The best running trails in Kittitas County

The Kendall Peak Lakes Trail offers a dynamic jogging experience, starting on a relatively mellow old logging road before transitioning into a steep, primitive boot track. You'll climb through varied terrain, eventually reaching a stunning chain of three alpine lakes nestled beneath Kendall Peak, with panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains and even Mount Rainier on clear days. The route's 8.4 miles (13.6 km) and 2145 feet (654 metres) of elevation gain make it a challenging but incredibly scenic outing.

This difficult jogging route, typically completed in about 2 hours, is best suited for those ready for a serious workout and some power hiking on the steeper sections. Located about an hour from Seattle, it can get crowded on weekends, so an early start is advisable. Mid-summer is a fantastic time to visit, as the wildflowers around the lakes are in full bloom, adding to the trail's natural beauty.

Historically an old logging road, the trail's character changes significantly as you ascend, offering a unique blend of maintained and rugged paths. Beyond its summer appeal, the Kendall Peak Lakes Trail is also a popular destination for snowshoeing in winter, though caution is advised for the upper, avalanche-prone sections. It's a prime example of the challenging and rewarding trails found near Snoqualmie Pass.

If you're after a truly rewarding challenge, the Lake Lillian Trail delivers a difficult 8.9-mile (14.3 km) jogging experience with 2939 feet (896 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking 2 hours and 22 minutes. The route transitions from old logging roads through clear-cuts into stunning alpine landscapes, culminating at the aquamarine Lake Lillian. You'll navigate steep ascents, talus slopes, and rooty sections, making it a demanding but scenic journey for experienced joggers.

Planning your visit to Lake Lillian Trail is best from late spring through early fall, when the weather is most favorable. You might even catch the vibrant display of wildflowers like bear grass in late June or early July, or find ripe huckleberries in late August. Dogs are permitted on the trail, so your canine companion can join you on this strenuous adventure.

What makes this trail notable is its combination of a challenging route and exceptionally rewarding views of the Cascade Range. Despite some rough sections, the pristine beauty of Lake Lillian and the panoramic vistas from higher elevations, potentially including Mount Rainier, make the effort worthwhile. It's a great option for those seeking a less crowded alpine experience near Snoqualmie Pass.

Embark on a demanding journey through varied landscapes on the Gold Creek Trail to Alaska Lake. This route takes you from the pleasant Gold Creek Pond through deep second-growth forests, past dramatic avalanche areas filled with rocks and fallen logs, and eventually into the rugged Alpine Lakes Wilderness. You'll navigate numerous creek crossings and tackle a steep, overgrown final mile to reach the serene, high-alpine Alaska Lake, tucked beneath Alaska Mountain. It's a challenging but incredibly scenic experience for those ready for a true backcountry test.

Before you head out, be aware that this trail can be impassable during early season or high water due to spring runoff, so timing your visit is key. The trail becomes unmaintained and difficult to follow in its later sections, requiring good navigation skills. While the start near Gold Creek Pond offers easy access, plan for an early start to complete this difficult 12.4-mile (19.9 km) jogging route, which features 2123 feet (647 metres) of elevation gain and takes around 2 hours and 48 minutes.

This trail offers a unique blend of experiences, from the accessible Gold Creek Pond to the wild, unmaintained sections deep in the wilderness. The prominent avalanche areas not only add to the rugged terrain but also reveal several small waterfalls, creating a dynamic environment. It's a route that truly offers a little bit of everything for the adventurous jogger, showcasing the raw beauty of the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest.

The Miller Peak – Iron Bear Peak loop from Iron Creek Trailhead offers a demanding jogging experience through diverse terrain and stunning vistas. You'll traverse open meadows, rocky ridges, and forested sections, with the payoff being the incredible panoramic views from Miller Peak's summit, stretching to Stuart and the Enchantments Peaks. Keep an eye out for woodland flowers like Indian Paintbrush and yellow balsamroot daisies, especially in the Teanaway area. This 17.0-mile (27.3 km) route with 4379 feet (1335 metres) of elevation gain is rated difficult, making it ideal for experienced runners. Expect a solid 4 hours and 9 minutes of effort.

When planning your visit, remember that the Iron Creek Trailhead doesn't require permits for parking, but it also lacks amenities like restrooms or water. You'll need to carry all your water, as there are no sources on the Miller Peak trail after the initial creek sections. The trail is generally well-marked, but be prepared for potential creek crossings that could mean wet feet. This loop is a well-known option in the Teanaway area, so while you might find quiet stretches, it's also popular with other trail users.

This loop is a fantastic way to experience the eastern slopes of the Cascades, offering a significant workout and a strong sense of expansive air at higher elevations. The openness of the trail near the ridgetops provides continuous scenic viewpoints. It's a great choice if you're looking for a challenging circular trail that combines substantial mileage and elevation, providing a true test of endurance and rewarding you with some of the best views in the region.