Stuff to Do with Kids: Family-Friendly Hikes Near North Bend & Snoqualmie WA
If you’re visiting North Bend with kids in tow, you’re in luck—this area is packed with easygoing, beautiful hikes that are perfect for little legs and curious minds. Whether your crew includes toddlers, tweens, or somewhere in between, there’s a trail nearby that combines fresh air, mountain views, and plenty of opportunities for fun along the way.
Here are our favorite family-friendly hikes within 15 miles of North Bend, ideal for a half-day adventure before grabbing lunch or heading back for hot cocoa and board games at your Airbnb.
1. Twin Falls Trail
Distance from North Bend: 4 miles
Length: 2.6 miles roundtrip
Elevation gain: 500 feet
Best for: Waterfall lovers and adventurous little hikers
Twin Falls is a local favorite for a reason. The trail follows the South Fork Snoqualmie River and leads to stunning viewpoints of a series of waterfalls. The hike has a few mild climbs, but overall it’s doable for most kids over 4 or 5. There are spots to pause for a snack while watching the river rush by, and the roar of the falls is always a big hit with kids.
Parent tip: The trail can get muddy in the rainy season, so bring sturdy shoes and a change of clothes just in case.
2. Rattlesnake Lake and Rattlesnake Ledge (for older kids)
Distance from North Bend: 5 miles
Length: 1 mile (lake loop) or 4 miles roundtrip (ledge)
Elevation gain: 1,175 feet to the ledge
Best for: A lakeside stroll or a rewarding view for older, active kids
Rattlesnake Lake is a perfect stop for a picnic and a flat walk around the water’s edge, especially with younger kids. For families with older kids who are ready for a bit more challenge, the Rattlesnake Ledge trail climbs steadily through the forest to a dramatic viewpoint that overlooks the lake and the Snoqualmie Valley.
Safety note: There are steep drop-offs at the ledge, so close supervision is important at the top.
3. Iron Horse State Park (John Wayne Trail)
Distance from North Bend: 0 miles — it starts right in town!
Length: Choose your own adventure
Elevation gain: Minimal
Best for: Stroller-friendly walks and bike rides
This wide, gravel trail is a repurposed railroad line and is as flat and friendly as they come. You can hop on the trail right from downtown North Bend and head east or west. It’s great for strollers, bikes, scooters, and balance bikes. While not a wilderness hike per se, it offers views of forests, farmland, and distant peaks—all without ever needing to climb a hill.
Fun fact for kids: The trail passes through old train tunnels and over trestle bridges farther down the line if you want to explore further on another day.
4. Franklin Falls Trail
Distance from North Bend: 13 miles
Length: 2 miles roundtrip
Elevation gain: 400 feet
Best for: An easy forest stroll with a big reward
This is one of the best kid-friendly waterfall hikes around. It’s short, gentle, and ends with a dramatic waterfall that drops 70 feet into a beautiful gorge. The trail follows the South Fork Snoqualmie River and passes through a mossy forest that feels straight out of a fairy tale. Kids love hopping over small streams and checking out the giant ferns and nurse logs along the way.
Pro tip: This hike is very popular, so go early if you want to snag a parking spot on weekends.
5. Snoqualmie Falls Lower Trail
Distance from North Bend: 8 miles
Length: 1.5 miles roundtrip
Elevation gain: 250 feet
Best for: A stroller-friendly path with a famous waterfall view
While the upper viewpoint of Snoqualmie Falls is iconic, the lower trail offers a more peaceful experience, winding through the forest to the base of the falls. It’s a wide, well-maintained trail that’s great for families with younger children or strollers. Plus, there’s something pretty magical about hearing the roar of the falls grow louder as you get closer.
Bonus: The Salish Lodge is right nearby if you want to treat yourself to a snack or hot drink afterward.
Tips for Hiking with Kids in the Snoqualmie Valley
- Pack the essentials: Snacks, water, and extra layers are always a must. Even short hikes can feel epic to little adventurers!
- Time it right: Try hiking earlier in the day to avoid crowds and catch the best light.
- Make it fun: Play trail games like “I Spy,” turn over rocks to find bugs, or let your kids be the map reader.
- Be flexible: Sometimes the best hikes are the ones where you turn around early and enjoy the journey just as much as the destination.
Wrap-Up
North Bend is more than just a gateway to the mountains—it’s a fantastic basecamp for families looking to explore the outdoors. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, skipping rocks, or just enjoying a peaceful stroll through the woods, there are plenty of easy, rewarding trails that kids will love.
So pack some snacks, lace up those hiking boots (or sneakers), and hit the trail—you don’t have to go far to find a little adventure.
