Little Mountain Park loop
Little Mountain Park loop
3.2
(1)
26
hikers
Little Mountain Park loop
01:55
5.97km
240m
Hiking
The Little Mountain Park loop offers a diverse hiking experience through a beautiful second-growth forest, providing a quick and rewarding escape into nature. This easy 3.7-mile (6.0 km) route involves about 800 feet (244 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hour and 54 minutes. You will navigate well-maintained dirt trails, which can be muddy after rain, leading to stunning panoramic views from the summit, where you can see the Skagit Valley, Puget Sound, and even Mount Baker on a clear day.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the park is easily accessible and offers amenities like parking and port-a-potties near the trailheads. It is a multi-use park, popular with hikers, mountain bikers, and trail runners, and is suitable for year-round enjoyment. Maps at the trailheads help you select routes that match your desired difficulty, ensuring a good experience for everyone.
What makes Little Mountain Park truly stand out is its extensive network of trails and its accessibility, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. The park's multiple viewpoints provide sweeping vistas that are a significant draw, making it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike. Its well-maintained trails and unique features, like the abandoned car on the Bonnie & Clyde trail, add to its charm.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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2.08 km
View of Mount Vernon, Burlington, and Mount Baker
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
4.42 km
View of Mount Vernon from Little Mountain Park
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
5.97 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.96 km
2.58 km
410 m
Surfaces
2.57 km
2.49 km
441 m
155 m
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Elevation
Highest point (270 m)
Lowest point (110 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Friday 3 July
21°C
13°C
48 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it typically take to complete the Little Mountain Park loop?
This loop is approximately 6 km (3.7 miles) long and generally takes around 1 hour and 55 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.
What is the terrain like on the Little Mountain Park loop?
The terrain is quite varied and hilly. You'll encounter well-maintained dirt trails, some of which can be steep and strenuous, especially after rain. Expect sections with roots and rock slabs, as well as boardwalks and stairs in certain areas. Trails like "Up Only" and "Fred's Trail" are particularly steep.
Are there any entrance fees or permits required to hike in Little Mountain Park?
No, Little Mountain Park is a city park, and there are no entrance fees or permits required to access the trails.
What can I see along the Little Mountain Park loop?
The loop offers lush Pacific Northwest scenery with ferns, mossy trees, salal, and salmonberry. On clear days, you'll be treated to stunning panoramic views from the summit, including the fertile Skagit Valley, the Skagit River, Puget Sound, various islands, and distant Mount Baker. Be sure to check out the View of Mount Vernon, Burlington, and Mount Baker and the View of Mount Vernon from Little Mountain Park.
Is the Little Mountain Park loop suitable for beginners?
The park offers a range of trails from easy to difficult. While the overall loop is rated as 'easy' in difficulty, it does include some short, steep, and strenuous sections. Beginners can enjoy easier parts of the park, but should be prepared for some challenging climbs on this specific loop.
Is the Little Mountain Park loop dog-friendly?
Yes, pets are welcome on the hiking trails in Little Mountain Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
Little Mountain Park is accessible year-round. It's a great option even when other regional trails are snowed over. For the best views and most comfortable hiking conditions, spring and fall are ideal, but the lush forest is beautiful in any season.
Where can I park to access the Little Mountain Park loop?
Little Mountain Park has parking available. You can also drive a 1.5-mile paved road to the summit, which provides access to picnic areas and viewpoints, and from there, you can connect to various trails.
Does this loop intersect with other trails in Little Mountain Park?
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Bonnie & Clyde's, Huff-N-Puff, Rooty, Ridge Trail, and Julieann trails, among others, offering many options to extend or modify your hike.
Are there any navigation tips for hiking in Little Mountain Park?
The park has an extensive network of trails, which can sometimes be confusing due to many choices and intersections. It's highly recommended to use a dedicated trail app or map to help navigate and stay on your intended route.
Are there any family-friendly options at Little Mountain Park?
Absolutely! While this specific loop has some challenging sections, Little Mountain Park also features a wheelchair-accessible interpretive Nature Trail for shorter, easier walks, and many other trails that are suitable for families looking for a less strenuous experience.
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