10 In-City Forest Walks for Seattle and Eastside Families

With its 12 miles of trails, Seattle’s incredible Discovery Park offers a hike for every mood (and many other fun adventures to have with kids). Wander through the deep forest, look for ducks in the ponds, venture out on grassy headlands or descend the steep bluffs to Puget Sound.

Kids will love: The amazing updated playground! Find it near the East Parking Lot. The Environmental Learning & Visitor Center (currently closed, check the website for the reopening date), also by the East Parking Lot; wandering the beaches and tromping along wetland boardwalks.

Find it: 3801 Discovery Park Blvd., Seattle. This address corresponds to the East Parking Lot, where you’ll find the visitor center and indoor restrooms (once the building reopens). There are also North and South parking areas in the park.

Distance: Try the short Wolf Tree Nature Trail (park in the North Parking Lot, and note that dogs are not allowed on this particular trail) and add on a trip to the nearby duck ponds. Or park at the East or South Parking Lots, and hike the 2.8-mile Loop Trail. Note that you cannot park a vehicle at the beach area by the lighthouse and it’s a long trek to reach it by foot, with a steep uphill hike on the way back. Find a free trail map at kiosks around the park, or print one out at home.

Next up: Twin parks