Sword Fern and Highline Trail

Getting Here: Heading North on I5 from Seattle Center, take exit 178 for 236th Street SW and Lakeveiw Dr. Take a left on Lakeview Dr. and follow along for a half a mile before you see the Lake Ballinger Boat Ramp parking area on the left. There is a community park and rental facility on the noir the side if the lake. This is a perfect place to visit in the summer to take a dip in the cool water...

If you plan to hike to this beach on the weekend, arrive early because the parking lot fills up fast. From the trailhead, hike down through an old forest along a stream to reach Meadowdale Beach Park. Take in the sounds of birds, wildlife, and the stream adjacent to the trail. At one mile you will reach the park and the trail splits directions. At the park there are several attractions for lar...

Golden Gardens Park is a beautiful, sandy gem that’s perfect for spending a sunny summer day lounging on the beach, exploring the shore, stand up paddling, or even playing beach volleyball. This park also features some of my favorite views in Seattle. As day turns to night, enjoy a beautiful sunset with friends and prepare to get that bonfire going! This is a popular summer spot, and the 12 fi...

Looping around a freshwater lake surrounded by tranquil natural scenery, Green Lake Park trail is considered by many to be Seattle’s go-to running spot. I love it because it’s an urban run that doesn’t feel like one. It’s especially popular with beginning runners and the after-work/weekend crowd. With its set distance, it’s perfect for timed runs and interval training.

Green Lake is one of Seattle’s most beloved parks. Its expanse of water and green space in the center of a dense urban neighborhood draws thousands of people daily from all over the city. The park serves as a natural preserve for hundreds of species of trees and plants, as well as numerous birds and waterfowl. The newly reconstructed 2.8-mile path around the lake provides a perfect recreational...

Discovery Park and its beach area great for walking, running, photography, and taking in a sunset. If you want to put your feet in the sand, head down to the western most part of the park. This beach is a sand beach with an iconic lighthouse at the end. Dirftwood also washes up on the beach providing some cool contrast. If you need a bite after the beach, head to the Ballard neighborhood, whic...