This summer, many of us are ready to get out of the house for a change of scenery, nature and just want to enjoy the long sunlight hours with our dogs on a trail somewhere. Anywhere. Well, we are in luck! Seattle is home to several great places to head out for a hike, walk or stroll with your furry best friend. There are also a few places near Seattle that are worth mentioning too, so they are on the list as well. Don’t forget, unless it expressly says it’s off-leash; most parks are going to require that your dog is on a leash at all times and you must clean up after it as well. Be a good dog owner, and leave the areas as you found them.
Greenlake Park – Seattle
Tucked away in Green Lake, a dense urban neighborhood of Seattle is Green Lake Park. The lake itself is a nature preserve and surrounded by a 2.8-mile paved path. This area is perfect for an afternoon outing with your dog and is beloved by all kinds of visitors. You will probably see ducks, cranes, and squirrels, just to name a few. Nearby Lower Woodland Off-Leash Area is an excellent, medium-sized, fully fenced park in a wooded setting with multiple levels, double gates, a water area, and parking. This dog park can get pretty busy on weekends, so check it out early for the best chance at parking.
Discovery Park – Seattle
Discovery Park is in Seattle, west of the Ballard Locks, at the former Civil War-era Fort Lawton location. According to the park website, it is the largest park area in Seattle. There are several excellent trails, including a 4.4-mile loop, which includes changes in elevation and the scenery from wooded, to meadows and stunning views of Puget Sound and the West Point Lighthouse located at the lower beach area.
Magnuson Park – Seattle
In the Sand Point area of Seattle is Warren G. Magnuson Park, which includes a large 8.6-acre off-leash area for dogs with a winding trail, is fully fenced, and according to the park’s website, the only one inside Seattle with off-leash water access (Lake Washington shore).
Washington Park Arboretum and the Center for Urban Horticulture – Seattle
If you are looking for a lush trail with hundreds of identifiable plants, look no further than the trails at the Washington Park Arboretum and nearby Center for Urban Horticulture, both in Seattle. These botanic gardens are part of the University of Washington and are great to visit for an afternoon walk. Be sure to keep your dog leashed at all times and curb as well.
Coal Creek Trail – Newcastle, WA / Cougar Mountain area
This trail is just East of Seattle in Newcastle, WA. This trail has landmarks and features still existing from when this area had mining operations for coal in the 1800s. You may see mineshaft entrances, minecarts, and a waterfall. The out and back trail style is just over 5 miles total. Leashed dogs are allowed on this wooded trail, but know that some hikers report that it can get quite muddy at times, so it’s a good idea to bring a towel with you to wipe muddy paws.
Marymoor Off-Leash Dog Park – Redmond, WA
O.k., so Marymoor’s Off-Leash Dog Park is technically a dog park, but if you’ve ever been, you’ll know why its on the list. This park offers so much room for you and your dog to explore. Trails and fields and even water access to the Sammamish River, you’ll wander for a long time and have a blast. One thing to note: parking costs $1, cash only, so come with at least a buck, and you’ll be good to go.
