The Best Hikes for Kids Who Hate to Hike

The prize: A freshwater stream and saltwater beach offer splashy options for spring and summer play.

The hike: This Edmonds park is a popular local destination for families. What starts as a wide dirt trail then descends sharply into Lunds Gulch, leveling out along a creek and within a half-mile of the beach. Parents will appreciate the deep shade of the mature forest. Bring waders or old tennis shoes to walk through the tunnel, which carries the creek under the railroad tracks and to the beach — you’ll be sloshing through water. Check the water level and your comfort level first, of course. Play on the beach, but save some energy for the climb back up to the parking lot.

Details: 2.5 miles round trip, 400 feet elevation gain. No parking permits required.