5 Hikes Near Seattle (And How to Avoid Crowds)

Heybrook Ridge

3.3 miles and 775 feet of elevation gain

We started hiking around 8:20AM on a drizzly Saturday and didn't see anyone else until we were nearly back to the parking lot. If you get an early start or are okay with hiking in the rain, you can have this trail pretty much to yourself!

Cougar Mountain

Varies, many trails

Cougar Mountain doesn't have dramatic views, but there are some nice running trails and waterfalls. There are many trailheads and routes, so even when the lot is nearly full it never feels too crowded. Only 20 minutes away, this is one of my favorite places to run.

Dirty Harry's Balcony

4.4 miles and 1600 feet of elevation gain

I hiked this trail on a beautiful Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend 2021. The parking lot was busy, but there were a lot of families and rock climbers, so the crowds dropped off pretty fast. I spent a lot of time hiking alone and when I got to the top, there was only one other person up there! This trail isn't one to find solitude, but I wouldn't expect to be elbow to elbow either. Everyone I met was super nice and had good trail etiquette. If you want less crowds, do it after work for sunset!

Little Si

3.7 miles and 1300 feet of gain

This was the perfect after work sunset hike! We only saw a few other groups and had the summit all to ourselves.

Cherry Creek Falls

5 miles and 450 feet of gain

This one is super easy. We started at 2:45PM on a rainy Saturday and only saw a couple other groups, mainly families close to the trailhead. We had the falls all to ourselves... so go later in the afternoon or on a rainy day!

Discovery Park

Varies, many trails

It's hard to believe this park is located right inside Seattle! This park is so big, it's one of those places where it doesn't matter how busy the parking lot is. There's lots of trails and space on the beach to spread out. Seems like a nice place to run!