4 Locations For a Family Session Near Maple Valley

Tipsoo Lake

Tipsoo Lake/Chinook Pass is about one hour drive from Maple Valley via SR 410 and very easy access. Beautiful location full of wildflowers, lush evergreens and dramatic views of Mt. Rainier on a clear day. Tipsoo Lake is small and has walking path around it, it’s flat and well maintained, easy walk even for beginner walkers. There are numerous gorgeous spots for different backdrops and spectacular photo opportunities. This is seasonal location, open for summer months (June through October), and closed for winter. Wildflowers typically peak mid to late July, with fall color starting in September. Important note: to mind the signs and stay on the trail to protect the surrounding land and fragile flowers.

Rattlesnake Lake, North Bend

Rattlesnake Lake is located near I-90, exit 32 and about half an hour drive from Maple Valley (45 minutes from Seattel). It is a very picturesque lake surrounded by mountains. The lake has many tree stumps which are exposed when the water level is low enough, and it’s absolutely fun and exciting place for children of all ages. It’s beautiful all year round, with lots of evergreens, but also enough deciduous trees to capture beautiful colors in fall. A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access.

Mt. Si, North Bend

For dramatic Mt. Si view I usually shoot in Meadowbrook Farm. It is a 460 acre scenic open space located within the cities of Snoqualmie and North Bend, about 45 minutes from Seattle. It has vast, open fields and changing scenery depending on the season. Green meadows in early summer, long yellow grasses in fall and good chance of snow scaped mountain tops in winter. And if we are lucky we might see resident elk herd later in the evening.

Flaming Geyser State Park, Black Diamond/Auburn

Flaming Geyser State Park is a 480-acre day-use park located only about 15 minutes from Maple Valley (50 minutes from Seattle), very convenient location near Auburn, Bonney Lake, Enumclaw and surrounding areas. It has open fields that change with seasons and offers beauty year round. I love old apple trees in the meadows, hiking trails and river… so many great options. A Discover Pass is required for vehicle access.