If you’re in or around Seattle and planning a hike, you may be considering one of the more well-known spots for your adventure. And why wouldn’t you? Mt. Si, Tiger Mountain, Mailbox Peak, Twin Falls and Cougar Mountain – aka the popular I-90 corridor hikes – are popular for a reason. They've got ranges of difficulty, breathtaking views, and a calorie burn deserving of a post hike burger and beer.
But if you’re looking to explore beyond these usual go-to trails, heading a bit further south opens up a whole new world of hiking possibilities. From lush forests and river valleys to jaw-dropping views of Mount Rainier, the region just south of the city is packed with hikes that are as beautiful as they are accessible. And bonus, you may experience less foot traffic if that’s an important factor.
This round-up highlights some of the best hikes south of Seattle—perfect for a day trip, a weekend adventure, or just a fresh perspective on the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty.
Easy to Easy/Moderate
Mud Mountain Dam Vista Trail - Easy
At little more than half a mile round trip, this is the shortest and easiest of the list, albeit steep. Located at the Mud Mountain Dam on the White River, you get great views of both the dam and Mount Rainier. Extend your stay and log some extra distance by checking out Mud Mountain Dam’s other trails, the Mud Mountain Dam Rim Trail or the Mud Mountain Dam River Trail.
Mud Mountain Dam Rim Trail - Easy
If you’re looking for a gentle adventure that keeps your heart rate at a consistent beat, this trail is for you. At only 4 miles roundtrip with 80 feet of elevation gain, you’ll enjoy a leisurely stroll along the White River with picture-worthy views of the White River Canyon.
Little Mashel Falls – Easy/Moderate
This one is for the waterfall lovers and you have two different trails to choose from to take in their beauty. The Bud Blancher Trail (Easy) is the easier and shorter of the two, while the Pack Forest Trail (Moderate) offers more of a challenge, more mud to stain your shoes and more views that aren’t available on the Bud Blancher Trail. Choose your own adventure based on your hiking and navigation experience and enjoy the stunning lower, middle and upper falls on this excursion.
South Puyallup Trail – Easy/Moderate
Tree lovers will be in awe on this trail that is an access point to the 93-mile long Wonderland Trail. You’ll be in the company of a great ecosystem of trees ranging from 100-1000 years old. At 3.4 miles roundtrip, this is a great day hike in Mount Rainier National Park.
Moderate to Moderate/Hard
Foothills Trail – Wilkeson to Carbonado – Moderate
The Wilkeson to Carbonado is a route that branches off the larger Foothills Trail, a 21 mile paved trail connecting eastern Puyallup to Buckley. You’ll enjoy a wide path as it is an old railroad grade and get that “hiking in the forest feeling” since you’ll be traveling through second growth woodland.
Mud Mountain Dam – River Trail - Moderate
The third of the Mud Mountain Dam trails, you’ll travel two miles on the Rim Trail to meet up with the River Trail. Along the way, you’ll walk along mudflats on the bank of the White River. This is a nice leisurely hike with very little elevation gain. It’s 7 miles roundtrip, however, so you’re guaranteed to hit your step goal for the day!
Skookum Flats - Moderate
Skookum Flats is mostly a gentle, flat trail that runs parallel to the White River. There are, however, narrow sections, rocks and roots which give this trail a “moderate” rating, so be sure to wear proper hiking footwear. There is also a short, steep side trail to Skookum Falls that should be experienced if you’re looking to add some extra oomph to your journey.
This hike eventually meets up to the Mount Rainier National Park boundary, which will be your literal sign to turn around and head back.
Skyline Loop Trail - Moderate
It was mentioned earlier that you may experience less foot traffic by exploring the trails in this list. That does NOT apply here. The Skyline Loop Trail is one of, if not, THE most popular trail at Mount Rainier National Park. It departs from the south side hub of the mountain, Paradise, which has much more favorable weather conditions and a longer season compared to the northern hub, Sunrise (hence the popularity). It offers an up close and personal view of Mount Rainier, and on a clear day, views of Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, and even Oregon’s Mount Hood. There are a number of split trails along the way, so stop by the visitor center and grab a map, as things can get pretty intricate here. And be sure to prepare for the weather. Just because the sun is warm and shining down in Ashford does not mean the conditions will be the same on the mountain.
Comet Falls - Moderate
Want a moderate hike in under 4 miles roundtrip that leads you to a 300 foot waterfall? Does this question even need to be asked? Comet Falls, located in Mount Rainier National Park, follows an energized whitewater creek upstream and also offers views of additional waterfalls along the way. So if you love the sights and sounds of water flowing, rumbling, roaring and cascading, add this trail to your list.
Mount Fremont Lookout – Moderate
If your ideal hiking adventure includes a dose of living history, head to Sunrise Visitor Center at Mount Rainier National Park and make your way to the Mount Fremont Lookout via the Sourdough Ridge Trailhead. NOTE: Timed-entry reservations are required for the Sunrise Corridor.
This two story cabin was built in 1934 and was used by watchmen to keep a lookout for wildfires in the area. Bring your binoculars to take in all the stunning views. You may even catch a glimpse of mountain goats and black bears, oh my!
Noble Knob - Moderate
If you want a huge payoff in views for little elevation gain, this is where you want to go. With two different access points – Corral Pass or Twentyeight Mile Road (Forest Road 72), you can enjoy this family-friendly hike that leads to breathtaking 360 degree views of snowcapped peaks, alpine lakes, and of course, Mount Rainier. Be advised that recent storms have downed some trees on the trail, so proceed carefully. The payoff will be worth it.
Bullion Basin - Moderate/Hard
Crystal Mountain isn’t just for skiing. Head to the resort in the off season and take advantage of their many hiking trails, including Bullion Basin. Your fitness level will be tested slightly, but you’ll be thankful for choosing mind of matter once you catch views of Mount Rainier and Mount Adams. You can even experience a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail on your journey.
Hard
Shriner Peak - Hard
This is one to save for fall as this high alpine trail offers captivating and vibrant colors of the season. Plus, it’s mostly exposed, making it pretty unbearable in the summer heat. You’ll capture amazing views, especially from the fire lookout tower located at the peak. Bring plenty of water and supplies and make sure your legs and lungs are in tip top shape to handle over 3,400 feet of elevation gain.
Gobblers Knob - Hard
At 11 miles roundtrip and over 2,500 feet of elevation gain, Gobblers Knob is for serious hikers looking to add to their robust list of trail accomplishments. You’ll put in the work, and at some point may question your choices before accomplishing a high return on your investment. Reach the epic fire lookout and the panoramic views of Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, Mount Hood, the Olympics and finally Mount Rainier will make you wonder what you’ve been doing with your life up until this point.
This list is just a taste of the hiking adventures that await you south of Seattle. Before heading out on any hiking adventure, check for weather reports, possible road closures and necessary parking passes and entry fees. And as always, pack your 10 essentials and practice Leave No Trace Principles.
Are there any hikes you’d add to this list? Tag us @visittacomapiercecounty and let us know!
Please note that due to the closure of the Fairfax Bridge located on SR 165 south of Carbonado, trails that are accessible only by use of this bridge have been excluded from this list. Check the WTA.org website to stay up to date on when these trails may once again be accessible
