Rattlesnake Mountain sure to impress
July 31, 2009
By Christopher Huber
New July 31, 10:27 a.m.
Hikers and anyone who loves the outdoors: if you only do one hike this summer, do the Rattlesnake Mountain Trail.
And if you know anyone who doesn’t like to hike, drag them along with you — it’ll be good for them and they’ll love it.
The well-shaded, not-too-steep Rattlesnake Ledge trail might inspire you to spend more time outside.
From the lower ledge, hikers enjoy sweeping views of the turquoise Rattlesnake Lake and the Central Cascades. Photo by Christopher Huber
The trail experience alone is worth the drive to North Bend and the four-mile hike, but hikers can also appreciate a dip in Rattlesnake Lake or a picnic in the surrounding park afterward.
The Rattlesnake Mountain Trail offers numerous hikes and destinations that vary from two to 10.5 miles each way. But for those simply interested in going for a nice jaunt to a place they’ve never been, the lower-ledge hike is the way to go.
The two-mile trek begins at a gated service road that curves around the right side of the lake from the parking lot. You’ll find the Rattlesnake Ledge trailhead actually starts at the signpost near the beach and a picnic area.
Get a sneak peak of the ledge above from the banks of lake before beginning your journey. The trail starts at a slight incline and soon turns into switchbacks, which take you back-and-forth along the side of Rattlesnake Mountain. The lush tree canopy keeps hikers out of direct sun and cools the air until afternoon.
About 30 minutes in, if you’re traveling at a moderate pace, take a few steps to the left at the short junction for a peek at the shimmering, turquoise lake below. That’s just a taste of the magnificence that’s to come.
The trail soon becomes a little steeper, but don’t worry, it’s manageable with tennis shoes. The switchbacks continue nearly to the top. When you reach the signpost overlooking North Bend, stay right for about another 100 feet to reach Rattlesnake Ledge (lower).
At top you’ll enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of Rattlesnake Lake, Mount Si and Little Mount Si, North Bend, Cedar and Chester Morse lakes and the surrounding foothills.
While you explore the enormous rock outcropping, be careful of the deep cracks and steep cliffs.
Total elevation gain is about 1,200 feet, according to www.gonorthwest.com. The two-miles up to the lower ledge takes an hour up and another 40 minutes to get down, so allow a few hours for the trip.
Beat the heat this summer by going early and drinking a lot of water. You’re bound to cross paths with other groups of hikers, as it’s a well-used and –maintained trail. Hold on to your hat at the top, too, as it gets pretty windy near the edge.
According to various reviews, the Rattlesnake Mountain Trail is accessible pretty much year-round, so if you want the lookout all to yourself, take the trek this fall or winter.
Parents with young children, this trail is not suitable for strollers, but children ages five and up should be able to manage the hike.
Getting there: Take Interstate-90 east. Just after North Bend take exit 32 (436th Avenue Southeast). Turn right off the exit, and drive south for about three miles on 436th Avenue Southeast, which turns into Cedar Falls Road. Follow the signs posted for Rattlesnake Lake. After parking, walk down the gated access road, which curves around the lake, to the official trailhead.
Reporter Christopher Huber can be reached at 392-6434, ext. 242, or chuber@isspress.com. Comment on this story at www.sammamishreview.com.
Comments
One Response to “Rattlesnake Mountain sure to impress”
Got something to say?
Before you comment, please note:
- These comments are moderated.
- Comments should be relevant to the topic at hand and contribute to its discussion.
- Personal attacks and/or excessive profanity will not be tolerated and such comments will not be approved.
- This is not your personal chat room or forum, so please stay on topic.
Sounds great! I can’t wait to go!