Best Spring Hikes in the Seattle Area for Kids and Families
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A short and eerie tunnel along Discovery Park’s loop trail. Photo: iStock
Discovery Park, Seattle
In the heart of Seattle, kids can choose from several miles of trails traversing through different habitats at phenomenal Discovery Park. This urban nature reserve is accessible in all seasons and in all weather, and it will satisfy your need for green trees, birdsong and fresh air. (Check out our article on 10 fun things to do with kids at Seattle’s best park for more ideas.)
Favorite trails: For the 2.8-mile loop trail, park at the east parking lot, where the Environmental Learning and Visitor Center is located, which recently received ADA updates. A smaller parking area is open or you can find street parking along 36th Avenue West. The loop trail ambles through the woods, along bluffs with stunning views and through meadows; there’s even a sandy area where kids can dig. Try the whole loop or just do an out-and-back.
From the north parking lot (near the Daybreak Star Cultural Center), you can walk the short and fascinating Wolf Tree Nature Trail. Check out this guide to birds of Discovery Park if you’ve got budding birders in your crew.
Indoor options: The Environmental Learning and Visitor Center is a great spot to interact with the hands-on exhibits. Editor’s note: The visitor center is currently closed due to a maintenance issue, with an anticipated reopening date of June 1, 2025.
Bonus fun: Discovery Park updated its playground a few years ago and it’s fantastic; find it a couple of hundred yards south of the Environmental Learning and Visitor Center.
Next stop: Hike the dike
