2024 Adventurer’s Guide: Exciting Things to do in North Bend Washington
This post is sponsored by Tri Pointe Homes.
Do you feel at home in the great outdoors? Then let’s plan your next adventure with 7 things to do in North Bend, Washington.
Whether you’re in the mood to chase waterfalls, go for a swim, or ride bikes, no town offers quite the rich opportunities that North Bend does.
7 Refreshingly Fun Things to do in North Bend Washington
Mountains are at the heart of North Bend.
At 440’ elevation, the town is located just off of 1-90 as it heads towards Snoqualmie Pass.
Chances are, the first thing you’ll notice as you pull into town is the unmistakable Mount Si.
Inspiring a sense of delight and drama, the mountain rises so high into the sky that you can see it from many places in North Bend.
As if being located in a mountain’s shadow isn’t cool enough, there’s also a river that runs through the city!
Stemming primarily from the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, the 45-mile Snoqualmie River splits at Three Forks Natural Area. From there, the South Fork of the river winds through the town.
As you may have guessed, North Bend is widely known for attracting outdoor recreationists.
This is because besides its wild nature, the town is relatively close to major cities like Seatlte and Bellevue.
In fact, it’s a straightforward 24-30 mile drive on I-90.
So, it’s prime for day trips, weekend getaways, and extended vacations. To get your nature fix, read on for the most incredible things to do in North Bend Washington.
1. Chase Waterfalls With the Whole Family
If you’re looking for a year-round trail to visit time after time, then check out Twin Falls.
Within just over 2.5 miles total, you’ll experience 3 tiers of waterfalls, river access, and beautiful forest scenery.
Expect an elevation gain of 500 feet. It’s pretty consistently uphill on the way out to the falls.
Note that the trail is often muddy, so waterproof hiking boots are recommended.
To cool down after you’ve seen the falls, you can easily hike down to the South Fork Snoqualmie River.
Hang your hammock, dip your toes in, and let your pups play!
Be sure to recreate safely, and brush up on these tips from the Washington State Department of Health before you go.
Quite possibly the state’s most popular waterfall, Snoqualmie Falls also cannot be missed!
With a massive drop of 269’, these falls are so powerful that you’re likely to be splashed from the upper viewing area.
For a quick stop or picnic, you can park to the right of the walking bridge.
From here, cross the bridge and you’ll see the falls in no time.
Don’t forget to read the signs about the history of hydroelectricity at the falls!
Want to experience a more unique view of the falls?
Then do the 1.4 mile round trip hike that leads you to the lower level. Here, you’ll meander onto a boardwalk for a picturesque view of the waterfall.
Please note that for safety reasons going beyond the fence is not allowed.
2. Catch a Stunning Sunset at Rattlesnake Lake
After a long day of adventuring (or even a long day of work), Rattlesnake is the best place to see the sunset in North Bend.
Why? It’s easy to access. No fees or hiking required.
Simply park at Rattlesnake Recreation Area – about a 10 minute drive from downtown North Bend.
Or, you can bike in via the Snoqualmie Valley Trail.
At the lake, you can picnic, swim, or paddle to your heart’s content.
Rattlesnake Ledge Trail
Feel like hitting the trails? Hike up to Rattlesnake Ledge for an aerial view of the turquoise lake and Cascade Mountains.
In fact, this is one of the most popular trails today! Definitely worthy of being on your Washington State bucket list.
At a glance:
- 4.6 miles roundtrip with 1160 feet elevation gain
- Very popular, so weekdays are best
- Exercise extreme caution at the top at is the cliffs are exposed & windy
While exploring North Bend, don’t forget to Leave No Trace! Our natural spaces are sources of irreplaceable beauty, inspiration, & peace. Let’s ensure they stay that way for future generations to enjoy.
To do this, plan on:
- Packing out all waste (bonus points if you pack out even more than you packed in)
- Respecting wildlife by keeping an appropriate distance and not sharing your food
- Staying on designated trails and recreation areas
Study up on the 7 Leave No Trace principles here.
3. Explore Tanner Landing Park in the Heart of North Bend
While outdoor enthusiasts from near and far are drawn to hiking trails in North Bend like Mount Si or Dirty Harry’s Balcony, Tanner Landing Park remains mostly a local favorite.
Growing up in Washington State, I’ve seen my fair share of rivers.
However, Tanner Landing Park takes the cake for being the most picturesque riverside park.
From the shores, you’ll be surrounded by impressively lush greenery and mountains looming in the distance.
Here, you’ll find families (dog’s included) lounging, swimming, & laying out.
Looking for a wide open space to toss a frisbee? You’ll find a large, grassy area near the parking lot.
Again, please familiarize yourself with water safety as river waters are often cold and quickly moving.
No recreation or parking passes are required here.
4. Discover Timberstone by Tri Pointe Homes
If you’re anything like me, then there’s nothing you appreciate more than convenient access to natural spaces.
In the day-to-day scheme of things, it’s the everyday adventures that count most. Like walking your dog, going for a hike after work, or maybe even a morning swim.
Living in North Bend, WA, turns this dream into reality.
From the Timberstone townhomes located adjacent to Tanner Landing Park, you can:
- Walk to the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River within minutes
- Step foot on popular hiking trails like Little Si from your front door
- Peddle on the iconic 29-mile Snoqualmie Valley Trail (see below)
- Enjoy winter adventures like skiing and snowboarding closeby at the Summit at Snoqualmie
Plus, you’re only about 35 minutes from Seattle and 25 minutes from Bellevue!
So really, the question is why not live closer to the great outdoors?
With Timberstone, you’ll be treated to modern styles with a Pacific Northwest vibe, open-concept floor plans including 3-4 bedrooms, and covered decks to enjoy year-round.
Prices start at $800K.
Location: 1180 Waterfall Way SE, North Bend, Washington 98405
5. Get a Birds-Eye View of North Bend from Little Si
To truly experience North Bend, you need to hike Little Si trail.
Why? For one, you’ll get in-your-face views of Mount Si (Little’s Si’s sister).
And best of all, you will overlook the town and Timberstone!
What to Expect:
- 3.7 miles and 1300 feet elevation gain (easy-moderate)
- Well-marked paths with clear signage
- Dramatic, rocky scenery and forests
- An overflow parking lot which connects via a short trail
- Steep at first, then levels out after about ⅓ mile
- A surprise viewpoint at about ¼ mile
- Wildlife like mountain goats, hawks, & turkey vultures
Love climbing? Then check out a number of routes accessible via the Little Si trail.
6. Gear Up & Fuel Up at Pro Ski and Mountain Service
While checking off these amazing things to do in North Bend, you may need to stock up on outdoor supplies.
If so, do it right within North Bend!
Locally owned Pro Ski and Mountain Service is the place to go for all things hiking, backpacking, and skiing.
Plus, half of the store is actually a coffee shop!
So, go ahead and treat yourself to Arete coffee.
Besides a cup of joe, you can also get baked goods, breakfast/lunch sandwiches, and wine. Browse the menu here.
What’s not to love!?
7. Peddle Through History on the Snoqualmie Valley Trail
While there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to do in North Bend on foot, it’s worth exploring by bicycle too.
By far, the most popular trail to ride is the Snoqualmie Valley Trail.
Within 32 miles, you can explore 5 towns: Fall City, North Bend, Snoqualmie, Carnation, and Duvall.
Historically, the route of the trail was created for railroad use.
Today, you can see signs of the past like impressive railroad trestles.
In North Bend, you can access the trail from the following points:
- Iron Horse State Park
- NE 4th and Ballarat Avenue
- Lastly, if you’re a resident of Timerstone then you can hop on the trail right from your home!
Want to explore another way?
Go ahead! The Snoqualmie Trail is open to hikers, walkers, horseback riders, and our leashed furry friends.
Pro Tip: Download or print a map so that you have all the trail details in your pocket.
This post was all about adventurous things to do in North Bend Washington.
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