The best walks and hikes around Maple Valley
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Hiking around Maple Valley explores a landscape of dense second-growth forests, river corridors, and regional parks. The area features extensive trail networks within natural areas and state forests, including Tiger Mountain and Henry's Ridge. Most routes follow soft-surface paths through wooded terrain with varied gradients, offering both easy family-friendly options and more challenging hikes with elevation gain. The region is characterized by lush woodlands and scenic river systems like the Cedar River.
Best hiking trails around Maple Valley
- The most popular hiking route is South Tiger Mountain via Tiger Mountain Trail, a 6.7 miles (10.8 km) trail that takes 3 hours 20 minutes to complete. The route involves a steady ascent through the forest to the summit of a hill.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is South Tiger Mountain Loop, a moderate 6.9 miles (11.1 km) path. This trail follows a series of forested paths with varied gradients within Tiger Mountain State Forest.
- Local hikers also love the Holder Ridge Trail loop, a 3.5 miles (5.6 km) trail leading through Taylor Mountain Forest, often completed in about 1 hour 40 minutes.
- Hiking around Maple Valley is defined by dense woodlands, soft-surface forest tracks, and trails within regional parks. The network provides routes suitable for different ability levels, from short loops to longer hikes with more elevation gain.
- The routes in Maple Valley are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 160 hikers have used komoot to explore Maple Valley's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 18, 2026
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hikers
6.27km
01:39
50m
50m
Hike the Remastered, Sasquatch, Fresh Squeezed, and Route 66 Loop, an easy 3.9-mile trail with 177 feet of gain.
5.86km
01:30
0m
60m
The Green to Cedar Rivers Trail provides an easy hiking experience through the scenic Maple Valley region. You will find wide, well-graded paths, some with hard-packed gravel and others paved, making it a comfortable journey. As you hike, you can enjoy views of the shoreline of Lake Wilderness, and on clear days, you might even catch glimpses of Mount Rainier. This route covers 3.6 miles (5.9 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 13 feet (4 metres), typically taking about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit to the Green to Cedar Rivers Trail is straightforward, as it is considered an easy hike suitable for various ages and abilities. The path is mostly flat and well-maintained, making it ideal for family outings or walking your dog. While generally stroller-friendly, be aware that some sections might include stairs. You can enjoy this trail year-round, as it remains snow-free even in winter.
This trail is notable for its varied and appealing scenery, passing directly through the picturesque Lake Wilderness Park. Its accessibility and gentle nature make it a popular choice for those seeking a relaxed outdoor activity. The route's design, with its mix of surfaces and consistent maintenance, ensures a pleasant experience for all who visit, highlighting the natural beauty of the area.
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2.15km
00:34
10m
20m
This easy 1.3-mile hike on the Max Eagle Loop in Henry's Ridge Open Space offers a quick outdoor escape with minimal elevation gain.
2.53km
00:40
30m
20m
The Cedar River Trail offers a delightful and easy hiking experience, guiding you through lush forests alongside the clear, fast-moving Cedar River. This particular segment is a gentle 1.6-mile (2.5 km) path, with only 86 feet (26 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect, low-effort outing. You'll enjoy the dense tree canopy providing ample shade and the chance to spot local wildlife, all while following the historic route of an old railroad grade.
Planning your visit to the Cedar River Trail is straightforward, as it's an accessible route suitable for most. The trail is multi-use, so expect to share it with cyclists and joggers. For a truly special experience, aim for autumn when the river comes alive with significant salmon runs, offering a spectacular natural display. This easy 40-minute hike is ideal for families or anyone looking for a quick nature fix.
This trail is notable for its unique history as a converted railroad line, providing a flat and easy-to-navigate surface. Beyond the immediate scenery, the Cedar River itself is a major highlight, known for its clear waters and as a haven for wildlife, including various bird species like blue herons and bald eagles. It's a great way to connect with nature and experience the region's natural beauty.
945m
00:15
0m
0m
Enjoy an easy 0.6-mile loop around Lake Wilderness in Maple Valley, Washington, offering pleasant lake views and an arboretum.
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Tips from the Community
Lake Wilderness is the largest lake in Maple Valley and has a namesake lodge that is designated a King County landmark.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in Maple Valley?
Yes, Maple Valley has several great options for families. A truly unique and popular choice is the Gnome Trail, a short loop where kids can enjoy spotting thousands of gnomes hidden in the forest. For a gentle walk with different scenery, the Coal Mine Trail offers a relatively flat path through Henry's Ridge and the Black Diamond Natural Area.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Many trails in the Maple Valley area are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash. Henry's Ridge Natural Area is a particularly popular spot for local dog walkers, offering an extensive network of trails to explore. Always check the specific regulations for the park or trail you plan to visit before you go.
Are there any hikes with waterfalls near Maple Valley?
While most trails directly in Maple Valley meander through forests and along rivers, several impressive waterfall hikes are just a short drive away. Popular nearby options in the broader region include Twin Falls and Teneriffe Falls, which offer rewarding views of cascading water.
What are some popular places to start a hike in Maple Valley?
Many hikes begin within one of the area's well-regarded parks and natural areas.
Lake Wilderness Park is a major local hub for recreation with walking paths and access to regional trails. For a more immersive forest experience, Henry's Ridge Natural Area is a favorite, known for its extensive system of multi-use trails winding through beautiful woodlands.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the trails?
The hiking experience here is defined by quintessential Pacific Northwest landscapes. Expect to be surrounded by lush, dense forests of Douglas fir and Western red cedar, with a green carpet of ferns and moss. While panoramic mountain vistas are not the main feature, you can find rewarding 'peekaboo' views of Mount Rainier from clearings on some of the higher trails.
Are there any challenging hikes for more experienced hikers?
Yes, for those seeking more of a challenge, the trails in Tiger Mountain State Forest are a great choice. The South Tiger Mountain via Tiger Mountain Trail involves a steady ascent of over 1,300 feet (400 m) through the forest, providing a good workout.
What is the best time of year to hike around Maple Valley?
Hiking is possible year-round, but the best conditions are typically from late spring through fall. Summer offers warm, dry weather, while autumn brings beautiful fall colors to the forests. Trails can be muddy during the rainy winter and early spring months, so waterproof footwear is recommended.
Are there many circular or loop trails available?
Absolutely. Many of the trail systems are designed with interconnecting paths, making it easy to create loops of various lengths. For a moderately challenging circular route, the South Tiger Mountain Loop in Tiger Mountain State Forest is a popular option. For something shorter, the Holder Ridge Trail loop offers a pleasant walk through Taylor Mountain Forest.
How do komoot users rate the hiking in Maple Valley?
The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the serene, dense forests and the well-maintained trail networks that are suitable for a variety of skill levels.
What should I know about parking at the trailheads?
Most of the larger parks, like Lake Wilderness Park and the main trailheads for Tiger Mountain State Forest, have designated parking lots. However, these can fill up quickly, especially on sunny weekends. It's always a good idea to arrive early to secure a spot. Some smaller access points may have limited roadside parking.
Are the trails suitable for trail running?
Yes, the soft-surface paths and rolling hills make Maple Valley's trail systems excellent for trail running. The extensive networks in places like Henry's Ridge and Taylor Mountain Forest allow you to create routes of varying distances and difficulties. The West Loop is a good example of a gentler, flatter route perfect for a run.
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