6 Underrated Washington Trails in the Puget Lowlands
If you’re looking to explore some quieter spots away from the usual crowded trails, Washington’s Puget Lowlands offer plenty of hidden gems. These trails give you a chance to enjoy nature without the hustle and bustle, with easy access to forests, beaches, and scenic views.
The best part is these underrated trails let you experience the beauty of the Puget Sound region while avoiding the crowds that pack the more popular hiking spots. Whether you’re after a peaceful walk or a fun day outdoors, these lesser-known paths provide a refreshing option for your next adventure.
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Guillemot Cove Trailhead
If you’re looking for an easy hike with a bit of variety, Guillemot Cove Trailhead is a solid choice. The trail stretches about 2.5 miles roundtrip and climbs gently, making it accessible for most hikers.
You’ll reach a highest point of around 360 feet, offering some nice views without too much effort. The area mixes forest and beach scenery, which gives you a pleasant change of pace as you walk.
The trail is located near Seabeck on the Kitsap Peninsula. It’s a great spot if you want a quick getaway from busier spots but still want a trail that feels maintained and inviting.
Rating: 4.6 (130 reviews)
Location: 19484 NW Stavis Bay Rd, Seabeck, WA 98380
Contact: (360) 337-5350
Website: Visit Website
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Hall of Mosses Trailhead
If you’re looking for a short and easy hike with some serious nature vibes, the Hall of Mosses Trailhead is a great pick. This 0.8-mile loop trail winds through a lush forest filled with massive old-growth trees. The moss hanging from branches and tree trunks makes the whole place feel like something out of a fairytale.
You’ll find yourself surrounded by thick ferns and towering maples covered in vibrant green club moss. It’s a peaceful spot where you can take it slow and really soak in the quiet atmosphere of the Hoh Rain Forest.
The trailhead is located near the Hoh Rain Forest Visitor Center. The center’s staff can help with tips, maps, and info to get the most out of your visit. If you want to explore further, there are longer trails nearby that dive deeper into the forest and along the Hoh River.
Rating: 4.8 (1474 reviews)
Location: Hoh Valley Rd, Forks, WA 98331
Contact: (360) 565-3131
Website: Visit Website
Wallace Falls State Park
If you’re looking for a scenic spot to stretch your legs, Wallace Falls State Park might just fit the bill. The park has about 12 miles of trails that wind through forests and alongside rivers. You can hike up to three viewpoints of the falls, each offering a different view of the 256-foot waterfall.
The main hike is around 2.8 miles and is manageable for most people. If you want to extend your time outdoors, the Greg Ball Trail leads you on a longer trek past Wallace and Jay lakes. Along the way, you’ll find picnic areas with shelters and tables where you can rest or eat.
Camping options include walk-in tent sites near the parking area and more remote backcountry spots by the lakes. If tents aren’t your thing, there are also cabins you can reserve. These cabins come with amenities like electricity and fire pits, some even allow pets.
Parking can be tricky on busy weekends, as the lot fills early. Be sure to follow the parking rules and check the live camera before you head out. Keeping dogs on leash is important here, as the falls are a hazard to pets.
Rating: 4.8 (2552 reviews)
Location: 14503 Wallace Lake Road, Gold Bar, WA 98251
Contact: (360) 793-0420
Website: Visit Website
Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park
If you’re looking for a large, quiet spot to hike close to the city, Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park offers over 3,000 acres of forest, streams, and wetlands. You’ll find more than 35 miles of trails here, with options for hiking and some horseback riding. The park has a mix of peaceful, remote areas and spots with great views of Lake Sammamish, Seattle, and the Cascades.
The trails wind through mature second-growth forests and pass by cliffs and caves. Because of some old mining hazards, you’ll want to stick to the trails for safety. The park sits between 1,000 and 1,600 feet in elevation, making it a nice spot for a moderate workout without being too steep.
Cougar Mountain is part of a larger protected area known as the Issaquah Alps, connected to nearby parks to create a big stretch of public wilderness. This makes it a great place to escape the usual city bustle, even though you’re still close to Renton and Seattle.
Rating: 4.7 (2308 reviews)
Location: 18201 SE Cougar Mountain Dr, Renton, WA 98059
Contact: (425) 643-5306
Website: Visit Website
Spruce Nature Trail
If you’re looking for a short, easy hike, Spruce Nature Trail is a solid pick. Just over a mile long, this loop winds through an old rainforest with plenty of interesting sights along the way. You’ll see fallen trees called nurse logs, which provide a place for new trees to grow.
The trail also takes you alongside the Hoh River, known for its pale blue glacial waters. It’s a peaceful spot to take in the unique scenery, with varying trail grades that keep things interesting without being too tough.
Keep an eye out for the colonnades—rows of trees that grew from nurse logs long gone. The path has some short steep sections and a small staircase, but the whole loop stays under a 65-foot elevation change. It’s a great way to explore a rainforest without a full-day commitment.
Rating: 4.9 (99 reviews)
Location: Forks, WA 98331
Website: Visit Website
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Heybrook Lookout Trailhead
If you’re looking for a relatively easy hike with a rewarding view, Heybrook Lookout Trailhead is a solid choice. The trail is about 2 miles roundtrip and climbs nearly 1,000 feet. It offers a moderate challenge that suits most hikers comfortable with some elevation gain.
You’ll find yourself surrounded by classic Pacific Northwest forest as you make your way up. The highest point sits around 1,800 feet, where you can take in some nice vistas. It’s a quiet spot, often less crowded than other popular trails nearby.
The trailhead is located in Gold Bar, making it easily accessible if you’re exploring the Stevens Pass area. It’s a great option if you want a quick outdoor escape without a huge time commitment.
Rating: 4.7 (306 reviews)
Location: 313 9th St, Gold Bar, WA 98251
Contact: Washington Trails Association, (206) 625-1367
Website: Visit Website
