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A moderate hike along the ridge of Rattlesnake Mountain with great views of the Cascades.


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Map Key

10.2

Miles

16.5

KM

Point to Point

3,413' 1,040 m

High

952' 290 m

Low

2,675' 815 m

Up

2,796' 852 m

Down

10%

Avg Grade (6°)

37%

Max Grade (20°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Views · Wildlife

The three ledges along this trail have lots of exposure and care should be taken, especially with children or dogs. Parking lots on either end of this hike require the use of a Discover Pass.

Description

The Rattlesnake Mountain Trail can be used in either direct and is best enjoyed with a retrieval vehicle waiting at the destination. Beginning from the Snoqualmie Point Park, the trail heads up the slope and into the trees, making a number of road crossing in the first couple of miles. Stan's Overlook is a worthwhile diversion that can be reached quickly from the trail. The towering slopes on the other side of I90 are quite striking.

From there, the trail continues switchbacking along the ridge. Occasionally, the route will make use of old roadways, but thorough signage makes the navigating straightforward. Just over four miles in, the trail comes to Grand Prospect Viewpoint. Take a moment to rest on the conveniently placed benches as you soak in the sights. If hiking as an out-and-back, this is a good turn around spot.

The climbing isn't done, but the going remains easy over the next few miles as the trail follows the rolling elevation of the ridge. The last few miles of the trail descends along a series of switchbacks through a young forest. The big highlights will be three ledges that provide great views. The lowest is Rattlesnake Ledge and it's a very popular destination, so expect lots of company here and as you continue down the trail to where it ends on a service road near Rattlesnake Lake.

Contacts

Shared By:

Eric Ashley with improvements by Hunter R

Trail Ratings

  4.2 from 27 votes

#256

Overall
  4.2 from 27 votes
5 Star
48%
4 Star
26%
3 Star
26%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#16

in Washington

#256

Overall
29 Views Last Month
10,919 Since Sep 27, 2016
Intermediate Intermediate

4%
4%
70%
11%
11%
0%

Photos

Catching a weekday sunrise will be sure to keep you from the crowds of this busy hike.
Nov 18, 2016 near Riverbend, WA
I call this one "Laptop Lady on the Ledge". Clearly, Rattlesnake Mountain is a popular and achievable hike.
May 11, 2017 near Riverbend, WA
Along the trail to Rattlesnake Ledge.
Sep 28, 2016 near Riverbend, WA
Barely a cloud in the sky!
May 11, 2019 near Riverbend, WA
The view from Rattlesnake Ledge looking down on Rattlesnake Lake and the Cedar River Watershed Education Center.
Sep 17, 2016 near Riverbend, WA
The view from the upper Rattlesnake Mountain ledge.
Sep 27, 2016 near Riverbend, WA

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