Rattlesnake Ledge Trail
A popular forest ascent above Rattlesnake Lake ends on an unguarded rock ledge with broad views across the Cedar River watershed and Cascades.
Artwork inspired by Guy Anderson
Rattlesnake Ledge climbs steadily from the lake through second-growth forest to a bare rock viewpoint above the Cedar River watershed. The overlook feels alpine despite its low elevation and proximity to Seattle, which helps explain both its popularity and the number of visitors who underestimate the climb. The lake path below is a separate, much gentler outing.
Arrive early enough to find legal parking and complete the descent before dusk. The ledge is exposed, often crowded, and especially hazardous when wet, icy, or used for photos near the edge. Carry water because the recreation area does not provide a dependable trail supply, keep dogs leashed, and choose the barrier-free lakeside route when the climb or cliff does not suit the group.
- Setting
- North Bend, Washington
- Trail access
- No recreation pass required; parking fills early
- Allow
- 2–5 hours
Quick guide
- Expect
- A sustained climb ending at an unguarded ledge
- Alternative
- Use the barrier-free lake route for a gentler visit
Climb with margin
- Pace
- Treat the shaded lower forest as the beginning, not evidence of an easy route.
- Footing
- Expect roots, mud, ice, and polished rock depending on the season.
- Ledge
- View from stable rock well back from the drop and do not crowd photographs.
- Return
- Carry water and preserve daylight and energy for the full descent.
Good to know
Rattlesnake Lake Recreation Area and the nearby Cedar Falls state-park trailhead have different parking rules. Navigate to the lake recreation area for this hike rather than following a ledge pin.
Notice these
- steep forest climb to an exposed ledge above
- lake-and-Cascade view from secure rock well back from
- 2–5 hours