Rattlesnake Mountain

Rattlesnake Mountain

The Rattlesnake Mountain Scenic Area is just 45 minutes east of Seattle, and includes Rattlesnake Ledge, Rattlesnake Lake, and the Cedar River Watershed Education Center.

Things to do at Rattlesnake Mountain & Lake

1. Hike up to Rattlesnake Ledge:  The 2-mile hike up to Rattlesnake Ledge, rewards visitors with panoramic views of Mt Si, Rattlesnake Lake and the Snoqualmie Valley (extreme caution should be exercised near the unfenced ledge).  This moderate hike is one of the best mountain trails within close proximity to Seattle.
2. Swim, kayak, picnic at Rattlesnake Lake: Rattlesnake Mountain also boasts a stunning lake in the shadow of the mountain.  The railroad township of Moncton used to be at the site of Rattlesnake Lake, but was flooded in the spring of 1915 due to seepage from the mountains when a masonry dam was constructed upstream from the lake.  The lawned area at the lake is perfect for BBQ's and picnics on lazy summer days, and in warmer months the lake is used for swimming, kayaking and fishing. 
3. Bike or walk along Rattlesnake Lake: There is also a biking and walking trail along the southern end of the lake.  
4. Visit the Cedar River Watershed Education Area [Rattlesnake Lake]:  The Cedar River Watershed Education Center includes a number of interpretive exhibits, including a fascinating model demonstrating how water travels from the Cascade Mountains to the Cedar River Watershed, and down to 1.4 million residents in the Seattle area.  In 2000, the “Cedar River Watershed Habitat Conservation Plan” was implemented to protect 91,339 acres of the watershed and 83 fish and wildlife species.  Over 200-miles of old logging roads are being returned to a natural state to prevent sediment from entering the water system, and stream habitats are being restored. When you first enter the Cedar River Watershed Education Area, you will hear the repetitive thump of drums and naturally assume there is a performance somewhere.  However upon closer inspection you will identify the source of the sound emanating from the "Drum Courtyard" where water strategically cascades from the roof to pound the tops of the drums.

Directions to Rattlesnake Mountain

Take Exit 32 on i90 East, turn right on 436^th Avenue SE and travel 3-miles to the Rattlesnake Lake Parking Lot.

© Copyright 2012.