The best running trails around Yarrow Point

This 7.9-mile (12.7 km) Cross Kirkland Corridor loop from Yarrow Point offers a moderate jogging experience, blending urban and natural landscapes with a gentle 149 feet (45 metres) of elevation gain. You'll find yourself on a mostly level, compacted crushed gravel path, winding through wooded sections and past the verdant Yarrow Point peninsula, with opportunities to catch views of Lake Washington and the Seattle skyline. The route provides a pleasant mix of scenery, from the lively Feriton Spur Park to quieter green spaces, making it a great option for a varied run lasting about 1 hour and 26 minutes.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Cross Kirkland Corridor is known for its accessibility and excellent maintenance. The trail is dog-friendly, with amenities like mutt mitt dispensers, and its wide, consistent surface makes it suitable for various users. While specific parking at Yarrow Point isn't detailed, the trail's extensive network means multiple access points are available. For a comfortable jog, consider heading out during the morning or late afternoon, especially during warmer months, to enjoy cooler temperatures and potentially fewer people.

This trail's unique character stems from its past as a railway line, which explains its remarkably flat grade and consistent width. It's a central part of the larger Eastrail network, connecting various parts of Kirkland and featuring public art installations along the way. You'll also pass historical markers, adding a layer of local context to your run, and the trail's proximity to the Google campus and Feriton Spur Park means there are amenities like recreational courts and even a taproom nearby.

The Old Market Street Trail – Juanita Beach Park Pier loop offers a fantastic jogging experience along the shores of Lake Washington. You'll traverse predominantly flat, paved boardwalks and urban trails, connecting the wildlife-rich Juanita Bay Park with the sandy beach and iconic pier of Juanita Beach Park. Expect constant water views, opportunities for birdwatching, and a unique journey over the lake itself, making for a visually engaging 11.0-mile (17.7 km) outing.

This 11.0-mile (17.7 km) route, with 564 feet (172 metres) of elevation gain, is rated difficult, primarily due to its length for a jog, though the terrain is generally easy. It's estimated to take 1 hour and 53 minutes. Both Juanita Bay Park and Juanita Beach Park are popular, so consider an early start to secure parking. Juanita Beach Park provides convenient amenities like restrooms and picnic areas.

This combined route is a standout for its accessibility and diverse scenery, offering a unique blend of urban trail and natural wetland. Juanita Bay Park is a significant urban wildlife sanctuary, where you might spot ducks, herons, and even bald eagles. The over-water boardwalk and pier at Juanita Beach Park provide a distinctive waterfront perspective, perfect for enjoying sunsets or simply taking in the vastness of Lake Washington.

The Cross Kirkland Corridor loop offers a refreshing urban escape, starting from the vicinity of Bridle Trails State Park. This moderate 3.8-mile (6.1 km) jogging route follows a former rail line, providing a mostly flat experience with only 183 feet (56 metres) of elevation gain, making it a comfortable 43-minute run. You'll traverse a path of crushed gravel and some paved sections, winding through green spaces with occasional peeks at Lake Washington and the Seattle skyline, especially when the leaves are down.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is easily accessible and well-maintained. While the route begins near Bridle Trails State Park, the main path is the Cross Kirkland Corridor itself, which features amenities like benches and restrooms. Many street crossings are equipped with flashing beacons to ensure safety for trail users. It's a great option for a quick workout any time of year, and dogs are welcome on leash.

This route is a segment of the larger Eastrail network, highlighting its significance for regional connectivity. The trail's origin as a railroad corridor ensures its consistently gentle grade, making it an ideal beginner jogging route. Look out for public art and historical markers that add character to the journey, and consider the vibrant Feriton Spur Park as a mid-route point of interest.

The Kirkland Marina and Beach loop from Yarrow Point offers a delightful urban escape, blending scenic waterfront paths with glimpses of Kirkland's charming neighborhoods. As you jog, you'll enjoy expansive views of Lake Washington and the Seattle skyline, especially from Heritage Park, with the Olympic Mountains often visible in the distance. Marina Park provides a lively focal point with its sandy beach, public art, and bustling marina, creating a dynamic backdrop for your run.

This moderate 5.2-mile (8.4 km) route, featuring a gentle 188 feet (57 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 52 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a quick yet engaging workout. Parking is readily available at various access points, and restrooms are conveniently located at Marina Park. The trail's proximity to downtown Kirkland means you can easily combine your jog with a visit to local shops or cafes.

Part of the larger Eastrail system, this loop incorporates elements of the Cross Kirkland Corridor, offering a mix of paved and crushed gravel surfaces. It's a popular choice for those seeking a dog-friendly route with an urban-natural feel, providing a refreshing contrast to more secluded trails. The vibrant atmosphere of Marina Park, which hosts various events throughout the year, adds to the unique character of this Kirkland waterfront experience.

The Cross Kirkland Corridor – Kirkland Marina and Beach loop offers a unique blend of urban greenway and stunning waterfront, making it a popular choice for joggers. This moderate 5.9-mile (9.5 km) route, which takes about 1 hour and 2 minutes to complete, features a gentle 188 feet (57 metres) of elevation gain. You'll transition from the flat, compacted crushed gravel of the CKC, winding through wooded sections and past public art, to the paved paths along the picturesque Kirkland Marina and Beach, where views of Lake Washington and even Mount Rainier await on clear days. It's a fantastic option if you're seeking a varied run with plenty to see.

This loop is highly accessible, combining the mostly flat Cross Kirkland Corridor with the waterfront paths. The CKC itself is designed with ADA accessible at-grade street crossings, making it easy to join from various points. While specific parking details for a combined loop from Yarrow Point aren't extensively documented, the trail's integration with urban areas means there are likely public parking options nearby. The mixed surface of gravel and pavement makes it suitable for jogging year-round, though clear weather will best showcase the expansive lake views.

What makes this route stand out is its incredible diversity and connectivity. It uniquely combines the serene, linear park experience of the former railway line with the vibrant, scenic waterfront and urban parks like Feriton Spur Park. The Cross Kirkland Corridor is also a key segment of the larger Eastrail network, offering potential for extended runs or connections to other trails. This integration into the community, alongside public art installations, creates a dynamic and engaging environment for your run.