I hiked Mt Si with my dog and a gf of mine yesterday! What can I say about Mt Si that hasn't already been said - yes, the views, once you get to the top, are amazing. Yes, it's an 8 miler, round trip, so be prepared, physically and mentally. Yes, you'll be reaching well over 2,000 feet in elevation, so beware - LOTS of switchbacks (which I loathe). Yes, it can get pretty crowded, so the earlier you come, the better! I am a triathlete, so I would say I'm in good shape... but boy did Mt Si kick my butt (in a good way, of course). The dog was so pooped - she slept the rest of the day away. My gf and I took our time going up, it took us 2.5 hours... and going down it took us 2 hours. We took lots of breaks... there are a few benches to rest on, re-fuel, and re-hydrate about a mile a half up the trail. Things to note: - The trail can get really muddy after it's rained. And, there's a lot of loose rock toward the top, so make sure you wear proper footwear. Hiking boots are a must! - The parking lot is riddled with big potholes, so don't come rollin' in on your lowrider (hahaha!). - The restrooms at the trail head are more reminiscent of a disgusting portopotty than a restroom. Neither restroom was suitable for use yesterday when we were there. - There was not one trash can at Mt Si. So, please, make sure you take away with you everything you brought to Mt Si, like apple cores, banana peels, and even your dog's poop baggies. Happy Hiking!!! read more

Once upon a time I used to do this hike about twice a month and let me tell you... it's not for the faint of heart. You're near the top when the trees start to thin, which is coincidentally right around the time your heart will fly out of your mouth. It is however... very, very, worth it. Bring plenty of water, a refreshing lunch for the top and remember to look for the magic, cause every time I've climbed this thing, there's been some. From little bluish snowbirds during the winter to a crazy dog that used to follow me all the way to the top, there is always a story. Only once in the 20 odd times I've been up did I ever turn around, and that was only because a bear was in our way, and I wasn't in the mood to move her. I highly recommended this hike for the view, but to illustrate how steep it is, on the way down your legs start to flop like you wouldn't believe! Even the strongest people have trouble with it and the weaker ones of us, look like we're doing a John Cleese flippy floppily walk! For fun you can stand at the mouth of the trail and watch people coming down try to stop. Their legs wobble around like they're standing on a oiled Teflon coated slip and slides! Yes... In my imagination those exist. read more

Incredible view at the top. I'm moderately fit (for reference, it takes me about 40 min without a break to hike rattlesnake) and this hike took me 1 hour 45 min to snoqualmie viewpoint. Probably would have taken me another 15 min to hike the haystack at the end, but chickened out because I'm scared of height. Take it easy on the way down -- the other reviews are on-point about the harshness on the knees! read more

Mount Si - Parks Near Me

One of my favorite hikes in Seattle- moderately challenging, 8-mile round trip, and almost 3200 feet elevation gain. You'll need a Discover Pass to access parking at the trail head, but it's well worth it. read more

8 miles roundtrip; 3,150 feet elevation gain; 3,900 feet high point. A couple of things I didn't bring with me, but I think would have been very useful: - more water! A quart was not enough for me. Also a small bottle of sport water like Gatorade - apple or orange to snack on - a towel to wipe the sweat - small amount of tissue paper - band aid for blisters You may ask yourself why are doing this to yourself at some point during this hike. Think doing stairmaster level 20 for approximately 2 hours. But it is so worth it and you will be fine, no worries! read more

Mt Si is really just a last resort. I kind of think of Mt Si as a piece of gym equipment rather the great outdoors. Did you friends bail at the last minute but you still want some exercise? Is the weather terrible so you just want a quick up and down? Are in a time crunch but still want a good workout? If you have the time to schedule something there are hikes with better views and less people within a 20 minute drive of the Si trailhead. Try Granite Mountain, Mt Washington, or if you have a few more hours the Ira Spring Trail is super close to the Si trailhead. Now that I've complained here is the positive. The trail is incredibly well maintained. You won't have to worry about getting lost as there are always people nearby. There are bathrooms and water at the bottom. There is a huge parking lot. You get a solid workout. I normally run the first 2 miles and walk the second 2 miles. I spend about 10 minutes at the top and then run down. It normally takes around 2 and a half hours from leaving the car to getting back into it. I bring 1liter of water on an overcast day or 2 liters on a super hot day. As they almost build stairs all the way up to the top this is the perfect place to use you trail running shoes. If you want to look for different hikes the Washington trail association is amazing! read more

Si is something of my spiritual hiking guide, as an anchor noting physical progression over the past few years and a calming influence in times of internal emotional need. Inception-2001: Exercise? 2002-2006: Cardio? 2007: Pre: that sounds hard. Post: that was kind of hard. But I can take a date here. 2008: Good solitary hike when needing to retreat and a start to the standard season. Also, to complete novices this makes it look like I really know what I'm doing. 2009: Si is kind of boring. Why would I go there? 2010: When spiritually wounded and devoid of energy, this is a convenient retreat. To non-hikers, it's a bit intimidating to even make it up to the first basin near the top shortly past the 3.5 mile marker. However, it's a highly accessible hike to various fitness levels, as I've taken multiple people whose handicaps range from lack of practice to a ranging hangover to burning need of a fitness membership and not lost anyone yet, and the trail itself is even quite beautiful in light rain in the summer. Short of physical disabilities, (wo)man up, skip Little Si and do this instead with plenty of water. To "hikers," relatively little of interest here (at least until the Haystack portion at the top) will be found, and what is of interest will usually be outweighed by the droves of people and canine companions on the best days except during the snow-covered periods. read more

This is a FANTAAAAASTIC Hike, We went on a super clear nice warm day, the hike is pretty tough !! I would wear proper hiking shoes as the hike is Rocky and you do not want to twist your ankle :) Things you need: 1. Water (LOTS) 2. food -- This is the best part ( we took some lunch sat on the Mountain top, had coffee and lunch "life cannot get better" super nice!! amazing views) watch out for birds, they try to snatch your food which is super cute !! 3. Warm clothes (even though its a warm day, Duh !! we are on the mountain top, if you want to sit and be comfortable, take some warm clothes with you if not it will be super cold coz of the breeze and sweat :) ) Parking: Try to go there early to find a good parking spot. We were they by 8ish in the morning on Sat (4/16/16). You would need a Discover Pass, please be careful where you park as while I was returning they were towing few cars which were wrongly parked on the outside main street where they do not need the Pass, I can totally tell it will be extremetly Awful if you are done with a tough hike, tired and you realize on your return that your car is towed, not cool. so be careful !! Warning: This is not for beginners !! ;) Cheers !! ENJOY the hike !! :) read more

What a hike! I have done this now 2 times, attempted 3 (once in snow without crampons, bad idea). I had no idea this hike was rated hard and it was the first hike hike I ever did. I was amazed that I accomplished it after finding out it was difficult. It is definitly my version of helll up and back, but such a good work out. The view at the top is gorgeous, however it is a bit cramped up top and knowing the amount of time it is going to take to get down makes me not want to hang out that long. There are also a ton of bugs. I enjoyed Rattlesnakes view a bit better, and that was a good spot for a little picnic. The last time I hiked Si was with a friend who was attempting to summit Mt. Rainier. We went up in 2 hours with packs (maybe 5 lbs). WHOA BUDDY!!!! I would recommend this hike to anyone who is in shape, up for a challenge, and has some time on their hands. read more

8.0 miles (round trip) of panting and whining. LOL.... Seriously, my boy and I are relative newcomers in the hiking arena. As a duo, we've only hiked one other mountain - Stawamus Chief in Squamish, BC. That was grueling, yet incredibly fun (vertical stairs, chains, ladder and a granite monolith.... say what?!?!). I digress. Mount Si is located in the bowel of North Bend. It took us about an hour to get there. Once we found the entrance, I cringed as I had to drive over rocks and dirt road to get to the parking lot. We went on a Wednesday so it was not that busy. Before embarking on the hike, we decided to pee. The stench that emanated from the restroom was god awful. Sh*t was splattered around the brim of the toilet and cascading to the side. A sight that I do not want to see ever again. On to the hike. It was smooth sailing at first. There is a bridge with a stream right below. A great place for selfie whores such as myself. LOL..... After that, you will come up on an intersection (left or right). We did not know where to go. Luckily, an experienced hiker directed us to the right path. The walkway got super narrow at certain points with lush vegetation within arm's reach. I freaked myself out as I thought a mountain lion or bear would jump out of nowhere and pounce on me. Nonetheless, the first half of the trail was relatively easy. We were taking it all in; making videos with our GoPro and cheesing for our Instagram fans. Haha...... Then, the hike got brutal. It was like increasing the difficulty level ten-fold on a stair master. It was a vertical trek up into Lord of the Rings terrain. Trees towered above us with rays of sunlight striking through the forest. Ubiquitous spider webs were intricately woven. Bushes shook out of the blue. We were determined so my boy and I huffed and puffed through endless switchbacks. After 3.5 hours, we made it to the apex of the trail. It was a sight to behold. I believe we could see the Cascades in the distance with the city of North Bend right below. As we munched on our goodies, chipmunks came out of their burrows and encroached into our personal space. I must have screamed like a b*tch getting f*cked in prison. Thankfully, no one was around to laugh hysterically. We, then, climbed the not-so imposing haystack. It is actually not as daunting in person as it is via Youtube. The panoramic view was magnificent. Sublime to say the least. Watch out, a huge m*tha effin rat came out of his cubby hole and almost helped himself to our bag of chips. See pics. Anyhoot, the summit is somewhat dangerous. Be careful and wear good shoes. I hurt my left knee maneuvering my way down the haystack. After an hour of basking in the sun and taking pictures, we descended down the trail. With a bum knee, we trekked slower than a snail crossing the street. It took us 3 hours just to get to the parking lot. Advanced hikers zipped down (one in slippers) the mountain like Usain Bolt blazing through the 100m dash. Oh, to be 20 again. Sigh! All in all, Mount Si gets my stamp of approval. Although it was arduous and frightening at certain points, the beauty you encounter on the trail and at the very top, is all worth it. **Bring a hiking stick and enough water to last you through the whole way.** read more

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Do NOT freeze your camelback the night before, thinking the hot sun and strenuous pace will keep you in cold water all afternoon. It will stay an ice block, which is ok since you brought beer. The climb up haystack can be treacherous with just the slightest amount of moisture on the rocks. read more

DISCLAIMER: I'm a regular/moderately experienced day hiker in the PNW, I average 5-10 day hikes in a year for the past 6-7 years, with 4-8 miles/hike being my sweet spot. I'm not a backpacker or avid outdoorsman by any means, although I do race in marathons and am a regular runner. BACKGROUND: Having been to many of the iconic hikes in the area, the one I've never done until today was Mount Si. It was such a perfect day on a Tuesday that I had off, so I drove out a bit later in the morning and arrived at the lot around 11am. Slightly chilly at 60F at the base (50F @ the top according to my Garmin) and overcast with the occasional sunbreak. Having heard a bunch of my friends and seeing a bunch of WTA reviews saying how hard it is with no payoff until you get to the summit (reminds me of mailbox peak), I was prepared to put my head down and grind it out (exactly like how I completed mailbox peak, twice). Also, because on my training schedule it showed I had a 6-8 mile run today, I decided to do trail running for the first time (I loosely use that term as I mostly just power walked the entire time). THE HIKE: In the first 30 seconds, easy! At 31 seconds, I started gasping for air. This panting like a dog lasted the entire way up as I jumped, shimmied, sprinted, jogged, and walked my way up, scaring canines and hikers alike with my labored breathing and haggard hiking style, until I reached the rock scramble. Nothing extraordinary along the path to talk about on the way up. The top view was amazingly clear, with beautiful fall colors starting to come through, and it wasn't chock full of other hikers like reviews say it is on a weekend. There were maybe 10 cars total in the parking lot when I started up. Watch out for the birds though as they will steal food from your hands/bag! Please do not feed them - they are wild and will need to learn to fend for themselves especially with the coming winter. My Garmin gets lost in the woods easily and claims only 7 miles over 3,100' of climbing although WTA states it's a 8 mile RT. It's all relentlessly uphill except for a tiny 50-100 yard stretch near the halfway mark where it flattens out. EQUIPMENT: **THE PARKING LOT REQUIRES A DISCOVER PASS** I carried a little backpack with me with a water bladder, a little under 1L of water. Also a PBJ sandwich, TP (just in case), and a windbreaker jacket. I would recommend at least 2L water if you are hiking up at a slower pace and are not used to strenuous exercise, plus beef jerky or other protein sources to keep your stomach feeling satisfied during breaks. I would wear sturdy hiking shoes as there are areas on the trail that are very rocky and rooty, and some areas that had a mini-stream running in the middle of the trail. I didn't have trail running shoes and stupidly wore regular running shoes, thankfully I didn't twist any ankles or fall on the slippery way down. If you're a heavy sweater you may want to bring a small towel or hat and hang it off your backpack, it comes in handy! TIMING: In total it took me almost an hour to reach the haystack, although I didn't attempt to climb up it (too tired and afraid to fall). Took me about 40 minutes jogging down (took it slow - watch out for roots)! I read on here just as I'm writing this that people budget 2 hours; if you decide to walk and not run like I did - it seemed about right, as on my way down I passed some people still going up who I passed on my way up near the beginning of the trail. Weekdays are definitely good as there were maybe 10-15 parties that I saw the entire time. read more

Mount Si - At the top (underneath the haystack which is the actual top top!) - Parks Near Me

Solid hike. Great views. Mt. Si is quickly becoming one of the busiest trails off I90. But it's still one of my all time faves. Top 3 reasons to hike Si: - well maintained and marked trail - awesome views - steady incline but fun for amateurs + experienced hikers both If you feel brave, ok with heights *AND* you have the right shoes on, take the extra 15 min to hike up "Haystack". The rock climb will make your heart race and you should not attempt it unless you are a pretty good climber. The payoff? Being on the VERY top of the peak with matchless views. Everyone knows the best place to refuel is -Northbend Bar and Grill- just about 7 m in away...so head there for a Summer Ale or "Haystack" Hef and the best burgers in town. Time to summit? Plan about 2 hours up. read more

For some reason I chose this trail as my first hike last year and I must say I was unprepared as it is not the easiest hike around. That being said this is also one of the best hikes I have been on over the last two years. The trail itself is very well maintained which is impressive given how many people walk up and down the mountain every day. There are enough twists and turns and different types of terrain to keep things interesting on the way up and once you do hit the top, you will witness some of the most amazing views anywhere around. I would say this trail can not be classified as easy by any means, but at the same time, I would also say just about any level of hiker from beginner to expert will find this to be an enjoyable trail. Make sure you bring water, snacks, and have all the appropriate hiking gear. Also be prepared to share your hike with lots of people as this is one of the more popular trails for both local hikers as well as tourists. read more

Good trail Clear path, but a bit narrow in some area. Towards to the top, the trail can get rocky Great view not as hard as I thought with my own slow/steady pace A lot of parking if arriving early I would like to do this hike again read more

Mt. Si "Old Trail": A Different (Steeper) Way to Climb Mt. Si When I arrived at Mt. Si, I parked in the Little Si parking lot by accident (BTW, don't forget to buy a Discovery Pass!) At the trail head I met a couple who recommended I try the "Old Mt. Si Trail" which was replaced in the late 1970s by the current trail. I took the couple's advice and am now a convert. The old trail is shorter by about a mile which means it's steeper. But, it's also much quieter as very few hikers choose this trail. I saw only three other people on the trail going up and coming down. Here are some details to take this novel way up an old Seattle favorite: + Purchase a Discovery Pass! They're available at the North Bend Ace Hardware + Park at the Little Si main or overflow parking lots + Start up the Little Si trail head + Look for the Boulder Garden Loop trail sign, but stay on the main trail for now + When you see the 2nd sign for the Boulder Garden Loop trail (where it returns into the main trail), take a right into the Loop + When you reach the namesake boulders toward the top of the loop, look for a sign that says Boulder Garden Loop Trail with arrows pointing both ways + To the left of that sign is a path that heads pretty much straight uphill right next to a moss-covered small boulder (I've uploaded a picture of the sign) + Head up the trail and enjoy the peace and quiet of a beautiful natural preserve + Near the top of Mt. Si, you'll reconnect with the main trail for the final few hundred yards (make sure to remember where to turn off on to the old trail on the way down -- it's at a curve in the trail with a log across the old trail path) + Once you've taken your pictures at the top, take the old trail back down to your car in the Little Si parking lot + Get a professional massage the next day to soothe your sore thighs! It's a steep climb so bring plenty of water and snacks. Kids and dogs who are in shape and adventurous can definitely handle this hike. Have fun! read more

Mount Si - Mt. Si "Old Trail": Look for the trail to the left of this sign at the top of the Boulder Garden Loop Trail on the Little Si tra - Parks Near Me

I was determined to include some fun, outdoor activities when my friend visited over last weekend. A 2 hour hike on Little Si probably wasn't the best call given that we'd be standing for 4 hours at a concert later, but hey... lesson learned. The weather this last weekend was maybe a tiny bit cold... which was apparently enough to scare away most Seattlites, but just fine for a couple midwesterners. Apparently, that's the best time to hike, because we saw *maybe* 20 other groups during our hike. Generally, it was quiet, and very fun. Just a note for first-timers on Little Si (like I was this weekend): The first quarter mile goes up FAST, but then it levels out. If you get winded early, it's only *partially* because you're out of shape. ;) read more

What I love about Mount Si is that it can be hard for hikers of all levels. If you are a beginner, take it slow. If you are a novice, try to be faster. If you are advanced, fly through it and help others up the haystack. My 3 tips for the hike: - bring LOTS of water, even if you think you won't need it - wear adequate footwear with ankle support - SMILE! It will make the hike a lot more enjoyable even if it's difficult I don't think I will hike it again unless it's a weekday, there's basically a traffic jam to the top until you get to the haysack. Too many hikers were not aware of their surroundings, which adds to the risk. read more

This place is CROWDED. If you are looking for a good long hike with some solitude, this is not it; however, Mount Si is in close proximity to Seattle and if you are working towards greater challenges it is a good hike to train on (pack, poles, etc.) It has a good view, you can see Seattle and Bellevue from the top and there is also an enjoyable rock scramble for those slightly more adventurous. So if you don't mind crowds, you want something close, or if you're looking for a good training hike, Mount Si is a good option. read more

I've done this hike a few times and it is a challenge for me. The last half a mile will kick your ass if you're not expecting it. The last time I did this (Memorial weekend) I went with a group to raise money for Children's Hospital. The hike hadn't got any easier but we managed to raise $1500 so the pain was worth it. Even better was the margarita party that ensued at the summit...Mmmmmm. The hike itself is 4.0 miles each way with an elevation gain of around 3600ft. It really isn't that hard if you take it easy but I like to push myself. My fastest at 1 hour and 20 minutes is pushing it as most take around 2 hours if they are leisurely hiking. Give it a try and don't forget the bring refreshments for the summit. If you bring enough you will make many friends... read more

Personally, I felt like this 8 mile hike (round trip, 4 each way) was super tough for me. Maybe because I was out of shape, but regardless it was worth it in the end when we finally made it to the top. The experience and the relieve of accomplishing something (whether a hike or project) in the end is rewarding. I went on a semi cloudy day, and I am glad, because I was sweating by the second mile. haha. It took me kinda long..a few hours to complete. But I'm sure that I will be back real son and hopefully be more in shape. heh heh. Because my legs were sore for almost a week after that! There isn't too much of a scenery, mostly a direct uphill path as you go up. Lots of regular shrubs, logs, trees, rocks. You basically go uphill all the way-can get steep. And you go downhill all the way on the way back, which is faster, if you decide to jog. But be careful. Lots of hikers on the day I went. Saw many people who bring their dogs as well. Once you get to the top, snap a few photos, and be sure to bring snacks, lots of water to keep hydrated and your tummy satisfied. Stay at the top for awhile. Relax, enjoy the scenery and the nature around you. And, fyi don't wear those 'hiking sandals.' Baaad idea, especially when going down. read more

It is beautiful but dont go here with a group intending to workout to prepare for a marathon.. unless you are in shape for it. I got left behind by a Mountaineer group! The trail is narrow and tree covered so there are not really remarkable views until the top I guess.. I never made it. I was very happy I had driven so I could wind my way home alone. read more

Mt. Si has its well maintained trails and great views near the top. I went midweek in May and there were only a few cars in the lot. The payoff at the top is worth it. :) read more

Mount Si - Parks Near Me

Arrive early if you want easy parking and not be boxed in. Path was well maintained. Kept it slow and steady and was very satisfied. Can't wait to do again! read more

Life is good great trail to do on a wed morning.. The top view is amazing... Beautiful day read more

Mount Si - Parks Near Me

Mount Si is a must!! If you haven't done it...do it! I'd suggest going earlier in the morning before it gets super hot. We started out at 2:30pm (wasn't the best idea.) But it was great! It wasn't easy...at least for me. Let's just say I'm not in greatest shape ;) The last half of a mile kicked my butt, I was ready to start climbing on my hands and knees. But we made it! It was totally worth every bit of sweat! It is absolutely lot gorgeous at the top. Rocks are fun to climb...and you can get great shots up there. I totally enjoyed the whole experience. :) read more

Mount Si - Parks Near Me

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Mount Si is conquered! But I never knew i could whine like that. (Hint) Bring plenty of fluids. Noticed a lot of people with just the clothes on their backs. It looked like they were suffering. Cover your food! a lady almost had her sandwich snatched out of her hands by a bird. So, uphill was a great conditioning battle. Downhill was brutal! by the time i got to the bottom my knees were jello and in pain. 24 hours later and I'm still sore. In the end i conquered Mount Si! I have pics to prove it! Been there done that wohoo!!! read more

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This hike is awesome. It isn't too easy, but it's not extremely difficult. However, I did not do haystack. People keep saying it's scary and gnarly and seeing as tho I am afraid of heights, I opted out. I WILL DO IT THE NEXT TIME THO!!! The trail is nicely maintained. Under the canopy most of the time and then BAM, gorrrrgeous view!!! We went on a sunny day, so we lucked out. The view was breathtaking. You could see Seattle from the top. AND.... the GrayJays. Be mindful when you start eating your food. If you're sitting around chit chatting, you won't notice the birds swooping in on your food until they're in your face. On the other hand, when you hold some food out, they land on your hand, take it and fly away. It doesn't hurt, but it feels weird when they land on your hand. Fun. I enjoyed this hike. It was on my must-hike list and I've done it. On a beautiful day nonetheless. :) read more

Although I've hiked before, I've never had the pleasure to hike a "real" mountain. I'm rating this with no frame of reference/comparison to another mountain hike, but I can definitively say that I'd go back to Si and love to ascend it again. My friend had told me that his daughter and he had climbed it in 2hrs 18 minutes, so I had a goal... We made it in 1hr and 48 minutes. Needless to say, I can't comment much about the scenery on the way up, but thoroughly enjoyed the view from the peak and the scenery on the descent. One more thing to add, the trail was virtually spotless from litter. Boom. read more

Mount Si - Parks Near Me

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This is a beautiful hike, and close to Seattle so you don't have to spend all day in the car getting there. I went on a weekday when it was less crowded, but the complaints I have heard are that it is packed on the weekends with a small parking lot. I have heard the views are lovely, but the it was overcast the day we went so we couldn't see much. read more

Great hike, recommended. Took us 2.75 hours from parking to top of Haystack, 2 hours on the way back down. Not too bad if you've got enough water (2 nalgenes at least) and a lunch to eat at top. Crowded-ish, but parking wasn't a problem at 10am on Sunday. Haystack was cool, would recommend for any athletic person. Trail is very well maintained. Nowhere to go to the bathroom (except at trailhead). People say wear ankle support but I probably would wear trail shoes next time. This is not a stroll, but it's pretty straightforward -- up up and up! I used my poles, glad I did but it's discretionary. Worthwhile, fantastic views at summit, Seattle in distance. read more

Mount Si - Elevation profile including Haystack - Parks Near Me

I had never hiked in my life and I never exercise. You could say that I'm just a lazy person and I decided to try hiking. A group of people were going and so I decided to see what hiking is all about. Dear god it ate me alive about half way up this dang mountain. It is definitely not the easiest hike especially for n00bs but I eventually reached the top and decided to go up the "haystack" is what they apparently call it. Definitely bring snacks and plenty of water. We went around 8am I think and it was super wide open so earlier the better because the afternoons get really crowded. The view is superb when you reach the top and of course you gotta get in some photos and all that good stuff. Going down I would recommend one thing: don't try to run unless you know what you're doing. My friend tried to run down like a boss and twisted his ankle, like a secretary. Luckily there were people who had first aid kits so the hikers are a great bunch and people are willing to help you out although I didn't ask if they would offer food. That would be awkward... read more

This review is a call-to-arms, but I'll get to that later. The loss of one star is for my unbelievable soreness, but it was worth it. I went there with a classmate for a sort of excuse for a first date as well getting out of the city. I had been there many times, but my friend had never been. It was weird to go to Mt. Si at the end of fall. It actually snowed near the top, which was beautiful. I recently found out however, the powers-that-be are going to start charging to climb Mt. Si! (as well as for parking). Recently learning about the 520 floating bridge tolls, I must say I am tired of government agenices who don't know how to manage our money and instead find new ways to exploit us instead of finding ways to re-organize. Anyway, if it is true, I think this trip may be my final, bittersweet journey. P.S. The beer buzz after climbing Mt. Si is very, very, nice............ read more

Always nice challenge. Elevation gain it has. Less than 4 hours roundtrip, if you skip haystack scramble. Wear hiking boots, as it can be damp any time of year. We found rain mid-July. read more

Probably not the best hike to start my 2017 hiking season, which makes me sound like I'm a hiker and I'm actually not. But, that said, what a spectacular view from the top! The climb was hard, but I took my time, stopped for many many brief periods to catch my breath, and reached the summit in decent time and without too much trouble. What I wasn't prepared for was the difficulty of going back down! I thought it would be a walk in the park and only take half as long as going up, and boy was I wrong. Wrong wrong wrong. My knees were killing me, there's really no respite from the consistent downhill. And you feel like a wimp if you stop because it's not like you're out of breath or your quads are screaming or anything, but despite that it took me forever to get to the bottom. Like FOREVER. I literally didn't think I was ever going to get back to the parking lot. I'm not going to divulge my age other than to say I am far from being a spring chicken. I am reasonably fit but no road-warrior for sure. Just a little warning for those of you who are, let's say, over the age of 50 or so who are not used to hiking long distances. I do feel pretty bad-ass for conquering this peak. Even if I won't be able to get out of bed in the morning, or the next morning, or the next morning... read more

Whewwwww! Thank god that's over with. Tough climb up there with nearly no breaks in the action, but couldn't be more worth it. I finally reached the top, or so I thought, and saw another peak ahead of me with a few lunatics even higher up. I called it quits there as the view couldn't get much better and I literally couldn't go up anymore. Worth the effort. The trail was a bit rocky at times and could definitely be slippery on the way down. Also, it gets a little chilly under the trees late afternoon. read more

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A challenging hike indeed but the end is worth the struggle of getting up. I would say hiking during summer, spring and fall isn't bad, but winter you will need to prepare cause the snow can get you into a bit of a struggle getting up. I have gone during all seasons and winter was the most competitive to hike during especially without equipment. So if you are an advanced hiker this is a good hike and also go early in the morning to get started. read more

This hike has been called the "Space Needle of Seattle area hikes". 36 miles from the city, it's near North Bend, WA. The trail is 8 miles out and back, and is somewhat challenging. It is usually crowded, being one of the most popular hikes around. We made a fun day of it, but I dont think I'll be back any time soon. There's a great view at the top, but I found the rest of the hike a little dull. For climbing enthusiasts, there's a vertical scramble at the top. Denny Creek Campground is the closest place to pitch a tent. read more

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Just hiked Mount Si on this outstanding Saturday morning. To be honest, I have never spent much time outdoors. Though, after experiences like this I will definitely find myself dabbling in Washington's hills more often. Mount Si is an 8 mile hike round trip (though there is a shorter hike at Little Si.) I would describe it as a calming workout, not too strenuous nor mundane. As with most hikes, the prize is at the top. The view is AMAZING on a clear day. Great views of Rainier and Seattle too. I would say on cloudy days the draw of Mount Si fizzles a bit, since the walk up doesn't offer much to see. Overall, a nice hike that's perfect for taking up a few hours on the weekend. read more

A nice novice/moderate hike to the half-summit and Moderate+ to the summit of Haystack. I saw a lot of people with Hiking boots, full backpacks, poles and REI accessories which to me seem completely unnecessary. My Advice: PACK LIGHT. Bring some water, and a granola bar. I made it up in under 1:30 and ran down in under an hour. You might enjoy some trail running shoes more than hot and heavy hiking boots - they aren't really needed on this very well-maintained trail. Just watch your step! read more

Mount Si - Half summit behind me. - Parks Near Me