While everyone knows about the Space Needle and Pike Place Market, we thought you’d want to hear about our amazing natural wonders this month! From parks on the water, to trails to hidden gems - there’s bound to be some adventures worthy of adding to your bucket list. Let’s begin!
Discovery Park is the largest city park in Seattle, encompassing over 500 acres of natural area and most of the former Fort Lawton site. Enjoy this exceptionally beautiful sanctuary from quiet wooded trails and pause to view wildlife along the protected tidal beaches. Also in King County, is the 53-acre Bellevue Botanical Garden. Take your time wandering through the various display gardens, restored woodlands, and native wetlands that can be found here. Evans Creek Preserve is another unique stop. This 179-acre historic farmstead offers convenient birdwatching platforms, ADA-accessible trails, and hillside forest paths to explore.
To the north lies Snohomish County, which also borders the waters of Puget Sound. Stop to visit the historic lighthouse at Mukilteo Lighthouse Park - then prepare to be entertained by seagulls chasing ferries and kids chasing kites across the grassy playing fields. Kayak Point is another saltwater park consisting of 428 acres of RV & yurt camping, gorgeous lengthy shoreline trails, and all sorts of marine life to see including sea lions, whales, and funny-looking cormorants! When you are ready for a Mountain Loop Scenic Drive, head east for a 55-mile loop through Arlington, Darrington, and Granite Falls. Breathe in the tranquil mountain air, fragrant evergreen forests, and meandering streams on this fantastic route.
South of Seattle, Pierce County’s Ruston Way Waterfront starts with a 2-mile length along old fishing piers, beautiful seafood restaurants built out over the water, and pocket parks leading to the 5-mile trail at Point Defiance Park. Point Defiance Park’s 760-acres hosts a zoo & aquarium, a breathtaking old-growth forest among the gardens, and more incredible waterfront to experience.
Wherever you are in the Metro Puget Sound region, our natural wonders, wild forestlands, and beautiful waters are only a short walk or ride away. We invite you to come, stay awhile, and #ExploreResponsibly all that our area presents for your next set of amazing adventures!
