Location guide: Best Dog-Friendly Hikes for Pet Photography Near Seattle
Picture this: you and your pup LOVE to adventure in the great outdoors, hiking, snowshoeing, kayaking, skiing, biking..you name it. You want portraits that reflect how you spend your days together and something to share with your friends and family when they say, “So what do you DO all the time out there in the rainy PNW?” We don’t need to tell them the secret that it’s actually not that rainy, but we can share all the fun things you get up to with your furry friend! Here are some of my top favorite locations for adventure pet portrait sessions near Seattle, ranked due to their accessibility, dog-friendliness, and killer views. Looking for something a little different? I got you. I do custom sessions all the time! Contact me here to book your session.
pratt river
The Pratt River Trail is known for its stunning views of the Snoqualmie River and the surrounding forests, as well as its peaceful and secluded atmosphere.
The trail itself is about 6.5 miles round trip, with a moderate level of difficulty. Along the way, hikers will pass through dense forests of evergreen trees, cross over small creeks, and eventually reach the Pratt River. The river is a beautiful sight to behold, with crystal clear waters and a serene atmosphere.
Location: North Bend
rattlesnake lake
From Rattlesnake Lake you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding forests and mountains. The lake is relatively small, but its clear blue waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. There are also several picnic areas and a beach where you can relax and take in the views.
One of the best times to visit Rattlesnake Lake is in the fall, when the leaves on the trees surrounding the lake turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. The lake takes on a magical quality during this time of year, and it's a great place to go for a peaceful walk and enjoy the fall colors. In the late winter the water levels are low, revealing stunning, massive stumps from old growth forest, creating an incredible backdrop.
Location: North Bend
gold creek pond
Gold Creek Pond is my favorite! This hike is perfect for those who want to soak in some breathtaking scenery without breaking a sweat. The trail is only a mile long and is wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for those with mobility issues. The pond is surrounded by mountains and forests, creating a stunning reflection that makes for truly perfect PNW pet portraits. In the winter this hike is just as beautiful, but the hike is about 2 miles longer as it includes hiking up a closed forest road.
Location: Snoqualmie Pass
ebey’s landing
Ebey's Landing is a beautiful and historic hike located on Whidbey Island in Washington State. The trailhead is located near the town of Coupeville, about 80 miles north of Seattle, and offers stunning views of the Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and the surrounding farmland.
The trail itself is about 5.6 miles round trip, with a moderate level of difficulty. Along the way, hikers will pass through a mix of forests, meadows, and beaches, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting and birdwatching. The highlight of the hike is the stunning view of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains from the bluff at the end of the trail.
Location: Whidbey Island
dalles ridge/noble knob
The Noble Knob Trail is a beautiful and challenging hike located in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest in Washington State. The entire trail itself is about 6.8 miles round trip, with a strenuous level of difficulty. However, the start of the trail is just as stunning and requires less effort and less exposure. Along the way, hikers will pass through dense forests of evergreen trees, cross over small creeks, and pass through fields of wildflowers if the season is right.
Location: Greenwater
franklin falls - closed for 2023 season
Franklin Falls is a popular and accessible hike located near Snoqualmie Pass in the Snoqualmie National Forest. The trailhead is located just off of the main road, making it easy to find and access. The trail itself is well-maintained and relatively easy, making it a great option for families and beginners.
The hike to Franklin Falls is about 1 mile each way, with a slight elevation gain of 400 feet. Along the way, you'll be surrounded by a beautiful forest of evergreens and other trees, as well as the sound of the South Fork Snoqualmie River rushing nearby. The waterfall itself is about 70 feet tall, cascading down a series of rock formations into a pool below.
One of the best things about Franklin Falls is that it's a year-round hike. In the summer, the waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and wildflowers, while in the winter, it becomes a frozen wonderland.
Location: North Bend
