What a beautiful place to visit. The area is gorgeous. One of the last forested areas in Seattle right next to Lake Washington. With views of Mount Rainier, glimpses of eagles, owls, shore birds and local wildlife it is a get away right in Seattle! The Audubon Society has a center where you can learn about local birds and their habitat, go on guided hikes and explore their gift shop which has all kinds of cool items to take home as a souvenir of a great day spent there. I highly recommend a visit. read more

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This is a great facility that the National Audubon Society has partnered with the City of Seattle with, in providing a space for those to learn more about the work of the Audubon Center and its mission to protect birds. While at Seward Park we decided to visit this Center. It's a welcoming space and open to the public. When we walked in we were greeted by an employee who mentioned that we could walk through the building, and recommended for us to check out the library. In the community room, there was a class being taught on emergency procedures for the wilderness. Very cool they offer classes and events here! The building is a mix of public and private space, so for the public areas, it's easy to go through it within an hour or so. The other rooms that are closed off are used for private offices and such. But I would encourage you to check out the library, which is the largest public room in the center. You can tell the space for the library was the sitting room for when the building's original use of when The Redfield Family lived upstairs. The bottom portion of the building was used as a concession stand back in the day. But the library now invites guests to check out the different books on wildlife, birds, conservation, travel, and anything else having to do with the great outdoors. Glad to have visited this historical building and learned about the Audubon Center's work. I would also suggest taking children here, as there were plenty of books for kids in the library, as well as taxidermy of birds that may be intriguing to them. The gift shop is mostly items suitable for children, too. read more

Seward Park Audubon Center - Library - Visitor Centers Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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A Birder's Perspective: My wife and I mainly visit parks and other outdoor spots so see and photograph birds so this review is from that perspective. Seward park is a gorgeous mix of some deep forest trails and a lovely long loop around the water. It's beautiful on both sunny and rainy days. It does however get crowded on sunny weekends especially in the areas near the parking lot and on the loop by the water. Being a peninsula has some nice advantages in terms of species diversity. The water and forest edge offer species of many ducks, geese, cormorants, the occasional kingfisher, warblers, etc. Also a couple of bald eagle nests in the park so we can be seen soaring around. The forest trails have some beautiful nuthatches, chickadees, woodpeckers, sparrows and more. For me the biggest highlight of this park has to be the barred owl. There are a few sites in the forests where they can be seen if lucky and often heard in the late afternoon/evening. I've only been here a couple of times in the last month since I moved to Seattle but it surely looks like this is going to be a frequent haunt for me. Definitely recommended if you like to watch birds or just enjoy a nice beautiful scenic day outdoors. read more

Seward Park Audubon Center - The beautiful "Barred Owl" often heard and sometimes seen. - Visitor Centers Near Me - Seattle, Washington

One of my favorite places to go--especially during Spring & Summer. No joke, it gets so packed! It is super hard to find parking, both, by the loop (life guard section) and the main lot (more by the bbq shelters and walking trail). However, it is worth the time to find parking! There are actually higher level parking grounds where they hold events (like the Pista). But I believe the "trail" is 2.4 miles or so around. I love how beautiful the view is, it's so nice, where you can see the I-90 bridge and Lake Washington. You are able to see the skyline of the city and the waters, all around, and the beauty of the nature is wonderful. There are bathrooms (a little dirty) but also trails within the park. The trails are not too bad, I haven't been in the trails in a few years, but they are clean and big enough where you have space but small enough to not get lost. At times, be aware of the lovely creatures in the park. Owls, eagles, squirrels, dogs, you name it! Haha, people often spot owls or rare birds here. I enjoy this place not only for their 2.4 mile walk around (where many people work out), but I love the playground for the kids, and most importantly, I appreciate the richness of diversity here at Seward Park. I see so many ethnicities here, it is beautiful! I always observe the differences and beauty of people! You will hardly see the same people there because so many people are drawn to this great park. If you come here when it's hot (in Seattle, it's quite rare) beat the rush! Come early to find parking (I'm talking before 11 AM). And reserve the shelters (I think it's first come first serve). Have fun! They have tennis courts too. Lots of things to do here also. I forgot to mention, fishing is fun along with BBQ'n, "hiking", walking/jogging, bicycling, tennis, bring the kids to the playground, swimming, kayaking/canoeing, boating and water activities etc. PS. Lake Washington BLVD is also beautiful and LOVELY!!! read more

Beautiful park with lots of parking. Unfortunately, by the time we got here, it started raining and the wind picked up. We didn't get to spend much time at this area, but will definitely put this on our list to visit when the weather is warmer. The view is gorgeous the the "loop trail" looked promising. Next time! read more

Seward Park is a 2.6 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Seattle, WA that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. The park is heavily used for runners as well as families as there are playgrounds as well. Also just south of the hydro plane races that happen every August at Seafair. There is an environmental center there as well but only open in the summer. Definitely a fun place to go with families or when you feel the need to get out for a run! Explore a little - taking various paths then follow up by walking around the beach path, you can get a decent workout in. Enjoyable venue with easy access and something to appeal to most folks. There are awesome views of Mt. Rainier from the south end - sunrise/sunset great for photo-op. There's a wonderful playground near the entrance with even a zip line for little folks. There is an actual beach with a designated area for swimming (Cons: Canadian geese and ducks leaves droppings heavily in the children beach area. Not going to let my girls swim here.) Lots of places to sit and watch the ducks. Since this park is only 1.5 miles from my house, I see this being a regular stop for me. read more

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Seward Park is one of my favorite parks in Seattle. It is a beautiful, calm, area that is very popular in the spring/summer. PROS: Location/ambiance: The peninsula that forms the park is located in southeast Seattle. The park is well-traveled by walkers, strollers, runners, cyclists and dogs in all seasons. It is a scenic trail with beautiful views of the Lake Washington, the skyline and the I-90 bridge. The trees provide some shaded areas, good for those scorching hot days. The paved trail stretches for 2.4 miles with some hiking trails accessible through the middle. Activities: There is an environmental learning center next the the playground. There are also areas for boat launching, swimming, picnicking, bbqing, fishing and site seeing. I also often see many people bird watching. CONS: Parking: Not much spaces in the parking lot. Most of the time I would have to park on the street along the residential area. Gnats: There are so many gnats in some area of the trails. But is it the great outdoors so there are bugs everywhere. Beware: I heard of some sketchy people attacking female joggers. Becareful jogging by yourself when it is not too busy! TIP: Come early to find parking. read more

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One of Seattle's greatest parks. On beautiful lake Washington, there is so much to do here. I can only imagine what kayaking is like here! The trail is a decent 2.4 miles with scenic resting stops along the way. Benches overlook various view points on lake Washington. Everything is well kept- playground, beach, bathrooms, etc. it feels safe, at least at my visits. Nothing loud, sketchy or rude. I've never had a problem parking, though it does get tight at peak times. Huge park within city limits, check it out. read more

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Seward Park is one of my favorite places in Seattle. It's absolutely beautiful, and offers a great escape from the concrete jungle that is city living. The views are particularly spectacular, from snowy Mt. Rainier to glittery downtown. It's got a paved loop that runs along the outside (by the water), and some neat trails that ramble through the woods in the center. There's a playground for kids and plenty of picnic tables throughout. Thankfully, the bicyclists seem to prefer Lake Washington Blvd, so you don't have to deal with too many of them, although they do close off the inner loop to bike races from time to time. If you come on a weekend morning, be forewarned that they often hold large races for various causes here. Not the biggest deal, but it can get crowded. My dog Maple loves Seward Park as much as I do, although if you do have a dog, beware: there is a guy who rides his bike around the park with his giant husky off leash. The husky is pretty out of control and will run right up to your dog. Unfortunately, this inconsiderate dog owner is very much a regular. Most other people are good about keeping their dogs on leash at least around the paved loop. But if you do go on any of the wooded trails, off leash dogs are way more common. Just a heads up! read more

Seward Park Audubon Center - Winter morning at Seward Park. - Visitor Centers Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Seward Park is my Greenlake replacement. There are some pros and cons. Pros: Even when it's busy it doesn't seem busy, nice wide path, spectacular views of Mt. Rainier, other views of nice things, plenty of space to have a picnic without feeling like you're right next to other people, water access, usually plenty of parking, and it's not a meat market (which may also be a con depending on who you are). Cons: The walking path isn't as long as Greenlake, it's not a meat market (which may be a pro for some). There isn't anywhere too nearby to get coffee or snacks, besides the ice cream truck that's always parked there. read more

Seward Park Audubon Center - Visitor Centers Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Beautiful and huge park in South Seattle. I would come here more often if I lived closer, but Green Lake still takes the cake as my favorite because of awesomeness and location. You will find a variety of activities to do at Seward Park, whether it's swimming, running, having a picnic or just laying out in the sun. The views are amazing too! I've never been to Seafair, but now I get why they have it here. There were so many yachts out on the water, it made for a really awesome picture. It's pretty crowded on nice sunny days as expected, so you may have to park on the street if the lots are full. And apparently they have Bicycle Sundays where Lake Washington Blvd is closed. It didn't affect me all that much, but just a heads up to others who usually drive on that road. read more

I have to admit I never thought about yelping a city park before.. but why the h3ll not.. What can I say, I love Seward Park. Bicycle, run, walk, skate or stroll it. You will love it! This is Ecotopia my friends! Seward Park truly has rustic charm.. it really has a "your on a mystical lake".. 'far away'.. feel. yet in the city! Isn't this what every park should strive for? The natural old growth forest is preserved beautifully, in a mostly undeveloped.. yet, at the same time, there are plenty of picnic bench areas available, along with a theater, awesome lil kids playground and a park learning center/office onsite. I really enjoy the design! Seward park is definitely one of the best city parks! It has a mix of paved roads (perfect and LARGE enough to SHARE with all bikers, skaters, walkers-- there is never a problem sharing trail here unlike.. 'ahem'.. some 'lake' parks ;) Neatly designed winding woodsy dirt trails and some steep lil hills to boot, you can get your work out here. My favorite is that you can travel a different trail route several times over the hill through forest before repeating.. Trail along the lake is perfect to stop and swim on a comfy rock beach on a hot summer day (yes, there are like 3 weeks where you may feel hot enough to do just this!) Tip: I agree with another post, if at odd hours, meaning really anything other than a weekend, I'd carry your dog or mace spray here ladies. But do enjoy!! (Skaters heads up, it is a lil potholed right now.) read more

My boo-thang and I wanted to take a hike on a warm Saturday afternoon, and after research on millions of others Washington rugged hikes that were at least an hour away from Bellevue, we decided to try out Seward Park first. We both had never been and only knew it to be the untouchable land by the blue angels show. It was everything I could have expected from a Washington public park and I am thrilled we took the drive down there. read more

Seward Park Audubon Center - Visitor Centers Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Just finished the loop. ....sunny refreshing beautiful. .. My walk was on point today with all awesome views and cool breeze blowing on my face. One of the best places to rejuvenation and peace of mind. Unwind and disconnect from the World this is the best place read more

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Living up the frm Seward is awesome. Views are great to watch frm the balcony. Everyone I know goes here. It's the other go to spot on sunny days. People like to stay in the front area of it, where the water isnt the best, but further into the trail, there's great spots! Also a fun area to jet ski and launch your boat for a day out in the sun! Multiple things to do, like walking the trail, bbqs, the park, tennis courts and water activities. Some of the areas have a place you can bbq or have a campfire! read more

Seward Park Audubon Center - Afternoon run - Visitor Centers Near Me - Seattle, Washington

This park has been great with hiking trails, water access, several picnic shelters, and an awesome playground. Their is ample parking in the springtime, but I'm guessing it fills up in the summer on the weekends. This is a great place to take your dog for an easy hike. Their isn't much change in elevation and not too many places to go but still fun. So if you are in the area this is a solid park with several offerings for people of all ages and abilities. read more

A wonderful park. Yelp helped us find great places to visit during our trip to Seattle and there was no shortage of parks and outdoor trails to see. We watched a couple feed the ducks and birds when we arrived and then walked around the whole park, which is about 2.4 miles. There is a cute playground area for the kids (and me, a big kid who can't resist the swings), gorgeous scenery overlooking the lake and the forest, wildlife, and nice walking/running/biking trails. The weather was beautiful and sunny when we visited and it was a lovely way to spend a few hours. read more

Seward Park Audubon Center - The mysterious heron swimming away - Visitor Centers Near Me - Seattle, Washington

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On a sunny day in Seattle, I far prefer strolling around Seward park than Greenlake. Here we have beautiful lake views all around and wooded trails to vary the scenery. The park juts out into the lake and is unfortunately out of the way enough that I haven't driven out here too many times to visit all the features. There are multiple picnic areas, playground, an outdoor amphitheater, and great views. Other reviews touch on the parking. Overall I like this park and the views available around the 2.5 mile trail. read more

I visited this park for the first time today and it was nicer than I expected. Seeing the cute geese there with their babies was a cute surprise! The view of the ocean was beautiful on the main trail. Also, I loved the hiking trails. It was quiet and peaceful, with a good amount of inclination for a good workout. I'm definitely coming back here to get my cardio done. read more

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I came here to watch the sunset this past weekend and couldn't have asked for a better view or atmosphere. The park wasn't crowded and we easily found a bench to enjoy the sunset. I love that there is a loop trail, and I plan on one day running it. I hope to come back a few more times before summer is over! read more

Seward Park Audubon Center - Our view from a bench! Beautiful! - Visitor Centers Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Home. It's beautiful and active I want to try the clay pottery classes soon Couldn't ask for anything better glad I'm here! read more

Seward Park Audubon Center - Visitor Centers Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Absolute gem in Seattle and arguably the best of all the many parks in Seattle. The scenery and the long paved trail next to the water absolutely can not be beat! Plenty of benches along the way and pretty quiet for the most part. A must visit! read more

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Picnic in the warm sun!! Or the cold sun. Or get a run on the trails. Or around the cement circumferential path. Really It doesn't matter what you do: just get here. Seward Park is a beautiful place to do whatever. See more pix in theFlickr group: http://www.flickr.com/groups/sewardpark/ Joining the group would be even better read more

If you had to pick one park to get a taste of Seattle, you could do worse than go to Seward Park. It's pretty much got all the Seattle basics: Lake Washington shoreline (it is, after all, just a peninsula sticking out into the lake), view of Mt Rainier, view of downtown, and an incredibly leafy (old-growth?) forest interior. There's good asphalt trails for biking or a leisurely walk, a large picnic area, and you can even bring your boat here and anchor in the little cove on the north side. It's also the starting point of Olmsted Way, a walking path which goes 18 miles up the Lake Washington shoreline and then cuts in to Green Lake. If I ever move back, I'll definitely have to make a day of that sometime. read more

Seward Park Audubon Center - Visitor Centers Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Pretty views, a paved path, and not too too many people. I liked how you could stroll/bike/run and fit in with the scene. You can also picnic, nap, read, or sunbathe. Not much of a beach (although some people were acting like the stones made a beach) but you can still enjoy the water. Be ready for buggy patches, particularly around the more wooded parts of the trail. Oh, and although the signs said the trail was only 2 miles, you pass the 2 mile marker a fair bit before you get to the end. It's not that long, but it is on a hot day when you forgot to carry water with you! It can get hard to find parking in the lots, but you can find some in the residential areas nearby. read more

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My sanity is manufactured here in the form of endogenous opioid polypeptide compounds. I have to run around the peninsula a couple of times in order to collect it - but I don't mind. I drag my big jelly ass around the trail and smile at the puppies, search the west shore of Mercer Island for Paul Allen's compound, pretend for a minute that I'm running through the woods and enjoy the shade or shelter afforded me by the Evergreen cover, and conjure things like the word "Badassica" in my endorphin addled little pea-brain. After I've wanted to quit three or four times and sprinted up the trail past the playground, just when I think my heart may explode in my chest, there's the big old lake and all it's prettiness, and aren't we all so lucky this shit is free? I mean, JESUS GOD IT'S SO BEAUTIFUL!!! I LOVE YOU LAKE!! I LOVE YOU RHODENDENDRON BUSH!!! HELLO MR. CHERRY BLOSSOM AND MISS TULIP!!! I LOVE YOU ALL SO FUCKING MUCH!! I can't believe I actually used to pay for drugs. read more

I had never been to Seward Park until this morning. Man, have I been missing out. Meeting up with Dawn, we went out into the rain, and ran around the trail here. Ok, really, I jogged/speed walked and probably slowed her down more than was fair, but I digress. I cannot imagine a more wonderful day to experience Seward Park. Being from the PNW, I am one of those annoying 'natives' who not only doesn't mind the rain, I actually like it most of the time. Being out in it today was awesome. At one point Dawn commented that running here at this park, in this weather, almost felt like you were getting more oxygen than just running elsewhere. That's a pretty good description of how it felt. Near empty when we arrived, lightly raining with fall in full glory, it was breathtaking. As we made our way around the number of walkers increased and plenty of 'good mornings' and smiles were shared. I hope *she* didnt think I slowed her down too much, so that we can keep running here together on our way to the Jingle Bell Run. read more

This is a lovely park in the south end -- just don't go after hours because that's when it starts to get hood if you know what I mean. I see lots of retired folks and moms and their kids during the day. Great views around Lake Washington and at some point you can even see downtown Seattle. It's a great park for everyone. The loop is perfect for walks and for kids on their bikes. It's a typical stop for cyclists who do the south Lake Washington loop. There are tennis courts, a playground with a zip line and even outdoor lake swimming area with lifeguards during the warmer summer months. There's also covered area for BBQs and picnics. I've even seen areas where people are fishing. Just be aware of all the signs of poison ivy unless you want to land yourself in a very uncomfortable situation. This is also a popular location for organized events such as the Walk for Rice, Alzheimer's Walk, Seattle to Portland bike ride, etc. Weekdays parking doesn't seem to be an issue, but the weekends tend to be more of a challenge. read more

Seward Park has all of my favorite shades of green -- Olive green, moss green, kelly green, myrtle green, sea green, hunter green, army green, asparagus green, gray-asparagus green, forest green, emerald green, office green, chartreuse green, olive drab green. There is so much green when you walk through the Spine Trail, which takes you through the forest area of the park! Spine trail is easy to follow as it cuts from one end of the loop trail to the other end and is probably about 3/4 miles in length. It's a gorgeous little walk. This park doesn't have a winding trail system like Discovery, but the 2.5 mile loop will take you along Lake Washington and is a nice little jaunt. Playground for the kids, tennis courts, and a lake beach with clear water and no algae (unheard of in Chicago). A lot of families, bikers, and rollerbladers all out enjoying Seattle. This park has a lot of love poured into it and it is well taken care of by the community. Check out Seward Park's website with a list of events such as first Saturday walking tours. http://www.sewardpark.org/ read more

My friend and I came here to shoot a video for the Nine Inch Nails Film Festival. He wanted me to wear a suit and run around with a briefcase and a camouflage toy gun. I felt silly running around with that fake toy gun and everyone saying, "Hey, nice gun!" Video: http://youtube.com/watch?v=SToL2qO2QSY But I am not rating those buttholes who were making fun of my toy gun, Seward Park had nothing to do with that. It is a cool park and you would advance in life if you come here and climb on stuff. Other things named Seward: William H. Seward http://www.sonofthesouth.net/leefoundation/civil-war/william-h-seward.jpg Richard Seward http://www.co.washington.or.us/sheriff/media/photos/seward.jpg Seward, Alaska http://my-photo-blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/04/Seward-Chamber-blog.jpg James Seward http://www.galleryone.com/images/seward/seward-prayer.jpg Seward Johnson http://www.kilmerhouse.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/09/seward-johnson-1928.jpg And Larry Seward http://www.diversityhotwire.com/business/leader_profiles_seward_482_600.jpg I only hope that this review was useful to you. Zipzap Zubidy Bop! read more

I have been to Seattle a handful of times to visit family and somehow didn't know about Seward Park until this trip. ERMERGERSH! Guys... this place is beyond beautiful. Tennis courts, a full of fun playground complete with a zip-line, and trails overlooking the water... I'm sure I could spend a full day here and never have an ounce of boredom. My cousin had her wedding ceremony in a spot overlooking the water up a little ways up a trail. My one star docking comes from my experience trying to figure out where I was in this massive park -the signage is a little lacking. Before you go, be sure to look at the map to decide where is best to park. It is for certain I will be running around these trails and hopping in the clean water when I don't have wedding attire on. Thank you, Seattle! read more

The sun whispered in my ear this morning and told me it was actually going to behave itself today, and I just had to get outside. An hour later we found ourselves traveling through the lovely Ranier Valley on our way to Seward park. This place has everything a park needs--running trails, wildlife, swimming area (not advisable in April, though we did see one loon in his swim trunks heading that way), playground for the kiddies, and various historical billboards with which to educate oneself. The 2.4-mile loop was a great distance, even for someone with a busted leg like me (not my words--we overheard an older man comment on my condition as he passed). They're undergoing a Reforestation Process, which looked a little sad to my untrained eye. I'm not in the biz, so I can't know for sure, but does pulling the branch off one tree and sticking it in the ground count as reforestation? Either way, A+ for effort! It's clearly marked with signage, but make sure you watch out for Poison Oak. read more

Fitness-locks and the Three Gyms: Once upon a time, there was a girl named Fitness-locks wandering through Seattle, in search for the perfect place to work-out. While walking through Belltown, she spots Zum. The gym is beautiful but after learning of their annual membership contracts and fees, she thinks, "Too much!". She continues along, and tries the facilities at the SAC. "Way too '80s," she claims. Fitness-locks doesn't want to whip out her Flash Dance circa workout outfits. So, she goes and works out at 24-Hr Fitness. Neon lights and a herd of gym goers battling for treadmills. Men... I mean bears bathed in cologne and she-bears plastered with full-on make-up. "Scary! Too meat-market-ish!" she sniffs. On her way along Lake Washington, she stumbles upon Mt. Baker Rowing and Sailing Center. Closed for the winter. Even though Fitness-locks is very tired and discouraged, she manages to keep moving along. Suddenly, in the near-distance, she spots a beautiful forest. She runs and runs two miles towards the lush foliage surrounding Andrew's Bay. Fitness-locks immediately joins the other runners enjoying the 2.5 paved loop, and mini-trails inside the park. And as she looks out onto the water, she spots a brown animal fishing for food... nope, not a bear but an eagle swooping in for its catch. "Ahh, Seward Park is just right!" read more

Man, a park like this makes me so sad I don't live in Seattle! Beautiful, just absolutely beautiful vistas abound at Seward Park. And as a runner, I was loving that there were miles and miles of trails to be found. Flat, uphill, and everything in between. We came up here to run in the Good Karma 5K last month. If we weren't rushing out to catch a Rainiers game later that day, we would've loved to be able to take in more of this beautiful park. Feels kind of silly to review a park, but we enjoyed Seward Park too much to not leave our two cents. Jealous of you Seattle! read more

One time I really freaked myself out at this park. I had no idea Seward Park was there; I had never actually gone to a Sea Fair, had never had reason to wander off Rainier Ave, never driven that far south on Lake Washington Blvd. One time I ran real early in the morning. It was rainy, and dark, so I had on a rain jacket and the hood was up over my ears. As I ran along one of the trails I couldn't help but start thinking of the Blair Witch. I felt like I was so out in the middle of nowhere, and the sound of my footsteps were echoing in my ears, covered by my hood. I could just see weird monsters and tree spirits lurking at the edge of my vision, around that tree, under that log. My dog suddenly freaked out and started running, and then I freaked myself out and ran terrified out of the park. So... I love running around the edge -- almost a 3 mile circuit. Where Greenlake is always so damned crowded, smells funky in parts, and so urban surrounded with houses and shops, Seward Park is a natural haven. On the southern edge you have this amazing view of Mt. Rainier. The eastern half you're looking across the water at Mercer Is. The northern edge looks out upon Lake Washington with the 90 in mid-ground and Mt. Baker in the distance. And the west side looking at the houses and any boats that are anchored. I jog with my dog, who loves the park. I walk by myself when I need some alone time. And I look forward to hiking with family when they come to visit, just to make the totally jealous of the natural treasure I have in my back yard. I just do it in daylight. read more

Three Haiku's for Seward Park An ancient fir stands Nestled among other trees Deep in Seward Park In Lake Washington The Bailey Peninsula's Green finger beckons Not in a weird way Cuz it's just trees, after all Sorry about that read more

This park is very popular on any mediocre weather day. If the weather is better, parking my be very hard to find. Lots of history and wildlife to this place. A good place to walk your dog, bring kids, swim (in late summer), explore and much more. FUN FACT: The water level in Lake Washington rises in the summer by 5ish feet. In the winter, you can walk along the south beach read more

You walk in a straight line and end up back where you started. I saw that in Bugs Bunny once, where Bugs hit the baseball so hard that it traveled all the way around the world getting stamped by the TSA and landed back at home plate before the player reached home. Based on that cartoon, I walked 7,926 miles in 45 minutes. Not my best time but I just had a heavy meal. There were several places at this small little park where one could skip stones. That's neat. Got up to nine, though one might have been a splash. I also nailed a log about 200 feet in the distance with a rock on my third throw. You can't see it but I'm patting myself on the back for that one. While I was there, fish kept jumping out of the water. The path is nice but it's not spectacular. It's pleasant. Seward Park is pleasant. It would be a nice place to sit on a warm weekday, when fewer people are out and the water glistens, but during the colder months in Seattle (September through June) I can't say I'd be drawn to this place over somewhere like Greenlake. read more

This park is INCREDIBLE. I am giving it 4 out of 5 stars for 2 reasons. 1. My car was broken into about 2 years ago while I was running at the park. 2. The way the park is shaped (like a peninsula), it makes it a bit dangerous for a woman to be out by herself. There is really no place to get away other than through the forest. I used to think about that when I was out running by myself at 4 & 5pm. I'd say it's safer on sunny days and weekends when there are more people around. With forest on one side & Lake Washington on the other, this is a fantastic park to run/walk/jog. It is absolutely beautiful. If you're in a rush, you can also cut through the forest to shorten the distance. Although, once again... use caution. My only advice would be to lock your car up & take EVERYTHING with you. I didn't have anything showing, not even the faceplate for my stereo. Yet, they still got in and found the things I had hidden under seats and in the glove compartment. The park is too great to miss, just be careful with your valuables. read more

I had a special day bicycling with one of my daughters today at Seward Park. Her sister got invited to a birthday party, so she and I were left with a morning to ourselves. She's 4 and really likes to ride her bike but most parks where I live don't have a place with adequate paved trails or bike paths. Taking her to a schoolyard to ride on their paved areas may fit the bill for her, but I get bored of having classrooms and playchips for scenery. Seward Park, that I hadn't been to in years, offered a nice paved trail (with some occasional tree root damage), awesome views of water, mountains, and people, and being a loop, you know exactly what you're in for and amenities are always close-by. We were outfitted with her petite training wheeled bicycle and my old mountain bike with wide "city" tires. The pathway is largely flat and about 2 miles around the "island" -- no really an island, but you do get that feeling at times. It also sometimes can feel uncrowded, despite being set in an urban area. The perimeter trail, with the exception of the portion that's at the southern end of the park, is as wide as a city street -- possibly 20 feet wide. That's really comforting compared to portions of the Cedar River Trail in Renton, where it might possibly only be 6-8 feet wide. We stopped halfway through the ride and had a small snack and water break. I let her choose the location, as she wanted to plop down next to the water and sit in the shade. The cool breeze was nice off of the water. There's also plenty of shade along the ride, so you never feel too cooked under the sun -- but we still slathered on the sunscreen ("sun scream" as my youngest calls it). I hear next weekend (June 9th?) is one of June's bicycle Saturdays where Lake Washington Boulevard will be closed to car traffic. If this is the case, Seward Park and Lk WA Blvd would make a great longer ride. Chances are we could have gone riding a lot longer today, but it did get quite warm by midday today so I didn't want to push it too much. If your kids do get tired of riding or otherwise need a break, there are slides and swings at the south end of the park near the larger parking area. I didn't give five stars today for the following reasons: some bicycle paths do have quite a bit of root damage and/or "alligatoring" -- pavement cracked up so much it resembles alligator skin, parking was completely full possibly due to a charity event being hosted there by a radio station (amply on-street parking nearby just outside the park), and construction fencing blocked off some pathways between the end of the loop in the north end and the start of the loop in the south, forcing bicyclists to mingle with vehicle traffic (oh, yeah -- big thanks to the jerk in the red pick-up who blasted through the parking area when we were halfway walking in a marked crosswalk!) Lastly, suggestions for a spin-off trip on the drive or ride home include: stopping by Bike Works, a non-profit community-based bike shop that has used bikes (mostly kids') and bike parts and repair, the bakery in Columbia City -- I believe it gets rave reviews from Yelpers. Both of these places are located on either side of Ferdinand, a street off Rainier Avenue South. read more