Seattle weather doesn’t always cooperate. And honestly, that’s not a bad thing.
This article is about the hikes I intentionally choose on rainy, cloudy, socked-in or even snowy days, — when the goal isn’t epic views or big elevation gain, but simply getting outside, stretching your legs, and enjoying the atmosphere.
These are the hikes I save for days when:
- it’s raining
- visibility is poor
- clouds are low
- or the forecast just isn’t worth “going big”
They’re not consolation hikes.
They’re deliberate choices.
My Rule of Thumb for Hiking Around Seattle
This principle guides almost all of my hiking decisions:
If the weather is sunny and clear — go high.
If the weather is rainy, cloudy, or overcast — stay low.
What this means in practice:
- I don’t burn alpine hikes on bad-weather days
- I save elevation, exposure, and long climbs for clear skies
- I optimize for hikes that benefit from rain, not ones that are ruined by it
This mindset alone has dramatically improved my consistency and enjoyment when hiking around Seattle.
Why Low-Elevation Hikes Shine on Rainy Days
Low-elevation hikes near Seattle tend to offer things that actually get better in wet weather:
- dense forest cover
- rivers and creeks running higher
- waterfalls at peak flow
- mossy, lush scenery
- quieter trails
- a moody, eerie, peaceful atmosphere
Forests also provide some shelter from wind and rain, making light to moderate rain far more enjoyable than exposed ridgelines or alpine terrain.
My Go-To Rainy Day & Moody Weather Hikes
This list mixes classic hikes, city parks, and low-key trails I repeatedly return to when the weather isn’t cooperating.
You don’t need to do all of these — think of this as a decision menu, not a checklist.
Near Seattle & the I-90 Corridor
- Twin Falls
One of the best “bang for your buck” hikes near Seattle. River scenery, forest, and waterfalls packed into a short distance. Especially good when snow reaches lower elevations or after heavy rain.
(See my Twin Falls experience brief for winter timing, traction advice, and when snow actually shows up.) - Franklin Falls
A classic waterfall hike that works year-round and feels especially dramatic in wet weather or winter conditions.
(See my Franklin Falls experience brief for winter access routes and parking strategy.) - Wallace Falls
A reliable rainy-day waterfall hike where higher water flow actually improves the experience.
- Tenerife Falls
A forested waterfall hike that benefits from rain and cooler temperatures. The trail itself is the experience here — lush, quiet, and atmospheric — making it a good option when views higher up are socked in.
- Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Trail
Almost purpose-built for rainy days. Mostly flat, low elevation, and follows the river for miles. Louder water, fewer expectations, better vibes when it’s wet. I describe this trail and others in that area in my article on the North Bend Middle Fork Corridor, a cluster of forested, beginner-friendly hikes that work especially well in moody weather. I break down how to mix and match short viewpoint hikes, river walks, and easy loops in this dedicated experience brief. - Bridal Veil Falls
Short, forested, and atmospheric — exactly the kind of hike that still feels rewarding when the weather is poor.
City & Near-City Moody Walks
- Carkeek Park
One of the best rainy-day walks in Seattle, especially during the fall salmon run (late October into November). Dense forest, flowing creeks, and surprising wildlife for a city park.
- Seward Park
A go-to option when you want something easy and flexible. Walk the interior forest trails, loop the peninsula along Lake Washington, or mix both. Flat, dog-friendly, and peaceful on gray days.
- Saint Edward State Park
Forested trails, lake views, and historic buildings make this a great rainy-day destination where the experience isn’t dependent on views.
- Fauntleroy Park & Lincoln Park (West Seattle)
These pair well together on gloomy days. Fauntleroy offers ravines, forest, and creeks, while Lincoln Park adds bluff-top walking and moody Puget Sound views. Easy to mix and match depending on weather and energy.
Short, Atmospheric Stops
- Gold Creek Pond
Works well during rainy shoulder seasons and gloomy days when higher elevation hikes don’t make sense. Easy, scenic, and flexible. - Snoqualmie Falls (Lower Trail)
Skip the upper viewpoints and focus on the forested lower trail when it’s wet — waterfalls don’t mind rain.
How to Use This List
This article works best as a weather-based decision tool, not a list to conquer.
If it’s:
- pouring rain → pick something short and sheltered
- light drizzle → waterfalls and rivers
- heavy clouds → avoid high viewpoints entirely
The goal isn’t elevation or mileage — it’s experience per effort.
Final Thought
Seattle’s weather doesn’t have to be a reason to stay inside.
Some of my favorite hikes happen on days when the views don’t matter — when the forest is quiet, the rivers are loud, and the only goal is to move and breathe outside for a couple of hours.
Those are the days this list is for.
Dangenda 