Blaze a Trail

Foster and Marsh Island Loop

1.5 miles roundtrip; wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/foster-and-marsh-island-loop

This mostly level pathway through the peaceful northern end of Washington Park Arboretum flanks the pristine shoreline and waterfowl-inhabited wetlands of Lake Washington’s Union Bay. You may see kayakers paddling nearby, and upon reaching Marsh Island via the boardwalk, you’re treated to fine views across the water to the UW campus.

TRAILHEAD: Off East Foster Island Road, outside the main entrance of Washington Park Arboretum (2300 Arboretum Dr E)

Sqebeqsed Trail

 2 miles roundtrip; alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/sqebeqsed-trail

Most visitors to Seward Park walk along the path that loops around the peninsula, close to the shoreline of Lake Washington, but this picturesque and only slightly hilly jaunt through the park’s interior makes for a tranquil alternative. This is one of the best bird-watching trails in the city.

TRAILHEAD: By the Audubon Center at Seward Park (5902 Lake Washington Blvd S)

Discovery Park Loop courtesy Stephen Matera

Discovery Park Loop Trail

2.8 miles roundtrip; wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/discovery-park-loop-trail

One of the city’s most popular coastal rambles roams beneath canopies of towering pines and through wildflower-strewn meadows, offering expansive views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Keep an eye out for migratory birdlife—you may even spy a whale breaching offshore.

TRAILHEAD: East parking lot, Discovery Park (Discovery Park Blvd)

Pipers Creek Trail

3.5 miles roundtrip; wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/carkeek-park

This undulating path through the dense woods of northwest Seattle’s Carkeek Park flanks tranquil Pipers Creek and feels as though it could be miles from civilization. At the trail’s western edge, you’ll have great views of Puget Sound, and you can access a short bridge over railroad tracks for a detour down to the beach.

TRAILHEAD: Eddie McAbee Entrance of Carkeek Park (NW 100th Pl at Sixth Ave NW)