Hooray! It's hiking season! The weather is calm, the temperatures are perfect, and the trails are calling your name. Seattle, Washington is one of the best cities to live in for the city experience, while having the ability to venture nearby to dog-friendly hikes right within reach.
Enjoy mountain views, rivers, waterfalls, and lakes with your pooch by your side. All you need to do is hop into your Subaru with your favorite "city" dog, and experience a mutual transformation as you both go from city streets to rugged trails.
What are some of the best dog friendly hikes near Seattle?
Below are a few of our favorites! Dogs must be leashed on each trail, but are welcomed and encouraged to come along as a companion.
On the way up to Rattlesnake Ledge by Abhinaba Basu is licensed under CC 2.0
Rattlesnake Ledge
This 6.6 mile trail is for the adventurous soul who thrives on moderate to difficult hiking. The hard work pays off, though, when you get to enjoy panoramic views of valleys, lakes, and nearby mountains. Plus, this inclined hike is less than an hour away from Seattle, allowing you to have the full experience while still sleeping in your comfy bed at home.
Barclay Lake, Washington by Dave Sizer is licensed under CC 2.0
Barclay Lake
Better suited for all skill levels, this 4.5 mile hike has a fun bridge to cross around the 1.2 mile mark. The hike includes lake views, the northern face of Baring Mountain, an abundance of evergreens and peaceful atmospheres. The Barclay Lake trail is well maintained and has accessible camping locations if you want to make your trip a little longer than a day.
Hike up Tonga Ridge by Mike is licensed under CC 2.0
Tonga Ridge
Also suitable for all levels, this trail totals at 5.4 miles. A unique fact about Tonga Ridge is not only are you having the beautiful mountain views, this trail is known for its wildflowers in the spring, and its berries in the fall. Because it's a popular destination, be sure to come early to get ahead of the crowd to fully enjoy the beauty at your own pace.
Cougar Mountain Hiking by Wendy is licensed under CC 2.0
Cougar Mountain Trails
This may be the "jackpot" of locations due to the fact that you can choose from four different trails - each suitable for all levels. These trials are more inside lush, wooded greenery as you head towards a mountaintop view while still being close to the city. Because of the location, there are sweeping views of the region, including Lake Sammamish, the Cascades, Bellevue, and Seattle, as well as more densely vegetated areas for you to explore and escape the sounds of the urban world.
The Other Side Of Heaven by Rachel Samanyi is licensed under CC 2.0
Washington Park Arboretum
Completely different from the rest, this park includes miles of trails through botanical gardens, groves of trees, a Japanese garden, and waterside views. Oh, and did we mention this park is actually in Seattle? You don't even need to live the city limits. If you and your dog like hiking with a little kayaking or canoeing involved, these plant-rich waterways within the park are calling your name.
Are we blessed by living in the Pacific Northwest, or what! We have it all right at our fingertips. With your Subaru and your best canine friend, you can pick a new place to explore every day. If you plan on going on a hike with your dog, check out our articles on keeping your Subaru pet friendly, as well as the dangers of leaving your dog in an enclosed vehicle for any length of time.
As always, make sure your Subaru is up to snuff for your adventures so you can fully enjoy your time together. Click here to schedule an appointment at Suburb Service, or call (206) 705-8695 to reach our Seattle location. Show your Subaru some love.