Discover the Best: Top 20 Most Popular Hikes in the Puget Sound Region
The Puget Sound is a wonderland for hikers. From forested trails to coastal vistas, from easy strolls for the kids to challenging summit climbs for adventure seekers, this region has something for everyone. These 20 hikes highlight why the Pacific Northwest is a hiker’s paradise. Each trail has its own charm, whether it is scenic views, wildlife encounters, or historic features.
North Puget Sound
1. Padilla Bay Shore Trail – Burlington
Highlights: Padilla Bay Shore Trail is famous for its peaceful estuary views and abundant birdlife. Hikers love the easy, flat trail that winds through tidal wetlands, giving excellent opportunities to observe shorebirds and marine habitats. This trail is especially popular with families and birdwatchers.
Difficulty: Easy
Family-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Bring binoculars to spot birds, check tides if exploring the shoreline, and keep dogs leashed to protect wildlife.
2. Deception Pass Headlands & Rosario Beach Tide Pools
Highlights: This trail is one of the most photographed spots in the state. Hikers enjoy dramatic saltwater views, old-growth forests, and exploring tide pools at Rosario Beach. Families and nature lovers flock here to see sea stars, crabs, and tide pool creatures while enjoying the scenic coastal landscape.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Family-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Wear sturdy shoes for rocky areas, check tide schedules, and watch out for slippery rocks near the shoreline.
3. Sugarloaf Mountain – Anacortes Community Forest Lands
Highlights: Sugarloaf Mountain is a favorite for its panoramic views of the San Juan Islands and surrounding forests. Hikers appreciate the approachable trail that rewards them with scenic lookouts. It is popular with families, casual hikers, and photographers who want easy access to the beauty of the islands.
Difficulty: Moderate
Family-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Start early for quiet enjoyment, bring water and snacks, and follow trail markers.
4. Oyster Dome Trail – Blanchard Mountain
Highlights: Oyster Dome is renowned for its sweeping views of the San Juan Islands and the Skagit Valley. The rocky outcrops and open ridgelines make it a favorite among photographers and adventurers. Hikers appreciate the combination of forest trails and exposed summit for sunrise and sunset views.
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Family-Friendly: Older kids yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Start early, carry plenty of water, and use caution on steep sections.
5. Mount Constitution – Moran State Park, Orcas Island
Highlights: Mount Constitution is famous for being the highest point in the San Juan Islands with panoramic views of Puget Sound, surrounding islands, and Mount Baker. The historic stone observation tower at the summit adds charm. Families and hikers love it for scenic picnics, photography, and sweeping vistas.
Difficulty: Moderate
Family-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Dress in layers, check ferry schedules, and enjoy a picnic at the summit.
6. Mount Walker – Olympic Peninsula
Highlights: Mount Walker is popular for its stunning views of the Olympic Mountains, Puget Sound, and Mount Rainier. The combination of summit panoramas and forested sections makes it rewarding for adventurous hikers. Its challenging climb draws those looking for a short but steep workout with breathtaking scenery.
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Family-Friendly: Older kids yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Bring snacks and water, wear hiking boots, and check the weather due to rapid elevation changes.
Central Puget Sound
7. South Indian Island Park – Near Port Townsend
Highlights: Hikers come here for sandy beaches and gorgeous views of Mount Rainier. The native trees and gentle terrain make it especially appealing for families and casual walkers. It’s a peaceful escape for anyone looking for a mix of forest and shoreline scenery.
Difficulty: Easy
Family-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Wear sun protection, bring a map or GPS, and respect local wildlife.
8. Lunds Gulch – Lynnwood
Highlights: Lunds Gulch is loved for its forested ravines, wetlands, and views of Puget Sound. Hikers enjoy spotting wildlife along the trail and escaping the suburban hustle. It is popular for family outings and dog walkers who want a quiet, natural setting.
Difficulty: Moderate
Family-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Wear waterproof shoes, keep dogs leashed, and carry a small first aid kit.
9. Warren G. Magnuson Park Trails – Seattle
Highlights: This park has a network of trails through lakeside areas and forested sections. Families enjoy the accessible paths and picnic areas. It is one of Seattle’s go-to trails for walking, jogging, and casual hiking, especially for children and beginners.
Difficulty: Easy
Family-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Check trail maps, bring water, and enjoy the park amenities.
10. Redmond Watershed Preserve – Redmond
Highlights: The preserve features trails through forests and wetlands, with chances to see wildlife such as herons, beavers, and deer. It is popular for educational hikes, nature walks, and family outings seeking a quiet natural environment.
Difficulty: Moderate
Family-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Dress in layers, stay on trails, and carry a whistle for emergencies.
East Puget Sound
11. Rattlesnake Mountain Trail – North Bend
Highlights: This trail is famous for its stunning views of Rattlesnake Lake and the surrounding Cascade peaks. Hikers love the combination of forested switchbacks and open ledges, making it a favorite for both sunrise views and day trips from Seattle. Families with older kids and adventurous hikers often choose this trail for its accessible challenge.
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Family-Friendly: Older kids yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Plan a full-day hike, bring plenty of water and snacks, check trail conditions, and dress in layers for changing weather.
12. Seward Park Loop Trail – Seattle
Highlights: Seward Park Loop offers 2.4 miles of forested paths along Lake Washington. It’s popular for its combination of waterfront views, urban forest, and birdwatching. Families, casual hikers, and joggers love this loop for its accessibility and scenic variety.
Difficulty: Easy
Family-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Explore the park’s cultural sites, respect park hours, and keep dogs leashed.
13. Mount Si – North Bend
Highlights: Mount Si is iconic for its steep climb and breathtaking views of the Snoqualmie Valley. Hikers flock here for the challenge, rewarding summit vistas, and a glimpse at Pacific Northwest wilderness without leaving the metro area. It’s a classic for adventurous day hikers and older teens.
Difficulty: Hard
Family-Friendly: Older kids yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Start early to beat crowds, bring essentials like water, sun protection, first aid, and dress in layers.
South Puget Sound & Islands
14. Fragrance Lake – Near Bellingham
Highlights: Fragrance Lake offers panoramic views of Samish Bay, Lummi Island, and the San Juan Islands. Hikers love its scenic lakefront and forested surroundings. It’s popular with photographers, nature lovers, and families looking for a moderate adventure with plenty of views.
Difficulty: Moderate
Family-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Start early to secure parking, bring insect repellent, and yield to uphill hikers.
15. Mary E. Theler Wetlands Nature Preserve – Hood Canal
Highlights: This preserve is beloved for its boardwalks through forests, marshes, and views of the Olympic Mountains. Families enjoy birdwatching, gentle walking paths, and educational opportunities about local ecosystems. It’s a great spot for a calm, nature-filled outing.
Difficulty: Easy
Family-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Stay on boardwalks, bring binoculars, and check the Wetlands Project Center for wildlife information.
16. Baker Preserve Trail - Lummi Island Hikes
Highlights: Baker Preserve Trail is a family-friendly hike that winds through lush forests and open meadows with stunning views of Lummi Island’s coastline. The trail is well-loved for its peaceful atmosphere, opportunities to spot local wildlife, and accessible paths that make it suitable for both casual hikers and adventurous families.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Family-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Check ferry schedules before heading to the island, bring water and snacks, wear sturdy shoes, and respect private property along the trail.
17. Gazzam Lake and Close Beach – Bainbridge Island
Highlights: Gazzam Lake and Close Beach trail offers a unique combination of freshwater lake views and saltwater coastal scenery. Hikers love spotting wildlife and enjoying quiet beaches along the way. It’s perfect for family outings and casual adventures.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Family-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Bring bear spray if necessary, stay alert for wildlife, and check tide tables.
18. Penrose Point State Park – Kitsap Peninsula
Highlights: Penrose Point is popular for its forest trails, uncrowded beaches, and views of Mount Rainier. Families enjoy combining hiking with picnics and beach exploration. The park’s quiet trails make it a peaceful adventure destination.
Difficulty: Easy
Family-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Check weather for tides, respect park rules, and leave natural items undisturbed.
19. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge – Near Olympia
Highlights: Nisqually Refuge is famous for birdwatching and waterfowl observation. Hikers love the flat, accessible trails that provide educational experiences for all ages. Families enjoy the mix of boardwalks, marshes, and wildlife spotting.
Difficulty: Easy
Family-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: No
Hiking Tips: Bring binoculars, respect seasonal closures, and stay on designated trails.
20. Ebey's Landing Bluff Trail – Whidbey Island
Highlights: Ebey’s Landing offers coastal bluff trails with sweeping views of Puget Sound and prairie landscapes. Hikers enjoy exploring historic sites and the unique geology. Families and photographers alike appreciate the moderate trails and scenic coastal panoramas.
Difficulty: Moderate
Family-Friendly: Yes
Pet-Friendly: Yes, on-leash
Hiking Tips: Check tide schedules, stay on marked paths, and bring binoculars for birdwatching.
The Puget Sound region offers an incredible variety of hiking experiences for families, casual explorers, and adventurous climbers. From tranquil estuaries to summit vistas, each trail is a window into the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Remember to bring water, snacks, and proper footwear, respect wildlife, and plan ahead for tides or trail conditions. Lace up your boots, gather the family or friends, and immerse yourself in the scenic wonders that make this region a hiker’s dream.
