Hiking may not be the first thing on your mind this time of year, but Washington actually has some fantastic trails that are accessible all year long. The Cedar Butte Trail, for example, is a hidden gem that often doesn’t see snow until we’re well into winter. If you’re up for a bit of a climb, you’ll love where it leads.
The Cedar Butte Trail is located near North Bend, inside Olallie State Park.
Joe Macias / alltrails.com This means you will need a Discover Pass to access the trail. If you don’t already have one, a Day Pass is just $10.
The trail is about 3.5 miles in length, and it’s considered a moderate hike.
Ashley Perry / alltrails.com And for whatever reason, the trail tends to stay quiet and peaceful, especially in the off-season (and we aren’t complaining).
From the parking area, you’ll follow signs for the John Wayne Pioneer Trail / Iron Horse State Park.
Allan Luik / alltrails.com Before you know it, you’ll be surrounded by lush, green nature.
As you can imagine, a good portion of this hike is uphill. But clearly, it’s worth it.
Shan Nathan / alltrails.com The trail actually forks at one point, but both paths lead to Cedar Butte. The left fork is more direct, but the right fork isn’t quite as steep.
The views from the summit are absolutely gorgeous in any season.
Dmitry Kirilov / alltrails.com Some seasoned hikers will tell you that this is actually a better viewpoint than the popular West Tiger 3 summit, and it requires less effort to reach.
When you’re ready to head back down, look for a small sign with an arrow that points out an alternative trail.
Hon Chan / alltrails.com This path avoids the narrow section along the steep north face of the butte, but it leads you straight back to the main path.
The Cedar Butte Trail is an underrated treasure.
Shan Nathan / alltrails.com If you haven’t experienced it yet, add it to your hiking bucket list.
Which local trails are you hoping to hike next year?
Joe Macias / alltrails.com
This means you will need a Discover Pass to access the trail. If you don’t already have one, a Day Pass is just $10.
Ashley Perry / alltrails.com
And for whatever reason, the trail tends to stay quiet and peaceful, especially in the off-season (and we aren’t complaining).
Allan Luik / alltrails.com
Before you know it, you’ll be surrounded by lush, green nature.
Shan Nathan / alltrails.com
The trail actually forks at one point, but both paths lead to Cedar Butte. The left fork is more direct, but the right fork isn’t quite as steep.
Dmitry Kirilov / alltrails.com
Some seasoned hikers will tell you that this is actually a better viewpoint than the popular West Tiger 3 summit, and it requires less effort to reach.
Hon Chan / alltrails.com
This path avoids the narrow section along the steep north face of the butte, but it leads you straight back to the main path.
If you haven’t experienced it yet, add it to your hiking bucket list.
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Address: Cedar Butte Trail, North Bend, WA 98045, USA
