Hiking in the Pacific Northwest is a wonderful summer activity for many reasons – it’s inexpensive, it’s great exercise, and you get to appreciate the great outdoors. But best of all, it’s an activity both you and your best furry friend can enjoy together! There are many hiking trails near Seattle but some of them are off-limits to pets – make sure you read our list below for popular dog-friendly spots.

 

Barclay Lake Trailhead

Gold Bar, WA 98251, USA

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 4.3 miles out & back 

Elevation Gain: 387 feet

Location: East, approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes from the city centre

A great trail for all skill levels, Barclay Lake Trail follows Barclay Creek through the lush woods to Barclay Lake. You and your dog will be able to enjoy views of Merchant Peak and Baring Mountain as you near the lake. A recreation pass is required for this trail.

 

The Washington Park Arboretum

2300 Arboretum Dr E, Seattle, WA 98112, USA

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 3.5 mile loop

Elevation Gain: 203 feet

Location: In Seattle, 10 minutes from the city centre

This hike is located within the city of Seattle so if you are looking for something closer to home, this is the trail for you and your dog! The Washington Park Arboretum trail features one of the most diverse collections of plants in the country. The trails take you through the botanical gardens and along the Lake Washington shoreline. This is also a great place to go kayaking with your pup!

 

Rattlesnake Ledge

Washington 98045, USA

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 5.1 miles out & back 

Elevation Gain: 1,469 feet

Location: South-East, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from the city centre

Rattlesnake Ledge is a very popular hiking trail for Seattleites looking to spend time in the outdoors. The trail is quite shaded so you won’t have to worry too much about your dog overheating. Along the trail and atop the ridge you will get to see panoramic views of the Rattlesnake Lake, the Si and Washington Mountains and the valley.

 

Lake Twenty-Two Trailhead

Mountain Loop Hwy, Granite Falls, WA 98252, USA

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 7 mile loop

Elevation Gain: 1,486 feet

Location: North-East, approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes from the city centre

The stunning Lake Twenty-Two Trail is another popular hiking destination near Seattle. The trail takes you and your pup through a lush forest on the shoulder of Mount Pilchuck and once at the top, it continues in a loop around the tranquil waters of Lake Twenty-Two. The trail features a beautiful waterfall and a number of creeks along the way. It can be a little wet and rocky in places, so be sure to wear appropriate hiking footwear. A Northwest Forest Service pass is required to park at the trail.

 

Oyster Dome Trailhead

Pacific NW Trail, Bow, WA 98232

Difficulty: Hard

Distance: 7.9 miles out & back 

Elevation Gain: 1,965 feet

Location: North, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from the city centre

The Oyster Done Trail features logging artifacts and large granite boulders and turns around at the Samish Lake Overlook. From the overlook, you might be able to see the San Juan Islands and even Vancouver Island, Canada in the distance! The elevation of this trail is quite high at 1,965 and might be better for dogs and humans with more hiking experience. A Discover Pass is required to park at the trailhead;

We hope you’ll get the chance to try out some of these hiking trails this summer! Be sure to bring some water along for both you and your pup and remember to keep your dog on a leash unless it is otherwise indicated. We would love to hear about your experience on these trails, as well as other dog-friendly spots that you love, in the comments below!