Bloedel Reserve Courtesy Keith Brofsky/Bloedel Reserve
Whether you have a thirst for high altitude or prefer to meander on flat ground, the Seattle area has a trail for you.
Urban Exploration
Circumnavigate Lake Union on Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop. This multi-use path skirts the waterfront and connects Fremont and Wallingford with South Lake Union. It’s ideal for a distance run or a leisurely bike ride.
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Peaceful and Pretty
Take a 35-minute ferry ride to Bainbridge Island, where Bloedel Reserve’s* 12 gorgeous gardens make for one incredible stroll past a Japanese Garden, Moss Garden, and Bird Marsh.
You might also like: Washington Park Arboretum
Elevation Gain
If your lungs start to burn while climbing the 4,000 feet of Mailbox Peak, just remember the reward at the top: a mailbox (there’s a summit log inside, but you never know what else you’ll find) and spectacular views of Mount Rainier and the Middle Fork Valley.
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All-Around Appeal
Rattlesnake Ledge is the Goldilocks of trails—challenging enough to be a bit of a workout and spectacular enough to feel worth the effort, it affords just-right views of Rattlesnake Lake below and peaks on the horizon.
You might also like: Poo Poo Point
Trip Tip: For more about these trails, visit seattle.gov/parks and wta.org.
*Visit Seattle Partner