Easy Hikes Near Seattle for Any Season

When summer comes to a close in Washington, the weather turns and the Big Dark descends. Washington is beautiful year-round though, and the changing of the seasons shouldn't be an excuse to stay indoors. There is an abundance of trails you can explore in any season here in Washington. Whether you’re seeking serene lakes, dramatic waterfalls, coastal vistas, or mountain lookouts, there are a lot of easy hikes you can do in any season.

​I’ve compiled a list of nine accessible, (relatively) easy hikes you can enjoy throughout the year, perfect for families, beginners, or anyone wanting to explore Washington’s natural wonders.

Lake Wenatchee

Located near the quaint town of Leavenworth, Lake Wenatchee State Park features several easy trails, perfect for families or anyone hoping for a break from the busting city. If you go in the winter, you can snowshoe along the pristine shoreline and follow winding trails through the forest. In the summer, take a dip in the cool water or play along the sandy beach.

There are also a couple trails that are a bit more obscure and off the beaten path, including Hidden Lake Trail, which you can snowshoe or enjoy in the warmer summer months.

Lake Twenty-Two

Nestled in the foothills of the North Cascades, Lake Twenty-Two offers a moderate hike. The trail leads hikers through lush forest, past waterfalls, and up to a scenic alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks. You’ve probably seen photos of the iconic wooden bridge located at the lake. You can enjoy lunch at the lakeside or extend your hike and loop around the lake. While you may encounter snow in winter, this hike remains accessible thanks to well-maintained paths and its popularity. It’s also a great entry level hike if you want to go solo since you are sure to encounter many other hikers along the way.

Stats:

5.4 miles roundtrip
1,350 feet elevation gain
A toilet is located at the trailhead.

A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking. There is ample parking at the trailhead, but the parking lot fills up on the weekends. Consider going on a weekday to avoid crowds.

Heybrook Lookout

Heybrook Lookout is a great hike for little explorers, but I also love doing this hike at sunset solo. A short climb brings you to a lookout tower which rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The hike is less than two miles round-trip, making it ideal for families and hikers short on time. The lookout is accessible in all seasons, but it’s always good to check trip reports before heading out.

You can book a stay in the lookout tower if you’re lucky enough to score a reservation. If you’re not staying in the tower, you can still enjoy the sweeping views. Reminder, be considerate to campers while you’re visiting.

Stats:

2 miles roundtrip
Neary 1,000 feet elevation gain
Parking is available off the trailhead on the side of Highway 2. There is no toilet at the trailhead.

After your quick hike, make a pit stop at the popular Espresso Chalet. It’s known for having one of the best views of Mt. Index and a quirky Bigfoot theme.

Skyline Trail

Located in Mount Rainier National Park, Skyline Trail provides spectacular vistas of Mount Rainier, sprawling meadows, dramatic ridgelines, and glaciers year-round, but one of the most spectacular times to visit is in the winter. While the full loop can be challenging, shorter segments offer easy hiking with remarkable scenery. If you have kiddos, making it to Panorama Point is a great feat. I advise visitors do the loop clockwise. Be sure to also check out Myrtle Falls. It's just a short walk from the visitor center, and it’s one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Washington – just be sure to go on a clear day if you want a view of Mount Rainier in the background. I’ve gone on cloudy days, and it’s not quite the same.

The park remains open year-round, although snowshoes may be necessary in winter. You should check the weather before you head out and check avalanche danger.

Sometimes the gate to Longmire closes if the road to paradise is hazardous. Chains are also required in the winter.

The trail starts out of Paradise, so be prepared for crowds. The parking lot is large, but it fills up fast. Arrive early! You’re also likely to see lots of outdoor enthusiasts, including mountaineers, ski tourers and snowshoers.

Stats:

5.5 miles roundtrip – although you don’t have to do the full loop
1,450 feet elevation gain

Ebey’s Landing

This coastal hike on Whidbey Island features sweeping views of Puget Sound, bluffs, and prairies. The trail is gentle and well-maintained, making it accessible to most hikers. You can do the loop starting from the beach or ascending the bluff first.

Ebey’s Landing is a wonderful spot for sunset walks, birdwatching, and photography, and it’s enjoyable throughout the year. Our family loves this hike because it gives us a reason to grab lunch and ice cream in Coupeville - and taking a ferry is always a great way to kick off an adventure.

Stats:

5.6 miles roundtrip
Around 260 feet elevation gain
A Discover Pass is required for parking.

Wallace Falls

This iconic Washington hike is located in the Cascade foothills. It’s famous for its impressive waterfalls and lush forested landscape. The trail to the middle falls is considered easy and rewarding, with views of tumbling water and mossy trees. Wallace Falls State Park is open all year, and the waterfall’s flow is particularly dramatic during rainy months. I love the wooden bridges along the trail and the ambling views of the river. It’s a rewarding hike with gorgeous vantage points throughout. Personally, I like the middle falls lookout the best, but you can continue up to the upper falls by following a series of switchbacks.

Stats:
​
5.6 miles roundtrip
1,300 feet elevation gain
A Discover Pass is required for parking.

Hole-in-the-Wall

The Hole-in-the-Wall trail is a coastal adventure suitable for all skill levels. Located on the Olympic Coast, this hike features sea stacks, tide pools, and the iconic rocky archway that gives the trail its name. It’s a great year-round destination, especially for those who enjoy ocean views and beachcombing.

It’s also a great place to camp, just be sure to check the tides. When the tide is out, you can explore tide pools and scramble up the rocky outcroppings. Remember, if you’re camping in the Olympic National Park, you’ll need a bear canister.

​Stats:
3.3 miles roundtrip
Mostly flat with little elevation gain
Established campsites are available
A toilet is located at the trailhead. There is a large parking lot.

Mount Storm King

This is another iconic Washington hike, and you’ve likely seen photos from the scenic overlook. Located in Olympic National Park, Mount Storm King offers a short but steep hike with extraordinary views of Lake Crescent. While the upper trail can be challenging (and not great for people who are afraid of heights), the hike to the viewpoint is relatively easy and provides stunning panoramas. The trail is open year-round, though weather conditions can vary, so check trip reports ahead of time.

Insider tip: the last section of the hike includes a series of ropes. You don’t have to hike all the way up to the top to enjoy the views, but they are definitely better from the rocky viewpoint.
Parking for this trail is at the Storm King Ranger Station.

Stats:
4 miles roundtrip
2,000 feet elevation gain

Discovery Park
​
Did you know Discovery Park is Seattle’s largest park? It is a great option for a midweek hike if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city without going very far. Discovery Park offers several easy trails, and the well-maintained trails wind through forests, meadows, and along the shoreline of the Puget Sound. Our family usually takes Discovery Park’s Loop Trail to South Beach, making a quick stop at the lighthouse. West Point Lighthouse was established in 1881 and it’s a working lighthouse with sweeping views of the Sound and Mt. Rainier on a clear day. It is a popular trail, but it also delivers a slice of serenity within city limits, so I think it’s worth the tradeoff.

It’s a great year-round destination for locals and visitors alike. Be prepared to share the trail with trail runners. There are also biking trails around the park.

Stats:
Discovery Park Loop and South Beach Trail combined will be around 4.5 miles
500 feet elevation gain

Tips for Hiking in Washington

• Check trail conditions before heading out, especially in winter and spring.
• Dress in layers and bring waterproof gear—Washington’s weather can change quickly (and we all know it rains).
• Stay on designated trails and follow principles of leave no trace.

If you’re looking for easy hikes you can do year-round, these Washington trails are great options. Grab your boots, pack your camera, and get outside.