The best walks and hikes around Bellevue
4.7
(14)
361
hikers
65
hikes
Hiking around Bellevue offers a diverse range of outdoor experiences, blending urban natural areas with access to larger regional parks. The landscape features extensive forested parks, significant wetlands like Mercer Slough, and numerous lakeshores. Trails within the city often follow creeks and provide views of the surrounding natural environment. The region's terrain includes varied elevation changes, from gentle paths to more challenging routes in nearby hills.
Best hiking trails in Bellevue
- The most popular hiking route is Eden Park Trail, a 1.8 miles (2.9 km) trail that takes 49 minutes to complete. This path features minor elevation changes through parkland.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Serpentine Wall – Purple People Bridge loop from Cincinnati, an easy 3.5 miles (5.6 km) path. This route offers views along the waterfront.
- Local hikers also love the Mirror Lake – Eden Park loop from Cincinnati, a 8.4 miles (13.6 km) trail leading through parkland and around a lake, often completed in about 3 hours 50 minutes.
- Hiking around Bellevue is defined by lakeside paths, forested natural areas, and wetland trails. The network provides a variety of easy family-friendly hikes within the city as well as more moderate options nearby.
- The routes in Bellevue are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 15 reviews. More than 370 hikers have used komoot to explore Bellevue's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
1
hikers
2.92km
00:50
70m
70m
Hike the easy 1.8-mile Eden Park Trail in Cincinnati, featuring Twin Lakes, Ohio River Valley views, and the historic Eden Park Standpipe.
31
hikers
5.59km
01:27
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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8
hikers
13.4km
03:48
290m
290m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
22.2km
05:53
220m
220m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Bellevue
Tips from the Community
Weekends on nice days draws many folk that are walking on this part of the trail. Slowly is the best way to enjoy the Ohio River vistas this trail section provides.
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This public landing is along the Ohio River Trail is a nice spot to stop for a quick dip or to just enjoy the views over the water. It is also near the National Steamboat Monument and the Great American Ball Park.
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The Cincinnati Trailhead for the Ohio to Erie Trail is located at Smale Riverfront Park near downtown Cincinnati. It serves as the southern terminus of the 326-mile trail that traverses Ohio, connecting Cincinnati to Cleveland. This trailhead provides a nice starting point with amenities such as parking, restrooms, water fountains, and access to the scenic park on the Ohio River.
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Some people will use this as a starting / ending point
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One of the navigational landmarks in the area! You'll run right past it if you do the annual Flying Pig Marathon!
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Some of the best views of the Ohio River, as well as the Kentucky Border.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails in the Bellevue area?
Yes, there are over 50 hiking routes to explore around Bellevue. These range from easy walks in city parks to challenging mountain climbs in the nearby Cascade foothills, offering plenty of options for all skill levels.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Bellevue?
The trails in this region are highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the incredible variety, from the peaceful, lush forests within the city to the breathtaking panoramic views from the nearby mountain ledges.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in Bellevue?
Absolutely. Bellevue is great for family outings. A popular choice is Eden Park Trail — Eden Park, which is a short and manageable walk. For a unique experience, Mercer Slough Nature Park offers over seven miles of flat trails and boardwalks through a wetland, perfect for spotting wildlife with kids.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Many trails in and around Bellevue are dog-friendly, but leash rules vary. City parks like Weowna Park and Coal Creek Natural Area generally welcome leashed dogs. For off-leash areas or specific regulations in the larger regional parks like Cougar Mountain, it's always best to check the park's official website before you go.
Where can I find hikes with waterfalls near Bellevue?
You can find waterfalls right within the city. The trails at Weowna Park follow Phantom Creek through a ravine with a series of small, picturesque falls. For a more prominent waterfall, the trails in the Coal Creek Natural Area lead to Coal Creek Falls, especially after a period of rain.
What are some good circular hikes?
Many parks in Bellevue offer excellent loop trails. The Twin Lakes – Eden Park loop from Mount Auburn is a great example of a circular route that lets you explore a beautiful park without retracing your steps. Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park also has an extensive network of trails that can be combined to create loops of various lengths.
I'm looking for a challenging hike with great views. Any suggestions?
For a serious challenge and rewarding views, head just east of Bellevue to the Cascade foothills. Hikes like Mount Si, Mailbox Peak, and Rattlesnake Ledge are local favorites known for their steep elevation gain and stunning panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
What is the best time of year to hike around Bellevue?
Hiking is possible year-round, but the best conditions are typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). Summer offers sunny days and clear views from the peaks. The lower-elevation trails in city parks like Coal Creek Natural Area are great for fall and spring, and can often be hiked in winter, though they may be muddy.
Are there any long-distance walking trails in the area?
Yes, the Lake to Lake Trail is a 10-mile route that connects Lake Sammamish to Lake Washington, passing through nine different parks. You can hike the entire length or tackle smaller sections. Another good option for a longer, flatter walk is the Cincinnati Riverfront Trail — Cincinnati.
Where are the best places to park for hiking in Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park?
Cougar Mountain has several trailheads with parking. The Red Town Trailhead is one of the most popular and provides access to a wide network of trails, including those leading to historic mining sites and Coal Creek Falls. Arriving early on weekends is recommended as lots can fill up.
What should I pack for a day hike in the Cascades near Bellevue?
For mountain hikes like Mount Si or Mailbox Peak, always pack the 'ten essentials'. This includes navigation tools, sun protection, extra layers of clothing (weather can change quickly), a headlamp, first-aid supplies, and plenty of water and food. Sturdy hiking boots with good traction are a must.
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