Rattlesnake Ridge and Rattlesnake Lake are part of the Cedar River Municipal Watershed just east of Seattle, Washington. Growing up with this beautiful natural spot in my backyard was quite a treat. The Ridge provides an excellent hike with incredible panoramic views including a picturesque mountaintop boulder to sit and rest mid-hike.

Rattlesnake Ridge

Rattlesnake Ridge gets its name from the shape of the mountain. If you look at Rattlesnake Ridge from the side, it looks like a long curvature of a snake squiggling across the horizon. If you want, the Ridge provides a hike all along the ridge, a longer hike that definitely will take  the full day. The more popular hike is about 1 1/2 and isn’t too steep or hard. It is very popular, especially on weekends, so go early!

Rattlesnake Lake

Rattlesnake Lake is one of my favorite places to seek peace and calm. The lake is filled with petrified stumps of wood. Washington’s state gem is petrified wood and it is abundant here! The lake flooded an ancient forest, leaving stumps everywhere. Fishermen calmly fish in this lake and you can see fish jump frequently.

The Cedar River Rain Drums

Hands down my favorite spot in the Seattle area, I’ve been visiting the rain drums at the Visitor’s Center for years to relax and clear my mind. The drums are set around a water feature and water is dropped on them, creating different sounds and tribal beats. It is different every time, so sit and listen as long as you’d like. I have asked the Visitor’s Center repeatedly to sell copies of music from the rain drums, but they don’t yet so hopefully soon! Video tape it yourself if you want to remember the magic.

Directions from Seattle:

Rattlesnake Lake is about 40 minutes east of Seattle. Drive East on I-90 until Exit 32. Turn right on 436th Ave and follow the road all the way until you reach the Watershed.

Photos: Elizabeth Adan

 

By Elizabeth Adan

Elizabeth Adan is a Freelance Writer, Publicist and Brand Ambassador. Her blog Aquaberry Bliss is a unique food and travel blog dedicated to expanding your world and inspiring your creativity. When Elizabeth isn’t traveling, you’ll find her writing, hiking or gardening. Find Elizabeth on Twitter @stillaporcupine and LinkedIn.