Beautiful Spring Wildflower Hikes Near North Bend & Snoqualmie WA
Where to catch the bloom without going far
There’s nothing like spring in the Snoqualmie Valley. After a long, gray winter, the forests wake up, the birds return, and best of all—wildflowers start popping up along the trails. If you’re staying in North Bend during the spring months (typically late March through May), you’re in a great spot to catch these colorful blooms without trekking too far into the mountains.
Here are three of the best wildflower hikes within 15 miles of North Bend, perfect for couples looking to stretch their legs and soak up some seasonal beauty.
1. Cedar Butte Trail
Distance from North Bend: 7 miles
Length: 3.5 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 900 feet
Best for: Wildflower spotting in a quiet forest setting
Tucked right next to Rattlesnake Lake, the Cedar Butte Trail is a bit of a hidden gem. The hike winds through a peaceful second-growth forest, gradually climbing up to a forested summit with peekaboo views of the Middle Fork Valley. In spring, the trail edges come alive with trillium (those lovely three-petaled white flowers), bleeding hearts, and delicate yellow violets.
Vibe check: Peaceful, lightly trafficked, and just the right amount of effort to feel like you’ve earned that post-hike brunch.
Bonus tip: You can pair this hike with a gentle stroll around Rattlesnake Lake for more photo ops and even more blooms at lake level.
2. Little Si Trail
Distance from North Bend: 1 mile
Length: 4.7 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 1,300 feet
Best for: Colorful hillside blooms and valley views
Little Si is the smaller sibling of the iconic Mount Si, and it’s a much more approachable option if you’re not looking to conquer a beast of a mountain. In the spring, this trail treats hikers to a variety of wildflowers tucked between mossy rocks and forest clearings. Look for yellow glacier lilies and bright salmonberry blossoms along the lower sections of the trail. As you climb higher, the views open up over the Snoqualmie Valley—perfect for a water break and a quiet moment together.
Vibe check: A slightly more challenging hike, but still very doable for a weekend adventure couple. Expect a bit more foot traffic—it’s popular for a reason!
Pro tip: Start early in the day to beat the crowds and catch the sun lighting up the blooming hillsides.
3. Mount Si Trail (Lower Section)
Distance from North Bend: 2 miles
Length: Hike as far as you like (full trail is 8 miles roundtrip)
Elevation Gain: ~500–1,000 feet for lower section
Best for: Dense forest blooms without committing to the summit
Mount Si is the big-name hike in the area, but here’s a local secret: you don’t have to summit to enjoy its beauty. The first mile or two of the Mount Si Trail offers a gentle climb through lush forest that explodes with springtime growth. Expect to see a carpet of moss, ferns uncurling, and woodland flowers like trillium, inside-out flowers, and more.
Vibe check: Great for couples who want flexibility—turn back whenever you’re ready and still get that wildflower fix.
Trail tip: If it’s recently rained, the forest will smell amazing—but the trail can be muddy. Wear good shoes!
Wildflower Hiking Tips
- Go in the morning: Trails are quieter and blooms are at their freshest with the morning dew still clinging to petals.
- Stay on trail: Help preserve fragile wildflower populations by sticking to designated paths.
- Bring a wildflower guide or app: Try Seek or iNaturalist for a fun way to identify what you’re seeing.
- Dress in layers: Spring weather can be unpredictable—sunny one minute, drizzly the next.
Make It a Springtime Date
Wildflower hikes make for a perfect spring date. Here are a few extra ideas to elevate the experience:
🌼 Pack a picnic to enjoy at a viewpoint or by the lake.
📸 Bring a camera or phone tripod—this is a great time of year for couples’ photos.
🫖 Stop at a local café afterward for tea and pastries (Huxdotter Coffee or Pioneer Coffee Roasting are nearby favorites).
🧺 Create a DIY flower scavenger hunt—who can spot the most varieties?
Wrap-Up
Spring in the North Bend area is nothing short of magical, and these wildflower hikes are a wonderful way to celebrate the season. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful forest stroll or a slightly more challenging climb with hillside color, there’s a trail blooming just for you.
So grab your hiking shoes, maybe a flower guide, and go chase those petals—you won’t have to go far.
