19 Easy and scenic Toddler Friendly Hikes Near Seattle

We love family hikes—but let’s be real, some days we’re just too tired to plan a big adventure. When our family had a toddler in tow, or grandparents in their 70s or friends recovering from injuries, these short, scenic hikes (1 mile or under) became our go-to adventures.

This guide features 19 toddler friendly hikes near Seattle—from rivers and waterfalls to forests, wetlands, lakefront strolls, beach and sunset hikes. Many of these trails are also stroller-friendly, making them ideal for families with little ones.

If you’re hiking with babies or toddlers, a lightweight stroller can make all the difference on paved or gravel trails. We’ve used (and loved) the Thule jogger stroller for local hikes.

Plus, I’ve included nearby attractions, fun activities, and local restaurant picks to turn your hike into a stress-free family outing or day trip from Seattle. Whether it’s a grey afternoon or a laid-back weekend, these trails are perfect for getting outside with your little explorers!

If you’re looking for something even simpler, then pick from one of the 16 stroller-friendly nature walks for an easy family outing.

Map of Toddler Friendly Hikes Near Seattle (30 mins away)

1. Weeks Falls (North Bend)

Hike Basics – Weeks Falls is an easy 1-mile roundtrip hike leading to a charming 30-foot waterfall on the South Fork Snoqualmie River. The trail is flat, wide, and great for families — we were even able to take our stroller all the way to the end. The short walk winds through lush forest before opening up to the viewing platform near the falls.

Things To Do – After your walk, spend some time by the South Fork Snoqualmie River — the calm water and mountain backdrop make it a beautiful picnic or rest spot. In summer, the river’s gentle flow creates a safe swimming hole where kids can splash and play. With a toddler and a family member recovering from a knee injury, this was one of those rare outings that felt both relaxing and refreshing.

Practical Info – Located just 30–40 minutes from Seattle, Weeks Falls feels surprisingly peaceful for how close it is to the city. You’ll need a Discover Pass for parking. If you have more time, explore the nearby riverside trails in Middle Fork Snoqualmie recreation area. Or visit the nearby Snoqualmie Point Park for quiet time and more awesome views. When visiting the Snoqualmie-North Bend area, Snoqualmie Falls brewery and Ahaar for Indian food are our go-to options.

2. Tanner Landing Park (North Bend)

Trail Basics – Tanner Landing park hoffers a peaceful 1-mile riverside walk that starts through open fields and then follows the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River, with beautiful views of Mount Si and the surrounding peaks. The flat path makes it ideal for families and grandparents alike — easy to access, quiet, and scenic.

Things To Do – On warm summer days, the shallow river here turns into a perfect swimming spot for kids. Bring bikes if you want to extend your outing — the Snoqualmie Valley Trail connects nearby and is great for a relaxed ride through farmland and forest.
Before heading back, stop by the Elk Fields along Snoqualmie–North Bend Road. We’ve had our best luck spotting the elk herd at sunset, with Mount Si glowing in the background — it’s one of those simple, special moments that never gets old.

Practical Info – Tanner Landing Park is just minutes from downtown North Bend, where you’ll find plenty of food options. Our go-tos are Rio Bravo for its outdoor patio and South Fork for its spacious, family-friendly vibe.

3. Bridle Trails State Park (Kirkland)

Trail Basics – Bridle Trails State Park is a 489-acre forested park tucked between Kirkland and Bellevue, offering 28 miles of kid- and horse-friendly trails. It’s one of our favorite quick escapes into nature without leaving the city.

The Raven Trail (1 mile) is an easy loop near the 116th Ave NE entrance — perfect for little legs. For something slightly longer, try the Trillium Trail (1.7 miles), which winds deeper into the woods for a quiet, shaded walk.

You can manage a jogging stroller here with a bit of maneuvering, but expect some uneven patches. Since the trails are shared with equestrians, bikes aren’t allowed — which actually makes it calmer and safer for young kids.

Things To Do – We love visiting in autumn, when the fall colors light up the forest, and in spring, when the rain leaves everything lush and fragrant. There are no big viewpoints or waterfalls here — just peaceful forest air. It’s truly one of the best spots near Seattle for a quick forest bath.

The park also hosts family-friendly events throughout the year — from spring egg hunts and mushroom walks to Halloween scavenger hunts and horse shows.Check out the events calendar. before you go.

Practical Info – After your walk, stop by Grass Lawn Park nearby — a local favorite with big playgrounds and open lawns — and wrap up your outing at Kirkland Downtown for food or coffee with waterfront vibes.

4. Bellevue Botanical Garden (Bellevue)

Trail Basics – The Bellevue Botanical Garden is a 53-acre urban oasis just east of downtown Bellevue. It features nine themed gardens — including the Rock Garden, Fuchsia Garden, and Dahlia Display — each offering its own seasonal color and charm.

There are 1–2 miles of easy walking trails, perfect for families. Our favorite is the Ravine Experience Trail, which leads to a 150-foot suspension bridge crossing a lush, forested ravine. It’s a fun and scenic walk for kids, and if you visit around dawn or dusk, you might even spot deer along the path.

Things To Do – I visit atleast once every year in spring or summer for vibrant blooms. You can plan a winter visit around Garden d’Lights holiday display. From April through October, free guided public tours run on weekends (12–1 PM), offering great insight into the gardens’ plants and history.

Practical Info – There’s also a small café on-site — perfect for coffee and a snack while you relax on one of the benches surrounded by greenery. After your garden stroll, stop by Wilburton Hill Park next door — a great spot for kids to burn off extra energy. For food, head into downtown Bellevue; we love Inchin’s Bamboo Garden for Indo-Chinese dishes and Dough Zone for dumplings and noodles, especially with larger groups.

5. O. O. Denny Park Trail (Kirkland)

Trail Basics – Tucked along the eastern shore of Lake Washington, O.O. Denny Park is a 45-acre hidden gem that locals love for its quiet lakefront and forested trails. Just across the road from the main parking lot is a short, scenic ~1-mile loop trail that’s easy for kids and families.

The path follows Denny Creek and leads to Sylvia, the largest tree in King County — a 600-year-old Douglas Fir with a 26-foot circumference that toppled in 1993 but remains an impressive sight. You’ll spot it within the first 10–15 minutes of your walk.

Continue up to the salmon fish ladder, then loop back on the opposite side of the creek to complete the circuit. The trail is shaded and peaceful, lined with Western Red Cedar, Bigleaf Maple, and Salmonberry — a perfect short forest escape close to the city.

Things To Do – After your walk, head to the lakeside beach for a picnic or some quiet hammock time under the cluster of trees at the park’s north end. On clear days, you’ll get a postcard-worthy view of Mount Rainier across the water.

Practical Info – In summer, an ice-cream truck often stops by — a welcome treat for kids. For more food options, drive 5–10 minutes to Juanita Bay or Kirkland Downtown. We love Kathakali for hearty Indian food and Café Juanita for a more upscale dining experience (reservations recommended).

6. Farrel McWirther Park (Redmond)

Trail Basics – Farrel-McWhirter Park is a 68-acre forested park in Redmond with five easy trails ranging from 0.3 to 1.5 miles. The trails are flat, shaded, and stroller-friendly, making them great for multi-generational outings. Along the way, kids will love spotting the small Mackey Creek that flows through the park — perfect for a little nature play.

Things To Do – What truly makes this park special is its farmyard area, home to friendly horses, pigs, chickens, and goats that kids can see up close. For younger kids (ages 3–6), 15-minute pony rides are available — always a highlight.

There’s also a large playground swing, open fields for running around, and plenty of shady picnic spots. Between the trails, animals, and play areas, this park checks all the boxes for a relaxed family day outdoors.

Practical Info – After your visit, head to Redmond Downtown for food — it’s just a short drive away and has plenty of great options. We like Zeek’s Pizza, Garlic Crush, and or Spark Pizza for casual meals.

Fun fact – If you’re driving between Farrel-McWhirter Park and Evans Creek Preserve, look out for the Red Brick Road — a historic 100-year-old road paved entirely with red bricks. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and yes, you can actually drive on it!

7. Evans Creek Preserve (Redmond)

Trail Basics – Evans Creek Preserve is a 200-acre former farmstead turned nature preserve with about 3.5 miles of well-marked trails. For an easy family-friendly outing, try the Meadow Trail (0.6 miles) and Short Loop (1.1 miles) — both offer a relaxed forest-meadow mix without feeling repetitive.

The trails wind through wooden bridges, boardwalks, streams, and open meadows, with plenty of spots for kids to explore safely. The clearly marked junctions make it easy to shorten or extend your hike — perfect when you’re out with little ones or grandparents.

Things To Do – In spring, the lupine field bursts into bloom — a hidden local favorite for wildflower lovers. And in winter, the fog settling over the mossy forest gives the whole place a peaceful, almost storybook feel. Wildlife spotting is common too — keep an eye out for deer, birds, and the occasional bunny darting across the trail.

Practical Info – There’s limited but easy parking at the main lot and restrooms on-site. For a longer family day out, pair this stop with Farrel-McWhirter Park just a few minutes away — both make for a beautiful, low-stress nature day in Redmond.

8. McCollum Park Forest Loop (Mill Creek)

Trail Basics – Tucked behind the athletic fields of McCollum Park in Everett, this short forest loop trail offers an easy, peaceful walk right in the middle of a residential area. The path goes through a small urban forest alongside North Creek. The lovely tree canopy makes it a good rainy day hike or a quick family stroll.

Things To Do – There’s a small playground near the parking lot — nothing fancy, but enough to keep little ones entertained. The sports field and bike track add a bit of variety if you want to extend your visit beyond the walk.

We actually stumbled upon this trail after a nearby lunch stop — proof that sometimes local trails can turn into unexpected gems.

Practical Info – Parking is available near the athletic fields. For food afterward, you’ll find plenty of Indian restaurants along Bothell-Everett Highway — our go-tos are Fusion India, Bollywood 360 pizza.

9. North Creek Park Trail (Bothell)

Trail Basics – North Creek Trail is a flat, stroller-friendly boardwalk winding through peaceful wetlands and open meadows. It’s part of a larger regional trail network that eventually connects Bothell to Everett, but even a short walk here offers plenty of fresh air and calm scenery.

Because there’s no railing along parts of the boardwalk, keep a close eye on toddlers who like to wander. That said, the trail itself is wide, even, and perfect for strollers or a relaxed family walk.

We found ourselves here on a winter evening. When there is nothing to do on a grey winter day, a stroll in a new place feels just about right. As we walked at the time of sunset, flocks of birds flew overhead toward their nests — one of those simple yet memorable moments that made the outing worth it.

Practical Info – There’s a playground near the trail entrance, which is great for a quick stop before or after your walk.
For food afterward, you’ll find plenty of nearby options along Bothell-Everett Highway — Sparta’s Pizza, Bay Leaf, Spring Bistro, etc.

10. Rainier Trail Jakob Troll (Issaquah)

Trail Basics – The Rainier Trail runs about 2.5 miles through Issaquah, but you only need to walk a 0.5-mile roundtrip from the Issaquah Community Center to reach Jakob Two Trees, a giant wooden troll sculpture by Danish artist Thomas Dambo.
These trolls, built from recycled materials and installed in select places around the world, are meant to spark reflection on sustainability and our connection to nature — and they’re a big hit with kids and adults alike.

Things to Do – It’s great year-round — easy, stroller-friendly, and especially fun during local events like the Issaquah Salmon Days Festival in the fall. Between the parade, returning salmon, art booths, and this trail, it’s a perfect day out for families.

For extra park time, stop by the Issaquah Community Center playground, Confluence Park, or drive a few minutes to Squak Valley Park, which offers wide mountain views and a peaceful setting.

Practical Info – Free parking is available near the Community Center and along downtown streets. Food options are plentiful nearby — we love Naan-N-Curry and Madras Dosa Corner.

Map Of Toddler Friendly Hikes Near Seattle (1 hour Away)

11. Deception Falls (Stevens Pass Highway)

Trail Basics – Deception Falls is a 0.5-mile loop hike nestled along Deception Creek and the Tye River, right off Highway 2 (Stevens Pass Highway).

The trail begins just a short 2-minute walk from the parking lot, where you’ll reach the powerful, multi-tiered main waterfall. From there, the path winds through lush old-growth forest with a mix of boardwalks, steps, and flat trail sections. Along the way, you’ll find several scenic overlooks offering different perspectives of the rushing Tye River below.

Things To Do – We did the Deception Falls trail with our toddler and grandparents, and it quickly became one of our family favorites. It’s short, safe, and full of “wow” moments. For adventurous families, there’s even a small swimming hole at the base of a side waterfall — refreshing in summer and easy to access if you know where to look.You can find a step-by-step guide about the trail and the swimmig hole in this Deception Falls guide here.

Practical Info – The drive from Seattle takes about 1.5 hours, making it an easy day trip on Highway 2. Combine your visit with nearby stops such as Heybrook Lookout hike, Eagle Falls and Big Eddy and Sultan bakery for a bite on your way back.

12. Rosario Beach (Anacortes)

Trail Basics – Rosario beach is a small scenic beach cove inside Deception Pass State Park. It has two short, easy hikes that are great for families.

The first, the Rosario Head Trail, is a 0.25-mile bluff walk with panoramic views of Rosario Strait. It starts near the beach and climbs gently to a lookout point — a perfect sunset spot that even our toddler and grandparents managed easily. Though it only takes about 15 minutes to reach the top, we spent nearly an hour there just soaking in the views and watching the sun drop over the water.

The second, a 1-mile trail from Rosario Beach to Bowman Bay, offers a bit more adventure. It winds through a forested bluff overlooking Sharpe Cove and Bowman Bay — short, scenic, and ideal for families with older kids. We did this one with our 4-year-old and had no issues, but it’s best to keep an eye on little ones as the bluff edges can be steep in places.

Things to Do – Tidepooling is one of the best activities here, especially at low tide when you can spot sea stars, anemones, and crabs. There are also picnic tables right by the beach, and on calm days, it’s a lovely spot for a short kayak or paddleboard outing.

Practical Info – You need a Discover Pass for parking. Restrooms and picnic areas are available near the parking lot. After your visit, explore more Anacortes attractions like Mt. Erie, Washington Park, or downtown Anacortes for dining — we like Adrift and A’Town Bistro for casual family meals.

13. Whatcom Falls Park Trails (Bellingham)

Trail Basics: Whatcom Falls Park is a 240-acre forested park in Bellingham. It’s home to three waterfalls, with the main Whatcom Falls just a 5-minute walk from the parking lot. The other two smaller falls are reachable within a 1-mile walk, making this one of the most engaging toddler-friendly hikes in the region.

Things To Do – Beyond the waterfalls, the park features a fish hatchery, a playground, and even a pump track for kids who love biking. It’s an easy half-day adventure that checks all the boxes — forest, water, and plenty of open space to run around.

We’ve visited both in summer and winter, and it’s beautiful year-round — lush and green in the warmer months, misty and moody when the temperatures drop.

Practical Info – Free parking and restrooms are available at the main trailhead. There aren’t many food options right next to the park, but you’ll find plenty in downtown Bellingham, just a short drive away. Make a daytrip out of your visit with these amazing Bellingham attractions.

Practical Info – A Discover Pass is required for parking. After your visit, stop at Taylor Shellfish Farm for fresh seafood.

14. Rasar State Park Trails (Highway 20)

Trail Basics – Rasar State Park is a 170-acre park located near the town of Concrete along Highway 20 (North Cascades Highway). The park features ~3 miles of flat, easy trails that weave through meadows, forests, and along the Skagit River. The trails are wide and family-friendly — perfect for toddlers or multigenerational walks.

We did the 1-mile roundtrip Rasar State Park trail in fall with our 2.5-year-old, and it was just right for our little walker. The mix of open fields, fog-draped mountain views, and bursts of fall color made it a calming, scenic outing. On a separate summer visit, the milky-green waters of the Skagit River were equally stunning.

Things to Do – You’ll find picnic tables, river-access viewpoints, and plenty of open space to enjoy the peace and quiet. It’s also a great stop for spotting eagles and herons along the riverbank.

Since it’s a bit of a drive from Seattle, we often combine Rasar State Park with nearby attractions like Baker Lake, Anacortes for a full-day or North Cacades National Park for a weekend trip.

Practical Info – You’ll need a Discover Pass for parking. There’s a restroom and a few picnic shelters on-site. Food options are limited nearby — the Birdsview Diner and Birdsview Brewing Company are your best bets for a casual meal before heading home.

15. Granite Falls Fish Ladder (Granite Falls)

Trail basics – This is a short and easy hike (under 1 mile roundtrip) that takes you to the fish ladder and viewpoint overlooking Granite Falls. The walkway over the ladder doubles as an observation deck, offering a front-row view of the waterfall.

We took the stairs down to the falls and returned via the forested trail loop, which made for a fun mini-adventure with our toddler. The trail is a mix of stairs, bridges, and viewpoints keeps it interesting for kids.

Things To Do – Granite Falls may be small, but it’s powerful — the South Fork Stillaguamish River rushes through a narrow gorge, framed by a dramatic granite rock wall on the opposite side. In spring, after heavy rain or snowmelt, the water flow becomes thunderous and breathtaking.

We did this trail with our toddler as part of a day trip along the Mountain Loop Highway — it’s a great short stop before or after visiting Hemple Creek swimming hole, a picnic area where we spent rest of the time.

Practical Info – There’s a small parking area at the trailhead. No Discover Pass is required, and restrooms are available in town nearby.

16. Iverson Trail Preserve (Camano Island)

Trail Basics – Iverson Trail Preserve is a delightful 1 mile trail that combines a woodland walk and a peaceful beach stroll — a perfect mix for families looking for an easy adventure.

The Hobbit Trail section through the forest is full of charm — birdsong everywhere, and a few hidden gnomes tucked into the woods, left by past visitors. It’s a fun scavenger-hunt-style surprise for kids. Just note that parts of the trail can get muddy after rain, so waterproof shoes help.

Things To Do – When we visited during low tide, the water was shallow and calm — almost like a natural wading pool. Our 3-year-old had a blast splashing around while we enjoyed panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains from both the beach and the trail.

To reach the beach from the entrance, you’ll need to cross over large driftwood logs. It’s not difficult, but worth watching your step, especially with little ones.

Practical Info – The trailhead is tucked at the end of a quiet residential area with limited parking. Bring snacks and water since there aren’t amenities nearby. This spot feels wonderfully uncrowded and remains one of Camano Island’s underrated gems — peaceful, scenic, and just the right mix of forest and beach for families.

17. Tumwater Falls Trail (Olympia)

Trail Basics – Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls is a 15-acre, beautifully maintained park in Olympia with a 0.5-mile loop trail along the Deschutes River. The trail features three small but powerful waterfalls, bridges, and shaded paths — easy enough for toddlers yet scenic enough for adults.

Our 3.5-year-old was happily engaged the entire way, stopping to toss pebbles and watch the rushing water. You can see our detailed hiking guide on Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls here.

Things To Do – Beyond the short hike, there’s plenty to do — a salmon hatchery, grassy lawns, picnic tables, and even a sand pit for kids. If you visit in September, you’ll likely catch the salmon run, when the river is full of jumping salmon heading upstream — an incredible sight for kids and adults alike.

Practical Info – Given the ling drive (1–1.5 hours),we made it a daytrip from Seattle to Olympia . We combined it with visits to the Washington State Capitol Building and Percival Landing Park in Olympia for a full day outdoors.

For food, Olympia’s downtown has several good options — we’ve enjoyed meals at Cove and Pizzeria La Gitana, both great for a relaxed family lunch after the hike.

18. Camp Brown (North Bend)

Trail Basics – Camp Brown is a picnic area with a 0.5-mile ADA-accessible trail nestled in the Middle Fork Snoqualmie Recreation Area. The path meanders under a lush forest canopy and leads to the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River, making it a perfect starter trail for toddlers or anyone looking for a peaceful, low-effort walk. You can find my detailed Camp Brown guide here.

Things To Do – This is one of our favorite spots for low-key nature days. Whether it’s a lazy weekend or a post-hike unwind, Camp Brown is where we go to slow down. The river views with Garfield Mountain in the background make a stunning picnic backdrop.

There are charcoal grills along the trail for those who love outdoor cooking — though I’ll admit, I usually skip the grilling, pack some snacks, hang my hammock, and settle in with a good book instead.

We’ve also stopped by Camp Brown to relax by the river after hiking the nearby Garfield Ledges Trail — a perfect way to cap off a morning hike.

Practical Info – You’ll need a Northwest Forest Pass for parking. There are no major facilities nearby, so pack everything you need. The Middle Fork Recreation Area has several other family-friendly hikes and picnic spots, making it a wonderful area for repeat visits.

19. Gold Creek Pond (North Bend)

Trail Basics – Gold Creek Pond is one of the most popular easy trails along I-90, especially for pregnant moms, families with toddlers, or beginner snowshoers in winter. The 1-mile paved loop circles a stunning alpine pond surrounded by mountain views, making it both accessible and scenic year-round.

I visited during my second trimester, and it was the perfect nature stroll — gentle, quiet, and absolutely beautiful. The trail is fully stroller-friendly and lined with benches and picnic tables, making it an easy place to pause and soak in the views.

Things To Do – This place is great for photo-ops. In summer, the greenery and wildflowers make the pond sparkle; in fall, the golden and red reflections on the water are photo-op perfection. During winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland and becomes a favorite snowshoeing spot for beginners — peaceful, flat, and safe to explore.

Practical Info – Located about 1 hour from Seattle, this is one of the most accessible alpine experiences off I-90. Parking fills quickly on weekends, so arrive early. You’ll need a Northwest Forest Pass for regular visits and a Sno-Park Permit if visiting in winter for snowshoeing.

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Final Thoughts

If you like exploring outdoor activities with kids and making a daytrip out of it, then you will like exploring these places near Seattle –

• Kid-friendly hikes with a little bit of a challenge, check out this awesome list of hikes near Seattle.

• Mountain Loop Highway has many easy hikes and picnic areas by Stillaguamish river and makes for an amazing daytrip from Seattle.

• Middle Fork Snoqualmie has many family friendly hikes and riverside picnic areas to explore.