When it comes to day trips near Seattle, the Pacific Northwest doesn’t come up short. From sandy beaches to mountain peaks, and all the forests, lakes and trails in between, it’s easy to keep things interesting when looking for an adventure.
Lake Easton (photo: Terumi Pong)
As always, being prepared (plenty of water, snacks, first aid kit, and weather-appropriate clothing) will help ensure that our day trips aren’t only survivable and awesome for everyone involved. So pack up the family, set your destination, and hit the road. Here are 5 family-friendly and quintessentially Pacific Northwest day trips near the Seattle area:
Take a weekend ride on the Pacific Crest chairlift
Sometimes, getting to the top of a hike is daunting for the smallest feet. Solution? The Summit at Snoqualmie Pass opens its Pacific Crest chairlift on Saturdays and Sundays during the summer season (opens July 6th), where you can take in all the hiking views sans the long trek (unless you want to). Hiking up the mountain would take about an hour and a half (roundtrip) with small kiddos, but coming down is easier (about 30 minutes). There are no trees or shade along the trail — so sunscreen and hats are a must— but you’ll walk past lots of wildflowers, so keep your camera handy! They will have a summer music series back, with live music every Saturday at Summit West from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. July 6th through Labor Day.
Kids 5 and under are free, and daily tickets range from $15-20 and include as many round-trip rides as your heart desires. Find more details on the Summit at Snoqualmie website and what (and what not) to bring on the chairlift (like bikes and strollers).
Snack break: The Big Air BBQ near the lift and The Commonwealth Restaurant (a short drive away) offer lots of outdoor seating and delicious food (but a home-packed picnic is just as good).
Pacific Crest Chairlift (photo: Terumi Pong)
Hunt for crystals at Hansen Creek
*Note that Hansen Creek is closed until October 15, 2024 for logging. Entering will incur a $10,000 fine.
This is the perfect kind of hike for your treasure-hunting kid. About an hour east of Seattle near Snoqualmie Pass, Hansen Creek is a rockhound’s dream— bring your shovels and sifters to dig for quartz crystals and amethyst. You can find the trailhead and more information using Washington Trails, plus the directions on this rockhounding site. Tip: we always screenshot the route and trip details just in case cellular reception isn’t great.
Hansen Creek (photo: Terumi Pong)
The trail is about 2-3 miles roundtrip. Bring bug spray, water, and sturdy shoes — the word is that the best crystals can be found a mile uphill (two miles from the trailhead), buried in the soil. We spent a good 3 hours on this day trip and found a handful of crystals closer to the base of the hill. For rookie rockhounds, even just getting out and trying to find a crystal or two (plus chatting with some experts) can make for a pretty fun and unique day.
Remember, this trail can feel quite remote, so if this is your first hike experience with your family or if you have very young children, it might be best to try more accessible routes like Gold Creek Pond.
[Read our parent review about Gold Creek Pond]
Snack break: On your way home, stop by the North Bend Bakery Cafe or Twede’s Cafe for cherry pie. And Red Mountain Coffee near the Summit at Snoqualmie Pass (about 20 minutes from the trailhead). The coffee shop has public bathrooms if you need a stop before you head out into the woods.
Rent a Surrey at Point Ruston in Tacoma
If you haven’t yet rented a Surrey bike in Tacoma, you should try it at least once. Rent one at Point Ruston (a Surrey for 3 people plus 2 small children starts at $29 an hour at Wheel Fun Rentals) and cycle along the waterfront. (Fun fact: from sunset until 10 p.m., the bikes are lit up for night rides)!
Snack break: Stop for a scoop at Ice Cream Social, and a post-ride pit stop at the nearby playground. Or check out the Stairs and Slides at Dune Peninsula — just a short walk away. Need more day trip action? Make an entire day of it (or more!) and visit the Point Defiance Zoo. Read more about their recently re-opened Tropical Reef Aquarium and find bright colored fish, sea stars and an immersive experience.
Surrey bikes for rent at Point Ruston in Tacoma (photo: Terumi Pong)
Take a water taxi to Alki Beach and back
If your family loves ferry rides, you could spend a whole day exploring Bainbridge or Vashon Island. But there’s an option closer to Seattle that is also car-free — the water taxi to Alki Beach. If you want to travel by wheels, you can bring your bike on the ferry for no additional charge (just check for sizing restrictions before you go). Spend an afternoon at the beach, soaking in the sand, sun, and stellar views.
Snack break: Alki Beach has plenty of dining options, from grab-and-go to sit-down dinners. For a quick stop, Marination has delicious shaved ice and other foods that’ll be a treat on a warm summer day.
Tips: Taxis typically arrive on the hour (just be sure to double-check for current routes), so once you get to Alki Beach you’ll have a bit of time to explore. When heading home, it’s best to err on the side of caution and get in line early. As with everything these days, crowds can be unpredictable (especially on sunny days or if there’s an event in town).
View from the Alki Ferry (photo: Terumi Pong)
Paddleboard at Lake Easton
When summer arrives in Seattle, lakes become a magnet for kayakers, paddle boarders, and anyone else who appreciates getting out on the water. If you’re not up for a crowd, check out Lake Easton. About 1 hour and 30 minutes from Seattle, it’s a little further afield, but a great place for a float. Pack your Discover Pass (or purchase a day pass from the automated pay station), paddle boards, or floaties. The water is cold but refreshing, and there are bathrooms, picnic tables, and areas to get shade. Make sure you get here early if you want to snag a spot and remember to bring life jackets if you head out to paddle. Also nearby the lake is a playground and plenty of forested trails.
Snack break: Pack a picnic and stay for the day. There’s also a designated swimming area and sandy beach entry for post-paddling play.
Take us along on your summer adventures! Tag @seattleschild in your social media. We can’t wait to see where you explore!
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