The solstice has just passed and summer is officially here!  With warmer weather on the way, here are some places to beat the heat and to see community ecological stewardship in Seattle’s public Parks! 

Lake Washington Shoreline

See on Google maps

The Natural Area Crew, partner organizations, volunteers and professional crews have been steadily at work through the past few seasons stabilizing the shoreline, removing weeds and installing native plants for beautifying aesthetics and improving habitat.  From Seward Park up to Colman Beach, come walk the public path along the shoreline and see stewardship efforts all along the lake shore!  Also, be sure to check out Bicycle Weekends Seattle where traffic along Lake WA boulevard is close to traffic and open to bicycles, foot traffic and other wheeled modes of transport! 

Duwamish River Access Paddle Program

Book a tour and see the Duwamish River like never before: up close and personal by small boat!  GSP partner organization, Shared Spaces, created the River Access Paddle Program in January of 2023 to safely expand access and promote access + stewardship to Seattle’s Duwamish River.  The tour launches from Herring’s House Park (Tualtwx).

And More! Forested Parks with Summer Canopy Cover

While most Seattleites and visitors are well-aware of destination locations like Discovery and Seward Park, there are dozens and dozens of other forested parklands with Summer Canopy Cover to keep you (and the city) cool! Here are some staff favorites:

1. Dragonfly Pavillion  

See on Google Maps

2. Frink Park 

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3. Longfellow Creek Natural Area 

See on Google Maps

4. Colman Park & Green Belt  

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5. Thornton Creek Natural Areas

Check out these specific spots within Thornton Creek Natural Areas! (Google Maps links)

6. Inverness Ravine 

Note that this spot doesn’t have an official trail, but is close to the aforementioned Kingfisher Natural Area.

7. Schmitz Preserve 

See on Google Maps

8. Llandover Woods 

See on Google Maps

Happy exploring! Let us know what your favorite Seattle green spaces are!

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