Dirty Harry’s Balcony hike (~4.4 mi, ~1600ft)
Details
NOTE: MEETING POINT IS MERCER ISLAND PARK & RIDE (Right next to the Mercer Island Link Rail station)
Let’s take on one of the most rewarding short climbs along the I-90 corridor — Dirty Harry’s Balcony near North Bend. This hike may be relatively short, but it packs a punch, climbing steadily through the forest before opening up to sweeping views over the Snoqualmie Valley.
We’ll start in dense evergreen forest, quickly crossing a river before beginning the real work: a sustained uphill climb with switchbacks, rocky sections, and a few steep stretches. As we gain elevation, the trees begin to thin and the payoff starts early — multiple viewpoints along the way offer glimpses of surrounding peaks and the valley below.
At the top, we’ll reach the iconic “balcony,” a dramatic rocky outcrop with expansive views of Mount Kent, McClellan Butte, and Mount Washington. It’s the perfect place to rest, refuel, and take in the scenery before heading back down. This is a moderate hike with significant elevation gain in a short distance — expect a steady workout throughout.
https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/dirty-harrys-balcony
| Distance: ~4.4 mi RT | Duration: 3–4 hrs
| Difficulty Level: Moderate
| Elevation Gain: ~1,600 ft
| Trail Type: Out & Back
| Pace: Moderate with breaks
📍 Meeting Point: Mercer Island Park & Ride (Take the Link Light Rail (Line 2) directly to Mercer Island Station)
💰 Riders: Please pay $15 to your driver toward fuel and parking before departure.
🚗 Parking: Discover Pass or Cash required
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### Things to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoes (rocky + rooty terrain)
2L+ of water
Snacks / lunch
Layered clothes
Rain shell (weather can shift quickly)
Trekking poles (optional)
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### Schedule
8:00 AM – Meet at Mercer Island Park & Ride
8:15 AM - Depart for trailhead
9:15 AM – Start hike
11:15 AM – Reach balcony + relax / snack break
1:00 PM – Return to trailhead
2:00 PM - Return to Seattle
### How to reach Mercer Island Park & Ride
🚆 From DT Bellevue / DT Redmond (Eastside):
Take the Link Light Rail (Line 2) directly to Mercer Island Station — the park & ride is right next to the station.
🚆 From DT Seattle:
Take the bus/Streetcar to any Link light rail station and then transfer to Link Light Rail (Line 2) directly to Mercer Island Station
🚌 Bus Options:
Multiple King County Metro routes stop at Mercer Island Park & Ride, making it a convenient hub from various neighborhoods.
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### Notes
Dogs are allowed on leash.
Please follow Leave No Trace principles.
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This is not a guided tour. By signing up for this event, you affirm that you and your guests are solely responsible for your own safety. You attend at your own risk, and the hosts, co-hosts, and organizers are indemnified.