Rattlesnake Ledge

Rattlesnake Ledge is one of the most popular day hikes near Seattle, climbing from Rattlesnake Lake Recreation Area on Cedar Falls Rd SE in North Bend, Washington, to a rock outcrop above the lake. The trailhead is reached by driving I-90 east to exit 32 and following Cedar Falls Rd SE about 4 miles. No Discover Pass or Northwest Forest Pass is needed at the lot, but the parking area fills early on sunny weekends, so many hikers arrive before 9 am or visit on weekdays. The round trip is about 4 miles (6.4 km) with roughly 1,160 ft (354 m) of gain to a high point near 2,078 ft, usually taking two to three hours. Because the climb is steady but not exposed to dangerous terrain, it is rated moderate. The trail is a well-graded dirt and rock path with many switchbacks, mostly in shaded second-growth forest of Douglas fir and western hemlock, which keeps temperatures comfortable in summer. Roots and rocks make footing uneven in places, and the surface is slick after rain. The route passes several wooded switchbacks, with the first lower ledge reached after about 2 miles. Visitors who continue to the upper ledges find wider views of the lake and Cascade foothills. The ledge itself has steep drop-offs with little fencing, so careful supervision of children and dogs is important, and it is a natural place to turn around. There is no water on the trail and no huts or shelters, although restrooms are available near the trailhead. Cell coverage can be patchy in places. In winter the lower trail is usually hikeable, but frost, ice or fallen snow near the top can make the ledges hazardous, and a headlamp is advised for short days. Traffic is heavy at midday in summer, so the trail is often busy and narrow stretches require patience when passing.