Explore the Natural Beauty of Carkeek Park
Discover Carkeek Park, Seattle's scenic oasis of hiking trails, picnic spots, and stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
A brief summary to Carkeek Park
- 950 NW Carkeek Park Rd, Seattle, Broadview, Washington, 98177, US
- +1206-386-4236
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
- Thursday 6 am-10 pm
- Friday 6 am-10 pm
- Saturday 6 am-10 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Nestled in the heart of Seattle, Carkeek Park is a sprawling urban park that offers visitors an incredible escape into nature. Covering over 200 acres, this park features a diverse landscape filled with lush forests, rolling hills, and stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. As you stroll through the park, you'll discover a variety of trails that cater to both casual walkers and avid hikers alike, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels. Carkeek Park is not just about the trails; it also boasts several well-maintained picnic areas perfect for family gatherings or a peaceful afternoon with friends. The playground facilities provide a fun and safe environment for children to play, making this park a family-friendly destination. Additionally, the park's scenic spots offer breathtaking vistas that are perfect for photography or simply soaking in the natural beauty of the surroundings. One of the highlights of Carkeek Park is its connection to the local ecosystem. The park features salmon runs in the fall, and visitors can often see these magnificent fish navigating their way upstream. Furthermore, the park is home to various wildlife, including numerous bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatching. Whether you are looking to hike, picnic, or simply relax in nature, Carkeek Park is a perfect retreat within the city that offers endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.
Local tips
- Arrive early in the day to enjoy the tranquility and catch beautiful sunrise views over Puget Sound.
- Don't forget to bring a camera; the park offers numerous scenic spots perfect for photography.
- Check the tide schedule if you want to explore the beach area, as it can be affected by tidal changes.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal at one of the many picnic tables scattered around the park.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the trails can be uneven and varied in difficulty.
Getting There
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Car
From any location in Olympic National Park, head towards US-101 N. Continue on US-101 N for approximately 15 miles until you reach the junction with WA-104 E. Take WA-104 E towards Kingston. Merge onto I-5 S via the exit on the left toward Seattle. After about 30 miles, take exit 173 toward N 85th St. Merge onto N 85th St and continue until it turns into NW Carkeek Park Rd. Follow NW Carkeek Park Rd directly to Carkeek Park, located at 950 NW Carkeek Park Rd, Seattle, WA 98177. Parking is available at the park entrance. Note that parking may have a fee depending on the season, so check for any posted signs.
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Public Transportation
To reach Carkeek Park using public transportation, you can take a bus from the nearest major city, Seattle. Start by taking a Sound Transit bus from downtown Seattle (e.g., Route 1 or Route 28) toward North Seattle. You will need to transfer to Metro Bus Route 28 at the Northgate Transit Center, which will take you directly to Carkeek Park. The bus stop is located near the park entrance at 950 NW Carkeek Park Rd, Seattle, WA 98177. Make sure to check the Metro Transit website for the latest schedule and fare information. Fares typically range from $2.75 to $3.50 depending on the distance.
Attractions Nearby to Carkeek Park
- Golden Gardens Park
- Sunset Hill Park
- Shoreview Park
- Woodland Park Zoo
- Zoomazium
- National Nordic Museum
- Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden
- A Salish Welcome
- Ballard (Hiram M. Chittenden) Locks
- Ballard Locks Fish Ladder
- Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center
- Richmond Beach Saltwater Park
- Discovery Park
- Fremont Troll
- Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture
Landmarks nearby to Carkeek Park
- Giant Sequoia
- West Queen Anne Retaining Walls (Willcox Walls)
- The Rhodes Mansion
- Betty Bowen Viewpoint
- Seattle Skyline View
- Queen Anne Blvd Historical Landmark
- P. P. Ferry House
- Egan House
- The Lake View Cemetery bench
- Historic Ships Wharf
- J. W. Bullock House
- The Ruins
- Harvard-Belmont Landmark District
- Bellevue Place
- Black Sun by Isamu Noguchi