Top iconic Seattle attractions include many stunning day hikes and mountain trails. These trails offer unforgettable experiences for hikers of all levels, with city skyline views, lush forests, and stunning waterfalls.
In this post, you will discover the best nearby Seattle mountains to hike and see. Why did I write the word “nearby?” Because honestly, there are no mountains in Seattle city limits. These mountains are within a reasonable drive and hike from the city.
So, let’s take a day trip and explore the gorgeous mountains surrounding the city. After that, don’t forget to check other tourist attractions near Seattle.
Top 21 Best Nearby Seattle Mountains
Without further ado, let’s get to the mountains closest to Seattle.
You must hike or at least see them when you visit Seattle city. Let’s start without further ado. Or may be you want to watch this video to choose the best day trips from Seattle city.
1/ Mount Rainier – 14,411 Ft. Elevation
Mount Rainier is a big, tall mountain near Seattle. It’s high, reaching 14,411 feet up in the sky. When you visit, you’ll see a massive white cap on top, and it’s not ice cream! That’s snow, and it never melts.
Mount Rainier is a volcano, but don’t worry; it won’t erupt like a big firework. It’s safe for hiking, and there are many trails to explore. The Paradise area is the most famous, with stunning wildflower meadows in summer and snowshoeing opportunities in winter.
Mt Rainier is the most iconic of the Seattle mountains, about 2.5 hours away from downtown. It’s why Seattle is known as the “Emerald City.” You must conquer this iconic mountain when you’re in Seattle.
Also, fun fact – Mount Rainier is one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world due to its large size and proximity to densely populated areas. But don’t worry; the last major eruption was over 500 years ago.
2/ Cascade Mountain Range in Seattle – 14,411′
Most breathtaking mountains near Seattle, like Mount Rainier, are parts of the Cascade Mountain Range. So, if you are done with the Rainier, you can go hiking in these beautiful 14,411-foot-high mountains.
The Cascade Mountain Range, known as the “American Alps,” stretches from British Columbia to Northern California.
The Seattle section is a beloved destination for outdoor travelers, offering scenic vistas and hiking opportunities for all skill levels.
The Cascades feature non-volcanic mountains and impressive volcanic peaks, creating a diverse and dramatic landscape.
The North Cascades are renowned for their rugged beauty and pristine wilderness. And the South Cascades boast stunning volcanoes like Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens. Besides the physical challenge and breathtaking views, the region is home to rich wildlife.
3/ Mount Si – 4,167 Ft. Elevation
Mount Si, standing tall at 4,167 feet, is 35 miles away from Seattle, WA, and it should take 39 minutes to get there by car. It offers a relatively short but challenging hike, making it a favorite among locals and visitors.
The summit of Mount Si offers sweeping views of the Snoqualmie Valley and the Seattle skyline. It’s a rewarding sight after completing the strenuous 8-mile round-trip hike.
The trail is well-maintained and is accessible year-round, though spring to fall is the most popular hiking season. Mount Si also gained fame through the popular television show Twin Peaks. This beautiful member of the Seattle mountains is about a 45-minute drive from the city.
4/ Mount Baker – 10,786 Ft. Elevation
Mount Baker is like a giant covered in snow all year long. It’s not as tall as Mount Rainier, but at 10,786 feet, it’s still a tall mountain.
Imagine a mountain that’s always wearing a big white coat! It’s a fantastic place to visit, especially if you love playing in the snow. You can sled, build snowmen, and have snowball fights. It’s like a winter wonderland, even in the summertime.
Mt. Baker is a popular day trip destination within a few hours of Vancouver and Seattle. It offers challenging hikes, thrilling snowboarding, and peaceful fishing in the beautiful Mt. Baker Snoqualmie National Forest.
5/ Glacier Peak in Seattle – 10,541 Ft. Elevation
Glacier Peak is one of the coolest mountains near Seattle. It’s 10,541 feet high, which is pretty tall. The name gives it away – this mountain has many glaciers, like frozen rivers of ice.
When you visit, you’ll see stunning ice and snow all around. It’s like walking in a frozen fairy tale world. You might even see cute animals like mountain goats with fluffy white fur.
Glacier Peak, or Dakobed, is a secluded stratovolcano in the Washington Cascades. It is located 65 miles northeast of Seattle and offers a challenging climb and stunning views.
With 11 glaciers, it poses potential hazards but hasn’t erupted in over 1,000 years. Less visited than other peaks, it provides a unique and adventurous hiking experience with breathtaking views of the North Cascades from its summit.
6/ Mount Shuksan – 9,131 Ft. Elevation
Mount Shuksan is a tall and beautiful mountain near Seattle. It’s not as tall as others, but at 9,131 feet, it still stands high in the sky.
When you hike Mount Shuksan, you’ll find meadows with colorful wildflowers and amazing blue lakes. It’s like stepping into a dream where nature paints the most beautiful pictures.
Mount Shuksan is one of the most photographed mountains in the world, nestled in the North Cascades National Park. Despite being lower in elevation compared to the surrounding peaks, it offers one of the most technically challenging climbs in the region.
The Sulphide Glacier route, in particular, is popular amongst expert mountaineers. At the summit, the panoramic view includes Mount Baker and the surrounding Picket Range. The landscapes change dramatically with the seasons, offering hikers a new experience every visit.
7/ Bonanza Peak – 9,516 Ft. Elevation
Bonanza Peak is 9,516 feet tall, which is relatively high. This mountain is a puzzle piece, and reaching the top is difficult. But the effort is worth it.
When you hike on Bonanza Peak, you’ll find cliffs, sparkling lakes, and maybe even some marmots. It’s like being on a real-life quest.
Bonanza Peak is one of the tallest non-volcanic peaks in Washington State and is part of the North Cascades National Park. It is located near Lake Chelan and offers a challenging yet rewarding hike for experienced climbers.
The last stretch requires rock scrambling, providing an adrenaline rush and stunning views at the summit. So, if you’re up for an adventure, Bonanza Peak is one of the top nearby Seattle mountains to conquer.
8/ Buckner Mountain – 9,114 Ft. Elevation
Buckner Mountain is another cool mountain near Seattle, and it’s 9,114 feet high. It’s like a big, rocky playground for experienced hikers. You’ll see snowy slopes, glaciers, and rocky ridges when you visit. It’s an adventure for the brave!
Buckner Mountain, also known as Mount Buckner, is the highest peak of the North Cascades Range’s Skagit Range. It’s particularly known for its challenging terrain and spectacular views.
The summit offers a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks like Forbidden Peak and Boston Peak, among others. You might spot mountain goats and maybe even a bluebird with bright blue feathers.
The Boston Glacier route is popular, offering a mix of glacier travel, rock scrambling, and the chance to explore a remote wilderness setting.
Despite its challenges, the journey offers rewarding views and the chance to see local wildlife in its natural habitat.
9/ Goode Mountain – 9,199 Ft. Elevation
Goode Mountain is another gem in the Cascade Mountain Range near Seattle. It stands at 9,199 feet, making it pretty tall. You’ll enter a world of ice and snow when you hike on Goode Mountain.
There are glaciers and frozen lakes that sparkle like diamonds. The views from the top are like looking at a postcard of the most beautiful place on Earth.
Goode Mountain is the highest non-volcanic peak in the park. It’s known for its challenging terrain, which includes large glaciers and steep snow slopes, making it a destination primarily for experienced mountaineers.
The Northeast Buttress route is renowned for its long rock-climbing sections. Also, Goode Mountain’s isolation provides a quieter climbing experience compared to busier routes.
10/ Eldorado Peak – 8,868 Ft. Elevation
Eldorado Peak is like a hidden castle in the mountains, and it’s 8,868 feet tall. It’s not the tallest, but it sure is special. When you go to Eldorado Peak, you’ll find rocky ridges and glaciers like in a movie about explorers.
It’s like a magical land for hikers, and you might even see pikas, small, furry creatures living in the rocks. Known for its distinctive knife-edged rock ridge and Eldorado Glacier, the peak provides a unique climbing experience.
The summit presents a mesmerizing panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, including Forbidden Peak, Boston Peak, and Sahale Mountain. Its untouched wilderness and year-round snow cover make it a must-visit for avid hikers and nature enthusiasts.
11/ Dragontail Peak – 8,842 Ft. Elevation
Dragontail Peak sounds like a place where dragons might live. But don’t worry; it’s a friendly mountain that is reachable within a day’s hike from Seattle. Standing at 8,842 feet, it’s one of the tallest peaks in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness area.
When you hike there, you’ll see beautiful lakes and cliffs. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale land, and you might even spot mountain goats, the kings of the cliffs.
With its impressive rock formations and rugged terrain, Dragontail Peak is popular among rock climbers and mountaineers. The peak’s summit offers a stunning 360-degree view of the region, including Enchantment Peaks and Colchuck Lake.
Climbing the Inner Tooth route is an unforgettable experience, with its mix of steep snow slopes, rock scrambling, and exposed ridges.
12/ Mount Saint Helens – 8,363 Ft. Elevation
Mount Saint Helens is famous for its big eruption in 1980, but now it’s calm and safe to visit from Seattle and other Washington cities. It’s 8,363 feet high, and the top of the mountain is a bit like a big scoop of ice cream.
The hike to the summit is a challenging yet rewarding experience, with stunning views of the surrounding Cascade Range and Spirit Lake.
Despite its past eruption, Mount Saint Helens is still an active volcano, making it a unique hiking destination for adventurers looking for thrill. The trek to the summit involves traversing through lava fields and ash-covered slopes, providing a glimpse into the power of nature.
You should put this on your list as a must-visit nearby Seattle mountain. Plus, you can say that you hiked on an active volcano – how cool is that? So, what are you waiting for?
13/ Abercrombie Mountain – 7,310 Ft. Elevation
Abercrombie Mountain is like a giant hill near Seattle, and it’s 7,310 feet tall. It’s not the tallest mountain, but it’s still a fun place to explore in Washington.
When you hike on Abercrombie Mountain, you’ll see tall trees, fields of wildflowers, and maybe even some curious squirrels. It’s like taking a walk in a big green park.
The mountain is a great option for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed hike. The Abercrombie Mountain trail offers breathtaking views of the Selkirk Mountains and Lake Pend Oreille.
The peak is also home to one of the oldest lookout towers in Washington, built in 1934 and used by forest rangers until the early 1960s.
14/ Burroughs Mountain – 7,828 Ft. Elevation
Burroughs Mountain is another cool mountain near Seattle, and it’s 7,828 feet high. It’s a bit like a big sandcastle with rocks.
Burroughs Mountain is located on the northwest slope of Mount Rainier. The mountain is named after John Burroughs, a renowned naturalist, and is treasured for its high alpine environment and wildflower-laden meadows.
There are three peaks on the Burroughs Mountain trail – First, Second, and Third Burroughs – with each promising increasingly panoramic views of Mount Rainier, Emmons Glacier, and the sprawling valleys below.
The trail is approximately 9 miles round trip and ascends through sub-alpine meadows and pumice fields. And yes, Burroughs Mountain is also an excellent place for birdwatching, offering glimpses of species like the American Pipit and Gray-crowned rosy finch.
15/ Olympic Mountains – 7,980 Ft. Elevation
The Olympic Mountains are a group of friendly mountains near Seattle, reaching 7,980 feet high. When you explore the Olympic Mountains, you’ll feel like you’re in a magical kingdom.
It’s where you can see the big trees, hike by the lakes, and maybe even glimpse a bald eagle soaring in the sky.
These nearby Seattle mountains are special because they have big forests and sparkling lakes. Also, they are home to diverse ecosystems, with over 600 species of animals and plants found only in this region.
The Olympic Mountains offer a variety of activities for nature lovers, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
16/ Snoqualmie Mountain – 6,278 Ft. Elevation
Snoqualmie Mountain is like a cozy hill near Seattle, and it’s 6,278 feet tall. It’s not as tall as other mountains, but it’s perfect for a fun adventure.
You’ll find tall trees and hidden waterfalls when you hike on Snoqualmie Mountain. It’s like a secret forest with surprises waiting around every corner.
Located just an hour away from the city, Snoqualmie Mountain is one of Seattle’s most accessible hikes. It offers a challenging uphill climb, leading to panoramic views of the Cascades and the Snoqualmie Valley.
This mountain belongs to the popular “Alpine Lakes Wilderness” group, defined by its stunning alpine scenery and fascinating wildlife.
The trail, which is about 3.8 miles round trip, is relatively steep but well worth the effort for the stunning vistas at the summit. Despite its accessibility, Snoqualmie Mountain requires a fair degree of physical fitness.
17/ Baring Mountain – 6,127 Ft. Elevation
Baring Mountain, also known as Mount Baring, is located in the central part of the Cascade Range and is 6,127 feet high. You can see this beautiful mountain from the Seattle area.
The mountain has two peaks, with the South Peak being the highest and the North Peak offering a challenging climb. The trail to the summit is approximately 7.8 miles round trip and involves navigating through dense forests, steep rock faces, and loose scree slopes.
Despite its challenging terrain, the summit offers rewarding views of Glacier Peak, Mount Index, and the Skykomish River Valley. The area teems with wildlife, including black bears, mountain goats, and various bird species.
18/ Shriner Peak – 5,834 Ft. Elevation
Shriner Peak, standing at an elevation of 5,834 feet, is a hidden gem among the top mountains near Seattle. This peak, tucked away in the eastern region of Mount Rainier National Park, offers an exhilarating hiking experience.
Unlike other trails in the park, the path to Shriner Peak is less crowded, allowing a peaceful ascent through old-growth forests and meadows. The trail spans approximately 8.4 miles round trip, presenting a moderate to strenuous climb.
Shriner Peak stands out because of its historic fire lookout at the summit. Built in the 1930s, the lookout offers panoramic views of Mount Rainier, the Cascades, and the surrounding valleys.
One can even spot Mount Adams and Mount Saint Helens from the peak on a clear day. It is an excellent destination for birdwatchers and wildlife lovers.
19/ Mount Pilchuck – 5,344 Ft. Elevation
Mount Pilchuck is one of the most impressive mountains close to Seattle. It’s within a reasonable drive of about 60 miles northeast of Seattle, and it’s 5,344 feet high. It’s like a big hill with a friendly fire lookout on top.
Mount Pilchuck is a prominent feature of the North Cascades and is located within the Mount Pilchuck State Park. It’s a favorite among Seattle hikers due to its moderate-to-challenging 5.4-mile round-trip trail.
The trail winds through old-growth forests and rocky terrain, leading to a historic fire lookout at the summit.
Constructed in 1918, the fire lookout is now a unique visitor attraction, offering a 360-degree panorama of the Cascades, Olympic Mountains, and the distant Seattle skyline.
Mount Pilchuck offers a rewarding hike, especially in late spring and summer when vibrant wildflowers adorn its meadows. Do not forget to check weather reports before starting the hike.
20/ Mt. Adams – 12,280 Ft. Elevation
Mr. Adams is the second-highest mountain in Washington after Mount Rainier. It is just 12,280 feet and offers a serene environment, perfect for a peaceful outdoor adventure.
While the hike to the summit of Mt. Adams is not as challenging as some other nearby Seattle mountains, the view from the top is equally rewarding. On a clear day, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Cascade Range, including the majestic Mount Rainier.
While Mr. Adams offers a more relaxed hiking experience, it’s still essential to be adequately prepared with the right gear and sufficient supplies.
FAQs for the Mountains Around Seattle
Let’s answer some frequently asked questions about the mountains surrounding Seattle.
What day hiking trails can I take from Seattle?
You can explore great day hiking trails near Seattle, like Mount Si, Rattlesnake Ledge, or the Discovery Park Loop Trail. They offer beautiful views and nature adventures.
Are there any mountains in Seattle?
Honestly, there are no mountains within the city limits of Seattle. But Seattle is surrounded by some of the most iconic mountains in the Pacific Northwest, offering a stunning backdrop for the city.
What mountains can you see from Seattle?
On a clear day, you can see stunning mountains from Seattle, like Mount Rainier, the Cascades, and even the Olympics. They’re like nature’s skyscrapers on the horizon!
The city is surrounded by some of the most iconic mountains in the Pacific Northwest. Other notable mountains that surround Seattle include:
You can see these mountains from many parts of Seattle, offering a stunning backdrop for the city. They are also popular destinations for outdoor recreation and adventure.
What is the famous mountain peak in Seattle?
The most famous mountain peak in Seattle is Mount Rainier, about 50 miles southeast of the city. Mount Rainier is an active volcano and is the highest mountain in the state of Washington. It is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and climbing.
What Mountains Are Close to Seattle?
The mountains closest to Seattle include Mount Si, Tiger Mountain, and Cougar Mountain. They’re just a short drive away for nature adventures!
Is Mount Everest in Seattle, Washington?
No, Mount Everest is not in Seattle, Washington. It’s in the Himalayas, far away in Asia. Seattle has its beautiful mountains, but not Mount Everest. I’m surprised you asked or wondered about this 🙂
What is Seattle Popular for?
Seattle is famous for its coffee, like Starbucks, and tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon. Also, the Space Needle and beautiful Puget Sound views are famous. Along with the nearby Seattle mountains mentioned in the post, you’d also love to explore these Seattle parks for sunset and many other attractions in Seattle.
