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ForestMatters, LLC

Little Si Trail

Snoqualmie National Forest, Washington · 3 min read

Distance
5 mi
Elevation Gain
1,200 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
March through November
Est. Time
2.5-3.5 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
5 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Good Signal
Water
None
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Views of the Snoqualmie Valley and surrounding Cascades
  • Good training hike for the main Mount Si ascent
  • Dog-friendly trail adjacent to the Mount Si trail system
  • Accessible year-round with good footing on maintained trail
  • Wildlife habitat for deer and forest birds
viewswildlife

Little Si in Snoqualmie National Forest provides a more accessible alternative to its towering neighbor, offering ridge views of the Snoqualmie Valley on a five-mile round trip with 1,200 feet of gain. It shares the trailhead with Mount Si's main trail, making it easy to compare the two options and choose based on fitness level and objectives.

The trail is particularly valued for being dog-friendly in an area where the most popular alternatives (Alpine Lakes Wilderness trails) prohibit dogs. It also serves as a genuine training hike for those building toward the main Si or other Cascade summits.

The Route

From the North Bend trailhead, the trail diverges from the Mount Si trail at a signed junction and heads south on the Little Si route. The path climbs through second-growth Douglas-fir and alder forest on a moderate grade. The ridge is reached at 2.5 miles with views developing east and west across the valley.

The ridge viewpoint is the trail's destination. Return on the same route. The descent is on the same trail and typically faster than the ascent.

What to Expect

The trail is busy on weekends given the shared trailhead with Mount Si, but Little Si sees a fraction of the traffic that pours up the main trail. The forest character is younger than the old-growth corridors in some other Snoqualmie trails, but the views and wildlife activity compensate.

The trail is accessible in winter with appropriate footwear when conditions are not icy. Spring and fall are pleasant with good wildlife activity and comfortable temperatures.

Nearby

North Bend is a few minutes drive west with full services. Twin Falls natural area is nearby for a waterfall hiking option on the same day. The Snoqualmie Falls in the town of Snoqualmie provides a non-hiking natural attraction for evening or combined with a morning hike.

Leave No Trace

This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.

Safety Considerations

The moderate rating reflects the trail's general character under typical conditions. Weather, seasonal snow, and trail conditions can change the experience significantly. Carry the 10 Essentials on any full-day outing. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out, particularly on longer or more remote trails. Cell service varies throughout Snoqualmie National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.

Trailhead Parking

Little Si Trailhead off SE Mount Si Road in North Bend. Shared with Mount Si main trailhead. Paved lot with vault restrooms. No fee.

← Back to Snoqualmie National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does Little Si compare to Mount Si?
Little Si is significantly less demanding: 5 miles and 1,200 feet vs. 8 miles and 3,150 feet on the main trail. It is a popular choice for hikers building fitness for the main Si, those with dogs, or anyone wanting a shorter outing.
Are dogs allowed on Little Si?
Yes. Dogs are allowed on Little Si on leash. This is an advantage over the nearby Alpine Lakes Wilderness trails where dogs are prohibited.
Is the trail accessible year-round?
Little Si is often accessible year-round. Snow is possible in winter on the upper sections but the lower elevation means less accumulation than higher Cascade trails. Check conditions before winter visits.
What are the views like?
The ridge provides views of the Snoqualmie River valley, North Bend, and the surrounding Cascades. The main Mount Si summit and Haystack are visible to the north.