Peaceful Hike to Green Mountain in North Bend, WA
Green Mountain Hike: A Beginner-Friendly Trail Near Seattle
Living in Seattle, I'm lucky to be surrounded by incredible outdoor spaces—mountains, forests, lakes, and all the beauty the Pacific Northwest has to offer. When it comes to an easy forest getaway, one of my favorite places to escape to is North Bend, WA. It's a short 40-minute drive from Seattle, yet you're surrounded by forest, and the pine tree scent is uncanny. I got to start my 2025 with a chill hike on Green Mountain in North Bend, WA.
This trail was 10 Miles Roundtrip, with an elevation gain of around 3,600 feet. The weather was a bit unpredictable—it was early January, and we expected snow, but we were greeted with clear skies and sunny weather, which almost made it feel like spring. I joked that the trees felt happy, basking in the sunshine. Nature always finds a way to keep moving forward, even in the quieter, colder months. Even though it was winter, my hat, gloves, shell, and base layer from outdoor research were all I needed to stay warm. I love supporting local brands, and outdoor research is my current favorite outdoor attire.
A moment of connection with nature on the Green Mountain Trail in North Bend, WA. The peaceful forest surroundings make it the perfect place to pause, breathe, and appreciate the wilderness.
What to Expect on the Green Mountain Trail
The first part of the trail is relatively flat, passing through sections of clear-cut land before you get to the real fun—switchbacks that lead up the side of the mountain. The incline is steep, and I appreciated the steady, gradual climb. It's the kind of trail that allows you to take your time, enjoy the scenery, and breathe in the fresh air without feeling like you're racing to the top. I'm known for chatting my way through hikes. I'm that friend who'll talk your ear off at the beginning of a trail and then find themselves out of breath when it starts to climb. Well, that was 100% me on this one.😭
We didn't get much of a view due to the misty fog at the top of the summit. Still, even without a clear view, I felt at eye level with the clouds; the highest point of this hike was 4,700 feet. There's something about being on top of a mountain that puts everything into perspective. It's a reminder that the pressures we put on ourselves—whether it's work, personal goals, or just the demands of life—are often unnecessary. At that moment, the only thing that mattered was the stillness of surrounding nature. Life is about living, not about constantly pushing for the next milestone.
The summit of Green Mountain offers incredible views of the surrounding misty landscape in North Bend, WA
The Perfect End to Your Hike
When it was time to head back down, we caught the sky shift from golden to pink as the sun dipped below the mountains and sun-kissed trees. It was the perfect ending to a perfect hike.
This laid-back, easy hike near Seattle is beginner-friendly for anyone interested in getting outdoors. I loved experiencing it!
Here's the link to the Green Mountain Hike!
At 4,700 feet, the summit of Green Mountain offers a stunning view above the clouds. Capturing the moment with a selfie, it's a reminder of how small we are compared to the vastness of nature.
The lush and vibrant forest floor of the Green Mountain Trail in North Bend, WA
Taking a break in the winter wonderland of Green Mountain. The snow-covered rocks and crisp mountain air make this hike an ideal winter adventure. Equipped in Outdoor Research gear for comfort and warmth.
The sunset casts golden and pink hues over Green Mountain, offering a stunning end to a peaceful hike in North Bend, WA