Good all year round. Child friendly.
Overview
Little Si is the little sister to Mount Si. The trail is easier with less elevation, but the view from the top is just as breathtaking with views of Snoqualmie Valley and Rattlesnake Mountain. It’s great for young kids, novice hikers, or just to get back in the swing of things for the new season. Little Si is a nice alternative if you don’t have the time or energy for Mt Si.
Expect crowds midday in the summers and on weekends. The two Si peaks are sometimes referred to as “Resolution Peaks” due to the onslaught of hikers that appear after January 1st. The trail’s proximity to the city and a degree of refuge from the elements often divert heavy foot traffic to this mini-mountain, keeping it busy year round.
Little Si Trail
Although there are relatively steep inclines at the beginning and end, this primarily north to south route is perfect for beginners who are looking to get back in shape. Since there are opportunities to cut away on the Boulder Garden Loop at 0.3 miles and 0.5 miles to merge with the more challenging Mount Si trail, you may encounter more veteran hikers.
The trail starts off with a sharp incline, including a few winding switchbacks but do not despair! The hike eventually levels out to reward you after the calf-burning first quarter mile. Two opportunities to get on the Boulder Garden Loop occur at 0.3 and 0.5 miles. Taking either of these will add extra mileage to the trip or connect you over to the Mount Si route if you so desire. To continue to the summit, proceed left on the main trail until you reach a section of canopied forest that straddles the bluff.
As you continue through this temperate slice of woodlands, you will pass rock climbing paths, a prominent scree slope and a boulder field to the west before swooping around the slope at the 1.3 mile mark to make your final push toward the summit. Work your way up the last steep three quarters of a mile to reach the Little Si summit. You will find phenomenal views of the valley and surrounding peaks. Mount Si and Mount Washington can easily be seen on a clear day-from the summit elevation of 1,550 feet.
Driving Directions
On I-90 East, take North Bend Exit 32 for 436th Ave SE. Turn left and go 0.5 miles on 436 Ave SE. Then take a left on SE North Bend Way. Proceed 0.3 miles and turn right on SE Mount Si Road. The main parking lot for Little Si will be 0.4 miles on your left. If you pass 439 Pl SE or 440 PL SE, you have driven too far.
There is an overflow parking lot west of the main lot tucked into SE Mt Si Rd and 434 Ave SE. A trail connects the two parking lots. Be warned that both lots may be full on weekends. There are two toilets in the main parking just off the trail head. Discover Pass is required.
On weekends and holidays between mid April and the end of October, Trailhead Direct provides a shuttle service every half hour from North Bend Park and Ride to the Little Si, Mount Si, and Teneriffe Falls trailheads. Service runs every half hour from North Bend between 820 and 1118 and then every hour until 217. Returns to North Bend arrive every hour from 1147am until 147, then every half hour until 650.