In an average year, the best time to see Seattle fall color is the last week of September and first week of October. In the foothills and mountain areas, foliage peaks about one to two weeks later than at lower elevations. Depending on weather conditions, the fall season in Seattle can begin earlier, in mid-September … [Read more...] about 13 best nature walks to see Seattle fall color
Walks, hikes & running
Little Champions bonsai exhibit in Amazon Seattle Spheres (reservation required)
Washington’s giant coniferous trees, towering over the Olympic Peninsula, are impressive individuals figuring the lush forest ecosystems that epitomize “The Evergreen State.” These "Champions" are among the largest living trees on the planet. However, the popularity of our country’s biggest, oldest trees can become … [Read more...] about Little Champions bonsai exhibit in Amazon Seattle Spheres (reservation required)
5 best things to do at Discovery Park in Seattle
At 534 acres, Discovery Park is the largest park in Seattle. Located in the Magnolia neighborhood, the park sits on a bluff overlooking Puget Sound. It is an easy getaway spot in the city with something for everyone. Here you’ll find forests, meadows, sea cliffs, tidal beaches, freshwater streams, and sand dunes, plus … [Read more...] about 5 best things to do at Discovery Park in Seattle
2022 free park entrance days in Washington State
Take advantage of free entrance days in National Parks and Washington State Parks throughout the year. Mark your calendar for these fee-free days. Plan an outing with family or friends at the nearest park. Or, get away to another park around Washington State. Short History of Our National Parks In 1872 in the … [Read more...] about 2022 free park entrance days in Washington State
Washington State parks & public lands open for recreation
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages more than 160 recreation sites and 1,200 miles of trail. Campsites are available first come, first served at no additional cost for vehicles with a valid Discover Pass, making it easier than ever to find your new favorite outdoor … [Read more...] about Washington State parks & public lands open for recreation
30 great park trails for kids in the Puget Sound region
Here's a list of parks throughout the Puget Sound region that feature easy nature walks that are great places to take your kids. These park trails make for pleasant day trips, weekend outings, or as part of a long summer vacation. These kid-friendly trails are especially nice destinations for families or anyone … [Read more...] about 30 great park trails for kids in the Puget Sound region
Popular King County parks for day hikes
King County park system covers 26,000 acres of public lands. That's an unlimited amount of awesome. The award-winning parks and recreation division offers recreational experiences for every interest, including 200 parks, 175 miles of regional trails, and 180 miles of backcountry trails, plus ballfields, playgrounds and … [Read more...] about Popular King County parks for day hikes
Free trail maps for running or walking
Listed below are free regional and Seattle trail maps for running and walking, whether you want ideas for a regular fitness program to enjoy all year long, or just a casual family outing or romantic stroll in a nearby park. The information includes a variety of downloadable and printable maps, online … [Read more...] about Free trail maps for running or walking
Bird Watching in the Puget Sound region
Bird watching is a popular activity for many residents and visitors in the Puget Sound region. More than 500 bird species have been observed in Washington State. It is relatively easy to see and study birds in the wild. Birdwatching is one of the fastest growing recreational activities in the country. Washington … [Read more...] about Bird Watching in the Puget Sound region
Best Seattle parks to visit on a rainy day
Seattle has over 400 parks. Here, we're listing just a handful that can be fun to visit, even on a drizzly day--not that there are many rainy days in Seattle (just kidding). These parks are great for a walk in the rain because they feature paved walking paths and some have indoor features. They're also fairly short … [Read more...] about Best Seattle parks to visit on a rainy day
Mountaineers virtual hiking and nature events
The Mountaineers is a volunteer-led nonprofit organization with 14,000 active members in the Pacific Northwest. With several branches and mountain lodges, it's easy to find a nearby community of enthusiasts for all kinds of outdoor pursuits, including hiking, trail running, climbing, backpacking, camping, skiing, … [Read more...] about Mountaineers virtual hiking and nature events
Best parks for a Thanksgiving Weekend stroll
Here are some recommended mostly urban parks and trails that make for a nice after dinner "constitutional" on Thanksgiving Day or anytime over the long weekend. These easy, beautiful nature walks are perfect for a leisurely stroll with the whole family. All are all open daily from dawn to dusk. (Grouped buy … [Read more...] about Best parks for a Thanksgiving Weekend stroll
Seattle parks named after African Americans
The African American legacy at Seattle Parks and Recreation is a lasting one.From the mid-1960s until 1987, Seattle Parks had the services of Willis Lee Ball, who went to work for the Seattle Parks Department when he was just 35 years old. He started as the parks recreation manager and several years later was promoted … [Read more...] about Seattle parks named after African Americans
Free guided hikes with the Issaquah Alps Trails Club
Issaquah Alps Trail Club (IATC) mission is to be a voice for protection of the open spaces, trails, and quality of life and to act as custodian of the trails and the lush, open, tree-covered mountaintops known as the Issaquah Alps. About Issaquah Trail Club The Issaquah Alps Trails Club (IATC) has always been more … [Read more...] about Free guided hikes with the Issaquah Alps Trails Club
Free apps and online maps for walking tours of Seattle
Seattle is known as a city of neighborhoods - in fact, more than 100 of them. Listed below are free maps, itineraries, and other resources for enjoying self-guided walking tours around the city. The information includes a variety of downloadable maps, online tools, smartphone apps, and printable walking tours … [Read more...] about Free apps and online maps for walking tours of Seattle
