Accessible Outdoors

Andrew Jacob Media

Outdoor Recreation

With over 485 parks, Seattle is the perfect place to enjoy nature. Discover why Seattle is called the Emerald City by exploring parks and green spaces in the city or nearby at one of Washington state’s three national parks.

A vibrant mountain scene with wildflowers in the foreground and a snow-capped peak under a blue sky in the background. Tall evergreen trees frame the view, adding depth and contrast to the bright colors.

A view of Mount Rainier from Crystal Mountain Resort Cory O'Born

Mt. Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park, with 236,381 un-spoiled acres, is one of the oldest national parks in the nation. Discover more about accessibility within the park, from the lodge and visitor center to picnic areas and paved pathways.

Olympic National Park

From luminous peaks to lush rain forests to coastal beaches, the majestic Olympic National Park is all contained on a peninsula across the water from Seattle. Learn about accessibility at the park including information for people with a variety of needs.

North Cascades National Park

Wilder, larger, and more remote than its two Washington cousins, North Cascades National Park is just 2.5 hours from Seattle. Click through to explore the park’s accessibility offerings, including an index for each facility, including trails.

Alki Beach Park

Features: a sandy beach, 2.5-mile paved path that extends past the park for just under 2 more miles, panoramic views of Puget Sound, summer fire pits.

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Two people walking hand-in-hand near a serene lake, surrounded by large, lush green trees. A bench is visible nearby, and the sky is partially cloudy, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. — **Green Lake** Rachael Jones

Green Lake Park

Features: a 2.8-mile paved inner loop, swimming beaches, sports courts and fields, kayak and SUP rentals.

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A scenic view of a cityscape with the Seattle Space Needle in the distance. Trees and buildings are in the foreground, and a blue telescope is positioned on the left side, overlooking the city under a clear blue sky. — Photo: David Newman

Kerry Park

Features: panoramic views of the Seattle skyline, Elliott Bay, and Mount Rainier on a clear day.

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A serene beach scene at sunset with driftwood strewn along the sandy shore. The sun casts a warm glow over calm waters, and a lighthouse is visible in the distance. The horizon shows a range of mountains under a clear sky. — Rachael Jones

Discovery Park

Features: 2 miles of protected tidal beaches, paved pathways, access to West Point Lighthouse, Environmental Learning & Visitor Center.

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A cyclist rides along a waterfront path lined with trees and buildings. Another person sits on a bench by the water. A bridge spans the background under a cloudy sky. — **Burke-Gilman Trail running through the Fremont neighborhood** Rachael Jones

Burke-Gilman Trail

Features: 20-mile paved path stretching from Golden Gardens Park in Ballard to Blyth Park in Bothell with scenic views. Note: short on-road segment in Ballard.

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