8 Kid-Friendly Hikes Just 90 Minutes (or Less) From Seattle
Photo:
Huckleberries are in abundance in July along the trails of Paradise Valley Conservation Area. Credit: Nancy Chaney
Paradise Valley Conservation Area, Woodinville
Even though Paradise Valley is not far from State Route 522, hikers in this preserve are enveloped in a vast 800-acre park of woodlands, wetlands and streams, including one of the Sammamish River system’s most productive salmon streams. Look for frogs, salamanders, bald eagles, hawks, owls and deer.
Length of trail/difficulty: With 13 miles of trails, there is a hike for every level here. Some trails are designated for mountain bikers and equestrians; Cascara Trail is the area’s shortest hiker-only trail. The Washington Trails Association website notes that loops off the Mainline Trail offer vistas that include the Cascade Range.
Getting there: Find driving directions to Paradise Valley at the website. Know that the parking lot (room for approximately 40 cars) fills up quickly on weekends and on beautiful summer days. No parking pass is required.
Tips: This park has a skills course for mountain bike riders. Hikers are allowed on every trail, though. Keep your eyes out for both bikers and horses, and kindly step aside when you are on multi-use trails. Leashed dogs are allowed.
Next hike: wildlife refuge
