These are the Best Hiking Trails in Seattle for Kids – Sharing Secrets!
We’re sharing a few of the best hiking trails in Seattle for kids. All of the areas are accessible easily by car or public transit and are free! In this article, we’re even sharing a few hidden gems for any time of year.
What You'll Find On This Page
The Best Hiking Trails for Kids in Seattle, WA
If you’ve read our article on the best hiking trails in Washington for kids, you’ll know they’re all outside of the city of Seattle. But The Emerald City has so much to offer kids and their families!
Everything included on this list consist of easy hikes, perfect for families with young children. We don’t bring the dogs, however, some parks do allow dogs when they’re on a leash 6-feet or shorter.
RELATED READING: The 5 Best Hiking Trails in Washington for Kids
Lincoln Park, West Seattle
I honestly believe this is one of the best-kept secrets in Seattle and holds some of the best hiking trails in Seattle for kids. The park trails go through the forest, meadows, and beaches, making it a wonderful learning opportunity.
Although the playgrounds can get busy, we are never crowded on the trails through the park. On a hot day, this park offers not only a canopy to beat the heat but so much to explore. The trail which runs along the water can get a little busy in summer but it’s never too busy to enjoy.
If you want to make a day of it, walk or drive onto the ferry next door at the Fauntleroy ferry terminal and explore Vashon Island!
Seward Park, Southeast Seattle
Seward Park is a bit of a gem. There are light trails, bike paths, and you’re right on the water! When the kids see the playgrounds, you’ll have to make a stop but if you bring a snack or picnic, it’s a nice respite from the heat on a summer day.
If your kid loves riding their bike, the 2.5-mile bike trail is a great time. Much like Lincoln Park, Seward boasts forest and beaches to explore.
Psst: if it’s a hot day, hit up Full Tilt Ice Cream in Columbia City on your way out. It’s a lovely local ice cream shop with exciting flavors (still kid-friendly) and arcade games.
Camp Long, West Seattle
This is a very simple area to hike around and the kids can experience quite a few areas of interest. The trails are easy to navigate and there are some perfect spots under the trees for a picnic.
You can rent a sparse, locking cabin (with power) and make a weekend of it or just enjoy it for the day. In the winter, some of Camp Long gets a bit muddy in places, but we enjoy this West Seattle treasure all year long.
RELATED READING: These are the Best Campgrounds in Washington for Families
Discovery Park, Magnolia
This is the largest green space in Seattle. Discovery Park has forest trails, open meadows, and coastal exploration opportunities, making it home to some of the best hiking trails in Seattle for kids. My daughter and her friends really enjoyed the lighthouse.
There are more than 2 miles of beaches and exploring them is probably the most fun the kids will have. You’ll also be able to get some great pictures of both the Olympic Mountain range and Mount Rainier!
Over to You
These are our favorite hiking trails in Seattle for kids and you can often find us with a picnic lunch. Which trails interest you the most?
While you’re here, will you please share this onto your favorite travel board on Pinterest or with friends on Facebook? Your shares are how we grow and we are sincerely grateful.
