Mountains, forests and scenic bodies of water surround the Emerald City. Seattle Parks highlight the natural beauty and scenic vistas of this part of the Pacific Northwest. From the exotic animals at the Seattle Zoo to learning about the history of Seattle parks in an old water tower in Volunteer Park, going to a public park is one of the most popular Seattle activities.
One of the biggest and most impressive Seattle Parks is Discovery Park. There about 12 miles of hiking trails in Discovery Park, making it the largest public park area in the city. There is an Indian cultural center on the grounds with commanding views of Puget Sound. The shoreline of Discovery Park awards you with pristine beaches and unmatched views of the glacial peaks of the Olympic Peninsula. There is an Army base on the park's grounds, but it doesn't interfere with the Seattle activities enjoyed by visitors to the park.
To the south, and also on the waterfront is Myrtle Edwards Park. This is a less crowded alternative to the busy weekends around Green Lake. There are two separate paths at Myrtle Edwards, one for bicyclists and the other for pedestrians. This is also the setting for the most popular Seattle activities in the summer. The grassy fields right next to the Puget Sound are a great place to enjoy the Fourth of July fireworks show.
Green Lake is one of the busiest Seattle Parks. It is a lovely 2.8-mile path around Green Lake. You will see bicyclists, dog walkers, and city residents enjoying outdoor Seattle activities that help give the area its reputation for having an especially fit population.
Surrounded by water, Montlake is one of the most scenic Seattle Parks. There is a trail along the water, which takes you by Portage Bay and the Yacht Clubs' Marina. Being right on the water, Montlake is known for its canoeing, fishing and waterfront views. Just relaxing and watching the boats come and go is one of the most enjoyable Seattle activities, and Montlake Park is a great place to do this.
Aside from great Seattle Parks, if you visit Redmond you will find a one-of-a-kind park, with an off-leash area for dogs. There is a rock climbing wall and an indoor cycling arena at Marymoor Park in Redmond. Boating, fishing, and other Seattle activities can be enjoyed far from the bustle of the big city. There are great architectural features at Marymoor Park like the Dutch windmill and the Clise Mansion, which houses a Museum about Marymoore and the area. This park is great for bird watching and hiking on its scenic trails.
Gas Works Park overlooks Lake Union, and has unique mechanical structures that are part of Seattle's industrial past. Gasworks is popular with dog lovers as well, and has great views of Seattle and the lake. Gasworks is one of the few areas around the lake that is not commercially developed, so you can enjoy open views of the lake without the eyesore of condos.
