Discovery Park
Discovery Park
4.5
4:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Monday
4:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Tuesday
4:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Wednesday
4:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Thursday
4:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Friday
4:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Saturday
4:00 AM - 11:30 PM
Sunday
4:00 AM - 11:30 PM
About
This 534-acre nature park boasts extensive trails and breathtaking views amid lush nature. It occupies most of the historic Fort Lawton site and features heritage buildings like a chapel, gymnasium, and horse stable. You can also hike or bike through the forest and visit the West Point Lighthouse and the beach for views of downtown Seattle and Mount Rainer from a distance. The surroundings are mostly residential, so bring some food to have a picnic. You can visit Discovery Park for free but expect to pay for parking which is quite limited and fills up quickly especially on weekends.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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Neighbourhood: Queen Anne
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
881 reviews
Excellent
566
Very good
247
Average
43
Poor
19
Terrible
6
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Rosi
Seattle, WA1,226 contributions
Jul 2022
It’s been a while since I visited this park last time. We decided to stop by with a group of friends visiting from outside Seattle. The hike is short and pretty mellow. When you get to the lighthouse and the beach, you completely forget that you are still within the Seattle city limits - with all the expansive views of the Puget Sound. Overall, can recommend. Mind you - part of the loop trail is currently (as of July) closed off. A few of us did not notice the sign and ended up wandering a very deserted trail that ended with a closed off gate (were able to get around it but it was a little unnerving…).
Written 3 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GoeieWitte
Madeira, OH891 contributions
Jun 2022 • Couples
Easy access with public transportation (bus 33) from downtown.
This large wooded park with beaches, views, many trails is a nearby treat to get away from the city’s busy-ness.
Take a trail map at the major entry points (remember to donate to the non profit!).
Select short long, change as you walk and enjoy the nice trails.
There are several steps on some trails from the bluffs to the beaches.
Signposting is mostly good and clear.
Several restrooms are located along the trails and major parkign areas.
We saw Mount Rainier, the ferries, mount Baker, the Olympic range.
This large wooded park with beaches, views, many trails is a nearby treat to get away from the city’s busy-ness.
Take a trail map at the major entry points (remember to donate to the non profit!).
Select short long, change as you walk and enjoy the nice trails.
There are several steps on some trails from the bluffs to the beaches.
Signposting is mostly good and clear.
Several restrooms are located along the trails and major parkign areas.
We saw Mount Rainier, the ferries, mount Baker, the Olympic range.
Written 27 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
C M
Howard, OH3,210 contributions
Oct 2019
There's really so much to love about this park! Since we were exploring other things around the city we didn't have near as much time here as we would have liked. The lighthouse is fantastic! The mountains in the background, especially the tall peak is gorgeous! There was a seaplane flying overhead. There were big ships in the water. The beach had driftwood on it. It was not super crowded, but there were some walkers, runners, and bikers. There were benches along the walking/jogging path and informational signs. We saw a Maserati, not something you see every day in Ohio. I'd definitely return if in the area making sure I had more time, and I'd recommend others visiting as well!
Written 7 June 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
World Passport
Los Angeles, CA857 contributions
Dec 2021
We only ran into a couple of people during our hike from the visitor center (which was closed for winter) to the lighthouse. It's an easy hike about 4.5 mile loop but we went further. It's super nice. You can go to the South or the North beach. Most people go to the South beach where the light house is. But don't expect a tall structure.
Written 8 January 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mayke S
27 contributions
Nov 2024 • Friends
If you fancy a walk through forest, along the sea with vistas then you should go to Discovery Park. You can park well. Wear sturdy waterproof shoes on and after periods of rain. The paths are then marshy here and there. The paths are alternately paved, unpaved and wooden decking paths with steps.
Please bring your own lunch, we have not seen a restaurant or anything like that.
Please bring your own lunch, we have not seen a restaurant or anything like that.
Automatically translated
Written 22 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TreyJacobson
San Antonio, TX251 contributions
May 2022
This mostly natural park has an amazing set of semi-paved (often covered in mud) trails, including a 2.8 mile loop. The far end of the park is where it meets the Puget Sound, and its really stunning. Lots of people go to stare at the water, draw, meditate.
The trails are definitely not accessible friendly, and require comfort with talking on varying paths, rocks, and mud....lots of mud. Try the north parking lot for better acessibility..
The trails are definitely not accessible friendly, and require comfort with talking on varying paths, rocks, and mud....lots of mud. Try the north parking lot for better acessibility..
Written 3 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
OurAdventures2
Bath, UK917 contributions
Aug 2022 • Solo
We visited here for some birdwatching and had a great time.
A lot of areas were a little too overgrown which reduced the number of birds and wildlife we seen. The North Beach is great for close views of Osprey, Gulls, Eagles and more.
It's a large park and the map provided wasn't too clear so we walked more than we had to trying to find the Ponds.
Plenty of parking and free to enter though.
A lot of areas were a little too overgrown which reduced the number of birds and wildlife we seen. The North Beach is great for close views of Osprey, Gulls, Eagles and more.
It's a large park and the map provided wasn't too clear so we walked more than we had to trying to find the Ponds.
Plenty of parking and free to enter though.
Written 30 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BSC
Seattle, WA9 contributions
Jun 2024 • Couples
Discovery Park is a gem in the heart of Seattle. The 3 mile loop trail takes you through wooded trails to bluffs overlooking the Sound. It’s a fairly easy walk and great for some quiet time outdoors. Very dog friendly as well.
Written 19 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BeginsInWonder
Seattle, WA412 contributions
Mar 2020 • Solo
If you walk to this park the contrast from the suburban neighborhood of Magnolia to stepping into a lush green forest is striking. The loop trail is very pleasant. Get some forest bathing in and step away from the cars. It is 2.8 miles, flat and easy but moderately undulating. I think I strayed a little off this trail. But I found my way onto the south beach trail mid way through the loop trail. This took me onto a long semi sandy, semi stony beach, with driftwood trees. It has lovely views over the Sound and you can probably see some ships and water sports. The lighthouse is iconic and photogenic. I very much recommend this easy getaway from Seattle to refresh the spirit.
Written 15 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Domi
London, UK577 contributions
Feb 2020
Wow - such beautiful grounds. Not far from downtown Seattle, perfect for a day out. Safe and so beautiful. You can get to the beach and order Uber from there, if you feel tired. Do wear proper shoes, as a bit muddy after rain (so almost always).
Written 1 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are being dropped off at Ballard Locks and wondering how far of a walk is it to Discovery Park? Is there a nice walking path for 2 people who will not have a car? We have about 4 hours to spend in the area including the locks.
Thank you
Written 10 August 2021
I am not familiar with the locks but I will tell you there is a walking path to the lighthouse but it is a very LONG walk from the nature center where it begins. Parking at Discovery Park is very limited also. I suggest you google map it.
Written 10 August 2021
MidnightSoulWatcher
Auburn, Washington
hello! i am a nudist looking for more places in seattle to be nude at besides denny blaine park and howell park. i was wondering if people have been nude at magnuson park and/or discovery park. can anyone tell me if these are clothing optional beaches?
Written 2 December 2020
Hello, what is the best way to get there from downtown if you do not have a car? Uber/Lyft or public transportation? Thank you1
Written 24 August 2019
We had a car. I would have used Uber if not. It's well worth a visit. Enjoy!
Written 28 August 2019
I have a question about the South Ship Canal Trail from Discovery Park/Ballard locks. We are biking with a family of 10, including a 10 and 12 year old. Is the trail off the main Seattle roads or do you have to use bike lanes on the busy roads. Thank you
Written 28 May 2019
My experience is that the trail mostly follows the road with a defined bike path (both directions) on one side of the street. The road from the Fremont/Ballard area in the direction of the park (Gilman Avenue W) is uphill and though gradual could be challenging.
Written 28 May 2019
stephaniephuffaker
Kent, Washington
Is there a lot of parking by the trailheads? I'd like to organize a group to go on a hike and want to make sure everyone in the group can park their cars.
Written 1 July 2018
Yup, lots of parking, but it's a ways to the beach if you are interested in that. Also, right when you get to the beach there is a sign that says NO DOGS, which is a bummer if you have one. However, I have noticed that there are always dogs on the beach anyways.
Written 3 July 2018
curiouscat0
Mukilteo, Washington
If just 2 moms & 5 kids go walking on Discovery Park's forrest trail loop, do you get the feeling that would be safe or not? It's hard to gauge the aggressiveness of homeless, sometimes they're users & safety could be an issue. Thanks for sharing your input / knowledge so we can all make better decisions for our families!
Written 22 May 2018
Discovery Park is very safe during the day. Lots of people, including kids, walking, jogging, biking, especially on a sunny day. We have never seen "homeless" folks in the park.
Written 22 May 2018
kanarupp
Maple Valley, Washington
I have a question. My wife and I were at Dicovery Park on Sunday. My wife was approached by a lady on the beach that demanded my wife dump some items on the beach she found while walking along the beach beachcombing. the lady told my wife she isn’t allowed to take items from the beach. This website says the Park is a good place to beachcombe. The question, are we allowed to beachcomb?
Written 24 April 2018
Hi I was thinking a about surprising my fiancé with a photoshoot by the ligt house...would you recommend it? Also what's the quickest way to get there to spend too much time walking?!
Written 8 July 2015
You can't park down there unless you get a permit, handicap and people with young children can get a permit however you can have someone drop you off or if you have someone waiting in the car and you don't take long.
It is a beautiful lighthouse and I would recommend late day around 6:30-8 pm this time of year.
Written 9 July 2015
Cantrall
Auburn, Washington
What is the fastest route to the beach/lighthouse? I've read 1-1.5 hours one way, then I've read the loop takes you there, 2 hours total round trip? I am just a little confused and any clarification that someone could offer me would be great. I am considering taking my mom there so not looking to do any excessive hiking but it sounds like the lighthouse would be neat to see. Thanks!
Written 7 June 2015
A Tripadvisor member
Washington
There is a 1.5 mile, not hour, walk from the nearest parking lot. There are 8 spaces at the lighthouse for which you will need a permit. Generally, they are for those not physically able so an elerdy person or impaired my be able to get a permit at the Visitor's center. you can read all about it and find a phone number by doing a search for Discocvery Park in google. Just follow the links.
Written 9 July 2015
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