Top 5 Best Hikes Near Seattle With Your Dog

Grab your hiking boots, your pups harness, and perhaps a rain jacket cause you are headed out to explore some of the best trails near Seattle! As much as you and your dog love the urban life, there is something about jumping in the car and heading to the mountains for some natural beauty and exercise. Here are some great hikes that you may not know about near Seattle to take your pup on!

1. Explorer Falls

This 2.5 mile round trip hike is great for beginners or a warm up hike for the season. Although there is a bit of a log scramble at the start of the hike, the trail is mostly gravel and well maintained. Make sure to keep your eyes open for the sign for the falls, cause it can be easy to missed off the side of the main trail. There is a trail that takes you beside the river and up to the falls, which cascades into a shallow pool.  If your dog is new to hiking and would like a small challenge, this is the hike for you.

2. Franklin Falls

Once you and your dog are ready on a little more challenging accent, Franklin Falls should be next on your list. The well marked and maintained trail is only 2 miles with thunderous falls at the end. The Falls are worth the trip, but sometimes it can be crowded. Try to get there early on the weekends or try a weekday. Don’t forget your Northwest Forest Pass!

3. Bare Mountain

Skip the overcrowded Mount Si and try Bare Mountain instead. This scenic route will take your down a gravel road to start as well as crossing several creeks (be careful when the water level is higher). This trail has a variety of different terrain from forest to summit and so many photo opportunities. Just make sure to bring along your Northwest Forest Pass.

4. Greider Lakes

Outside of Sultan and Goldbar, this hike is not for the fainthearted. The first part of the trail follows Spada Lake and the incline gives you a great view and spot for a picnic. If you want to take on the challenge, the second part of the trail heads into the woods and up 40 switchbacks. Yes, you will absolutely be sweating and your dog panting but the  reward is a picturesque glacier lake nestle between the hills. It absolutely is worth busting your butt to get to the top.

5. Heather Lake

Farther north in the Cascades, Heather Lake is the next challenging hike to take your dog on. Make sure to grab your Northwest Forest Pass and your heavier boots. The trail starts off at the climb and eventual hits old logger roads, where you start to climb again on a more advanced level trail. Make sure to take a couple of breaks for you and your pup and enjoy the old forest views. This trail can be wet in places so make sure you stick to the boardwalk. The reflection lake at the top is worth the climb and make sure to take a lunch and enjoy your efforts!  This is one of the best hiking spots near Seattle!

Make sure to start off slow with introducing your dog to hiking and picking the right location is key. Also, always research your hike before hand and pack plenty of water for you and your pup! What is your favorite place to hike in Seattle; share with us below! Happy Hiking!

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