Sammamish River Trail wilderness guide
Regional Trail · WA

Sammamish River Trail

The Sammamish River Trail is a popular multi-use trail in Washington, offering scenic views along the Sammamish River corridor, ideal for walking, biking, and wildlife observation.

Regional TrailN/A (trail corridor and adjacent open spaces)4+ Trails

Designation

Regional Trail

Total Wilderness Area

N/A (trail corridor and adjacent open spaces)

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Sammamish River Trail

The Sammamish River Trail is a popular multi-use trail in Washington, offering scenic views along the Sammamish River corridor, ideal for walking, biking, and wildlife observation.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Sammamish River Trail extends approximately 10 miles from Marymoor Park in Redmond to the northern shore of Lake Washington in Bothell, Washington. The trail follows the Sammamish River, a vital waterway that connects Lake Sammamish to Lake Washington, tracing a flat, paved route suitable for hikers, cyclists, joggers, and skaters. Surrounded by suburban landscapes, wetland areas, and patches of riparian forest, the trail provides a green corridor habitat for a variety of bird species, beavers, and aquatic wildlife. Established on former railroad and utility corridors, the pathway showcases an adaptive reuse of land for recreational purposes, linking major parks and urban centers. Visitors enjoy diverse activities including biking, birdwatching, fishing near the riverbanks, and paddling in the adjacent waterways. Key landmarks along the trail include the historic Redmond Town Center nearby, several educational signage spots regarding local ecology, and access points to Marymoor Park, which features extensive recreational amenities. The trail is family-friendly with mostly flat terrain and offers enhanced safety through well-maintained surfaces and designated crossings. The Sammamish River Trail is a vital recreational asset in King County, connecting communities while enabling year-round outdoor activities in a suburban setting.

Field Guide · Regional Trail
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Sammamish River Trail

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Marymoor Park trailhead – large regional park with extensive amenities✦ Sammamish River wetlands – excellent birdwatching and nature observation✦ Connection to Burke-Gilman Trail – extends regional trail connectivity✦ Scenic river vistas with opportunities for fishing and paddle access
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Sammamish River Trail

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Sammamish River Trail
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Sammamish River Trail
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Sammamish River Trail
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Sammamish River Trail
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Sammamish River Trail
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Sammamish River Trail
Park Recreation

Running

Available in Sammamish River Trail
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Sammamish River Trail.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free public access with no permits or fees required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Sammamish River Trail

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Redmond, Washington
⌖ 1.23 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Redmond, Washington

With its lush landscapes and thriving trails, Redmond offers a perfect blend of tech innovation and outdoor adventures. Enjoy hiking, biking, or paddling in picturesque settings.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Kirkland, Washington
⌖ 2.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kirkland, Washington

Kirkland, Washington offers lakeside adventure with hiking, biking, and paddling on Lake Washington. Its mix of urban trails, waterfront parks, and nearby wildlands makes it a great base for outdoor fun year-round.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Bellevue, Washington
⌖ 4.95 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bellevue, Washington

Bellevue, Washington is an urban gateway to nature, offering diverse adventures like hiking, biking, and kayaking. Experience the lush Pacific Northwest landscapes within reach of city comforts.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Woodinville, Washington
⌖ 5.44 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Woodinville, Washington

Woodinville offers outdoor lovers a blend of scenic hiking, biking, and paddling adventures amid vineyards and forested parks. Its accessible trails and rivers invite exploration from late spring through early fall.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Bothell, Washington
⌖ 6.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bothell, Washington

Bothell, WA offers outdoor lovers easy access to riverside paddling, forest hiking, and trail running along the scenic Sammamish River Trail. Its blend of peaceful parks and suburban comforts makes it a great base for active day trips.

Late spring through early fall
Explore Town
Sammamish, Washington
⌖ 6.66 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sammamish, Washington

Sammamish, Washington offers a mix of lake paddling, forest hiking, and biking trails perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. From calm waters at Lake Sammamish State Park to nearby mountain forests, it’s a great spot for a variety of outdoor adventures in every season.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Sammamish River Trail

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Kirkland SUP: Full-Hour Demo to Try Before You Buy
ADVEXPEDITION
Kirkland, Washington
SUPADV Bookable

Kirkland SUP: Full-Hour Demo to Try Before You Buy

A supervised demo session for paddlers who want to test boards and styles before purchasing, with on-site wetsuit fittings and a note to check conditions before you book.

SUPPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
A Full Day of Power: 24-Hour Battery Rental in Kirkland
ADVEXPEDITION
Kirkland, Washington
SUPADV Bookable

A Full Day of Power: 24-Hour Battery Rental in Kirkland

Rent a portable battery for a full 24 hours in Kirkland from Perfect Wave LLC — this guide explains what the rental covers, costs, and the requirements to pick one up and return it.

SUPPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip