
Aside from being an Instagram-worthy spot, Snoqualmie Falls is a great place for those who have never hiked before. The first time I ever came to the falls, it was filled with tourists and families admiring the view. They even have a gift shop! The actual trail works its way down the falls until you get to the Snoqualmie River. Overall, it was a very easy and pleasant hike.
Rattlesnake Ledge
Round trip: 4.0 miles
Parking: Free
Pets: Allowed on leashes
Good for kids: Yes
Directions to Rattlesnake Ledge
- 40 miles SE of University of Washington Bothell (45 min)
- 35 miles E of Seattle (40 min)
- 48 miles NE of Tacoma (56 min)
Rattlesnake Ledge is one of the most rewarding hikes I’ve done. My first time going was with a group of friends and we all had a great time. The trail starts about a 10-minute walk from the parking area and had a lot of switchbacks. Many hikers like to stay on the ledge to enjoy the view at the top so pack a lunch!
Poo Poo Point – Chirico Trail
Round trip: 3.8 miles
Parking: Free
Pets: Allowed on leashes
Good for kids: Yes
- 24 miles SE of University of Washington Bothell (33 min)
- 19 miles E of Seattle (28 min)
- 36 miles NE of Tacoma (43 min)
Just to clarify, there are two Poo Poo Point trails that differ greatly in length. The Chirico Trail is 3.8 miles and the other trail, which starts at Issaquah High School, is just called Poo Poo Point Trail. The Poo Poo Point Trail is 7.2 miles! Both trails lead to the same viewpoint, but because they are named similarly, many hikers like myself have went on the wrong trail. I hiked the Chirico Trail last summer and it is one of my favorite hikes. Poo Poo Point is a popular spot where people go paragliding so pack some snacks and take in the view.
One thought on “Hiking Trails for Beginners”