5 Kid-Friendly Hikes Near Seattle

The secret to hiking with kids: low expectations, high snack volume, and a trail that has something interesting every 10 minutes. Here are five that actually work.

1. Rattlesnake Ledge

Distance: 4 miles round trip | Elevation: 1,160 ft | Ages: 5+

The most popular hike near Seattle for a reason. The ledge at the top has a jaw-dropping view of Rattlesnake Lake. Kids are motivated by the destination — “we get to stand on a cliff!”

Dad hack: Go early (before 9 AM on weekends) or you’ll be fighting for parking and trail space. Pack lunch to eat at the top.

Trailhead: Exit 32 off I-90, 30 min from Seattle

2. Twin Falls

Distance: 2.6 miles round trip | Elevation: 500 ft | Ages: 4+

Two waterfalls on one trail. The lower falls has a viewing platform, and the upper falls drops 150 feet. Kids love waterfalls — it’s basically nature’s TV.

Dad hack: This trail is great in rain (the falls are better). Bring rain jackets and embrace the mud.

Trailhead: Exit 34 off I-90, 35 min from Seattle

3. Discovery Park Loop Trail

Distance: 2.8 miles loop | Elevation: 300 ft | Ages: 3+

Seattle’s biggest park with a lighthouse at the end. Flat enough for little legs, interesting enough for older kids. The beach at the lighthouse is perfect for rock throwing.

Dad hack: Start at the south parking lot, go clockwise to hit the lighthouse first while kids still have energy.

Trailhead: Discovery Park, Magnolia, Seattle

4. Franklin Falls

Distance: 2 miles round trip | Elevation: 400 ft | Ages: 3+

The easiest trail on this list. Wide, well-maintained, and ends at a massive waterfall you can get close to. Kids can splash in summer.

Dad hack: Combine with a stop at the North Bend bakery (Twede’s Cafe — the “Twin Peaks” diner) for post-hike pie.

Trailhead: Denny Creek Trailhead, I-90 Exit 47, 50 min from Seattle

5. Deception Pass State Park (Whidbey Island)

Distance: Various (0.5-3 miles) | Elevation: Varies | Ages: 3+

The iconic bridge view is worth the drive alone. Multiple short trails to beaches and viewpoints. Make it a day trip with the Deception Pass Bridge photo op.

Dad hack: Stop in La Conner on the way back for ice cream. The tulip fields nearby are epic in April.

Trailhead: Deception Pass State Park, ~90 min from Seattle

---

The Dad Hiking Survival Kit

Pack these every time:

• Snacks (way more than you think — goldfish crackers are trail currency)
• Water (1 liter per kid minimum)
• Extra layers (PNW weather changes fast)
• Band-aids (for the inevitable “emergency”)
• A good attitude (the goal is fun, not fitness)

One Last Rule

Let them set the pace. The trail isn’t going anywhere. Stop for every interesting rock, stick, and bug. That’s the whole point.

Drop your family’s favorite hike in the comments!