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Mount Si Trail

Snoqualmie National Forest, Washington · 3 min read

Distance
8 mi
Elevation Gain
3,150 ft
Difficulty
strenuous
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
May through November
Est. Time
5-8 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
10 / 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

  • Summit views of the Cascades, Mount Rainier, and Puget Sound
  • One of Washington's most popular and recognized summit hikes
  • Massive Haystack boulder at the summit base
  • Panoramic views from the main summit
  • Challenging but non-technical ascent accessible to fit hikers
viewssummit

Mount Si in Snoqualmie National Forest is one of Washington's most recognized and frequently climbed peaks, rising dramatically above the Snoqualmie Valley just east of North Bend. The eight-mile round trip gains 3,150 feet on a well-traveled trail that delivers panoramic views of the Cascades, Mount Rainier, and Puget Sound from its summit.

The mountain is visible from Seattle and the I-90 corridor, which contributes to its cultural status as a local benchmark. Completing Mount Si is a rite of passage for many Puget Sound residents.

The Route

The trail begins at the North Bend trailhead and climbs through Douglas-fir forest on a sustained uphill grade. The first three miles are forested throughout, with the canopy breaking at the summit plateau. The Haystack, a dramatic boulder outcrop, rises above the main summit meadow and offers optional Class 3 scrambling for those who want the highest point.

The summit meadow provides the primary viewpoint. On clear days, Mount Rainier dominates the southern view while the North Cascades are visible to the north. Puget Sound and the Seattle skyline are visible to the west.

What to Expect

Mount Si is heavily trafficked. The parking lot fills before 8 AM on spring and summer weekends, and the trail is busy throughout the day. Weekday visits provide a dramatically different experience. Dogs are allowed but must be on leash throughout.

The sustained grade with 3,150 feet of gain makes this a genuine workout. Many hikers find the descent more demanding than expected on the knees; trekking poles help. Carry water as no sources exist on the trail.

Nearby

North Bend, Washington, is directly at the trailhead access road and provides lodging, restaurants, and supplies. The town is also known as the filming location for Twin Peaks. Snoqualmie Falls, a 268-foot waterfall, is about 10 minutes west and makes an excellent combined stop with a Mount Si hike day.

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.

Trailhead Parking

Mount Si Trailhead off SE Mount Si Road in North Bend. Large paved lot with vault restrooms. No fee. Weekends fill early, arrive before 8 AM.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is Mount Si?
The trail is rated strenuous due to 3,150 feet of sustained elevation gain over 4 miles. It is one of Washington's more demanding non-technical summit trails. Good fitness is important.
Is the summit technical?
The main hiking summit (4,167 ft) is non-technical. The Haystack, an additional boulder above the summit, requires Class 3 scrambling and is optional. Many hikers stop at the summit meadow below the Haystack.
Is a permit or fee required?
No fee is required for Mount Si as of 2026. A Discover Pass is not required for this Washington State DNR-managed trail, though the surrounding forest is Snoqualmie National Forest. Verify current requirements.
When is the trail accessible?
The trail is often accessible year-round but can have snow on the upper sections from November through April. Check conditions before winter and spring visits.