There are a few things Seattle is known for: grunge, coffee, rain, and gorgeous hiking. While you can experience all of those without your pet, it’s even better with them. Hiking is a great place to start. Whether you want a thigh-burning all-day hike, a moderate afternoon outing, or something in the city itself, we’ve got options for you.
Enjoy rivers, lakes, mountain views and more, with your dog by your side. Just remember that you’re likely to encounter other dogs (and people) on your hikes, so make sure your dog is comfortable in busy environments and keep your pets leashed. Read on to learn about each unique hike.
Top 9 Dog-Friendly Hikes Near Seattle
- Rattlesnake Ledge
- Lake TwentyTwo
- Red Top Lookout
- Barclay Lake
- Tonga Ridge
- Cedar Butte
- Cougar Mountain Trails
- Washington Park Arboretum
- Heather Lake
1. Rattlesnake Ledge
- a 4-mile trail (if hiking past the ledge), moderate to difficult
- enjoy panoramic views along much of the trail, of the valley, Rattlesnake Lake, and other nearby mountains
- dogs must be leashed
- watch out for brave chipmunks because they may steal your food
2. Lake 22
- a 7-mile hike (including the loop around the lake), moderate in intensity
- hike through lush northwest rain forest to a pristine alpine lake
- dogs must be leashed
- start early on the weekends, because this is a popular trail
3. Red Top Lookout Trail
- an easy 1 mile hike for all skill levels
- enjoy a sweeping 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains
- dogs must be leashed
- in the summer months, the lookout is usually staffed by volunteers and open to tour from 9 AM to 6 PM
- GPS does not give correct directions, follow the written instructions in the notes here
4. Barclay Lake
- a 4.4-mile heavily trafficked hike, suitable for all skill levels
- use caution on the bridge that crosses Barclay Creek at the 1.2 mile mark
- dogs must be leashed
- best used May – October due to weather
5. Tonga Ridge & Mount Sawyer
- an 8-mile round-trip trail, suitable for all levels
- enjoy mountain views at the ridge, spring wildflowers, and berries in the fall
- dogs must be leashed
- come early on the weekends, because this is a popular trail
6. Cedar Butte
- a 3.5-mile moderate hike
- enjoy views of the mountains, including Mount Si and Mailbox Peak
- dogs must be leashed
- you’ll need a Discover Pass for this hike, and don’t forget to display it in your car when you park
7. Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Trails
- choose from 61 trails, with options for all levels
- enjoy lush green wooded trails and mountaintop views not far from the city of Issaquah
- dogs must be leashed
- visit King County’s parks website for more information on getting to the trails
8. Washington Park Arboretum
- 3.5 mile of trail through botanical gardens, groves of trees, and waterside views and a Japanese garden
- the park is in Seattle, so no need to drive out of city limits
- dogs must be leashed
- if you and your pet like to kayak or canoe, the park features tranquil and plant-rich waterways to explore
9. Heather Lake
- a moderate 4.6-mile hike to a lovely lake on the northeast slope of Mount Pilchuck
- enjoy stream crossings, tiny waterfalls, marsh plants and wildflowers
- dogs must be leashed
- come early on the weekends, because this is a popular trail
We hope you get a chance to explore some of these wild and special places with your pet. But, if you don’t have the time to take your dog on a much-needed walk, Rover is here to help you find a dog-walker in the Seattle area.
More dog-friendly Seattle ideas
- 10 Top Off-Leash Dog Parks Near Seattle Reviewed by a Local
- Top 11 Dog-Friendly Seattle Restaurants
- 8 Dog-Friendly Coffee Shops in Seattle
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