Top 10 Family-Friendly Hikes in the Pacific Northwest

A family enjoys a peaceful stroll through a lush, misty forest, embracing the rain with colorful jackets as they explore the scenic path together. Photo credit by: acasetta on IG.

The Pacific Northwest is renowned for its lush forests, majestic mountains, and breathtaking coastlines. For families looking to explore the great outdoors, there are numerous hiking trails that are both accessible and enjoyable for children and adults alike. This guide highlights ten family-friendly hikes in the Pacific Northwest that offer the perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty.

1. Discovery Park Loop Trail – Seattle, WA This scenic urban hike winds through forest, meadows, and along coastal cliffs to the iconic West Point Lighthouse.

• Distance: 2.8 miles

• Difficulty: Easy

• Highlights: Puget Sound views, birdwatching, and beach access

  
  
  
  

2. Silver Falls State Park – Silverton, OR

Home to the famous Trail of Ten Falls, this park offers short loops with big payoff views of waterfalls.

• Distance: Varies (short loops or full 7.2-mile loop)

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

• Highlights: Multiple waterfalls, family picnic areas, stroller-friendly sections

  
  
  
  

3. Twin Falls Trail – North Bend, WA

This moderately easy forest hike leads to two beautiful waterfalls and crosses a scenic river bridge.

• Distance: 3.6 miles

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Highlights: Lush forest, waterfalls, river views

  
  
  
  

4. Tryon Creek State Natural Area – Portland, OR

A forested escape inside the city with bridges, creeks, and a nature center with kid-friendly programs.

• Distance: Varies with loop options

• Difficulty: Easy

• Highlights: Family-friendly loops, shaded trails, educational signs

  
  
  
  

5. Cape Disappointment State Park – Ilwaco, WA

Despite the name, this park offers stunning trails, beach access, and dramatic ocean views.

• Distance: Varies

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

• Highlights: Lighthouse, coastal forests, tidepools

  
  
  
  

6. Hoyt Arboretum Trails – Portland, OR

Ideal for younger kids, these short trails wind through globally themed tree collections.

• Distance: Up to 12 miles of short trails

• Difficulty: Easy

• Highlights: Nature learning, stroller-friendly paths, great for toddlers

  
  
  
  

7. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge – Olympia, WA

An easy boardwalk hike perfect for wildlife lovers and nature photography.

• Distance: Up to 4 miles

• Difficulty: Easy

• Highlights: Boardwalks, birdwatching, marshlands

  
  
  
  

8. Latourell Falls Loop – Columbia River Gorge, OR

This accessible hike takes you to both the base and top of one of Oregon’s most dramatic waterfalls.

• Distance: 2.4-mile loop

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Highlights: Waterfall views, basalt cliffs, shady forest

  
  
  
  

9. Rattlesnake Ledge – North Bend, WA

A bit more challenging, but older kids will love the big views from the top.

• Distance: 4 miles

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Highlights: Summit views, lake access, forest trail

  
  
  
  

10. Mount Tabor Park – Portland, OR

Explore an extinct volcano in the middle of the city, complete with paved paths and playgrounds.

• Distance: Varies

• Difficulty: Easy

• Highlights: City views, volcano crater, bike and walking paths

  
  
  
  

These family-friendly hikes in the Pacific Northwest are perfect for introducing kids to the outdoors while enjoying unforgettable views, wildlife, and forested escapes. From waterfall trails to coastal boardwalks, these adventures offer something for every age and comfort level.

If you’d like a personalized hiking itinerary based on your family’s pace, interests, and location, I can create one just for you.Have a specific region, trail type, or age group in mind? Drop a comment and I’ll write a future guide that fits what you’re looking for.