Early December in the PNW can feel tricky. Mountain passes get their first big snows. Trailheads ice up. Avalanche season starts to build. But not every trail needs snowshoes or winter mountaineering skills.
Right now you can still hike some of the best low-elevation trails around Seattle, Olympia, and the coast with simple gear and a smart plan.
The hikes below stay mostly clear in early December. You might see mud, light frost, or patchy snow, but nothing that requires snowshoes. Just bring traction, pack layers, and check conditions before you go.
Quick Pick Guide
| Trail | Region | Distance | Elevation | Current Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ebey’s Landing | Whidbey Island | 5.6 mi | 260 ft | Clear, windy |
| Rosario Head | Deception Pass | 1 mi | Minimal | Great ocean views |
| Little Si | North Bend | 4.0 mi | 1,200 ft | Bring microspikes |
| Rattlesnake Ledge | I-90 | 4.0 mi | 1,160 ft | Slippery early mornings |
| Nisqually Refuge | Olympia | 4 mi | Flat | Active bird life |
| Tolmie State Park | South Sound | 2.3 mi | Minimal | Good for families |
| Ruby Beach | Olympic Coast | 1 mi | Flat | Watch surf conditions |
| Cape Disappointment: North Head | SW WA Coast | 2 mi | Minimal | Windy cliffs |
North Sound: Clear Coastal Trails
Ebey’s Landing
Whidbey Island stays mild in early winter. Ebey’s Landing is one of the best December coast hikes in the state. The bluff trail gives you wide ocean views, open skies, and steady wind that keeps the trail from icing up. Parking is tight on weekends, so go early if the weather looks good.
Rosario Head
This is a short, easy loop with huge rewards. You get sea stacks, tide pools, and dramatic cliffs without gaining much elevation. December waves hit hard here. Stay well back from edges and watch kids closely.
Deception Pass Loop
Deception Pass has a maze of smaller loops that stay lower and closer to the coast. They’re great when everything inland is frozen. Trails can be muddy but rarely dangerous. If the bridge is gusty, use caution.
Seattle Area: Low-Snow Classics
Rattlesnake Ledge
This is one of the most popular trails near Seattle for a reason. It gets early frost, so microspikes help. Once you reach the ledge, the view over Rattlesnake Lake is clear and wide in winter light. Start early because the parking lot fills fast.
Little Si
Little Si is a strong December choice. It stays a bit drier than Mount Si and usually holds only thin snow near the top. The trail is rocky, so traction is your friend. You get forest, cliffs, and a solid workout without going too high.
Tradition Plateau Loops
These loops near Tiger Mountain let you build your own distance without committing to a summit. Great for short winter days. If you hit the trail early, you might see fog drifting through the trees.
Olympia + South Sound: Easy Walks for Winter
Nisqually Wildlife Refuge
Flat, quiet, and great for families. The boardwalk sits just above the water and brings you close to winter birds. Check tides before you go. High tides can cover parts of the boardwalk, and low tides bring out more wildlife.
Tolmie State Park
This is one of the best winter beach walks near Olympia. Calm water, forest loops, and easy grades make it safe and simple in December. Keep an eye on the tide chart if you want to walk the beach at low tide.
Kennedy Creek Salmon Trail
If the run is still active, this is a must-see. The salmon come in close, and volunteers often post updates. Even when the fish slow down, it’s a short, peaceful walk for all ages.
Coastal Washington: Good When Everything Else Is Snowed In
Ruby Beach
Ruby Beach feels wild in winter. Driftwood piles, dramatic surf, and misty views make it one of the top winter spots on the Olympic Coast. Stay far back from the water. Winter waves move fast and can be unpredictable.
Kalaloch Nature Trail
A mellow loop through old forest near the beach. It’s a good option when the weather is rough since it stays sheltered in the trees.
Cape Disappointment: North Head
This lighthouse walk is perfect in winter. Big waves crash below the cliffs and the views stretch south into Oregon. It’s windy and exposed. Bring a warm layer and stay behind safety rails.
What to Pack for December Hikes
Bring simple winter gear for safety and comfort.
- Microspikes or light traction
- Waterproof boots
- Warm hat
- Gloves
- Headlamp
- Extra base layer
- Snacks and water
- Paper map or offline map download
Cold drains phone batteries fast, so don’t rely on a single device for navigation.
How to Check Conditions Before You Go
December weather changes fast. Check these before heading out:
- WSDOT cameras for road and pass conditions
- NOAA forecast for coastal hikes
- Washington Trails Association trip reports
- AllTrails recent reviews
- Local tide charts for beach areas
A quick five-minute check can save you a long drive or a risky situation.
