TrailsFest FAQ

Washington Trails Association (WTA) hosts TrailsFest every summer, with the support and participation of outdoor-oriented sponsors and partners from the outdoor industry, local communities, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.

You bet! There's a fun hike with Hiker Hillary, Junior Ranger programs and more. How about paddling in a boat on Rattlesnake Lake or trying out the climbing wall?  The Cedar River Watershed Education center has great exhibits and WTA hosts a Hiking for Tikes activity center in the courtyard. 

We’ll be there. TrailsFest goes on! Come anyhow. Just bring rain gear. It’ll still be fun!

Pack your own lunch or snack if you like, and a water bottle.  If you don’t bring a lunch, be sure and have cash in case you get hungry, and to buy yourself a raffle ticket!  Remember to leave extra room in your pack for all the information and goodies you’ll pick up! 

Casual, comfortable clothes. Layers are good in case the day starts chilly and warms up, as our July days in the foothills often do. Bring sturdy sneakers or hiking boots if you plan to join a hike or nature walk. Pack a light raincoat and sunscreen to be on the safe side. 

Rhodie’s BBQ will be serving BBQ, veggie dogs, pop and water in the Food Court. Or, pack a picnic lunch and a blanket. There are full-service grocery stores in North Bend.  

To refill your own water bottle, there are fountains at the Education Center and there will be water available at Info Booth at the Lakeshore. You can also purchase water in the food court from Rhodie’s BBQ. 

Winners for the TrailsFest raffle will be drawn at 3:30pm at the Washington Trails Association booth (#101).  You need not be present to win. 

Of course! Save money and gas and meet some new friends who are also interested in the outdoors.  You can use RideshareOnline.com to find carpool groups to regional events including TrailsFest. 

Parking is available at both the Rattlesnake lakeshore and the Education Center.  However, parking will get tight, so carpooling is encouraged. You can also arrive at TrailsFest by bike! The Snoqualmie Valley Trail terminates at Rattlesnake Lake, just 7 miles south of North Bend or 6 miles from the parking lot at

There will be portable toilets at the lakeshore, and there are permanent flush facilities at the Education Center. 

Yes, admission is free and most of the activities are free. A few activities have a small charge (such as $3 for kayak rental). Of course, donations to Washington Trails Association are always appreciated! Also, bring your checkbook if you wish to buy raffle tickets for fabulous outdoor gear being given away, gear from an exhibitor, a T-shirt, a membership, or a snack. 

It is about 1/2 mile along the Lakeshore Trail. It takes about 10 minutes to walk there. Or, you can catch the free Carter shuttle between the Lakeshore Area and the Education Center.  

Yes, it’s $3 per person/$5 per family.  Check at the Delta & Outdoors For All Paddle Sports Beach for more information. 

It’s less than 2 miles to the top—and you gain 1,300 feet.  Some parts of it are a little steep.  You should allow 3 hours and take plenty of water and food. 

This is our eighth year hosting TrailsFest at Rattlesnake Lake. If you’d like to receive information about it next year, or are interested in being an exhibitor, be sure to sign up at the WTA booth (#101). 

Stop by the Washington Trails Association booth and pick up some hiking suggestions. Or, visit www.wta.org for trip reports and an online hiking guide. 

Many of the exhibitors at TrailsFest lead activities and programs throughout the year that help people get outdoors. Take some time to visit with them. They’ve got lots of great resources and ideas.