10 In-City Forest Walks for Seattle and Eastside Families

Beautiful Saint Edward State Park is a popular natural area and protected gem on the Eastside. Mature forest entices children to explore wild paths. Choose between a mostly level shady walk or a steeper trek down to the shores of Lake Washington.

Kids will love: The beach, the Grotto and the giant castle playground. (And parents will love the swanky lodge, right in the park!)

Find It: 14445 Juanita Dr. N.E., Kenmore. You’ll need a Discover Pass to park here because it’s a state park (purchase a day pass onsite if needed).

Distance: There are 7.5 miles of trails in the park. Toddlers will enjoy the half-mile Orchard Loop, offering just enough roots and curves to make things interesting. If you take the Seminary Trail down to the beach, it adds another half-mile each way, and you can choose which trail to hike back up based on energy levels.

Next up: Horse-spotting spot

^{Image credit: Sinziana Gafitanu/Flickr CC}