Wildflowers bloom in Washington State throughout spring and summer. Exactly where and when varies according to elevation and of course the whims of nature in any given year. Generally, wildflowers bloom at lower elevations from spring to mid-summer, and higher elevations from early to late summer, when vegetation … [Read more...] about Wildflower hikes in Washington State
walks/hikes & running
Earth Day events in the Seattle-Tacoma metro area
Earth Day events in the Seattle-Tacoma metro area include conservation, recycling, and other activities designed to educate us on the benefits of protecting our natural resources through mindful living. Many events are free, but many require that you register in advance. We might also include events that have a small … [Read more...] about Earth Day events in the Seattle-Tacoma metro area
2023 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 2023 free park entrance days in Washington State
13 best nature walks to see Seattle fall color
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
Family adventures at the Washington Park Arboretum in Seattle
Washington Park Arboretum holds a world class collection of woody plants that can be explored independently, as well as through tours, classes, and activities hosted at the site. All parts of the Washington Park Arboretum (except the Japanese Garden), are free of charge and open to the public every day from dawn to … [Read more...] about Family adventures at the Washington Park Arboretum in Seattle
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
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
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
