Hike: Rattlesnake Ledge to East Peak and back
Where: Rattlesnake Lake
Level: Strenuous
Duration: 3 hours and 58 minutes roundtrip
Length: 1.9 miles up to Rattlesnake Ledge, 2.4 miles from Rattlesnake Ledge to East Peak, one way.
Fitbit Steps: Approximately 27,000
Gear:
CamelBak Aventura Hydration Pack,
REI Sahara Convertible Pants,
Ahnu Women’s Montara Waterproof Boot,
ExOfficio BugsAway Adventure Hat, UNIQLO Airism men’s v-neck (check out my review of this here)
Cost of Parking: Free!
Rattlesnake Ledge is a fun, short little hike with an elevation gain of 1,175 feet in a short 1.9 miles. The huffing and puffing all the way to the top is worth it though. The views of Rattlesnake Lake, Mt. Si, and the surrounding greenery is unbeatable.
The trail consists of steep switchbacks under the shady cover of tall evergreens. Even on hot days, the hike is not unbearable.
If you’re up for the challenge, after Rattlesnake Ledge, head up to East Peak, an additional 2.4 mile hike. On the way, stop by the “other” Rattlesnake Ledges a few hundred feet apart and designated by well worn trails to the side of the mountain. These views are great, too.
The trail to East Peak is less traveled than the trail to Rattlesnake Ledge and can be slightly confusing. Signs on the trail don’t mention East Peak until about 0.7 miles to the peak. It makes it feel a lot longer than 2.4 miles.
You travel through some overgrown brush and wooden contraptions that prevent horses and bikers from getting through and past fire roads until you reach East Peak, a little bench on the side of the mountain, peering through some trees, overlooking the valley. Not as impressive as Rattlesnake Ledge. Finish at East Peak for the exercise, miles and the Fitbit steps, not so much for the views.
For more information, check the Washington Trails Association page here.
