Seattle is best known for three things: Coffee, tech companies, and outdoor recreation. Sandwiched between Puget Sound to the west and the Cascade Mountains to the east, the city is only a couple hours from multiday treks along the Pacific Crest, beach wanders with a chance of whalespotting, and old-growth temperate rainforest that feels like the setting of a fantasy book. Is it any wonder REI and The Mountaineers both started here?

You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy the hiking bounty here, though there are plenty of trails for you if you are. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just visiting for the weekend, load up your daypack, swing by the coffeeshop, and check out these, our picks for the best hikes around Seattle.

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