Rattlesnake Ridge is accessible year round, but I like to do it in the spring after the hazard of ice on the trail has passed. The lake is located near Interstate 90, exit 32, about 3 miles southeast of North Bend and about 35 miles east of Seattle. Because of its relatively close proximity to Seattle I was actually able to fit this one in after work when I used to work downtown. There was no better way to shake the office off than a quick hike up to Rattlesnake Ridge for sunset.

This isn’t a hard hike, but the 2 miles of switchbacks to the top are all uphill – so don’t expect an easy hike either. You also shouldn’t expect to be alone. On nice weekends there’s no avoiding the crowds – even at sunrise expect to share the ledge with a lot of other people (and dogs). That being said, the views are really lovely at the top and there’s plenty of room to spread out.

Distance: 4 Miles

Elevation Gain: 1,200

FYI: The ledge at the top of Rattlesnake Ridge is a sheer drop off. Please be careful and mind where you are standing and who’s around you while you’re there.