The best walks and hikes around Shoreline
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Hiking around Shoreline, Washington, is characterized by a network of parks featuring forested trails and waterfront access to Puget Sound and Lake Washington. The area's landscape consists of second-growth forests with cedar and fir trees, coastal bluffs, and wetland areas. The terrain is generally composed of rolling hills and gentle gradients, with most routes accessible for a wide range of fitness levels.
Best hiking trails in Shoreline
- The most popular hiking route is Beach Trail loop โ Saint Edward State Park, a 3.4 miles (5.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 45 minutes to complete. This route features a mix of forest paths and access to the Lake Washington shoreline.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is South Bluff and Ridge, Piper's Creek, North Traverse & Grand Fire Trail loop โ Carkeek Park, an easy 3.2 miles (5.1 km) path. The trail winds through the wooded ravines and ridges of Carkeek Park.
- Local hikers also love the Lake City Beach Park via Burke Gilman Trail โ Kirkland, Washington, a 6.2 miles (10.0 km) trail leading through urban greenways, often completed in about 2 hours 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Shoreline is defined by forested park trails, coastal paths with views of Puget Sound, and routes along Lake Washington. The trail network provides options for different ability levels, from short, easy family-friendly hikes to longer, more moderate routes.
- The routes in Shoreline are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 90 reviews. More than 3,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Shoreline's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
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hikers
2.98km
00:53
80m
80m
An easy 1.8-mile hike on the Richmond Beach Loop offers views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains from Richmond Beach Saltwater Park.
2
hikers
1.56km
00:25
20m
0m
Discover the easy Terrace Creek Park Trail, a refreshing urban hike that takes you through a dense canopy of mixed trees. This route covers 1.0 miles (1.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 79 feet (24 metres), making it perfect for a quick escape that lasts around 24 minutes. As you wander, you'll follow Lyon Creek, enjoying the pleasant sound of burbling water, especially after a good rain.
When planning your visit, you'll find parking readily available at Terrace Creek Park, which also offers amenities like a playground and picnic areas if you want to extend your outing. The trail surface varies, starting with concrete near the park's entrance before transitioning to gravel and natural forest paths. While generally easy, some sections can become muddy during the rainy season, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear.
This trail offers a unique immersion in nature, even within an urban setting, as you're surrounded by fir, hemlock, cedar, and sword ferns. In spring, keep an eye out for vibrant wildflowers such as buttercups and bleeding heart blooming along the path. It's a great option if you're looking for an accessible outdoor experience that feels far removed from city life.
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1
hikers
1.30km
00:23
30m
40m
Embark on the Llandover Woods Loop Trail for a refreshing escape into nature, even though you're close to the city. This easy hiking route covers 0.8 miles (1.3 km) and involves a gentle elevation gain of 113 feet (34 metres), making it perfect for a quick outing. You can expect to complete the loop in about 22 minutes, winding through a dense forest where a well-maintained gravel path descends into a steep ravine, offering glimpses of the lush canopy and fern-covered forest floor.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as parking is conveniently available right at the trailhead. You'll often find a colorful information board there with a map to help you orient yourself before you start. The trail is also easily accessible by bus, providing a flexible option for getting there. It's a great choice for dog walkers and families, and you'll find it holds up well even in rainy weather, as it tends not to get overly muddy.
This loop trail is nestled within the Llandover Woods Greenspace, providing a serene natural ambiance that feels far removed from urban hustle. As you hike, keep an eye out for surprising views across the ravine at several spots, adding to the scenic experience. The trail's accessibility and gentle nature make it a valuable local resource for a quick dose of the outdoors.
122km
32:07
980m
1,020m
Hike the 76.0-mile Interurban Trail, a difficult route gaining 3222 feet, offering urban views and greenways over 32 hours.
2
hikers
3.80km
01:05
90m
90m
Hike the easy 2.4-mile Boeing Creek and Hidden Lake Loop through lush forests and along Boeing Creek, just north of Seattle.
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Tips from the Community
Richmond Beach Saltwater Park is a community area on the beach with water access, trails and amenities like picnic tables, restrooms and an off-leash dog area.
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I like this place. Not just because there is a bathroom, but because it really is a nice place to stop.
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From this spot, you get fantastic views over the harbor and of Lake Union. One unique feature here is the abundance of floating houses right on the water. Railroad Park is a great place to run to when exploring the area.
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Shoreview Park comprises an 88-acre park system bordering Boeing Creek Park. True to its name, the park offers picturesque views of the shoreline from various vantage points. It boasts a range of amenities, including pickleball and tennis courts, soccer fields, and more.
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Boeing Creek Park forms an 88-acre park system that borders Shoreview Park. Visitors can enjoy wildflowers, ferns, and a variety of wildlife. Additionally, there's a hidden artificial lake that was constructed in the 1920s.
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Pretty lake along the Interurban trail. Importantly, the north end of the lake has a public toilet. When you gotta go, you can go...
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Nice spot to stop for a quick rest along the Interurban Trail. They have no water fountain or toilets, but it's a pleasant neighborhood oasis. There is a public garden (P-Patch) and a playground.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many hiking trails in the Shoreline area?
Yes, there are over 130 hiking routes to explore around Shoreline. The vast majority are rated as easy, with a good number of moderate trails also available, making the region accessible for most fitness levels.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Shoreline?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths through lush, quiet forests and the beautiful views of Puget Sound and Lake Washington.
Are there any good dog-friendly hikes near Shoreline?
Many parks in and around Shoreline are welcoming to dogs on a leash. For off-leash fun, both Shoreview Park and Richmond Beach Saltwater Park are popular choices as they have designated off-leash areas for dogs to run freely.
Can I find any easy, family-friendly walks?
Absolutely. Shoreline is ideal for family outings. A great option is the Lake Washington loop โ St Edward State Park, which is a gentle walk with lovely waterfront sections. Additionally, Hamlin Park offers a main half-mile trail that is wheelchair-accessible.
Where can I find hikes with water views?
For stunning views over Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, head to Richmond Beach Saltwater Park. If you prefer a lakeside setting, the Beach Trail loop โ Saint Edward State Park provides beautiful access to the Lake Washington shoreline.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Yes, many of the best trails in the area are loops, allowing you to enjoy a varied scenic journey without retracing your steps. A local favorite is the Loop โ Saint Edward State Park, which takes you through a beautiful mix of forest and open spaces.
What are some popular parks for hiking in Shoreline?
Shoreline has several highly-regarded parks for hiking. Discovery Park, Seattle's largest green space, is a top-rated favorite with miles of rugged trails and beach access. Shoreview Park is another popular choice, known for its wooded trails and excellent dog park. For a walk down to the sound, many enjoy Meadowdale Beach Park.
Are there any challenging hikes for a good workout?
While the area is not known for difficult mountain climbs, you can find moderately challenging routes. The Lake City Beach Park via Burke Gilman Trail offers a longer 6.2-mile (10 km) journey. For a short but intense workout, the staircases at Hamlin Park and Richmond Beach Saltwater Park are excellent choices.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the trails?
The scenery is defined by lush, second-growth forests of cedar and fir, often leading to coastal bluffs with expansive views of Puget Sound. You'll also find trails that wind through wetland areas with boardwalks, like at Cromwell Park, and paths that follow the shoreline of Lake Washington.
Are the trails suitable for trail running?
Yes, many of the park trails are perfect for trail running. The loop in Carkeek Park is a great option, offering varied terrain with rolling hills through wooded ravines that provides a good running workout.
Is it possible to reach any trailheads using public transport?
Yes, many trails are accessible via public transportation. The Burke-Gilman Trail, a major regional path, is well-connected to public transport routes. Parks like Carkeek Park and Discovery Park can also be reached via King County Metro bus services, making it possible to plan a hike without a car.
Where can I find parking for the trails?
Most major parks in and around Shoreline, such as Hamlin Park, Shoreview Park, and Richmond Beach Saltwater Park, have dedicated parking lots. Nearby destinations like Discovery Park and Saint Edward State Park also offer ample parking, though they can get busy on sunny weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
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