Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
North America
United States
Washington
King County

East Renton Highlands

Attractions and Places To See around East Renton Highlands - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around East Renton Highlands include a blend of natural landscapes and local points of interest. This census-designated place in King County, Washington, offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, particularly hiking and cycling. The area is characterized by its natural features, including forested hillsides and river trails, providing diverse experiences for visitors. Many attractions are within the immediate vicinity or a short drive to neighboring Renton and Issaquah.

Best attractions and places to see around East Renton Highlands

  • The most popular attractions is Cedar River Trail, a trail that spans 17.4 miles, following a former railroad and roadside bicycle paths. It offers scenic views and access to natural areas for cyclists and hikers.
  • Another must-see spot is High School Trail, a trail providing a scenic hiking adventure through lush forests and captivating terrain. It is known for its invigorating outdoor escape.
  • Visitors also love Talus Rocks, a natural monument known for its unique rock formations and moss-covered boulders. This area offers a serene forest environment to explore.
  • East Renton Highlands is known for its diverse trails, natural monuments, and summits. Visitors can explore a variety of landscapes, from river paths to forested peaks.
  • The attractions around East Renton Highlands are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 10 upvotes and 3 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: April 24, 2026

High School Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

It provides a scenic and invigorating hiking adventure through lush forests and captivating terrain. Perfect for nature enthusiast or anyone seeking a refreshing outdoor escape.

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Talus Rocks

Highlight • Natural Monument

This natural area is known for its unique rock formations and beautiful moss-covered boulders. You can explore this enchanting area, marvel at these rock formations, and appreciate the serene beauty of the surrounding forest.

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Cedar River Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Cedar River Trail is a straight, flat ride out of the Seattle metro area and into the rural countryside.

The trail begins on the outskirts of Renton's historic downtown and travels upstream along the Cedar River to Landsburg Park. The trail is paved for the first 11 miles, right before the Maple Valley trailhead. The trail then switches to packed gravel and begins a winding journey through a woodland setting to its end at Landsburg, some 5 miles away.

Tip by

Save

Squak Mountain Central Peak

Highlight • Summit

When navigating to the peak, some of the downed trees and vegetation can make it a bit confusing. There's white spray painted arrows on the ground at the most confusing spots, so keep an eye out for those!

Tip by

Save

Cedar River Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Cedar River Trail travels through a mix of urban and rural areas. It was built on a former railroad and roadside bicycle paths connecting the two. The trail spans 17.4 miles, starting at the Cedar River Watershed boundary in Landsburg and ending where the river meets Lake Washington in Renton. Cyclists and hikers can explore the river, cross bridges, and access natural areas. It also offers scenic views and convenient stops, with cyclists limited to certain speeds in specific sections.

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around East Renton Highlands.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around East Renton Highlands

Hiking around East Renton Highlands

MTB Trails around East Renton Highlands

Running Trails around East Renton Highlands

Road Cycling Routes around East Renton Highlands

Cycling around East Renton Highlands

Gravel biking around East Renton Highlands

Tips from the Community

Ba
December 30, 2024, Squak Mountain Central Peak

When navigating to the peak, some of the downed trees and vegetation can make it a bit confusing. There's white spray painted arrows on the ground at the most confusing spots, so keep an eye out for those!

1

1

Ba
November 30, 2024, Talus Rocks

Hiking among towering moss-covered rocks with small caves to either side is a bit creepy, but it's worth the visit! It's not very well marked, but you have stairs to one side if you don't want to walk in between the rocks. There's a wooden fence blocking off an unsafe path between rocks, so if you see that, you're in the right place.

0

0

Alex
September 16, 2024, Cedar River Trail

The Cedar River Trail travels through a mix of urban and rural areas. It was built on a former railroad and roadside bicycle paths connecting the two. The trail spans 17.4 miles, starting at the Cedar River Watershed boundary in Landsburg and ending where the river meets Lake Washington in Renton. Cyclists and hikers can explore the river, cross bridges, and access natural areas. It also offers scenic views and convenient stops, with cyclists limited to certain speeds in specific sections.

0

0

Great ride, smooth asphalt and hard pack gravel trail sections, gentle grade along the river, funky old rail bridges and short underpass tunnels... Overall a really fun day out!

1

0

This is the quieter of the peaks in the area due to the fact that it was donated with a stipulation that the land remained in its natural state. You can feel the peace and tranquility from this point.

0

0

This is the quieter of the peaks in the area due to the fact that it was donated with a stipulation that the land remained in its natural state. You can feel the peace and tranquility from this point.

0

0

It provides a scenic and invigorating hiking adventure through lush forests and captivating terrain. Perfect for nature enthusiast or anyone seeking a refreshing outdoor escape.

1

0

This natural area is known for its unique rock formations and beautiful moss-covered boulders. You can explore this enchanting area, marvel at these rock formations, and appreciate the serene beauty of the surrounding forest.

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular trails for hiking and cycling around East Renton Highlands?

For cycling and hiking, the Cedar River Trail is a highly recommended option, spanning 17.4 miles with sections suitable for both activities. Hikers can also enjoy the scenic High School Trail, known for its lush forests. Additionally, Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park offers diverse hiking trails with steep forested hillsides and old-growth conifers.

Are there any unique natural landmarks to explore near East Renton Highlands?

Yes, Talus Rocks is a unique natural monument known for its distinctive rock formations and moss-covered boulders, offering a serene forest environment to explore. Another significant natural feature is Wilderness Peak within Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, providing an immersive forest experience.

What historical and cultural sites can I visit in the East Renton Highlands area?

The region offers several historical sites. You can explore the Renton History Museum, which chronicles the community's past, or visit the Logging Display in Issaquah to learn about the area's logging history. The Gilman Town Hall Museum, also in Issaquah, features exhibits including 1900s jail cells, while the White River Valley Museum provides insights into the area's heritage, including a recreated Japanese immigrant home.

Are there family-friendly outdoor activities available?

Absolutely. The Cedar River Trail is considered family-friendly, offering a relatively flat path for walking and cycling. Maplewood Park provides a recreational space suitable for families, and the Sno-King Ice Arena in Renton offers ice skating opportunities for all skill levels.

Where can I find trails suitable for dog walking?

For dog owners, Squak Mountain Central Peak is a dog-friendly summit offering trails where you can enjoy nature with your pet. Many other trails in the region, such as those in Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park, also welcome dogs, though leash rules should always be observed.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on trails around East Renton Highlands?

Trails like those leading to Squak Mountain Central Peak are known for wildlife spotting opportunities. The forested areas and river trails provide habitats for various local wildlife, including birds, deer, and smaller forest creatures. Early mornings or late afternoons are often the best times for sightings.

Are there any significant landmarks or memorials in the vicinity?

Yes, the Jimi Hendrix Memorial is a notable landmark located at Greenwood Memorial Park in Renton, dedicated to the legendary musician. While East Renton Highlands itself is primarily residential, this memorial is a significant point of interest nearby.

What types of cycling routes are available near East Renton Highlands?

Beyond the Cedar River Trail, the area offers a variety of cycling routes. You can find numerous road cycling routes, including the Green Valley Loop and the Lake Washington Loop, as well as touring bicycle routes like the Lakeview Park Hill loop. For mountain biking enthusiasts, there are challenging trails such as the Master Link and Predator Loop or the Grand Ridge Trail. More details can be found on the Road Cycling Routes around East Renton Highlands guide.

What is the best time of year to visit East Renton Highlands for outdoor activities?

The spring, summer, and early fall months generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities in East Renton Highlands. During these seasons, trails are typically drier, and temperatures are mild, making hiking, cycling, and exploring natural areas more enjoyable. Winter can bring rain and cooler temperatures, but some trails remain accessible.

Where can I find information about the local heritage of the Eastside region?

The Eastside Heritage Center is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of the Eastside region. They offer artifacts, photographs, and documents detailing its diverse heritage, providing a deeper understanding of the area's past.

Are there any trails that offer scenic views?

Many trails in the area provide scenic views. The Cedar River Trail offers picturesque views along the river, while Squak Mountain Central Peak provides viewpoints from its summit. The diverse landscapes, from river paths to forested peaks, ensure many opportunities for beautiful vistas.

What are some options for mountain biking near East Renton Highlands?

Mountain biking enthusiasts have several options. Notable trails include the Master Link and Predator Loop, the Tiger Mountain Road, Off-The-Grid, Joyride, and Northwest Timber Loop, and the Grand Ridge Trail. These routes vary in difficulty, offering challenging terrain for experienced riders. You can find more information on the MTB Trails around East Renton Highlands guide.

Most popular routes around East Renton Highlands

Hiking around East Renton Highlands

Most popular attractions around East Renton Highlands

Lakes

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

SeattleMercer IslandMedinaClyde HillKirklandShorelineHunts PointYarrow PointBellevueKenmoreLake WashingtonRedmondLake Forest ParkUnion Hill-Novelty HillBoulevard ParkRentonTukwilaBeaux Arts VillageBothellSammamishNewcastleSnoqualmieIssaquahBryn Mawr-SkywayCottage LakeWoodinvilleMirrormontMaple Heights-Lake DesireFairwoodFall CityHobartWhite CenterRiverbendNorth BendShadow LakeRiverpointAmes LakeBurienWilderness RimVashonKentSeatacFederal WayCovingtonCarnationMaple ValleyDuvallAuburnLakeland NorthLake Marcel-StillwaterNormandy ParkDes MoinesLake Morton-BerrydaleBaringLake HolmLakeland SouthPacificBlack DiamondTiger Mountain State ForestAlgonaRavensdaleSkykomishOlallie State Park

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Maple Heights-Lake Desire

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy