Discover Seattle's Top Scenic Running Routes: The Best Places to Run in the Emerald City

Discover the best places to run in Seattle! From waterfront trails to urban parks, our guide will help you find the perfect route for your next jog.

Seattle is a city that has a lot to offer when it comes to outdoor activities. Whether you are a seasoned runner or just starting out, Seattle has plenty of running options for you. From scenic waterfront routes to rugged mountain trails, this city has something for everyone. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the best places to run in Seattle.

If you are looking for a challenging run with breathtaking views, then the Discovery Park Loop Trail is a must-try. This 2.8-mile loop trail is located in the heart of Seattle's largest park and offers stunning views of the Puget Sound, Olympic Mountains, and Mount Rainier. The trail is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles and deer, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

Another great spot for runners is the Burke-Gilman Trail. This 18-mile paved trail runs along the shores of Lake Washington and offers beautiful views of the water and surrounding mountains. It is also a popular destination for cyclists and walkers, so be prepared to share the trail.

For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, the Green Lake Loop Trail is a great option. This 2.8-mile loop trail circles around the picturesque Green Lake and offers a peaceful retreat from the city. The trail is also surrounded by lush trees and beautiful gardens, making it a great place to enjoy nature.

If you are in the mood for a longer run, then the Interurban Trail is a perfect choice. This 16-mile trail runs from Seattle to Everett and offers stunning views of the Puget Sound and surrounding mountains. The trail is also home to a variety of wildlife, including coyotes and red foxes, making it a unique running experience.

The Alki Beach Trail is another popular spot for runners in Seattle. This 2.5-mile trail runs along the shores of Puget Sound and offers stunning views of the water and surrounding mountains. It is also a great spot for swimming and kayaking, making it a perfect destination for a day trip.

If you are looking for a more urban running experience, then the Seattle Waterfront is a great option. This 3-mile stretch runs along the edge of Elliott Bay and offers stunning views of the city skyline. It is also home to a variety of shops and restaurants, making it a great place to stop for a break after your run.

The Capitol Hill neighborhood is another great spot for runners in Seattle. This hilly neighborhood offers challenging routes with stunning views of the city. It is also home to a variety of parks and green spaces, making it a great place to explore on foot.

For those looking to escape the city altogether, the Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park is a perfect choice. This 3,115-acre park offers over 35 miles of trails through lush forests and rugged terrain. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears and cougars, making it a unique and exciting running experience.

The Sammamish River Trail is another popular spot for runners in Seattle. This 10.9-mile paved trail runs along the Sammamish River and offers stunning views of the water and surrounding nature. It is also a popular destination for cyclists and walkers, so be prepared to share the trail.

Finally, the Lake Union Loop Trail is a great option for runners who want to explore the heart of Seattle. This 6-mile loop trail circles around Lake Union and offers stunning views of the city skyline. It is also home to a variety of shops and restaurants, making it a great place to stop for a break after your run.

In conclusion, Seattle has no shortage of great running spots. Whether you are looking for a challenging trail run or a peaceful retreat from the city, this city has something for everyone. So lace up your shoes, grab some water, and hit the pavement – the best places to run in Seattle are waiting for you!

Introduction

Seattle is a beautiful city with several scenic running routes. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, there are various options for you to explore and enjoy your runs. From picturesque parks to waterfront trails, Seattle has it all. In this article, we will explore the best places to run in Seattle.

Discovery Park

Discovery Park is one of the best places to run in Seattle. It covers over 500 acres of land and offers an extensive network of trails. The park is located on the shores of Puget Sound and features breathtaking views of the water, forest, and meadows. You can run on the loop trail, which is about 2.8 miles long and offers a moderately challenging terrain with some hills.

Burke-Gilman Trail

The Burke-Gilman Trail is a popular running route that stretches over 18 miles from Shilshole Bay in Ballard to the Sammamish River Trail in Bothell. The trail is flat, smooth, and paved, making it perfect for runners of all levels. Along the way, you will pass through several parks, neighborhoods, and scenic spots like the University of Washington campus and Gas Works Park.

Green Lake Park

Green Lake Park is another excellent place to run in Seattle. The park features a 2.8-mile loop trail around a beautiful lake, surrounded by trees and grassy areas. The trail is flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for runners of all abilities. You can also enjoy other activities like swimming, boating, and picnicking in the park after your run.

Alki Beach

If you want to run with a view of the water, then Alki Beach is the place for you. The beach offers a 2.5-mile paved trail along the waterfront, with stunning views of the Puget Sound and the Seattle skyline. The trail is flat and easy to run, making it perfect for beginners or those who want a leisurely run. You can also enjoy other activities like sunbathing, swimming, and kayaking in the area.

Interlaken Park

Interlaken Park is a hidden gem in Seattle that offers a peaceful and quiet running experience. The park features several trails that wind through lush forest areas, providing a serene and natural environment for your runs. The trails are challenging and hilly, making them suitable for experienced runners who want a good workout.

Washington Park Arboretum

The Washington Park Arboretum is a beautiful botanical garden that offers a unique running experience. The park features over 230 acres of land with several trails that wind through various gardens, forests, and wetlands. You will also pass by several lakes and bridges, providing a picturesque view of the area. The trails are moderately challenging, with some hills and uneven terrain, making them suitable for intermediate runners.

Seward Park

Seward Park is a popular running destination located on a peninsula that juts into Lake Washington. The park features a 2.4-mile loop trail around the perimeter of the peninsula, providing stunning views of the lake and the surrounding area. The trail is hilly and challenging, making it suitable for experienced runners who want a good workout. After your run, you can relax on the beach or enjoy other activities like swimming and boating.

Myrtle Edwards Park

Myrtle Edwards Park is a waterfront park that offers a flat and smooth running surface along the Puget Sound. The park features a 1.25-mile trail that runs along the water, providing stunning views of the sound and the Olympic Mountains. The trail is perfect for beginners or those who want a leisurely run. You can also enjoy other activities like cycling and rollerblading in the park.

Carkeek Park

Carkeek Park is a beautiful park located on the shores of Puget Sound. The park offers several trails that wind through lush forest areas and provide stunning views of the water. The trails are moderately challenging, with some hills and uneven terrain, making them suitable for intermediate runners. After your run, you can relax on the beach or explore the park's various other attractions like the salmon run or the environmental learning center.

Conclusion

Seattle offers several scenic places to run, from waterfront trails to hidden parks. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced runner, there is something for everyone. So lace up your shoes and explore these beautiful destinations for a memorable running experience.