Rattlesnake Ledge Trail

A very popular hike for Seattleites. If you’re visiting the Emerald City and itching to escape to fresh air and nature, then drive about 35 miles east to the Rattlesnake Mountain Scenic Area for a hike that affords 360 degree views of the Cascades including Mount Si and Mount Washington. Owing its name to an early Seattle pioneer named Arthur Denny who thought the rattle of seed pods in the valley reported by a road surveyor might be rattlers (don’t worry, there are no rattlesnakes here!), this well-maintained trail is about 4 miles round trip. Starting at Rattlesnake Lake, several steep switchbacks and an elevation gain of over 1,000 feet, make this a moderately challenging hike. At the top, you’ll reach Rattlesnake Ledge, a very exposed, large rock which has sheer cliffs, so be very careful while enjoying the gorgeous vistas. Get an early start to avoid some of the crowds and remember to bring your swimsuit to jump in the lake post-hike for a welcome cool down!