3 Hidden Gem Sunset Spots Near North Bend & Snoqualmie WA
Low-effort, high-reward views for a dreamy evening
There’s nothing quite like a Pacific Northwest sunset—especially when you’re sharing it with someone special. If you’re visiting North Bend or Snoqualmie for the weekend and want to end your day with a romantic view, these hidden gem sunset spots deliver. They’re all easy to reach, peaceful, and totally photo-worthy, without the crowds you’ll find at the more famous overlooks.
Here are three places to catch the sunset where the views (and the vibe) are worth the trip.
1. Snoqualmie Point Park
- Distance from North Bend: ~3 miles
- Why It’s Great: Sweeping views of the valley, easy access, rarely crowded
This might be one of the most underrated viewpoints in the entire Snoqualmie Valley. Snoqualmie Point Park sits on a quiet hillside just above I-90, and yet it somehow feels a world away. From the viewing platform, you’ll see Mount Si, the rolling valley below, and layers of distant Cascade peaks that catch the last light of day.
There are picnic tables and grassy areas, so it’s a great place to bring dinner or dessert to-go. It’s easy to reach by car, and there’s plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the quiet.
Romantic Tip:
Pick up takeout from North Bend Bar & Grill or Rio Bravo and enjoy dinner with a view.
2. Cedar Butte Trail (Short Sunset Hike)
- Distance from North Bend: ~6 miles
- Hike Length: 3.5 miles roundtrip
- Elevation Gain: 900 feet
- Why It’s Great: Short hike, wooded trail, panoramic 360° summit
If you’re up for a little bit of effort, Cedar Butte is a quick hike with a big payoff. Starting from the same parking lot as Rattlesnake Lake, this lesser-known trail winds gently through quiet forest before popping out at a bald summit with panoramic views of the valley, Mount Si, and Rattlesnake Ridge.
It’s the kind of place you’ll often have to yourselves, especially near sunset. Bring headlamps for the hike back down, and you’ll feel like you’ve shared a secret moment in the mountains.
Romantic Tip:
Pack a lightweight blanket and a mini snack or wine spritzer to enjoy at the top (just be sure to pack everything out!).
3. Meadowbrook Farm Interpretive Trail
- Distance from North Bend: ~2 miles
- Why It’s Great: Flat walking path, open skies, mountain backdrop
Looking for a super easy option with an unobstructed sunset view? The Meadowbrook Farm area is ideal. It’s a large, open space with a paved walking loop and grassy trails that wind past wetlands and wildflower fields.
At sunset, the sky lights up above Mount Si and the nearby ridgelines. You’ll often see deer grazing in the fields, birds settling in for the night, and the kind of soft, glowing light that makes you want to just pause everything.
Romantic Tip:
Go for a slow, hand-in-hand stroll about 30 minutes before sunset, then stop at a bench or patch of grass to soak it all in.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Sunset Outing:
- 🌤 Check the forecast: Clear skies = best color shows
- ⏰ Arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset: Golden hour = glowy photos
- 🔦 Bring a flashlight or headlamp if you’re staying past dark
- 🧺 Pack warm layers and a thermos: It cools off fast once the sun dips
- 📸 Don’t forget your camera or phone: The light is magic!
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to hike for hours or drive for miles to find sunset magic near North Bend. Whether you’re sipping wine at Snoqualmie Point, watching wildlife at Meadowbrook, or catching mountaintop colors at Cedar Butte, each of these spots offers a quiet, stunning way to wrap up your day—and maybe share a few of those “how lucky are we?” kind of moments.
