Lake Washington Boulevard Trail
Lake Washington Boulevard Trail
4.5
(1846)
13,197
hikers
01:43
6.63km
20m
Hiking
The Lake Washington Boulevard Trail offers an easy hiking experience, stretching 4.1 miles (6.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 72 feet (22 metres). You can expect to complete this scenic route in about 1 hour and 42 minutes. As you walk, you will enjoy beautiful views of…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
1.18 km
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
1.46 km
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
5.53 km
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
6.35 km
Beach
Beach
6.63 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
6.42 km
192 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
5.87 km
503 m
183 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Monday 18 May
19°C
8°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 7.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
You can find access points and parking at various locations along the route. Good starting points include Colman Park and Seward Park. Some restrooms are also available at trailheads.
Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all users.
The trail is enjoyable year-round. In spring, the cherry blossoms in Seward Park add a beautiful touch. Clear days offer stunning views of Lake Washington, the Cascade Mountains, and Mount Rainier. Consider checking seasonal conditions for the best experience.
No, you do not need a permit or have to pay an entrance fee to access the Lake Washington Boulevard Trail. It is freely accessible to the public.
The trail features both paved and dirt sections, with the main path being a traditional paved, mixed-use surface. While mostly smooth, there can be some cracks and bumps. Some segments involve slight elevation changes and winding routes, particularly where the boulevard transitions from hillsides to the shoreline within parks.
You'll be treated to beautiful views of Lake Washington, the Cascade Mountains, and on clear days, Mount Rainier. The route passes through varied natural settings, including sections of rainforest and meadows within parks like Colman Park and Seward Park. You'll also see impressive homes overlooking the lake.
Yes, the trail connects nine of Seattle's Olmsted parks. You'll pass by Colman Park, Mount Baker Beach, and Andrews Bay. There are also numerous benches and access points to the water for enjoying the surroundings.
Absolutely! The trail is considered easy with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for all skill levels and families. Its accessibility and varied scenery make it a great option for a family outing.
Wildlife is a common sight along the route. You might spot various birds like cormorants, ducks, and even bald eagles, especially in the more natural sections of the parks.
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Lake Washington Loop, Seward Park Trail, Rainier Valley Greenway, South McClellan Street, and 46th Avenue South.
While the full trail is about 6.9 miles, you can easily choose to walk shorter sections within any of the parks it connects, such as Colman Park or Seward Park, for a more condensed experience.
Yes, the city of Seattle has occasionally closed a section of Lake Washington Boulevard to cars, transforming it into a wide, accessible path exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists. It's worth checking local announcements for these special car-free days.