As park lands reopen for the summer months, we remind you to maintain good physical distancing. The Seattle Times has a list of what that looks like on the trail. Now is also not the time to take unnecessary risks. With that in mind, we present 5 trails to get you outside. Be sure to have a back-up plan in mind if you arrive and find a crowd.
The Seattle area is home to miles and miles of low-elevation trails that can be hiked all year long. From meandering river strolls to waterfall favorites and island getaways, here are five great year-round hikes near Seattle.
Baker Lake
Distance: Up to 8 miles roundtrip
Views of a snow-capped peak? Old growth forests? A pretty alpine lake? The Baker Lake hike has all that and then some. And because the high point hits just 1,000 feet, you’re almost bound to be snow-free all year long.
Boulder River
Distance: Up to 8.5 miles roundtrip
If a meandering stroll along a crystalline Northwest river is what you’re looking for, search no more. The trail along the Boulder River offers lovely views of not only the river but more than a few classic waterfalls.
Old Sauk River Trail
Distance: Up to 6 miles roundtrip
Bundle up the kids and hit this pleasant stroll of a hike, which wanders along the Sauk River, a National Wild and Scenic River that eventually joins the Skagit River. Popular with anglers, the river is home to migrating steelhead, which draw eagles, ospreys and other wildlife.
Iceberg Point
Distance: 3 miles roundtrip
For a little more off-season adventure, take a day trip out to Lopez Island and hike Iceberg Point. It’s an easy walk that’s packed with incredible island vistas, lovely trees, views of the Olympic Mountains on clear days and, if you’re lucky, maybe a seal or two.
Discovery Park
Distance: Varies
Seattleites don’t have to go far to scratch their hiking itch in the winter. The famed Discovery Park is laced with nearly 12 miles of trails that can take you to everything from a lighthouse and beaches to natural wetlands.
Getting there: These days, everyone relies on smartphones, GPS and other technologies to get around. While these can be critical tools, they’re not the only ones to rely on. Dead batteries, poor cell coverage and other hiccups can hamper technology’s effectiveness. Thoroughly research your trailhead destination in advance; bring a map, and check with the Forest Service — or any other applicable agency — to get the latest on road and trail conditions. It’s also helpful to check out recent trip reports on sites like the Washington Trails Association to see what other hikers are encountering.
Image of Mount Blum and Baker Lake by PapaBear
