10 In-City Forest Walks for Seattle and Eastside Families

Local residents and visitors alike adore Seattle’s twin connected greenspaces of Cowen Park and Ravenna Park. Hidden in a steep ravine, a peaceful stream gurgles enticingly among lush ferns. Towering sequoias create mystical alcoves for nature play. A giant boulder and wooden boardwalks provide more fodder for young imaginations.

Kids will love: Wide, easy trails, splashing in the streams, getting muddy and playgrounds at both ends. The Cowen Park playground has some impressively high swings.

Find it: Cowen Park is located at 5849 15th Ave. N.E., Seattle. The trails begin north of the playground, and enter under the impressive 15th Avenue Northeast bridge. Find parking is along the street. Ravenna Park forms the other end of the greenspace at 5520 Ravenna Ave. N.E. Park in the small lot, or find on-street parking. Restrooms are located at both ends, but on the recent fall day I visited, they were locked.

Distance: It’s about 0.75 miles one way along the main Ravenna Ravine trail, also called the “Service Road” trail (don’t let the boring name put you off). More adventurous tots will enjoy following either the North or South Trails to return to your starting point, creating a 1.8-mile loop. Start at either park and wander as far as you like.

Next up: Nature island