Run This Way: Best Seattle Trails
Seattle enjoys one of the most spectacular city settings. Situated between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, there are miles of waterfront with mountain ranges all around – the Cascades to the east, and the Olympics to the west, and off in the distance to the south, Mount Rainier. Running offers a unique way to see the city during the change in seasons. Slip on those sneakers and view Seattle from a fresh perspective. There’s still time to set a personal goal to participate in the 13th Annual Lake Union 10K Run/Walk along the Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop Trail, coming up on August 14, 2022. The race starts and finishes at Lake Union Park with gorgeous views of the lake and the neighborhoods along the trail. Not sure where to start running? No need to trek far: some of the best paths and trails can be found right outside your door. We’ve rounded up a few favorite urban trails in Seattle.
Elliott Bay Trail, ~0.7 miles from Spire. This paved path along Elliott Bay shoreline is a lovely, flat route to enjoy views of Puget Sound and a little nature close to the heart of Seattle. The trail goes through the Olympic Sculpture Park and Myrtle Edwards Park. Your best access point is Myrtle Edwards via the Olympic Sculpture Park.
Volunteer Park, ~2.4 miles from Spire. If you want a run with a short loop that changes terrain, then Volunteer Park is a great choice. This is a popular trail for road biking, trail running, and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop, ~2.5 miles from Spire. The Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop is perfect for running, walking, and sightseeing. There are multiple access points for this loop, but the most convenient parking is to be found at Gas Works Park.
Interlaken Park, ~2.8 miles from Spire. If you want to forget that you’re in the middle of the city, a run through Interlaken is in order. You can run through the heavily forested and marshy park down to the tree-lined boulevard for a shaded and quiet run on one of the city’s best streets.
Washington Park Arboretum, ~4.1 miles from Spire. A famous arboretum, waterside paths, and a gorgeous university campus — all in one run! The park offers miles of trails that wind through forests (over 40,000 trees) of maples, magnolias, oaks, salmonberry, and the famous Azalea Way.
Lake Washington Boulevard, ~4.2 miles from Spire. If you’re going to run you might as well have a stunning view to look at. The area of Mount Baker in eastern Seattle, just south of I-90 and the Murrow Bridge boasts some fabulous waterfront running.
Burke Gilman Trail, ~4.9 miles from Spire. This 27-mile multi-use recreational trail runs from Ballard to Bothell. The Burke-Gilman Trail is a popular recreational trail for walkers, runners, cyclists, skaters and commuters.
Discovery Park, ~5.3 miles from Spire. You can’t say no to a jog through Discovery Park. Its relatively flat loop trail measures ~2.8 miles long and passes through picturesque forestland and meadow. It is the largest city park in Seattle and is one of breathtaking majesty.
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