What Mountains Can You See From Seattle: A Comprehensive Guide

Major mountains visible from Seattle

• Olympic Mountains: Visible to the west across Puget Sound, offering stunning views, especially during sunrise and sunset

  • Best viewed from locations like Alki Beach, Sunset Hill Park, and Kerry Park
  • Most dramatic views often occur during August to September and December to January

• Mount Rainier: Prominently visible to the southeast, standing at 14,411 feet

  • Best viewed from Magnuson Park and Kerry Park
  • Most visible on clear days, especially during summer months

• Cascade Mountains: Visible to the east on clear days

  • Include peaks like Mount Baker (visible from Mt Baker Ski Area)
  • Best viewed from elevated locations like the Space Needle Observatory Deck or Sky View Observatory at Columbia Center

Best viewpoints in Seattle

Parks and public spaces

• Kerry Park: Offers iconic Seattle skyline views with Mount Rainier in the background

  • Best during golden hour on clear days

• Discovery Park: Provides views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains from its beach

  • Mt. Rainier visible on clear days

• Volunteer Park: Free 360-degree view from the water tower

Elevated viewpoints

• Space Needle Observatory Deck: Offers panoramic views at 520 feet high

  • Views include downtown Seattle, Puget Sound, Cascades, Olympics, and Mt. Rainier

• Sky View Observatory at Columbia Center: Tallest observation deck in the Pacific Northwest at 1000 feet

  • Provides views of downtown, Bellevue, Elliott Bay, Puget Sound, and surrounding mountains

Waterfront views

• Seattle Waterfront: Offers views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains

  • The Great Wheel provides elevated views for $6 per person

• Washington State Ferry: Best sunset views on the Bainbridge Island route

  • 1-hour round trip costing $6 (as of 2009)

Best times for mountain viewing

• Summer months (June-August): Best for hiking and clear views, but most crowded

  • Peak wildflower blooms in July and August

• Fall (September-October): Less crowded with beautiful fall foliage

  • Peak fall colors usually in mid-October

• Winter (December-March): Highest precipitation, but potential for dramatic snow-capped mountain views