Easy & Scenic Day Hikes Near Seattle for Families and Beginners

Never hiked before but want to get your family outside? You’re in the right place. These hikes near Seattle are designed for people who aren’t sure if hiking is their thing yet—trails where regular sneakers work fine, where you don’t have to worry about getting lost. (and where your kids will see something cool enough to forget they are walking.)

We’ve got everything from flat lakeside strolls (perfect for testing whether your family enjoys this outdoor thing) to real mountain adventures that’ll make you feel accomplished. The best part? Every single one delivers scenery that makes the effort totally worth it. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring alpine lakes, or just want to prove to yourself that you can hike, there’s something here that fits your comfort level.

No judgment if you start with the easy ones—everyone does. And no pressure to tackle the harder trails until you’re ready. The mountains will always be there!

What to Expect on Your First Hike

Everything Takes Longer With Kids
If a trail is listed as 2 hours, plan for 3-4 hours with children. Kids move slower, want to explore, need snack breaks, and require bathroom stops.

“Easy” Is Relative
When hikers say a trail is “easy,” they mean for people who hike regularly. For your first time, even easy trails might feel challenging, and that’s completely normal. Your hiking stamina will build quickly—the third hike will feel easier than your first.

Expect Some Complaining
Most kids will complain at some point, especially if they’re not used to walking long distances. This doesn’t mean they hate hiking or that you should give up. Often they just need a snack, a water break, or a distraction. By the end of the hike, they’ll usually be proud of what they accomplished.

Weather Happens
Western Washington weather can change from sunny to drizzly in 20 minutes. This isn’t a reason to stay home—it’s just part of the experience! With the right layers and a positive attitude, hiking in light rain can actually be fun (and you’ll have the trails more to yourself).

You Don’t Need to Be Athletic
Hiking isn’t about being fast or strong—it’s about putting one foot in front of the other until you reach something beautiful.

Weather in Western Washington

Layer Like a Local
Western Washington weather is famous for being unpredictable. The secret locals know: dress in layers you can add or remove. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a fleece or light jacket, and bring a waterproof shell.

Rain Isn’t the Enemy
Light rain actually makes for beautiful hiking—waterfalls are fuller, colors are more vibrant, and you’ll often have trails to yourself. Pack lightweight rain jackets for everyone and embrace the Pacific Northwest experience.

Summer Surprises
Even July hikes can start in 50-degree morning temps and hit 80 degrees by afternoon. Mountain weather is especially unpredictable—it can be sunny at the trailhead and cloudy at higher elevations. Always pack more layers than you think you’ll need.

Winter Opportunities
Many lower elevation trails are hikeable year-round, just muddier. Some, like Franklin Falls, become excellent snowshoe destinations. Winter hiking means fewer crowds and beautiful snowy landscapes, but it requires more preparation and appropriate gear.

Check Conditions Before You Go
Washington Trails Association and AllTrails have recent trip reports that tell you current trail conditions. A quick check can save you from driving to a snowed-in trailhead or discovering a washed-out bridge.

Parking and Timing Reality Check

Start Early, Especially on Weekends
Popular trailheads can fill up by 9 AM on sunny weekends, especially in summer. Arriving by 7:30 AM almost guarantees parking and smaller crowds.

Understand Parking Pass Requirements
Most trailheads require either a Discover Pass ($35/year for state parks) or Northwest Forest Pass ($30/year for national forest lands). You can buy day passes ($5-10) at most trailheads, but the annual passes pay for themselves quickly.

Weekdays Are Your Friend
If you can hike on weekdays, you’ll find better parking, fewer crowds, and a more peaceful experience. Many trails that are packed on weekends feel like private adventures on Tuesday mornings.

Have a Backup Plan
Some popular trailheads (like Rattlesnake Ledge) have overflow parking lots, but others don’t. Research alternative trails in the same area so you’re not stuck driving home disappointed if your first choice is full.

Bathroom Reality
Not all trailheads have bathrooms, and many that do have basic pit toilets.

Tips for Hiking with Kids

Start Small and Build Confidence
Pick a trail that’s shorter than what you think your kids can handle. Success on a short hike beats a meltdown on a long one every time. Once they realize hiking leads to cool stuff like waterfalls or lakes where they can throw rocks, they’ll start asking for longer adventures.

Bring Way More Snacks Than You Think You Need
Trail mix, fruit pouches, granola bars, and those little crackers that don’t get crushed—pack twice what you think you’ll eat. A well-timed snack break can turn a “I don’t want to walk anymore” into “Can we see what’s around the next corner?”

Let Kids Set the Pace (Within Reason)
Kids want to examine every bug, stick, and interesting rock. This is actually good—it means they’re engaged with being outside. Build extra time into your hike for exploration and discovery. When they’re having fun, they’ll walk farther without realizing it.

Plan for the “I’m Tired” Moments
Every kid hits a wall, usually about halfway through. Have a strategy: a special snack, a game (20 questions works great), or letting them lead for a while. Sometimes just acknowledging that hiking is hard work and they’re doing great is enough to get them moving again.

Make the Destination Worth It
Choose hikes with clear payoffs—waterfalls, lakes, viewpoints, or interesting features like bridges or rock formations.

Pack Smart for Weather Changes
Western Washington weather changes fast. Even on sunny days, bring layers and a light rain jacket for everyone.

Leave No Trace with Kids

Teaching kids to take care of the outdoors starts with simple, practical habits that make sense to them.

Pack It In, Pack It Out
Bring a small trash bag and show kids how everything that comes with you goes home with you—even banana peels and apple cores.

Stay on the Trail
Explain that trails exist for good reasons—to protect plants and wildlife, and to keep everyone from getting lost. Those “shortcuts” kids want to take usually lead to getting turned around or trampling fragile plants that took years to grow.

Leave Nature Where You Found It
Kids naturally want to collect cool rocks, pinecones, and flowers. Help them understand that these things are home to bugs and animals, or they help new plants grow. Instead, take pictures or make drawings of their favorite finds.

Be Considerate of Wildlife and Other Hikers
Keep voices down near wildlife (you’ll see more animals this way anyway), and teach kids to step aside for other hikers on narrow trails. A friendly “hello” to passing hikers helps kids feel part of the outdoor community.

Small Actions, Big Impact
Kids love feeling like they’re helping something bigger than themselves. Explain how taking care of trails means these beautiful places will be here for them to enjoy when they’re grown-ups with their own kids.

Best Hikes for Families with Little Kids

1. Rattlesnake Lake Trail

This is probably the easiest “hike” on the list—it’s basically a flat walk on a wide gravel path. Perfect if you’re testing out hiking boots with the kids or want to see if they like being outdoors without committing to anything challenging. The lake is big and pretty, with mountains reflected in the water on calm days.

The best part? There’s actual parking (most trailheads around here fill up fast), picnic tables, and bathrooms. Kids can throw rocks in the water and run around without you worrying about them falling off a cliff. It gets busy on nice weekends, but there’s plenty of space.

Real talk: This isn’t really “hiking” but it’s a great confidence builder. Wear normal sneakers. Bring snacks and let the kids explore. If you want to just roam, try exploring the other side of the lake along the shore. Depending on how low the lake is, you can make it quite far. (And there are lots of cool things to climb on)

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2. Franklin Falls

Your kids will actually want to finish this hike because there’s a big waterfall at the end. The trail is mostly flat with a few gentle ups and downs, plus some fun stuff like small creek crossings and log bridges that make kids feel adventurous.

The waterfall is legit impressive—70 feet tall and loud enough that you’ll need to raise your voice near it. In spring it’s absolutely roaring. Fair warning: the last bit to see the falls can be slippery, especially when it’s wet (which is most of the time in Western Washington).

What to expect: Some muddy spots, a few roots to step over, and it can get crowded on weekends. Pack extra socks if it’s been raining.

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3. Discovery Park Loop

This one’s cheating a little because it’s technically in Seattle, but it feels like you’re in the mountains. You’ll walk through actual forest, then pop out to meadows, then end up on cliffs overlooking Puget Sound. Kids love the variety—they won’t get bored.

There are multiple trail options, so you can bail early if someone’s getting cranky. The beach section has driftwood to climb on and sometimes you’ll see seals. Just don’t expect wilderness solitude—this is still a city park.

Heads up: Can be windy near the water. The loop trail isn’t marked super clearly, so grab a map at the visitor center.

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Pro tip: Early morning visits = more wildlife. Download a bird identification app before you go.

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Beginner-Friendly Hikes with Great Payoff

4. Twin Falls

This is a real hike that beginners can actually do. You’ll gain some elevation (your legs will know you’re hiking) but it’s totally manageable, and the payoff is two legitimate waterfalls. The trail follows a creek most of the way, so there’s always something pretty to look at.

There are some stairs and rocky sections, but nothing technical. The falls themselves are impressive enough to make the effort feel worth it. Fair warning: it gets muddy in winter and spring, and the rocks near the falls can be slippery.

Real talk: This is a good “first real hike.” Wear actual hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers. Expect some mud and maybe wet feet from creek crossings.

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5. Cherry Creek Falls

This one flies under the radar, which means you won’t be hiking in a parade of people like some of the more famous waterfalls. It’s a proper forest hike to a 45-foot waterfall, with enough elevation gain to feel like exercise but not enough to wreck beginners.

The trail follows the creek for most of the way, and there are several smaller waterfalls before you get to the main event. In summer, kids can play in the creek at the base of the falls. It’s less developed than some trails, which adds to the adventure feeling.

What to know: Less crowded but also less maintained than popular trails. Expect some muddy sections and bring layers—it stays cool in the forest.

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6. Garfield Ledges

Short, steep, and worth it. This is basically a 20-minute climb through the woods to a rocky viewpoint with great valley views. It’s a good confidence-builder because the payoff is immediate—you’re not committing to an all-day adventure.

The trail is straightforward switchbacks up through the forest, then suddenly you’re on these rock ledges with views over the Snoqualmie River valley. Great spot for lunch, and afterwards you can explore the river area below for some bonus adventure time.

Heads up: The climb is steady, so pace yourself. The viewpoint has some drop-offs, so keep an eye on kids. Combine with river time below for a full day out.

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7. Snoqualmie Falls

Everyone needs to see this waterfall at least once—it’s basically Washington’s Niagara Falls (okay, smaller, but still impressive). There are two ways to do this: easy viewing from the top with almost no walking, or a steeper trail down to the base for the full experience.

The upper viewpoint is paved and has railings, perfect for grandparents or anyone who just wants to see the falls without hiking. The trail to the bottom is more work but gets you right up close to this 268-foot waterfall. Both options are worth it.

Choose your adventure: Upper viewpoint for easy photos, bottom trail if you want to feel the mist and get the full waterfall experience.

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8. Keechelus Lake via Palouse to Cascades Trail

This is a converted old railroad grade, which means it’s basically flat the entire way. You walk along this big mountain lake with awesome views the whole time, and you can turn around whenever you want. Perfect for families with different fitness levels.

When the lake level is low (usually late summer), there are huge sandy beaches to explore and logs to climb on. The trail is wide enough for bikes too, so it’s versatile. Not technically challenging, but the scenery makes up for it.

Why it works: Zero pressure, great views, and if someone gets tired you just turn around. Late summer = best beach exploration when water levels drop.

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For Families Wanting Just a Bit More Adventure

9. Rattlesnake Ledge

This is the big leagues for Seattle-area hiking—everybody does this one eventually. It’s a sustained uphill climb for about 2.5 miles, then you’re rewarded with an amazing viewpoint over the valley and mountains. Fair warning: your legs will be sore the next day if you’re not used to hiking.

The trail is well-maintained but gets absolutely mobbed on nice weekends. Start early (like 7 AM early) if you want parking and don’t want to hike in a crowd. The view at the top is legitimately spectacular and worth the effort.

Reality check: This is a real workout. Bring plenty of water, start early for parking, and don’t be surprised if you’re breathing hard. The payoff view is worth it.

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10. Bridal Veil Falls

This is a proper hike with a proper waterfall payoff. You’ll climb about 1,000 feet over 2 miles, and the last section gets legitimately steep and rocky—your quads will be talking to you. But the destination is one of Washington’s most dramatic waterfalls, spilling over massive granite slabs with enough mist to cool you down.

The trail starts mellow through forest, then gets more serious as you approach the falls. There are some creek crossings that kids find fun, but this isn’t a casual stroll. The viewing platform at the end puts you close enough to feel the spray, which is amazing on hot days but means you might get soaked.

Fair warning: The rocks near the falls are always wet and slippery—no scrambling around. This connects to Lake Serene if you’re feeling ambitious, but the falls alone are plenty of adventure.

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11. Denny Creek Falls + Keekwulee Falls

This hike has everything: creek crossings, natural rock water slides, and multiple waterfalls. Kids love it because there’s always something interesting happening, not just walking through boring forest. The rock slides are the highlight—smooth granite carved by water.

You’ll cross the creek multiple times and climb over some rocks, so it’s more adventurous than your typical waterfall hike. Bring water shoes if you want to try the slides (summer only), and expect to get a little wet from creek crossings.

What makes it special: Natural water slides, multiple creek crossings, and waterfalls. Pack water shoes for sliding, and expect an adventure, not just a walk.

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12. Barclay Lake

Classic mountain lake hike that’s not too brutal for beginners ready to step it up. The trail is gentle but long enough to feel like a real hike, winding through beautiful old-growth forest with wooden bridges over creeks. The lake at the end sits right below a dramatic mountain face.

This is what people think of when they picture “hiking in the Pacific Northwest”—big trees, moss everywhere, wooden bridges, and an alpine lake. It’s not technically difficult, just long enough to be a commitment.

What to expect: Long but gentle walk through gorgeous forest. Pack lunch to eat by the lake—you’ll want to hang out once you get there.

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13. Wallace Falls (Lower Falls)

You don’t need to hike all the way to the top of Wallace Falls to get your money’s worth. The lower falls viewpoint gives you most of the wow factor with significantly less work. The trail is well-maintained through state park land, with some elevation gain but nothing crazy.

The waterfall is genuinely impressive—multiple tiers dropping down through the forest. There are railings and viewing platforms, so it feels safe for families. If you’re feeling ambitious after the lower falls, you can always continue higher.

Smart approach: Hit the lower falls first. If everyone’s feeling good and wants more, continue to middle or upper falls. If not, you’ve still seen a great waterfall.

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14. Little Mashel Falls

Three waterfalls for the price of one hike, located in Pack Forest near Eatonville. The Middle Falls is the star—nearly 100 feet of water dropping into a gorge that’ll make you stop and stare. The trail network here can be a little confusing, so download a map before you go.

Expect mud, especially in spring. The trail has some steep, rooty sections that require paying attention to where you step. This isn’t the best choice for toddlers, but school-age kids who are steady on their feet will love exploring between the different falls.

What to know: Trail network is confusing—seriously, get a map. Wear boots that can handle mud and roots. The payoff is seeing three different waterfalls, each with its own personality.

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15. Big Four Ice Caves

This is one of those unique Washington experiences that feels almost magical. You walk on a flat, easy trail through the forest, then suddenly you’re standing in front of massive ice caves carved out by avalanches and cold air. Don’t go inside them (people have died), but even from outside they’re incredible.

The trail is easy—basically a wide gravel path. The dramatic part is the destination: these huge ice formations sitting at the base of a massive mountain wall. It’s especially cool (literally) on hot summer days.

Important: Never enter the caves—they collapse regularly and have killed people. The safe viewing area is still incredibly impressive.

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16. Heybrook Lookout

Short, steep hike to a fire lookout tower with amazing 360-degree mountain views. The trail switchbacks up through forest for about 1.3 miles, then you climb up this wooden tower that puts you above the treeline for panoramic views.

Kids love the tower—it feels like a treehouse but with mountain views in every direction. On clear days you can see everything from Mount Baker to Mount Rainier. The climb up is steady but not too long.

What’s cool: Historic fire tower you can climb, plus incredible views on clear days. Check the weather before going—clouds kill the whole point.

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17. Lake 22

This is a legitimate mountain lake hike that beginners can do, but it’s definitely a step up in commitment. You’ll gain over 1,000 feet of elevation through beautiful old-growth forest, cross several creeks on wooden bridges, and end up at this stunning lake surrounded by granite cliffs with waterfalls pouring into it.

It’s long enough and steep enough that you’ll definitely know you’ve been hiking, but the destination is so spectacular it justifies the effort. This is the kind of hike that converts people into mountain lovers.

Be prepared: This is a real mountain hike. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and layers. The lake is worth every step, but you’ll earn it.

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18. Talapus Lake

Good introduction to alpine lake hiking without the brutal elevation gain of some mountain lakes. The trail climbs steadily but not too steeply through forest to this pretty lake surrounded by peaks. It feels like a mountain adventure without being overwhelming for beginners.

The lake is big enough to explore once you get there, and on warm days some people even wade in (though it’s cold). It’s a good stepping stone between valley hikes and serious mountain lakes.

Why it works: Feels like a mountain lake adventure but manageable for families stepping up their hiking game. Pack lunch to enjoy lakeside.

Gear Recommendations

You Don’t Need to Buy Everything at Once
The outdoor industry wants to sell you lots of gear, but you can start hiking with stuff you probably already own. Try a few hikes with basic gear first, then upgrade items that actually bothered you. This saves money and helps you figure out what you really need.

Footwear That Actually Matters
For easier trails, sturdy sneakers with good tread work fine. As you tackle rockier or muddier trails, you’ll appreciate actual hiking shoes or boots. The key is ankle support and grip—blisters and slipping are the fastest ways to ruin a hike.

The Day Pack That Works
Any backpack that can carry water, snacks, first aid basics, and extra layers will work to start. As you hike more, you might want something with a hip belt to distribute weight better, but don’t stress about this for your first few adventures.

Hydration Systems
Kids drink more when they have easy access to water. Whether it’s a water bottle with a sport cap or a hydration bladder with a tube, make sure everyone can drink without stopping to dig through a pack.

Weather Protection
A lightweight rain jacket for everyone is the single most important gear investment. It doesn’t need to be expensive—just waterproof and packable. This one piece of gear extends your hiking season and keeps everyone comfortable when weather changes.

First Aid and Safety
Basic first aid kit with bandages, pain reliever, and blister treatment. Add a whistle and small flashlight. Most hiking emergencies are minor—twisted ankles, cuts, or getting back to the car later than planned.

What You Can Skip Initially
Hiking poles, GPS devices, fancy base layers, and technical gear can wait. Focus on comfort basics first: good shoes, weather protection, and carrying systems for water and snacks.

Kid-Specific Considerations
Kids’ gear should prioritize comfort and safety over weight savings. A slightly heavier jacket that they’ll actually keep on is better than an ultralight one they’ll refuse to wear. Let them pick their own water bottle—ownership increases usage.