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

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

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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.


Seattle is a city that offers a plethora of options for runners looking to explore the outdoors. With its diverse landscape and stunning views, Seattle has something for everyone, from challenging trails to scenic waterfront routes. In this article, we will take a closer look at the top ten best places to run in Seattle.

The Green Lake Loop: A Popular Option for Seattle Runners

The Green Lake Loop is one of Seattle's most popular running routes. The 2.8-mile loop offers a flat and well-maintained path around the scenic Green Lake. The loop is surrounded by lush greenery, and runners can enjoy the views of the lake and the surrounding park. The route is accessible year-round and is perfect for runners of all levels.

Why You'll Love It

The Green Lake Loop is a great option for runners who want to enjoy a leisurely run in a beautiful setting. The loop is also well-lit, making it a safe option for early morning or evening runs.

Discovery Park: A Tranquil Escape in the Heart of the City

Located in the heart of the city, Discovery Park is a 534-acre natural park that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park features over 9 miles of trails that wind through forests, meadows, and along the beach. Runners can enjoy stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains while exploring the park's trails.

Why You'll Love It

Discovery Park is a great option for runners who want to escape the city and explore nature. The park's trails offer a variety of terrain, from flat and easy to hilly and challenging. Runners can also enjoy the park's beaches and stunning views of the water.

Burke-Gilman Trail: A Scenic Route Along Lake Washington

The Burke-Gilman Trail is a popular multi-use trail that runs for 18 miles from Seattle to Bothell. The trail offers stunning views of Lake Washington and the Cascade Mountains and is a great option for runners who want to explore Seattle's scenic waterfront.

Why You'll Love It

The Burke-Gilman Trail is a great option for runners who want to enjoy a long, scenic run. The trail is well-maintained and offers a variety of terrain, from flat and easy to hilly and challenging. Runners can also enjoy the trail's parks and beaches along the way.

Alki Beach: A Coastal Run with Stunning Views of the City Skyline

Located in West Seattle, Alki Beach is a popular destination for runners looking for a scenic coastal route. The 2.5-mile trail offers stunning views of the city skyline, Elliott Bay, and the Olympic Mountains.

Why You'll Love It

Alki Beach is a great option for runners who want to enjoy a scenic coastal run. The trail is flat and well-maintained, making it a great option for runners of all levels. Runners can also enjoy the beach and the park's amenities along the way.

Seward Park: A Challenging Trail Run with Lake Washington Views

Seward Park is a 300-acre park located on a peninsula in Lake Washington. The park features over 7 miles of trails that wind through forests and along the lake. The park's hilly terrain makes it a challenging option for runners, but the stunning views of Lake Washington are well worth the effort.

Why You'll Love It

Seward Park is a great option for runners who want to challenge themselves with hilly terrain. The park's trails offer a variety of terrain, from easy to challenging. Runners can also enjoy the park's beaches and stunning views of the water.

Gas Works Park: A Unique Urban Run with Industrial Charm

Gas Works Park is a 19-acre park located on the site of a former gasification plant. The park features a unique industrial charm and offers stunning views of Lake Union and the Seattle skyline. The park's trails offer a variety of terrain, including grassy fields, paved paths, and stairs.

Why You'll Love It

Gas Works Park is a great option for runners who want to explore Seattle's industrial history while enjoying stunning views of the city. The park's trails offer a variety of terrain, making it a great option for runners of all levels. Runners can also enjoy the park's picnic areas and playgrounds along the way.

Capitol Hill: A Hilly and Historic Route Through Seattle's Trendy Neighborhood

Capitol Hill is one of Seattle's trendiest neighborhoods, known for its historic homes, trendy shops, and vibrant nightlife. The neighborhood also offers a challenging route for runners, with its hilly terrain and historic charm.

Why You'll Love It

Capitol Hill is a great option for runners who want to explore Seattle's trendy neighborhoods while getting a challenging workout. The neighborhood's hilly terrain offers a great workout, and runners can enjoy the historic homes and trendy shops along the way.

Interlaken Park: A Wooded Run with a Variety of Trails

Interlaken Park is a 51-acre park located in the heart of the city. The park features over 2 miles of trails that wind through forests and along the creek. The park's wooded terrain makes it a great option for runners looking for a scenic and peaceful run.

Why You'll Love It

Interlaken Park is a great option for runners who want to escape the city and enjoy a peaceful run in nature. The park's trails offer a variety of terrain, from easy to challenging, making it a great option for runners of all levels.

Myrtle Edwards Park: A Waterfront Run with Views of Elliott Bay

Myrtle Edwards Park is a 1.25-mile waterfront park located on Elliott Bay. The park offers stunning views of the water and the Olympic Mountains and is a great option for runners looking for a scenic waterfront route.

Why You'll Love It

Myrtle Edwards Park is a great option for runners who want to enjoy a scenic waterfront run. The park's flat and paved path makes it a great option for runners of all levels. Runners can also enjoy the park's picnic areas and beaches along the way.

Warren G. Magnuson Park: A Large Park with Multiple Running Paths and Scenic Views

Warren G. Magnuson Park is a 350-acre park located on Lake Washington. The park features over 4 miles of trails that wind through forests and along the lake. The park's multiple running paths offer a variety of terrain, from easy to challenging.

Why You'll Love It

Warren G. Magnuson Park is a great option for runners who want to enjoy a large park with multiple running paths. The park's trails offer a variety of terrain, making it a great option for runners of all levels. Runners can also enjoy the park's beaches and stunning views of the water.In conclusion, Seattle offers a wide range of options for runners looking to explore the outdoors. From the scenic waterfront routes to the challenging trails, Seattle has something for everyone. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced runner, these top ten best places to run in Seattle offer a great way to explore the city's beauty and diversity.

Best Places to Run in Seattle

Point of View

As an avid runner myself, I believe that Seattle offers some of the best places to run. The city is surrounded by scenic views, trails, and parks that cater to different levels of runners. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced runner, Seattle has something to offer.

Pros of Best Places to Run in Seattle

1. Scenic Views - Seattle is known for its breathtaking views, and running is one of the best ways to experience them. The city has several parks and trails that offer stunning views of the mountains, lakes, and the Puget Sound.2. Variety of Trails - Seattle has a wide range of trails that cater to different levels of runners. From easy, flat trails to challenging uphill climbs, there's something for everyone.3. Accessible - Most of the best places to run in Seattle are easily accessible by public transportation or car. This means that you don't have to travel far to get to a good running spot.

Cons of Best Places to Run in Seattle

1. Weather - Seattle is known for its rainy weather, which can make running difficult. However, with proper gear and preparation, you can still enjoy running in any weather.2. Crowded - Some of the popular running spots in Seattle can get crowded, especially during peak hours. This can make it difficult to maintain your pace or enjoy the scenery.3. Limited Indoor Running Options - If you prefer to run indoors, there are limited options in Seattle. However, most gyms and fitness centers offer indoor running tracks or treadmills.

Comparison Table for Best Places to Run in Seattle

| Trail/Park | Distance | Difficulty | Scenery | Accessibility || --- | --- | --- | --- | --- || Discovery Park | 2.8 miles | Easy | Puget Sound, Mountains | Car, Bus || Green Lake Park | 2.8 miles | Easy | Lake, City Views | Car, Bus || Burke-Gilman Trail | 27 miles | Moderate | Lake, Mountains, Urban | Bike, Car, Bus || Capitol Hill | 3.5 miles | Challenging | City Views, Parks | Car, Bus |

Overall, Seattle offers a variety of options for runners looking to explore the city and stay active. With proper gear and preparation, you can enjoy running in any weather and take advantage of the stunning views that the city has to offer.


The Best Places to Run in Seattle: A Guide for Fitness Enthusiasts

Thank you for taking the time to read our guide on the best places to run in Seattle. We hope that you have found it informative and helpful in planning your next running adventure. Whether you are a seasoned runner or just starting, Seattle offers a variety of scenic and challenging routes that will keep you motivated and engaged.

If you are looking for a downtown route, the Seattle Waterfront is an excellent choice. The waterfront offers stunning views of Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountains, and Mount Rainier. You can start at Pioneer Square and run along the promenade towards Myrtle Edwards Park. This route is perfect for early morning runs as you can catch the sunrise over the water.

If you prefer a more wooded and secluded route, Discovery Park is the perfect location. This 534-acre park boasts miles of trails through old-growth forest and is perfect for trail running. You can choose from several routes, including the North Beach Trail, which offers stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.

The Burke-Gilman Trail is another popular route for runners in Seattle. This 27-mile trail follows the old railway line and runs from Ballard to Kenmore. It is a great option for long-distance runners who want to explore different neighborhoods in the city. The trail is well-maintained and offers beautiful views of Lake Washington and Lake Union.

If you are looking for a challenge, the Queen Anne Hill Climb is a must-do. This steep climb starts at Kerry Park and takes you up Queen Anne Hill. It is a challenging route, but the views from the top are well worth it. You can see the entire city skyline and the Space Needle.

The Green Lake Loop is another popular route for runners in Seattle. This 2.8-mile loop offers beautiful views of Green Lake and is perfect for runners of all levels. The loop is mostly flat, making it an easy route for beginners. It is also a great place to people watch and enjoy the scenery.

For those who prefer beach running, Alki Beach is a great option. This sandy beach offers a 2.5-mile stretch of paved path along the water. It is perfect for early morning runs as you can catch the sunrise over the Olympic Mountains. You can also take a dip in the water after your run to cool off.

Another great location for trail running is the Tiger Mountain Trailhead. This trailhead is located about 35 miles east of Seattle and offers a variety of trails for runners of all levels. The trails are well-maintained and offer beautiful views of the Cascade Mountains.

The Capitol Hill Stairs offer a unique workout for runners in Seattle. This route takes you up and down several flights of stairs throughout the Capitol Hill neighborhood. It is a challenging route, but the views from the top are worth it. You can see the entire city skyline and the Space Needle.

The Seward Park Loop is another popular route for runners in Seattle. This 2.4-mile loop offers beautiful views of Lake Washington and is perfect for runners of all levels. The loop is mostly flat, making it an easy route for beginners. It is also a great place to spot wildlife, including bald eagles and herons.

If you are looking for a longer run, the Lake Union Loop is a great option. This 6.2-mile loop takes you around Lake Union and offers stunning views of the city skyline. It is a popular route for runners, cyclists, and walkers and is a great way to explore different neighborhoods in the city.

In conclusion, Seattle offers a wide range of running routes for fitness enthusiasts. Whether you prefer downtown routes, wooded trails, or beach running, there is something for everyone. We hope that our guide has inspired you to explore new routes and challenge yourself on your next run.


People Also Ask About Best Places to Run in Seattle

What are the best places to run in Seattle?

Seattle is home to some of the most scenic running routes. Here are the best places to run in Seattle:

  1. Green Lake Park
  2. Discovery Park
  3. Burke-Gilman Trail
  4. Alki Beach
  5. Myrtle Edwards Park

Is it safe to run in Seattle?

Seattle is generally a safe place to run but it's always advisable to take precautions like carrying a phone, running in well-lit areas, and being aware of your surroundings.

What should I wear when running in Seattle?

Seattle can be quite rainy and chilly, so it's recommended to wear moisture-wicking clothes, a waterproof jacket, and good quality running shoes.

Can I run in Seattle in the winter?

Yes, you can run in Seattle in the winter but it can be cold and rainy. It's important to dress appropriately and stay visible with reflective gear.