Welcome to the Emerald City! Seattle, known for its lush green landscapes and stunning water views, offers an array of scenic walks that allow you to immerse yourself in the city’s natural beauty. In this blog post, we will guide you through some of the most picturesque walking trails in Seattle, exploring everything from tranquil parks to historic neighborhoods.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these breathtaking paths will unveil the charm of Seattle while providing a rejuvenating experience. So, put on your walking shoes and join us as we embark on a journey through Seattle’s most scenic walks.
5 Scenic Walks in Seattle
Discovery Park Loop Trail
Meander down the Discovery Park Loop Trail! This trail is a stunning mix of pebble beaches, wooded hillsides and open meadows. It takes hikers on a journey that encompasses the Pacific Northwest’s sublime beauty and wildlife. The forest-lined roads and views overlooking Puget Sound make it a must-visit destination. Points along the way offer great views and the chance to observe local flora and fauna. Plus, there are impressive landmarks like lighthouses, military forts, clifftop viewpoints, and historical buildings.
Steep inclines make it a challenge for beginners, but the rewards of this gorgeous parkland are worth it. Native tribes hunted deer and waded in tidal pools before white settlers arrived – as per nwtravelmag.com. Plus, the Alki Beach Promenade offers a scenic walk and a chance to show off your beach bod!
Alki Beach Promenade
Alki Beach Promenade is one of the top scenic walks in Seattle! You can find it by the waterfront. It’s perfect for enjoying nature – walking and biking with stunning beach views. Plus, there are lots of restaurants around.
You can take in the mountains, the sea air and the calm waterside at low tide. Discover sea creatures such as starfish, crab and mollusks. The promenade is visually stunning and calming.
On seattle.gov, they say Alki Beach Park has hundreds of native plants of the Pacific Northwest. So visitors can learn about the area’s flora and fauna while exploring its natural habitat.
If the view from Kerry Park doesn’t take your breath away, the uphill climb certainly will!
Kerry Park
Kerry Park, nestled in the heart of Seattle, provides an unparalleled panorama of the Emerald City! A photographers paradise filled with views of Seattle, the Space Needle & Olympic Mountains.
Essential details:
- Location – Queen Anne Neighborhood,
- Entry Fee – Free,
- Popular For – Watching sunsets & city lights,
- Best Time – Late Afternoon (sunset) or night (city lights),
- Afternoon Crowd – Moderate.
It has a lush greenery & garden for visitors to relax in. Popular spot for locals, it can get crowded during peak hours. Bring a tripod to capture stunning photos at any hour of the day. Don’t miss this chance to enjoy Seattle’s beauty! Add Kerry Park to your itinerary and bask in its overwhelming beauty. And don’t forget to bring your sense of adventure and a good pair of walking shoes!
Lake Union Park
Escape the city and enjoy the peaceful retreat of Lake Union Park. Its waterfront, greenery, and diverse attractions make it a great spot for nature lovers and families.
Take a stroll or jog along the maintained paths for amazing lake and mountain views. Nearby, learn about Seattle’s maritime heritage at the Museum of History & Industry and Center for Wooden Boats.
Don’t miss Gas Works Park in Wallingford! It features old gasworks structures converted into picnic areas right on the lake. Perfect for a weekend outing with friends or family.
Visit Lake Union Park to complete your Emerald City adventure! Or, go to the Ballard Locks for scenic views and the chance to watch boats get high and dry.
Ballard Locks
Located in the heart of Seattle lies an iconic spot. It’s known for its engineering wonder, so is a must-visit on any scenic walk. Here, you can witness boats travelling from one body of water to the other – and even spot fish migrating in the summertime! This is the Ballard Locks – a picturesque spot between saltwater and freshwater.
It offers a diverse range of flora and fauna. Plus, the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden boasts beautiful views of carefully curated landscaping. With plants, bushes and trees from all over the globe.
Why not take a guided tour? You’ll learn about the engineering marvels behind the locks, plus Seattle’s maritime history and its role for industrial development.
Then, make your way to Golden Gardens Park for stunning sunset views and picnics with friends and family. Or head south to Discovery Park to explore its waterfront views and trails.
Explore Seattle’s hidden gems on these scenic walks – even local hipsters haven’t discovered yet!
Off the Beaten Path Scenic Walks in Seattle
To discover Seattle’s hidden scenic walks, look no further than this section. With Schmitz Preserve Park, Carkeek Park, Hiram M. Chittenden Locks Trail, Seward Park, and Green Lake Loop, there’s something for every nature lover. Explore the beauty of Seattle’s off the beaten path gems with each of these sub-sections.
Schmitz Preserve Park
This Seattle secret is ideal for those looking for peacefulness and a peek into the area’s wildlife. Schmitz Preserve Park features ancient forests with some of Seattle’s biggest trees. You can experience the flora and fauna while strolling along its pathways, offering you an unforgettable nature experience.
Venture into the park and you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush greenery, with sunshine streaming through the leaves. Not only can you admire the enormous trees, but also spot various birds and maybe even catch a glimpse of raccoons or other small mammals.
For something extraordinary, climb Alki Trail in the park for amazing panoramas of Elliot Bay. Plus, the park holds hundreds of plant species native to the Pacific Northwest.
Don’t miss out on this tranquil sanctuary in bustling Seattle- explore Schmitz Preserve Park for tranquility amongst the city.
And get your steps in while admiring a waterfront view that could rival your ex’s Insta pics at Carkeek Park.
Carkeek Park
Carkeek Park, a hidden gem of Seattle adored by locals, lies nestled on the shores of Puget Sound. There are plenty of trails with stunning views of the water and native foliage. Boardwalks, footbridges and hills make for a great workout.
Pipers Creek runs through the park’s center, creating a vital habitat for wildlife. Keep an eye out for salmon swimming by while admiring the view from the picnic areas and benches.
Don’t miss out on Carkeek Park in spring when wildflowers bloom. Wear comfortable shoes as some rocky terrain may be difficult to walk on.
Explore Seattle and its tranquil nature with off-the-beaten-path wonders. The Salmon Runway awaits at the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks Trail, where nature meets engineering.
Hiram M. Chittenden Locks Trail
Discover Seward Park – a hidden gem in Seattle! This scenic walking trail offers breathtaking views and unique experiences of the city’s maritime culture. Enjoy the sound of waterfalls and a mesmerizing array of gardens. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city or the usual tourist routes.
You’ll come across fragrant flower gardens and stunning wildlife statues. Visit fish ladders thoughtfully designed to give salmon easier access to their spawning area. On a sunny day, enjoy lush green trees and boats navigating the locks.
This historic spot offers valuable insights into Seattle’s background. Check out antique equipment and impressive industrial-era engineering in action. The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks were built back in 1916 and are award-winning sights.
For those who enjoy scenic walks and want to explore something away from city streets, this is the place to be! Take a walk on the wild side and check out the rumors of Bigfoot sightings!
Seward Park
This park, located at the heart of Seattle, is one of the city’s finest. It spans over 300 acres, offering something for everyone – from hiking trails to tennis courts, and even stunning views of Lake Washington.
Take a walk through the park and you’ll likely spot native birds and animals in the lush canopies. And don’t forget to stop by Andrew’s Bay Beach – a natural, swimmable beach ideal for those summer days!
The park’s signature feature is a towering old-growth forest with trees over a century old. The variety of flora and fauna here highlights the importance of preserving nature.
Visit this serene getaway to truly experience the Pacific Northwest way of life. Lose yourself in the beauty of Green Lake – just remember to bring your navigation skills (and maybe a compass)!
Green Lake Loop
The Green Lake Path is a 2.8-mile-loop trail that’s perfect for walkers, runners and cyclists. It’s a great spot for locals and visitors alike. You’ll go through trees, meadows, and picnic areas. And, benches let you take a rest and admire the view.
This route is special because of the coffee shops, restaurants, and stores nearby. Take a break from the walk and grab some refreshments before going on.
It’s been around for a long time. Glaciers made it during the last ice age. Native Americans had villages here and European settlers arrived in the mid-1800s. Now, it’s an urban oasis in the bustling cityscape.
Go get your steps in and your sea breeze on – take a scenic waterfront walk in Seattle!
Best Waterfront Walks in Seattle
To discover the best waterfront walks in Seattle, the ones that let you stroll through the Emerald City’s scenic views, lace up your shoes and explore some of the most picturesque locations. In this section, we highlight some of the most coveted locales for a walk, including the Elliott Bay Trail, Myrtle Edwards Park, Golden Gardens Park, Lincoln Park, and Pioneer Square.
Elliott Bay Trail
This popular trail in Seattle is known for its amazing views of the city and Elliot Bay. The Elliott Bay Trail spans miles and includes interpretive panels with fascinating facts about Seattle’s history.
Walkers can appreciate local landmarks such as Olympic Sculpture Park, Myrtle Edwards Park and Terminal 91 Fishing Pier. All of these are accessible via the Elliott Bay Trail.
Myrtle Edwards Park is a great spot for a picnic or to grab a handcrafted coffee from a nearby café. Be on the lookout – boats may be cruising along the bay.
At Terminal 91 fishing pier, you can watch fishermen bring in fresh seafood and immerse yourself in Seattle’s maritime history.
Take pictures of Mount Rainier and other mesmerizing sights, as you explore one of Seattle’s top attractions – Elliott Bay Trail! Enjoy a waterfront fix with a stunning walk through Myrtle Edwards Park.
Myrtle Edwards Park
Myrtle Edwards Park is an awesome place, located on the waterfront of Elliott Bay. It has a mile of pathways for walking, running, and biking. Plus, you can take in the magnificent views of the Olympic Mountains. There are small beaches for canoeing or kayaking, too.
The park is named after Myrtle Edwards. She was passionate about open spaces and making sure everyone had access to the Seattle waterfront. It has art installations that celebrate the culture of the city and a community garden for bird watching and spotting bald eagles and peregrine falcons.
Also, there are panels throughout with information about Seattle’s past as a timber town and how that led to it becoming a port city. During the summer, events like outdoor movies, concerts and a Shakespeare festival take place.
One day, I saw a group doing tai chi in the park. They were moving slowly amongst the fall foliage. It was peaceful and showed that even in the heart of a city, there are moments of serenity.
Golden Gardens Park is another wonderful spot. There’s refreshing water, perfect sand for sunbathing, and better-trained dogs than humans!
Golden Gardens Park
Perched in the beautiful Puget Sound, this jewel offers magnificent views of the mountains and a chance to take a peaceful walk on its sandy beach. The Golden Gardens Park oozes serenity, attracting both visitors and locals.
The park has walking paths through lush forests, picnic spots, and fire pits for having warm bonfires near the water on cold evenings. With placid waters for paddleboarding, kayaking or swimming, this park is an ideal spot for families with kids.
What’s more, bird watchers can take pleasure in seeing kingfishers, black oystercatchers, great blue herons around the beach. Restrooms are close to the parking lot and visitors can savor fresh seafood from vendors in the area.
Pro Tip: From this scenic waterfront park, watch the amazing sunset over Puget Sound.
Take a walk in Lincoln Park and you may forget you’re in Seattle – until the rain brings you back to reality.
Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park, an exquisite and serene West Seattle landscape, is a popular tourist attraction. It is renowned for its abundant greenery, stunning views of Puget Sound and Olympic Mountains, and recreational activities. Around 3,000 visitors come there daily.
The 135-acre park has trails for hiking, a waterfront for picnicking, playground equipment, a heated saltwater pool, swimming, beachcombing, and scuba diving. It was named after President Abraham Lincoln in 1922 and was designed by the architects of New York’s Central Park, the Brothers Olmsted.
National Geographic also rated nearby Alki Beach as one of the top ten beaches in the USA. For a dose of history, take a stroll through Pioneer Square, and you can smell the freshly brewed coffee!
Pioneer Square
This renowned neighborhood in Seattle’s historic district is the birthplace of the city. It offers an unforgettable ambiance of old-world charm and modern amenities. Once a thriving business district, it now has remarkable galleries, specialty shops, cafes, and bars.
Stroll its cobblestone streets surrounded by towering brick buildings that have stood the test of time. The square was named after a totem pole built to commemorate pioneers’ arrival in 1852. It houses various public artworks, such as the striking Chief Seattle statue.
Explore Pioneer Square’s underground tour for a one-of-a-kind experience. It takes visitors through 19th-century subterranean passageways. Fun fact: Pioneer Square is where Seattle’s first skyscraper was built. The Smith Tower, which has been a symbol of the city’s growth and resilience since 1914, is stunning!
Take walking tours and feel like a true local – unless you’re wearing socks with sandals.
Seattle Walking Tours
To discover the best of Seattle by foot, join Seattle Walking Tours. Get up close with the Emerald City’s most iconic sites and explore the rich history and culture of the city in a personalized small-group tour. Choose from a variety of experiences, including the Underground Tour, Pike Place Market Food Tour, Seattle Architecture Tour, History and Culture Tour, and Street Art Tour.
Underground Tour
Take a tour through the hidden history of Seattle! Start in Pioneer Square. You’ll explore underground remains of 19th-century stores and be entertained with funny stories of the city’s past. Learn about the saloons, bordellos, and gambling halls that once filled these streets.
Listen closely as your guide tells of the Great Fire of 1889. Find out how it caused Seattle to be largely rebuilt. Marvel at the presence of the original sidewalks – five feet below the modern roads!
This tour is not only educational, but also entertaining. Discover colorful tales beyond the typical tourist stops to gain a better understanding of the vibrancy of Seattle.
The rumors say that even Bill Speidel himself has been spotted in the passages after hours! Embark on a Subterranean Journey and uncover these thrilling stories!
Pike Place Market Food Tour
Embark on an exciting culinary journey through the iconic Pike Place Market. The Pike Place Market Culinary Journey is a must for foodies visiting Seattle!
- Sample fresh, locally sourced ingredients from the Pacific Northwest.
- Enjoy a variety of international cuisines, such as Italian, Greek, and Japanese.
- Discover the market’s history while indulging in flavor-packed tastings.
Explore hidden gems and classic Seattle delights. Sample renowned restaurants and lesser-known holes-in-the-wall.
Did you know that Pike Place Market has been around since 1907? It’s America’s oldest continuously operating public farmers’ market and is still thriving!
Join the Seattle Architecture Tour to learn about the city’s impressive buildings. Who knows, maybe one day they’ll be the new Amazon headquarters!
Seattle Architecture Tour
Explore Seattle’s amazing architectural designs on the Distinguished Architecture Tour. Over 200 skyline-defining buildings by renowned architects such as Frank Gehry, Paul Thiry, and Minoru Yamasaki await you.
This walking tour takes you through downtown’s commercial district and other neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Queen Anne. Learn about Seattle’s unique Romanesque Revival and Gothic styles. Appreciate the city’s culture and ambiance!
Get to know Seattle’s architectural significance and discover its magnificent monuments. For an even better experience, pair the tour with a meal. There are plenty of delightful dining options nearby.
Walk through Seattle’s history and culture – learn more than you did in all your high school history classes combined. Get ready for the ultimate architectural tour!
History and Culture Tour
Take a step back in time and explore Seattle’s culture. Learn how diverse communities have impacted the landscape. Discover unique landmarks like Pike Place Market and the city’s development from its beginnings to now.
On this guided tour, we’ll visit historic buildings and uncover quirky art installations tucked away in secret spots. Hear stories of Seattleites who have left their mark, and admire street murals. Experience the exciting energy of Pioneer Square’s art scene.
Understand how immigrants have contributed to the city’s diversity. Sample local cuisine and find hidden gems off the beaten path. You’ll explore multilingual neighborhoods and see different cultural establishments.
Take a tour to appreciate Seattle’s history, culture and fascinating influences. You’ll uncover sites you didn’t know existed in vibrant neighborhoods like Pioneer Square, Chinatown-International District or Capitol Hill. On this Street Art Tour, the city becomes your museum.
Street Art Tour
Uncover Seattle’s vibrant and eclectic street art scene with a guided tour. Stroll through its alleys, streets and buildings to find an array of murals, graffiti tags and stencil work.
Your passionate and knowledgeable guide will lead you through hidden corners, share local knowledge and tell the stories behind the art. They’ll teach you about the history and evolution of street art in the city, while admiring established and emerging artist pieces.
Expect to see a range of styles from abstract designs to political statements. You might even witness new works being created before your eyes or stumble upon some hidden gems.
Thrillist has said that Seattle has a “wild” street art scene, with lots of new creations popping up all over. Going on a walking tour is the best way to explore this exciting world and appreciate it from a different perspective.
So, come and experience Seattle during the changing seasons – nothing says ‘autumn’ like crunchy leaves underfoot and avoiding eye contact with a giant pumpkin.
Seasonal Scenic Walks in Seattle
To discover the seasonal scenic walks in Seattle, check out these unique locations for breathtaking views. From cherry blossom viewing at UW Quad to summer sunsets at Gas Works Park, each sub-section offers its own distinct beauty. Experience the fall colors at Washington Park Arboretum or holiday lights at Seattle Center for a festive stroll. Don’t miss the opportunity to take in Spring Flowers at Kubota Garden, as each walk offers a visual treat all year round.
Cherry Blossom Viewing at UW Quad
The University of Washington Quad is the place to be during Seattle’s Cherry Blossom season. Visitors can take in the breathtaking transformation of the campus with their special ones.
This time of year, Seattle dazzles with its pink and white blossoms. Thousands of cherry trees burst into life, creating a peaceful and beautiful scene. Tourists come from far and wide to take in this incredible view.
Washington University was founded in 1861. It was named after the first President George Washington.
At Washington Park Arboretum, you can soak up the vibrant colors of nature. But, beware of the pond if you’re trying to get the perfect Instagram shot!
Fall Colors at Washington Park Arboretum
The Washington Park Arboretum in Seattle is a botanical garden and national wildlife refuge. It boasts over 20,000 trees and plants from around the world. Visitors can marvel at fall foliage and explore unique walking trails.
Plus, there’s the Pacific Connections Garden which showcases plants from five countries around the Pacific Rim. This garden was master planned by Arthur Herrman in 1948, with a focus on wetland restoration and conservation. The arboretum now provides a habitat for migratory birds, salmon runs, aquatic plants, and other wildlife species.
Even Rudolph needs shades when admiring Seattle Center’s dazzling holiday lights!
Holiday Lights at Seattle Center
Experience Seattle’s irresistible charm this winter season at the captivating festival of dazzling lights! Marvel at the gleaming decorations that adorn immense structures in the perfect holiday setting. Savor sizzling food and drinks as you stroll through the vividly illuminated park. Don’t miss out on photo opportunities with your loved ones!
Listen to live music and performances to warm up your chilly holidays. Meanwhile, your little ones can discover all sorts of seasonal delights. Check out the enchanting ice sculptures and unique art installations that add even more glamour to this display.
Pro Tip: Remember to dress warmly and arrive early to avoid large crowds.
Enjoy the blooming beauties at Kubota Garden this spring – no dating app required!
Spring Flowers at Kubota Garden
The Kubota Garden is ideal for witnessing the captivating beauty of spring flowers in Seattle. It is home to a variety of flora and its stunning display symbolizes nature’s revival.
Visitors can observe the vivid hues and aromas of cherry blossoms, daffodils, magnolias, azaleas, and other seasonal blooms around every nook of the garden. Its alluring nature complements its Japanese-style landscape including a serene pond, bridges, streams, and waterfalls.
Walking the winding paths across the garden, one can truly relish the rustic vibes amidst picturesque vistas. Additionally, taking photos of special flowers is a must for any visitor.
Pro Tip: Plan your visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and have ample time to enjoy the garden’s beauty. Watch the sunset like you’re in a romantic comedy, minus the cheesy soundtrack, at Gas Works Park.
Summer Sunset at Gas Works Park
In summertime, Seattle’s Gas Works Park offers a picturesque view of the sun setting over the lake. An unforgettable moment for visitors, the fiery sun dips below the horizon and the vibrant skyline illuminates the backdrop.
The cool breeze provides relief from the summer heat and there’s plenty of space for picnicking and activities. Photographers have excellent vantage points for capturing stunning shots.
A romantic escape or family get-together awaits. Don’t miss out on this awe-inspiring summer sunset – it’s worth experiencing firsthand!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are some of the most scenic walks to take in Seattle?
A: Some of the most scenic walks in Seattle include the Seattle waterfront, the Arboretum Loop Trail, and the Discovery Park Loop Trail.
Q: Are these scenic walks suitable for families with children?
A: Yes, many of Seattle’s scenic walks are suitable for families with children. The waterfront offers plenty of opportunities for families to explore, while the Arboretum Loop Trail and Discovery Park Loop Trail both offer easy, kid-friendly hikes.
Q: How long do these walks generally take?
A: The length of these walks can vary. The waterfront can be walked in under an hour, while the Arboretum Loop Trail and Discovery Park Loop Trail can take a few hours to complete.
Q: Are there any fees associated with these walks?
A: The Seattle waterfront is free to explore, while the Arboretum Loop Trail and Discovery Park Loop Trail may have state or city park fees associated with them.
Q: What are the best times to take these walks?
A: Seattle’s scenic walks can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall tend to offer the best weather and the most beautiful scenery.
Q: Can I bring my dog with me on these walks?
A: The Seattle waterfront and Discovery Park Loop Trail both allow dogs on-leash, while the Arboretum Loop Trail has a designated off-leash area for dogs.
