Rattlesnake Mountain Trail

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Steady climbs will leave your legs burning, but the trail is in good shape and the views are excellent. Expect a steeper and more technical descent at the end with lots of people to keep you company.

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 running 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.