Rattlesnake Ledge — Washington Trails Association Trail Report
General: One of the best hikes near . Ideal for new hikers looking to explore, for family hiking or after office quickie climb. All the attributes are good for this hike: pretty straightforward approach from , extensive parking without requiring one of myriad hiking passes, well-marked routes, clean very well maintained trail, enough width everywhere for 2 folks to walk together, decent distance (2M) and elevation (1000ft) to challenge but not slay, etc. This trail also is not like one of those where you walk in dark forests before you reach vista point- here you have several views on the way. Basically you are taking switchbacks over the lake. The view on top is really awesome. Just sit down on ledge and take in the 360 views. 
Day specific: I did this in the evening (started at 5 PM).
• People: There was steady stream of folks showing that this is very popular trail. Seems popular with trail runners. Lot of folks with dogs but always on leash.
• Condition: With warm last few days, there was not a single spot of water on the trail. Trail very well maintained.
• Flora: nothing to call out– no flowers, no berries.
• Fauna: nothing besides squirrel. Very few mosquitoes.
Details:
• Follow directions to reach trailhead, its straightforward. Just take exit 32 and go south on 436th and you will not miss it. Really good and extensive parking. The spot is very popular for picnicking at lake, so usually busy parking. Also lot of basic amenities on the trail head. 
• From parking its around 4.4 M roundtrip. With elevation gain total around 1600 ft. in trip (per runtastic)- net around 1200ft.
• I took around 2:45 hrs. for roundtrip. This included around 40 min I spent on the ledge- taking views. This trail can be done in 2 hrs., but will really recommend spending time on the top.
• Right from start there is a climb. The whole 2 miles its gaining elevation –very steady though. So don’t expect any sections to relax . Hike is most climbing ramp, maybe few spots where there are rocks to climb. Don’t remember any sections with stairs.
• Straightforward climb up so no needs for maps or confusion.
As I said above its really a perfect climb for occasional hikers. Will definitely recommend it though to everyone. Enjoy!
