Fresh air fun: The 17 best parks and trails in Seattle

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While travel restrictions and social distancing continue to be mandated in response to novel coronavirus, most of us could use a little fresh air and outdoor exercise. Even if for a short break with the kids or to walk the dog, getting outside can offer some much-needed relief for being otherwise sheltered in place.

You likely already have a favorite neighborhood park, but to help inspire your local adventure we’ve rounded up 17 of the best Seattle parks and trails to experience if you’re looking for alternate ideas of where to breathe in some fresh air and bask in the outdoors for a wellness break.

While social distancing is the recommended practice for the time being, you can still enjoy a stroll along the water or through the trees while following CDC recommendations. Seattle Parks has stated that while community centers and pools are closed, city parks and trails continue to be open. They even took to Twitter to say, “You are welcome to use our open spaces but please do not congregate [and] follow public health guidelines.”

The goal is to keep everyone safe and healthy during this uncertain time, so feel free to visit one of these recommended parks for fresh air but aim for at least six feet between you and others also enjoying the outdoors.

1. Alki Beach Park

Take in the welcoming salty air along the waterfront with a stroll at Alki Beach. Walk or cycle the dedicated path and take in magnificent views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. When the water is calm, take the family out for a kayak or paddleboard session, or simply relax along the sandy beachline.

2. Alvin Larkins Park

Looking for a quiet place in the city to toss the Frisbee? Take the kids to the sprawling lawn at Alvin Larkins Park in the Madrona neighborhood. The park is decorated with maple, pine, and fir trees while spring welcomes back colorful cherry trees for an extra dose of cheer. The small size of the park is ideal for quick fresh air breaks during the day.

3. Burke-Gilman Trail

Quite possibly one of the most popular trails in the city, the Burke-Gilman Trail is expansive enough you’ll still find a quiet stretch to call your own. The former rail trail provides 27 miles of recreational possibility, from power cycling to leisurely strolls. The trail is also ADA accessible with access points at Gas Works Park and Log Boom Park.

4. Cheasty Greenspace

For more than a decade, Friends of Cheasty Greenspace Mt. View have been working with the community to improve this green space and forested parkland just west of the Columbia City neighborhood. The area is a work-in-progress so a bit on the rustic side, but you’ll find easier terrain along adjoining Cheasty Boulevard Trail. Either route provides stunning tree coverage and open space for an urban getaway.

5. Discovery Park

The largest park in the city, Discovery Park offers 534 acres of nature to explore with views of both the Cascade and Olympic Mountains. This grand space is perfect for forest walks and beachside picnics. The canopied trail is also great for cycling outings, while a stroll to the lighthouse offers fantastic views of Puget Sound.

6. East Montlake Park

Find breathtaking waterfront views in East Montlake Park where Montlake Cut joins Union Bay. Bring water and snacks for the day and take a hearty stroll along a hiking trail or spend some play time with the kids along the lakefront and watch sailboats pass by.

7. Fauntleroy Park

Take the dogs out for a refreshing hike in Fauntleroy Park and encourage the kids in a game of peek-a-boo along the extensive network of walking trails. With nearly 32 acres of parkland, you’ll find wildflowers and birds, boardwalks and viewing platforms.

8. Gas Works Park

Local favorite Gas Works Park has a large enough hill and play area, you can still find a cozy nook for family fun. Sail a kite on a breezy day or set up a picnic in this 20-acre park offering incredible waterfront and city skyline views. Take selfies with the Space Needle in view or watch seaplanes land and take off from Lake Union.

9. Interlaken Park

Head to this wooded area on the north end of Capitol Hill for a beautiful space popular with cyclers and hikers. Interlaken Park offers more than 51 acres of parkland with open space for kids to rough house, winding paths for family strolls and well-maintained cycling routes. Pack a thermos full of hot chocolate and enjoy even the coolest of mornings or evenings in this large urban park.

10. Kinnear Park

Let the pooches run wild in the off-leash dog play area at Kinnear Park. Or take a serene stride down the Lower Kinnear pathway leading to maple trees and glacial boulders. The upper park area is home to beautiful city views and a patch of greenspace perfect for families. This smaller park in Queen Anne can be busier in peak hours, so plan for an early morning or evening adventure.

11. Leschi Park

Dust off your canoes and kayaks because Leschi Park has a perfect nook for you to enjoy along Lake Washington. While out for some fresh air, take in the rolling hills and rose gardens, then join the kids with a game of catch in this quiet greenspace.

12. Lincoln Park

West Seattle’s Lincoln Park is a wonderful spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With miles of walking paths and cycling trails, you’ll find a nice stretch of park to enjoy the fresh air just off Puget Sound. Kick the soccer ball, camp out under a shady tree, or simply take in the waterfront views on a quiet afternoon.

13. Magnuson Park

Enjoy more than four miles of walking trails at Magnuson Park, with greenery extending along the shores of Lake Washington. Stroll by the community garden, take in nature at the wetland habitat or simply savor the salty breeze along the beach. There’s even an off-leash area for the pup to play in.

14. Pipers Creek Natural Area

Visit Pipers Creek Natural Area in North Seattle for a soothing watershed trail experience thanks to trickling water and lush greenery. Pipers Creek offers 220 acres of forest and meadow with stunning mountain views closer to the beach along Puget Sound. Bring tea and cookies to enjoy quiet time along the shoreline.

15. Ravenna Park

Just north of the University District, Ravenna Park offers a half mile of wooded ravine with jogging trails and green space to enjoy. As one of Seattle’s oldest city parks, visitors will find Douglas fir, Western Hemlock and coast redwood throughout. This is generally an uncrowded park suitable for dog walks and family play, particularly beautiful with morning light beaming through the trees.

16. University of Washington Botanic Gardens

The garden grounds at University of Washington Botanic Gardens remain open and welcoming to the public. Take in the cheerful colors of cheery trees and magnolia blossoms at this horticultural wonderland. Take a stroll with the kids to identify hyacinth plants and crocus blooms as natural fragrance fills the air.

17. Ursula Judkins Viewpoint

This quaint city park on the south end of Magnolia is perfect for a quiet outing. Ursula Judkins Viewpoint has a grassy lawn and stunning views of the city skyline and Cascade Mountains with just over two acres for kids to roam in the fresh air. This is a great viewing area to point out ferries and sailing boats and simply enjoy a quiet break outdoors.

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