Seattle pet parents: We’re surrounded by such great beauty here in the Northwest that it can be easy to forget how great we dog lovers have it here—especially with the great outdoors. But what about dog-friendly hikes we can enjoy together on a chilly, beautiful day?
From the Olympics to the Cascades, we’re provided with countless choices for outdoor fun with our dogs. I’ve put together four winter hiking adventures for you to experience together.
First though, please note that each of the hikes listed below requires dogs to be on their leash—and for good reason: safety, trail etiquette, and protecting wildlife and vegetation. As always, it’s a requirement to scoop your dog’s poop on the trail (and best if they’re biodegradable poop bags). For more about what to consider before you go, check out our guide on hiking with dogs.
Pro tip: this is only a small sampling of what’s available locally. A good NW hiking guide will give you many more ideas, as will the Washington Trails Association website.
The best dog-friendly winter hikes near Seattle
Middle Fork Snoqualmie River: Upstream
- 12 miles round-trip
- 200’ to 1100’ elevation gain
Just outside of North Bend near Snoqualmie Pass, you’ll find this less-visited trail. The path will weave you into the forest, along the river, and if you and Fido are lucky, you might see some fish, too.
There’s been a report of several potholes on the way in, so keep an eye out.
Driving directions: From Seattle, drive east on I-90 to exit 34 (Edgewick Road). Turn left (north) onto 468th Street and follow it to the junction with the Middle Fork Snoqualmie Road (Forest Road 56). Turn right and continue up the Middle Fork Snoqualmie Road for 11.8 miles to the Middle Fork trailhead parking area on the right. Cross the river on the impressively large metal and wood footbridge.
Learn more at PNW Hikes.
Lord Hill
- 10 miles, roundtrip
- 200’ elevation gain
Lord Hill Regional Park is nestled between Snohomish and Monroe on over 1,400 acres of nature preserve. This year-round park has multiple hiking options for you to choose from including the edges of the Snoqualmie River.
From high points inside the park, you can catch views of the Cascades and Olympics—check out Devil’s Butte Lookout or the ridge of the Pipeline Trail. Be sure to download the park map on Snohomish County’s website below.
Driving directions: From the city of Snohomish, exit State Route 9 onto 2nd Street. Proceed east for 1 mile. Then turn right onto Lincoln Avenue, which becomes the Old Snohomish-Monroe Highway. After 2.7 miles, turn right (south) onto 127th Avenue SE and proceed for about 1.6 miles to the park entrance and trailhead (elev. 525 ft). Privy available.
Learn more on Snohomish County’s website or the WTA Hiking Guide
Deception Pass State Park—Headlands, Rosario Head, Lighthouse Point
- 5 miles roundtrip
- 350’ elevation gain
One of WTA’s hikes of the week, this spot takes you up north near Anacortes with your dog at your side.
Driving directions: From I-5 in Mount Vernon, take exit 230 for Hwy 20, signed Burlington/Anacortes. If you’re northbound, stay in the left lane and turn left onto Hwy 20 west. Continue on Hwy 20 for 11.4 miles, then turn left at the intersection with spur 20 to Anacortes; your turn will be signed Whidbey Island/Deception Pass. In 5 miles, turn right onto Rosario Road, at the south end of Pass Lake. Take an immediate left onto Bowman Bay Road and follow it downhill to the park. This is part of Deception Pass State Park, so there are plenty of facilities, including parking, water, restrooms, a picnic area and campground.
Learn more on the WTA Hiking Guide
Discovery Park Loop Trail
- 2.8 miles roundtrip
- 140’ elevation gain
With over 11 miles of trails right within Seattle city limits, Discovery Park has a lot to explore. The Loop Trail is a great way to start off and see a whole bunch of incredible Northwest scenery.
Driving directions: From downtown Seattle, go west on Denny Way. Bear right on to Elliott Ave. Elliott becomes 15th Avenue W. Follow 15th to the Dravus Street exit. At the stoplight take a left onto Dravus. Take a right onto 20th Avenue W. 20th will become Gilman Ave W at 4-way stop. Gilman Ave W then becomes W Government Way. Follow W Government Way until you come to the East entrance of the Park (about 1/2 mile). W Government Way becomes Discovery Park Blvd inside the Park.
Top image via Flickr/Dustan Sept