The mountain above North Bend
Mount Si rises more than 3,500 feet above North Bend, its gray cliffs visible from much of the valley, including the Snoqualmie Depot and Twede’s Cafe. It appeared in the opening titles of Twin Peaks, and it is protected in the Mount Si Natural Resources Conservation Area, managed by the Washington Department of Natural Resources.
Hiking Mount Si
The main trail climbs about 3,150 feet in 4 miles to a rocky viewpoint at roughly 3,900 feet, below the Haystack, the mountain’s true summit. On the way it passes Snag Flat, a grove of old-growth trees. From the top you see the valley, Seattle on a clear day, the Olympics and Mount Rainier. Allow most of a day, and carry plenty of water. The Haystack is a steep scramble with serious exposure; most hikers stop below it.
Little Si, the shorter climb
Little Si is the rocky knob in front of Mount Si. Its trail is about 3.7 miles round trip with roughly 1,300 feet of gain to a 1,550-foot summit, through a boulder garden and under climbing walls, with views straight up at Mount Si and across North Bend. It is a good choice for families with school-age kids and for short winter days.
Trailheads, passes and timing
Both trailheads are on SE Mount Si Road outside North Bend: take I-90 exit 32, follow 436th Avenue SE north to SE North Bend Way, then turn onto SE Mount Si Road. The Little Si lot comes first; the Mount Si lot is about 2.4 miles along. Both need a Discover Pass, both fill early on weekends, and both are patrolled. Mount Si holds snow near the top from late fall into spring, so read recent trip reports before going high. See our hiking guide for easier walks.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to hike Mount Si?
Most hikers need most of a day for the 8-mile round trip and 3,150 feet of gain.
Is Little Si easier than Mount Si?
Yes. Little Si is about 3.7 miles round trip with roughly 1,300 feet of gain, less than half the climb.
Do you need a pass for Mount Si?
Yes. Both the Mount Si and Little Si trailheads require a Discover Pass.
