Mount Si
Categories: Active Life Parks Active Life Hiking Parks, Hiking [Edit]
North Bend, WA 98045(360) 825-1631
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
42 reviews for Mount Si
42 reviews in English
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Review from Nate W.
Seattle, WA
2/4/2012
Just hiked Mount Si on this outstanding Saturday morning. To be honest, I have never spent much time outdoors. Though, after experiences like this I will definitely find myself dabbling in Washington's hills more often.
Mount Si is an 8 mile hike round trip (though there is a shorter hike at Little Si.) I would describe it as a calming workout, not too strenuous nor mundane. As with most hikes, the prize is at the top. The view is AMAZING on a clear day. Great views of Rainier and Seattle too. I would say on cloudy days the draw of Mount Si fizzles a bit, since the walk up doesn't offer much to see.
Overall, a nice hike that's perfect for taking up a few hours on the weekend. -
Review from Jeff S.
Seattle, WA
10/19/2011
Mt Si is really just a last resort. I kind of think of Mt Si as a piece of gym equipment rather the great outdoors. Did you friends bail at the last minute but you still want some exercise? Is the weather terrible so you just want a quick up and down? Are in a time crunch but still want a good workout? If you have the time to schedule something there are hikes with better views and less people within a 20 minute drive of the Si trailhead. Try Granite Mountain, Mt Washington, or if you have a few more hours the Ira Spring Trail is super close to the Si trailhead.
Now that I've complained here is the positive.
The trail is incredibly well maintained.
You won't have to worry about getting lost as there are always people nearby.
There are bathrooms and water at the bottom.
There is a huge parking lot.
You get a solid workout.
I normally run the first 2 miles and walk the second 2 miles. I spend about 10 minutes at the top and then run down. It normally takes around 2 and a half hours from leaving the car to getting back into it. I bring 1liter of water on an overcast day or 2 liters on a super hot day. As they almost build stairs all the way up to the top this is the perfect place to use you trail running shoes. If you want to look for different hikes the Washington trail association is amazing! -
Review from Melody P.
9/10/2011
Good trail
Clear path, but a bit narrow in some area.
Towards to the top, the trail can get rocky
Great view
not as hard as I thought with my own slow/steady pace
A lot of parking if arriving early
I would like to do this hike againListed in: Outdoor/ActiveLife
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Review from Nina H.
8/19/2011
I came here a couple of weekends ago with my bf and we were pretty bummed when we got to the top... because it was super foggy and we couldn't see the amazing view that everyone had talked about. Such a bummer.
The Little Si and Mt. Si trails require the Discover Pass which you can buy at the nearby Lowe's... we got there and had no idea but we asked a local java joint for help and the barista kindly directed us to where we could purchase one. It was like $35/annual pass and $10/day pass. We opted for the annual pass.
But it was really fun nevertheless, I think if the weather had been any warmer, I would've struggled a lot more but surprisingly for the 4 miles up, I did considerably well. We saw lots of cool trees along the way and managed to stop at every mileage point to snap a photo... proof that we climbed Mt. Si, of course.
During our hike up, we saw this one guy who had already gone up and down once and was doing his second run... CRAZY!!! All the other hikers recognized him too so we were all kind of like "Round 2???" Nuts. Anyway, yeah that was pretty crazy and impressive but we continued our trek up and when we got to the top, it was really rocky and pretty crowded even on a foggy day like that.
After we ate our Vietnamese sandwiches, we wanted to go back down because we had all this energy inside... so parts of it, we literally jogged down the trail, which was manageable but I did have a couple of slight missteps and nearly fell and ate it. But I am alive and still very proud that we made it up :) I do want to come back soon to actually see the view though... -
Review from Phoumano T.
Renton, WA
8/19/2011
I had never hiked in my life and I never exercise. You could say that I'm just a lazy person and I decided to try hiking. A group of people were going and so I decided to see what hiking is all about. Dear god it ate me alive about half way up this dang mountain. It is definitely not the easiest hike especially for n00bs but I eventually reached the top and decided to go up the "haystack" is what they apparently call it. Definitely bring snacks and plenty of water. We went around 8am I think and it was super wide open so earlier the better because the afternoons get really crowded.
The view is superb when you reach the top and of course you gotta get in some photos and all that good stuff. Going down I would recommend one thing: don't try to run unless you know what you're doing. My friend tried to run down like a boss and twisted his ankle, like a secretary. Luckily there were people who had first aid kits so the hikers are a great bunch and people are willing to help you out although I didn't ask if they would offer food. That would be awkward... -
Review from Marc M.
6/10/2011
For some reason I chose this trail as my first hike last year and I must say I was unprepared as it is not the easiest hike around. That being said this is also one of the best hikes I have been on over the last two years. The trail itself is very well maintained which is impressive given how many people walk up and down the mountain every day. There are enough twists and turns and different types of terrain to keep things interesting on the way up and once you do hit the top, you will witness some of the most amazing views anywhere around.
I would say this trail can not be classified as easy by any means, but at the same time, I would also say just about any level of hiker from beginner to expert will find this to be an enjoyable trail. Make sure you bring water, snacks, and have all the appropriate hiking gear. Also be prepared to share your hike with lots of people as this is one of the more popular trails for both local hikers as well as tourists. -
Review from Suie C.
This was a good hike that was more challenging than I had expected. We had read reviews that it was pretty tough, but doing it was definitely a good experience. At first, it doesn't seem so bad, but then you quickly realize that you're basically going uphill for the entire 4 miles.
It actually seemed to increase in difficulty towards the end where you're basically climbing up stairs.
However, reaching the top provides a beautiful view of Mt. Rainier and you feel so accomplished. Going down was actually fairly difficult in itself b/c the decline is pretty steep and it takes more control to walk down than to kind of trot down at times.
We went on a Sunday and it wasn't as crowded as I had expected, we arrived fairly early around 9 am. However, by the time we got down (early afternoon), the parking lot was completely packed.
This is a good hike if you're looking for a view and a work out.
Also, they recently changed it so you now need a parking pass for hikes in WA. You can get a one time pass $10 or a yearly $30 at places like fred meyers or REI. -
Review from Daniel W.
Mt Si is a very popular hike and rightly so. It is a beautiful mountain with a great network of trails that is a accessible year around. I have hiked up this mountain dozens of times and always find something new to appreciate. Visiting Mt. Si is like visiting an old friend, it just feels comfortable being together.
Here are some suggestions that may help with your enjoyment as well as others . If you are looking for solitude this would not be a good choice for a summer weekend hike, or anytime for that matter. However it is much less crowded mid-week and off season. If you hike here it is polite to keep your dog on a leash and to clean up any messes they might make on the trail. -
Review from Jackie L.
Seattle, WA
9/27/2011
Wow, where do i begin, a grueling hike up steep switchbacks and forest till you're out in the open only to find out that you're NOT at the very top yet...you stare at this 200ft wall that you have to scale to get to the peak. But once fears are conquered and you're at the the top of the top, the view and sense of accomplishment is absolutely ravishing. I've just recently become an avid hiker and this is the most thrilling thus far.
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Review from Sean C.
8/2/2010
Si is something of my spiritual hiking guide, as an anchor noting physical progression over the past few years and a calming influence in times of internal emotional need.
Inception-2001: Exercise?
2002-2006: Cardio?
2007: Pre: that sounds hard. Post: that was kind of hard. But I can take a date here.
2008: Good solitary hike when needing to retreat and a start to the standard season. Also, to complete novices this makes it look like I really know what I'm doing.
2009: Si is kind of boring. Why would I go there?
2010: When spiritually wounded and devoid of energy, this is a convenient retreat.
To non-hikers, it's a bit intimidating to even make it up to the first basin near the top shortly past the 3.5 mile marker. However, it's a highly accessible hike to various fitness levels, as I've taken multiple people whose handicaps range from lack of practice to a ranging hangover to burning need of a fitness membership and not lost anyone yet, and the trail itself is even quite beautiful in light rain in the summer. Short of physical disabilities, (wo)man up, skip Little Si and do this instead with plenty of water.
To "hikers," relatively little of interest here (at least until the Haystack portion at the top) will be found, and what is of interest will usually be outweighed by the droves of people and canine companions on the best days except during the snow-covered periods. -
Review from Alli D.
7/11/2010
I'm ashamed to admit that yesterday was the first hike I've been on since moving to Seattle five years ago. I don't get out much, OK?!
But really and truly, it was amazing. You'll have lots of time to debate about the different techniques for walking uphill, since the entire 4 miles is inclined. I can say that if you want huge calves like The Boy, you should primarily walk on the balls of your feet, and if you want a huge butt (I mean, muscular butt) like me, you should push off with your heels. (Corresponding muscles will be sore the next day)
Maybe you don't care about that sort of thing. That's OK, because you'll also be able to do mental math problems about how much Potential Energy you've gained as you climb. (Formula is weight in Newtons times height in meters, in case you were wondering).
Not your thing, either? Well, you can *also* work on your estimation skills as you try and guess the time you'll reach the next half mile increment.
Still no? Fine, then, Boring Betty. Why don't you just rest your brain and enjoy the beautiful scenery?
If you go on a clear day, as we did, you'll get a stunning view of Mt. Rainier, Seattle, Bellevue, the Olympic mountains, and the lovely Mountains to Sound Greenbelt (aka I-90). Plus you'll see approximately 15 friendly songbirds, 1 slug, and the cutest little chipmunks you'll ever lay eyes on. -
Review from Ferdinand T.
Irvine, CA
6/15/2011
There are a couple of hikes where i rate them (on my scale) "Kicks my ass". This fits that category. But you want to connect with Mother Nature Si, Tiger, Pilchuk, are those. I used to say a whole lot of "Mother effins" after as i was getting to the top.
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Review from Stephani A.
Key Biscayne, FL
9/29/2011
I think this is a helpful tip on the Discover Pass, which you need for Mt Si. If you forgot to buy before leaving town (and Mt. Si is a bit of a drive outside of town), you can buy it via phone at the Washington State Discover Pass hotline 1.866.320.9933. You can also buy on-line before you leave for the hike at http://discoverpass.wa.../. Via my phone purchase, they gave me a number to display that day on my dash to prevent a ticket. Whole thing took 5 minutes, much better than wasting time driving back to town. Thanks for the clever hiker who had called Washington State from the trailhead and clued me in. This hike is definitely difficult, but the views are amazing and every hiker I met on the trail was very friendly.
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Review from Michael V.
Seattle, WA
11/18/2010
This review is a call-to-arms, but I'll get to that later. The loss of one star is for my unbelievable soreness, but it was worth it. I went there with a classmate for a sort of excuse for a first date as well getting out of the city. I had been there many times, but my friend had never been. It was weird to go to Mt. Si at the end of fall. It actually snowed near the top, which was beautiful. I recently found out however, the powers-that-be are going to start charging to climb Mt. Si! (as well as for parking). Recently learning about the 520 floating bridge tolls, I must say I am tired of government agenices who don't know how to manage our money and instead find new ways to exploit us instead of finding ways to re-organize. Anyway, if it is true, I think this trip may be my final, bittersweet journey.
P.S. The beer buzz after climbing Mt. Si is very, very, nice............ -
Review from Cindy T.
8/24/2010
Personally, I felt like this 8 mile hike (round trip, 4 each way) was super tough for me. Maybe because I was out of shape, but regardless it was worth it in the end when we finally made it to the top. The experience and the relieve of accomplishing something (whether a hike or project) in the end is rewarding.
I went on a semi cloudy day, and I am glad, because I was sweating by the second mile. haha. It took me kinda long..a few hours to complete. But I'm sure that I will be back real son and hopefully be more in shape. heh heh. Because my legs were sore for almost a week after that!
There isn't too much of a scenery, mostly a direct uphill path as you go up. Lots of regular shrubs, logs, trees, rocks. You basically go uphill all the way-can get steep. And you go downhill all the way on the way back, which is faster, if you decide to jog. But be careful. Lots of hikers on the day I went. Saw many people who bring their dogs as well.
Once you get to the top, snap a few photos, and be sure to bring snacks, lots of water to keep hydrated and your tummy satisfied. Stay at the top for awhile. Relax, enjoy the scenery and the nature around you. And, fyi don't wear those 'hiking sandals.' Baaad idea, especially when going down. -
Review from Kathleen M.
Seattle, WA
4/27/2009
Fun, fun, fun! Mt Si is a must do for everyone. Run over to North Bend, strap on some hiking boots, and get your fit on with this 8 mile round trip hike. Trail is well groomed and nicely maintained. You will find a number of hikers along the way, for I am told this is one of the most popular trails in Washington. Amazing views of the Cascades and Seattle when you hit the top, which is a great payoff. You gain 3100 feet in four miles and the last mile (when we hiked it yesterday) was covered in snow, which made it tricky, yet doable.
I am so glad that I live in Seattle with water, mountains, and kick your butt hiking trails such as Mt. Si. I used to live in the Midwest and a hiking trail usually consisted of a hill and at least two corn fields.Listed in: Urban Parks and Trails
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Review from Marissa S.
Seattle, WA
8/10/2008 5 photos
I don't give myself enough credit.
I was scared of this mountain, a little afraid my hiking companion would have to carry me down. But no, I did it with no problem.
We did not go quickly, I am not surefooted enough for that, especially going back down. I also know that it doesn't matter how fast you go, 8 mile walk and an 8 mile run burns the same amount of calories...so I don't stress. The workout was decent, I am a tad sore but in all honesty I am just as sore after walking green lake twice. So this is completely do-able. I am in shape, but I am not a seasoned hiker by any stretch of the imagination.
Deduct a star for no sink for me to wash my hands after using that smelly latrine. Call me a princess, i don't care. I like my hands to be clean. It's the OCD. Next time I will know to bring anti-bacterial hand wipes.
** yes I am sore a day later, but not TOO sore. My quads feel it the most, and they are already rock hard. So it is a nice workout.** -
Review from Scott K.
Honolulu, HI
7/10/2007
Once upon a time I used to do this hike about twice a month and let me tell you... it's not for the faint of heart.
You're near the top when the trees start to thin, which is coincidentally right around the time your heart will fly out of your mouth.
It is however... very, very, worth it.
Bring plenty of water, a refreshing lunch for the top and remember to look for the magic, cause every time I've climbed this thing, there's been some.
From little bluish snowbirds during the winter to a crazy dog that used to follow me all the way to the top, there is always a story. Only once in the 20 odd times I've been up did I ever turn around, and that was only because a bear was in our way, and I wasn't in the mood to move her.
I highly recommended this hike for the view, but to illustrate how steep it is, on the way down your legs start to flop like you wouldn't believe! Even the strongest people have trouble with it and the weaker ones of us, look like we're doing a John Cleese flippy floppily walk! For fun you can stand at the mouth of the trail and watch people coming down try to stop. Their legs wobble around like they're standing on a oiled Teflon coated slip and slides!
Yes... In my imagination those exist. -
Review from Katie S.
San Francisco, CA
5/12/2007 1 photo
For the first 18 years of my life, I lived, like.. hmmm... 30 minutes from Mt. Si. I had never hiked it until today.
A friend of mine is doing some serious hiking through the Olympia Rainforest in a few weeks and has been training w/ his 40lb pack for months now. I told him I'd like to try out Si b/c it sounded like a good time.
It was a pretty intense 2 hour/ 4 mile hike up to the top. It's not straight up, and with no pack (and if you're in decent shape) it's pretty manageable.
Be prepared to sweat, friends. Salt builds character.
At the summit on a clear day, you can see Seattle! It was a beautiful hike. Lots of people and dogs and various marmot on the trail made it entertaining. Great scenery, great smelling, and QUIET!
Make sure you wear good shoes and breathable clothing (polyester- good, cotton- bad). And PLEASE 'no jeans'.. The chaffing, Oh god.. the chaffing! Also, bring a waterbottle and a snack. The earlier you hike, the better. I suggest starting no later than 9am. It gets really busy and you want to get out of there before the crowds show up.
Too tired to give any thumbs up. If I could, I'd give it two.Listed in: Extra Curricular, My Favorite 'First to Review's
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Review from Jesse R.
Seattle, WA
8/19/2008
Do NOT freeze your camelback the night before, thinking the hot sun and strenuous pace will keep you in cold water all afternoon. It will stay an ice block, which is ok since you brought beer.
The climb up haystack can be treacherous with just the slightest amount of moisture on the rocks. -
Review from Alexie Z.
Seattle, WA
9/24/2010
8mi round trip, 3200ft elevation gain., rated moderate/strenuous, wooded, some rocks.
I went on a partly cloudy day, and the timing couldn't have been better. It wasn't warm, but you could still work up a sweat. I don't carry light, nor do I mosey. It took 2hrs to reach the Haystack (Si's true summit), but only because I stopped to let my friend catch up several times.
There are plenty of steep sections on the trail, some of which are long and really stupid in the grade and distance. The trail itself is in constant repair, thanks to the massive amount of traffic. (On the day I went, there was barely anyone there.) Currently, it's listed as "endangered," whatever that means to a trail.
Snag flats (about halfway up) was an interesting site. The remnants of an old burn 100 years ago. The interpretive trail was short and to the point.
Upon reaching the top, I thought about making my way up the Haystack, but realized that I'm not 10 years old, and a little more fearful of falling down a rocky mountain. The views of the Snoqualmie Valley were amazing.
Definitely go during the week, or get there EARLY. It makes a good warm-up for the next season. -
Review from Eric C.
Edmonds, WA
12/13/2008
This place is CROWDED. If you are looking for a good long hike with some solitude, this is not it; however, Mount Si is in close proximity to Seattle and if you are working towards greater challenges it is a good hike to train on (pack, poles, etc.)
It has a good view, you can see Seattle and Bellevue from the top and there is also an enjoyable rock scramble for those slightly more adventurous. So if you don't mind crowds, you want something close, or if you're looking for a good training hike, Mount Si is a good option. -
Review from cathy g.
Seattle, WA
12/16/2009
It is beautiful but dont go here with a group intending to workout to prepare for a marathon.. unless you are in shape for it. I got left behind by a Mountaineer group!
The trail is narrow and tree covered so there are not really remarkable views until the top I guess.. I never made it.
I was very happy I had driven so I could wind my way home alone. -
Review from Jen B.
11/22/2010
Busy & beautiful. An moderately easy 8 mile hike with switchbacks, just be careful of the amount of people on the trail. Sometimes there are runners (passing up or downhill), off-leash dogs and just people not paying attention. But it's so pretty & everybody is there to enjoy themselves, who cares?
Listed in: Running & the outdoors
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Review from Grant D.
Everett, WA
11/19/2007 2 photos
I have to admit that I wasn't prepared for this hike. A friend found out about it and invited me to go. She knew that the hike was 4 miles each way, but what she didn't know was the over 3,000 ft elevation gain. When pulling into the parking lot in November we were surprised to see it was packed with cars, this is obviously a popular hike, so keep that in mind if you are like me and take your dog hiking with you. The policy is that dogs should be leashed. Personally, I feel it should be unruly dogs should be leashed, not good dogs like mine.
Anyway, the hike itself is pretty much straight up. There are a couple points where it levels off and a rest area just under halfway up. At the top there is a high peak that I'm surprised is actually open to hikers. In this day and age, I'd expect someone to slip and fall on the jagged rocks, break a hip, and sue the forest service, resulting in the place being closed down. But luckily it is open and if it weren't completely surrounded by clouds on the day I went, I'd imagine it's a spectacular view.
This hike is definitely for the serious hikers. And I would highly recommend bringing lots of water and some food. I don't think you need the walking poles that I saw quite a few people utilizing, as the trail itself is pretty clear and open. You might need them at the top, or you could just pay attention to where you are stepping.
I am going to give this hike 4 instead of 5 stars though. The primary reason is, when I go hiking I prefer to get away from people, not go the places everyone else is. This hike was pretty busy in November; I could only imagine what it's like in the summer. I'm also giving 4 stars because of the leash rule. Most people we passed with dogs let their dogs off the leash for a while, and so did I. And most people we passed who didn't have dogs were pretty cool about my dog not being on a leash, which was nice. -
Review from Allison A.
Seattle, WA
4/26/2009
I had already heard that this place can get crowded, but I've never actually bothered to hike it before and being practically a native here that is sad, so I decided to give it a try.
And yuck. It was really crowded. And not just really crowded, but really crowded with swarms of people who are itching for any opportunity to use each and every piece of useless REI equipment they can. People with khaki hiking outfits, unnecessary and cumbersome mountaineering boots, giant packs loaded with who knows what. It's only a 4 mile climb, people! And the whole thing is like a super-highway/staircase to the top.
People stopping for sandwiches on the way and eating granola constantly as though they had just burned 10,000 calories (and um, no, walking 8 miles and running 8 miles do not burn the same number of calories whichever reviewer said that).
Also irritating was how this place is practically an off-leash dog park and the parking lot was full of canine poop.
I think this place would be nice if you're a bit out of shape, have a pooch, and a few kids to drag along. It would be a nice afternoon. If you're a childless poochless fit couple, it's not really worth the drive from Seattle. -
Review from Zachary Sam Z.
Seattle, WA
6/22/2009
I was determined to include some fun, outdoor activities when my friend visited over last weekend. A 2 hour hike on Little Si probably wasn't the best call given that we'd be standing for 4 hours at a concert later, but hey... lesson learned.
The weather this last weekend was maybe a tiny bit cold... which was apparently enough to scare away most Seattlites, but just fine for a couple midwesterners. Apparently, that's the best time to hike, because we saw *maybe* 20 other groups during our hike. Generally, it was quiet, and very fun.
Just a note for first-timers on Little Si (like I was this weekend): The first quarter mile goes up FAST, but then it levels out. If you get winded early, it's only *partially* because you're out of shape. ;)Listed in: My Guide for Seattle Tourists
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Review from Thyda L.
3/11/2010 1 photo
This was the first hike I have ever done. I was really worried that I wouldn't be in good enough shape to conquer this one. Surprisingly, I did it!
The hike itself was beautiful...you get really in touch with the nature. However, if you are expecting a view throughout the hike, then you'd be disappointed. You don't really get a good view until you get towards the top.
Overall, this is a great hike and you wouldn't be disappointed if what you want from it is a good work out. Personally, I like to hike at places with beautiful and different views when I get to the very top so that I can look back and let nature take my breath away.
Maybe I just got to give this place another chance... but there are so many other hikes I'd like to try first.Listed in: Places I Have Hiked and Loved
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Review from Diana N.
Updated - 8/17/2010
Did this hike again on one of the hottest days this year so far (90-ish degree weather, mind you), packed a lot of water which was a huge pain to carry up but you're certainly thankful you did. Made it up in under 2 hours, and down in less than 1.5 hours! Still an amazing workout, gets your heart pumping fast. Make sure you thoroughly stretch before and after to eliminate any soreness, it did wonders for me =D
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/11/2010
This is a great workout!! The trail quickly climbs upwards 4 miles (= 8 miles roundtrip). It starts… Read more »
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Review from L C.
Burlingame, CA
7/30/2008
I enjoyed the view from the top here. It's not the most exciting of hikes but I just like the adventure of going to the top.
This has always been a popular hike in the Seattle area.
A friend who grew up in a hiking family tells me that mountaineers have long used this as a "short" training hike for more challenging mountains. Some climb with full packs. -
Review from Carol I.
Seattle, WA
1/13/2010
This is a beautiful hike, and close to Seattle so you don't have to spend all day in the car getting there.
I went on a weekday when it was less crowded, but the complaints I have heard are that it is packed on the weekends with a small parking lot. I have heard the views are lovely, but the it was overcast the day we went so we couldn't see much. -
Review from Jeff S.
Seattle, WA
2/14/2011
Mount Si is an average day-hike experience. The trail is typically busy and lacks the compelling views one would expect from a 2hr hike and significant (3200?) vertical gain. The haystack rocks at the top are a fun scramble and a decent view. Mt. Si is a good hike for training and conditioning (lots of switchbacks), but other area hikes provide much better views.
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Review from mel r.
Emeryville, CA
7/22/2008
Cosmo's guide to the Sexy Girl's Hike
By Mel R
Attention athletic girl on the go! Sick of the daily gym grind of 80minutes on the treadmill in hopes of achieving the Hilton stick figure of your dreams?! Get outdoors and try this moderate to brutal day hike up Mt Si. Clocking in at 4167ft vertical climb, this 4 mile one way trip to the top is sure to get your heart pumping, hamstrings screaming and those glutes rock hard! Remember ladies, ALWAYS stretch before and after strenuous activities to avoid muscle damage.
For the single gal, we suggest looking your best, as there are lots of young healthy and athletic boys to be found on the trails! No bitching allowed, no one likes a whiner, especially when you're getting pasted by 60 somethings!
We would suggest not wearing make up, as you will be working up quite the sweat. But for those girls of the know, with less than perfect skin, incapable of going naked, here's a few tips from us to you:
*Maybelline's all day Sport wear foundation with SPF 15, sweat proof and water proof! You'll need acetone to get this stuff off!
*Chanel's SPF 20 lip gloss; keep those lips glistening with a plumper appearance without that goopy feel. Bonus tip: get the citronella version to fight off unwanted kamikazi bugsin the mouth!
*Evian Mister; just because you're red in the face, like a well stuffed pig on a rotisserie spit, doesn't mean you can't have that dewy teenage 'just lost my virginity' glow.
*Versace work out pants and push up sports bra, are made from a highly breathable material; great for allowing airflow and fighting off unwanted pit stains.
*Don't forget your Prada Sunglass for the ultimate chic in eye protection
*Good shoes are vital, so no strappy sandals, flip flops or heels; I don't care how cute those Manolo's are!
*Always remember to keep your energy up and stay hydrated; Vox mineral spring water with a touch of cucumber, vitamins and speed and some teriyaki beef jerky will keep ya fueled!
Once you've reached the top, enjoy the breathtaking views of Washington below you. If you're not yet dead from the switch backs, steps, rocks and incline; take a crack at Haystack, just past the top basin, with a short scramble to the tippy top. With the tips provided above, you'll look your best for photo ops and a possible number exchange with the cute topless college boy with the 60lbs pack; rugged!
So you made it and reached the bottom again, you will have completed an 8mile round trip of pure lung bursting exercise hell. With the calories burned on this doozy, you'll be able to enjoy a couple of Cosmopolitans guilt free with your gal pals; dishing out the dirt on various types of people you encountered on the trail and the boys you plan to scissor lock with your new legs! -
Review from Walt W.
Ashburn, VA
5/14/2010 1 photo
Mt. Si has its well maintained trails and great views near the top. I went midweek in May and there were only a few cars in the lot. The payoff at the top is worth it. :)
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Review from Andrew S.
Seattle, WA
6/25/2011
We hiked little Si today and really enjoyed it although it was more difficult than we had expected. The three of us who went are in decent shape, but are novice hikers and we definitely didn't dress appropriately. The trails were rocky and muddy and when we go again I'm going to wear hiking boots in lieu of the tennis shoes I wore this time. Also, dress in layers because it's chilly under the canopy, but you get hot during some of the climbs and it's nice to be able to shed a layer. So in sum, would recommend this as a novice hike but it's not a walk in the park so come prepared with the right gear.
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Review from Robert -.
Seattle, WA
2/21/2009
The plan was simple. A nice two hour hike up Lil' Si. It was a perfectly clear Saturday afternoon and finally cool enough in the year to start hiking again. But Boris and Natasha had preceded our journey and spun the arrow signs at the crossroads for Lil' Si and Super Si-zed (baaaaa-zing!!! goes the pun!).
After about an hour heading up the wrong mountain, we realized we'd been duped and it was too late to turn back now.
I mean, how much longer could it be?
After about another hour, we realized exactly how much longer: very, very much. But again, it was too late to turn back now.
Another hour passed. Switchback after switchback. How much longer could it be? The trees gave hints of light that there was an end in sight. But alas, switchback after switchback, it was all an illusion.
Finally, passed the iced snowfall, cold wind, and thick cover trees, we reached the summit. The trees opened up to a vast panorama of open space ringed in the great distance by snowcapped mountains, accented by Mount Rainier. And there, at the top, holding a bundle of white flowers, was a man dressing in his Sunday's-best black suit with a white shirt and silver tie. Whatthefuck?
We ate lunch at the summit looking out at vast expanse before us. It was worth it.
The trip down somehow was not the same as the trip up. Apparently, there is an alternate route that landed us about 2 miles from where we originally entered. Luckily, some good folks with an SUV were kind enough to haul us back to my car. Once again, my dog Syd, ever my ambassador, smoothed over the deal beforehand by befriending their dog creating an icebreaker for the humble request. He's a better dog than I am a person. -
Review from Geoff K.
Seattle, WA
4/24/2010
A fairly strenuous hike with great views from the top. The trail never really gives you a break; it's just four miles of up, up, up. You'll be okay on the way up (though your heart will be pounding), but will endure major knee unhappiness on the way back down. I've heard this place can get crowded; however, I went on a Friday and the parking lot was not even half full, and I could go 10-15 minutes at a time without running into another soul. It's probably best to steer clear on weekends. Also, dress in layers: The forest is warm and steamy at the base of the mountain, but on top you'll want a hat, gloves, and a warm jacket (at least in late April).
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Review from Kristin S.
Palo Alto, CA
4/3/2006
Pretty place for a hike. Just don't accidentally climb up "little Si" like I did once. hrm. I have really bad directional sense. This hike is a great medium hike.
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Review from Libby H.
Seattle, WA
10/15/2005 3 photos
This hike has been called the "Space Needle of Seattle area hikes". 36 miles from the city, it's near North Bend, WA. The trail is 8 miles out and back, and is somewhat challenging. It is usually crowded, being one of the most popular hikes around. We made a fun day of it, but I dont think I'll be back any time soon. There's a great view at the top, but I found the rest of the hike a little dull. For climbing enthusiasts, there's a vertical scramble at the top. Denny Creek Campground is the closest place to pitch a tent.
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Review from Joshua M.
Seattle, WA
10/23/2010
Good hike. A well maintained trail with a bunch of vertical. It's perfect for a nice solid chunk of exercise.
