Spring time is here, the sun is shining intermittently through the clouds, flowers are blooming and people are starting to emerge on the streets. They’re rubbing their bleary eyes and coming out of their winter caves. Now is a great time to get in shape for summer. Rather than slaving away at the gym, I suggest getting out in nature. Why? Because you can!

Are you looking for an easy conditioning hike? Or maybe you’ve been on the couch all winter and want to go on a hike that’s easy on your ticker. If you live in Seattle or surrounding area, I have just what the doctor ordered. No, I’m not talking about an apple. Though I might suggest packing one for this adventure!

The Rattlesnake Ledge trailhead begins after a short stroll on the right of Rattlesnake Lake. Rattlesnake Lake does not contain any actual rattlesnakes, so fear not. It is a popular place for locals to fish, canoe or take a dip to cool off in the summer months. Once at the trailhead, you will see a sign that says Rattlesnake ledge is 2.0 miles up. Make a right at the sign and you’ll be on the trail!

For the first mile, your eyes will be delighted with the view of an emerald green paradise. Imagine walking through an enchanted forest… There are lots of boulders everywhere, and moss and lichen abound. Underfoot, you’ll find lots of shaggy, thick stair step moss. The boulders proudly display licorice ferns that splay out along the trail. This scenery, accompanied with easy switchbacks is what attracts hikers of all ages to this trail.

Your first viewpoint is at exactly one mile. You can step off to the left and see some lovely peaks to the southwest and Rattlesnake Lake is just a few hundred feet down. Suddenly, continuing on—the boulders underfoot give way to a more rocky terrain filled with dense evergreens. You have reached the point of no return. You’re now high up in the foothills of the Cascades mountain range.

You have one more mile to the Rattlesnake Ledge viewpoint at an elevation of 2,079 feet. Parents should note there is no fencing at the viewpoint, so keep small children close to you at all times!

On a clear day, you’ll be treated to gorgeous views of North Bend, with Mt Si looming over in the distance, as well as the beginning of the lush, dense Cedar River/Lake Washington Watershed. This is home to roughly 75% of Seattle and outer lying areas’ drinking water. The watershed also features an education center. One of my favorite features at the education center is the rain drums. These will actually play and form a rhythm based on the pattern of falling rain!

To get there from Seattle: Take I-90 East to Exit 32, go south (right) and follow Cedar Falls Road for 5 miles until you reach the trailhead and parking lot on the right. There is no fee to park. This hike is 4 miles round trip, it takes about 2 hours to get up and back down with limited stops.

Image courtesy thebackpacker.com