Rattlesnake Mountain Trail - Short

Starting near King County, Washington, the Rattlesnake Mountain Trail - Short is a rewarding out-and-back hike that spans approximately 6 kilometers (around 3.7 miles) with an elevation gain of about 300 meters (roughly 984 feet). This trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards the Rattlesnake Lake Recreation Area, which is a well-known landmark in the region. The nearest address for GPS navigation is 19901 Cedar Falls Rd SE, North Bend, WA 98045. For those using public transport, you can take a bus to North Bend and then a short taxi or rideshare to the trailhead.

### Trail Overview The trail begins at the Rattlesnake Lake parking area. From here, you'll start your ascent through a lush forest of Douglas firs and western hemlocks. The initial part of the trail is relatively gentle, allowing you to ease into the hike. After about 1 kilometer (0.6 miles), the trail starts to climb more steeply.

### Significant Landmarks and Nature As you ascend, you'll encounter several switchbacks that offer brief respites and glimpses of the surrounding landscape. Around the 2-kilometer (1.2-mile) mark, you'll come across a small clearing that provides a partial view of Rattlesnake Lake below. This is a great spot for a quick rest and some photos.

Continuing on, the trail becomes rockier and more challenging. At approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) in, you'll reach the first major viewpoint. Here, you can take in panoramic views of the Snoqualmie Valley and the distant Cascade Mountains. This viewpoint is often a turnaround point for those looking for a shorter hike.

### Wildlife and Flora The trail is home to a variety of wildlife, including black-tailed deer, chipmunks, and a variety of bird species such as the Steller's jay and the pileated woodpecker. Keep an eye out for these creatures, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

### Historical Significance The Rattlesnake Mountain area has a rich history, having been used by Native American tribes for centuries. The name "Rattlesnake" is believed to have originated from the sound of the wind rustling through the rocks, which early settlers thought resembled the sound of a rattlesnake. The trail itself was developed as part of the larger Rattlesnake Mountain Scenic Area, aimed at preserving the natural beauty and historical significance of the region.

### Navigation and Safety Given the moderate difficulty of the trail, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to keep track of your progress and ensure you stay on the correct path. The trail is well-marked, but having a digital map can provide additional peace of mind.

### Final Stretch The final stretch of the trail involves a series of steep switchbacks leading up to the main viewpoint, known as Rattlesnake Ledge. This viewpoint offers stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making the climb well worth the effort. After taking in the views, you can retrace your steps back to the trailhead.

This hike is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and historical richness of the King County area, offering both physical challenge and scenic rewards.