Rattlesnake Ledge North Bend Washington
Iconic moderate hike near Seattle offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Snoqualmie Valley and Rattlesnake Lake.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Rattlesnake Ledge North Bend Washington
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic moderate hike near Seattle offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Snoqualmie Valley and Rattlesnake Lake.
"The views from the top are so beautiful and well worth the climb!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast! Aim for before 8 AM on weekends to secure a spot and a quieter hike .
👟 Wear Proper Hiking Shoes
Sturdy footwear is essential for the incline. Avoid sandals or flip-flops for safety .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rattlesnake Ledge Overlook
Summit
Breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and Rattlesnake Lake. A truly rewarding sight!
Rattlesnake Lake
Base of the trail
A serene lake perfect for picnics, with ample space and facilities. Watch out for geese!
Forest Trail
Ascent to the ledge
A beautiful, moss-covered forest path with towering trees, offering a tranquil journey upwards.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Go Early!
Trail Difficulty & Footwear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast! Aim for before 8 AM on weekends to secure a spot and a quieter hike.
👟 Wear Proper Hiking Shoes
Sturdy footwear is essential for the incline. Avoid sandals or flip-flops for safety.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated on the moderate incline. Great spot for a picnic by the lake too! :water_wave:
🗺️ Stay on Marked Trails
Follow the designated path, especially at switchbacks, to avoid trespassing and stay safe.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast! Aim for before 8 AM on weekends to secure a spot and a quieter hike.
👟 Wear Proper Hiking Shoes
Sturdy footwear is essential for the incline. Avoid sandals or flip-flops for safety.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated on the moderate incline. Great spot for a picnic by the lake too! :water_wave:
🗺️ Stay on Marked Trails
Follow the designated path, especially at switchbacks, to avoid trespassing and stay safe.
♻️ Pack Out Your Trash
Help keep this beautiful spot clean. Leave no trace and respect the environment :recycle:
🐶 Dogs Welcome (Leashed)
Your furry friends can join, but they must be kept on a leash.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rattlesnake Ledge offers stunning views and a rewarding hike, but its immense popularity means crowds can be a significant factor, impacting the tranquility of the experience. While the trail is generally well-maintained, its moderate incline requires proper footwear and preparation. The adjacent Rattlesnake Lake provides a serene picnic spot.
"Rattlesnake Ledge is a great trail with amazing views at the top!
It took me almost 2 hours round trip because I often stopped to take photos — there are so many beautiful spots along the way. I also helped other hikers by taking pictures of them at the summit, which made the experience even more friendly and welcoming.
I’d rate the difficulty as moderate. It’s not very easy, especially if you’re a first-timer — trekking poles really help.
Make sure to wear proper shoes! Flip-flops or sandals are not a good idea — I saw someone almost fall because of them.
Overall, it’s a fantastic hike for an active day outdoors, totally worth every minute! 🌲📸💚"
Oleksandra Romaniuk
"I’m giving this trail 4 stars mainly because when we went, it was hard to truly reconnect with nature or enjoy the scenery, people were incredibly loud and inconsiderate. I’m not talking about casual conversation either; it was full-on, “everyone needs to hear my life story” energy. It was honestly overwhelming and took away from the experience. Also, I’m not sure why this trail is labeled as easy. I actually found it more challenging than the Skyline Trail at Mt. Rainier. It’s only about 2 miles, but it’s a steady incline the entire way up. There’s not much to see along the hike itself; the main view is at the top, which is beautiful but takes effort to reach. I recommend getting there before 8 or 9 AM if you want any peace. We started around 8 and it was already getting busy, and by the time we finished (around 10 or 11) it felt like we were at a crowded event instead of a hike. I’ve hiked plenty of trails around Washington, but for some reason, this one attracts people who completely lack spatial awareness."
Czarina Cultura
"The area was nice and serene. This is easy to find with plenty of parking and a very easy trail either around the lake or up the mountains. It is a great spot for a picnic with plenty of bathrooms as well as trash and recycling bins. Be sure to clean up after yourself with trash, recycling, and the bathrooms to keep it enjoyable and safe for all. While we were there, the flock of geese came up to us while we ate, so we had some great entertainment along with a great view and a peaceful time all around.
Just beware of the goose poop - it is everywhere!
Bring a chair and not good shoes."
Samantha Allen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rattlesnake Ledge is located near North Bend, WA, about a 45-minute drive east of Seattle via I-90. Take exit 32 for 436th Avenue SE and follow signs towards Rattlesnake Lake. Parking is available at the lake's trailhead.
Public transportation options are limited. The most convenient way to reach Rattlesnake Ledge is by car. Consider ride-sharing services if you don't have a vehicle.
There is ample free parking available at the Rattlesnake Lake trailhead. However, it fills up very quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season.
Yes, Rattlesnake Ledge is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome on the trail as long as they are kept on a leash.
The main trail to Rattlesnake Ledge is a well-maintained 4-mile round-trip hike. Be aware of a potential misdirection at a switchback; the trail continues sharply right uphill. Using an app like AllTrails can be helpful.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, a Discover Pass or any other special pass is not required for parking or hiking at Rattlesnake Ledge. Parking is free.
Rattlesnake Ledge is an outdoor trail and is generally accessible from dawn until dusk. There are no official operating hours, but it's best to hike during daylight for safety and enjoyment.
Yes, Rattlesnake Ledge is open year-round. However, conditions can vary, with potential for snow and ice in winter months, making proper footwear even more crucial.
No, Rattlesnake Ledge does not require advance ticket bookings. It's a public trail, and entry is on a first-come, first-served basis for parking.
There is no admission fee to hike Rattlesnake Ledge. The trail and parking at Rattlesnake Lake are free to access.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is approximately 4 miles round-trip and typically takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos or breaks.
Most hikers describe it as moderate. It involves a steady incline for about 2 miles to the ledge, with some steep sections. Trekking poles can be helpful.
You'll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Snoqualmie Valley, Rattlesnake Lake, Mount Si, and the surrounding Cascade Mountains.
Yes, there are restrooms available at the Rattlesnake Lake trailhead, which is a great amenity for visitors.
Rattlesnake Ledge is one of the most popular hikes near Seattle and can get very crowded, especially on weekends. Arriving early is highly recommended to avoid the largest crowds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, North Bend, located just a short drive away, offers several dining options, from casual cafes to restaurants. You can also pack a picnic to enjoy by Rattlesnake Lake.
Absolutely! Rattlesnake Lake is a fantastic spot for a picnic, with plenty of space and facilities. Just be mindful of the geese and clean up after yourself.
North Bend has a variety of eateries, including pizza places, diners, and cafes. It's a good place to grab a bite before or after your hike.
While the ledge itself offers incredible views, dining options directly with a view are limited. Most restaurants are in North Bend. Enjoying a picnic by the lake offers a scenic dining experience.
Many visitors suggest exploring the local eateries in North Bend for post-hike refueling. Options range from casual to sit-down meals, providing a good variety for different tastes.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. However, the views are stunning throughout the day.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. Many visitors use smartphones, but a DSLR or mirrorless camera can capture more detail.
Yes, the forest trail itself offers beautiful shots with moss-covered trees and dappled sunlight. Don't just focus on the summit view.
The main ledge overlook is iconic. Also, consider shots of Rattlesnake Lake from above, the forest path, and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas or by park regulations. It's always best to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in natural areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
The main costs will be transportation to the trailhead and any food or drinks you bring or purchase afterward. Packing your own water and snacks is highly recommended to save money and ensure you have what you need on the trail.🐶 Dog Owners
+1 Remember to bring extra water for your dog and be prepared to pack out their waste to keep the trails clean. The moderate incline can be a good workout for active dogs.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rattlesnake Ledge Hike Experience
It's important to note that the trail can be narrow in places, requiring hikers to be mindful when passing others.Many visitors recommend using trekking poles to aid in the ascent and descent, particularly for those new to hiking or seeking extra stability.
+1 While the journey up is scenic, the most dramatic vistas are reserved for the summit.Key Takeaways:
* Distance: 4 miles round-trip
* Elevation Gain: ~1,160 feet
* Difficulty: Moderate, with a consistent incline
* Trail Features: Forested path, narrow sections, rewarding summit views.
* Tips: Trekking poles can be helpful; stay on the marked trail.
Navigating Crowds and Etiquette
This can significantly impact the experience, with some visitors noting that the noise and sheer number of people detract from the feeling of reconnecting with nature.Beyond crowd management, practicing good trail etiquette is crucial. This includes staying on marked trails to protect the environment and avoid trespassing.
Trail Etiquette Essentials:
* Arrive Early: Beat the crowds and secure parking.
* Respect Nature: Stay on marked trails and pack out all trash.
* Leash Your Pets: Keep dogs on a leash at all times.
* Mindful Noise Levels: Be considerate of other hikers seeking a peaceful experience.
Post-Hike Delights in North Bend
For those who prefer a more scenic dining experience, packing a picnic to enjoy at Rattlesnake Lake is a popular choice. The lake area provides ample space and facilities, making it an ideal spot to unwind and savor your meal amidst nature.
Post-Hike Recommendations:
* Explore North Bend: Discover local restaurants and cafes.
* Picnic at Rattlesnake Lake: Enjoy a scenic meal by the water.
* Clean Up: Leave no trace after your picnic or meal.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit