Run Discovery Park Loop Trail
2-4 hours
Moderate
The Discovery Park Loop Trail is a remarkable gem in Seattle, showcasing the city's natural beauty and offering residents and visitors an immersive way to appreciate the outdoors. Spanning approximately 2.8 miles, this loop is not just a hiking pathway, but a journey through lush landscapes, scenic views, and an exploration of local wildlife. With its rich ecological diversity and historical significance, this trail is integral to Seattle's outdoor culture.
Special Features: Situated at the site of the former Fort Lawton, Discovery Park provides a rich historical context. The trail features stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound, particularly from the west side.
Amenities: Enjoy several picnic areas, restrooms, and a visitor center offering exhibits about the park’s history and ecology.
West Point Lighthouse
What Makes it Special: This historic lighthouse is a prized photograph spot along the loop. The view of the lighthouse against the backdrop of the sound at sunset is unforgettable.
Key Features: Learn about the history of the lighthouse while observing seasonal wildlife, such as seals and various species of birds.
Magnolia Bluff
Unique Aspects: This section of the loop provides breathtaking vantage points of the waterfront and the Seattle skyline, making it perfect for both photography and contemplation.
Visitor Amenities: Benches are situated along the bluff for resting and enjoying the scenery.
Originally established in 1973, Discovery Park serves as a sanctuary for over 270 species of birds and many other forms of wildlife, making it a biological treasure. The park's extensive trails were crafted for both enjoyment and conservation, preserving Seattle's natural beauty for future generations.
Best Times to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons during weekdays are less crowded and offer serene experiences.
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, water, sunscreen, and a camera for the fantastic views.
Driving Directions: Located approximately 20 minutes from downtown Seattle, taking WA-99 N is the most straightforward route.
Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.
Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.
7.50 miExplore the 2.8-mile Discovery Park Loop Trail in Seattle, offering moderate terrain through diverse landscapes like meadows, forests, and coastal views. Ideal for trail running, hiking, and birding, this trail is perfect for families and history enthusiasts.
7.80.09 miModerateExplore the 2.8-mile Loop Trail in Seattle's Discovery Park. With moderate difficulty, the route offers stunning views of Puget Sound and opportunities to spot wildlife like bald eagles. Open year-round, this coastal park can be busy in summer.
7.00.35 miEasyExplore Seattle's Discovery Park Loop Trail, a 2.8-mile easy route with stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Enjoy hiking, wildlife watching, and historic sites in Seattle's largest park. Perfect for families and beginner hikers.
0.80 miA two-hour, hands-on summer evening session teaching plant identification, ethical harvesting, and basic field first aid while offering optional pack conditioning.
0.80 miA two-hour evening walk that teaches edible plant identification, ethical harvesting and basic hiking first aid—an accessible primer for would-be backpackers.
1.10 miA three-day US Sailing Basic Keelboat course for beginners that teaches core skills, leads to certification, and includes a post-certification day sail opportunity.
A guided clinic that teaches transiting the Ballard Locks—rotating participants between Skipper and Crew to learn the nuances of moving between freshwater and saltwater.
1.77 miA 5‑day overnight US Sailing course out of Shileshole Bay Marina that teaches planning and passage skills for tides, currents and winds and leads to CPM certification.
1.77 miA two-consecutive-day, 9am–5pm program (16 hours total) teaching operation of a 37' twin‑engine power catamaran with bow thrusters.