Highlight • Rest Area
Colman Park
Hiking
5.0
(2)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
Road cycling
5.0
(1)
Colman Park is a historic 24.3-acre urban oasis nestled in Seattle, Washington's Mount Baker neighborhood. Situated along the shores of Lake Washington, just south of the Lacey V. Murrow Memorial Bridge, this Olmsted-designed park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. With an elevation of approximately 8 meters, it provides stunning vistas across the lake and towards the Cascade Mountains. The park was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2020, recognizing its enduring charm and importance to the city. It features diverse landscapes, from steeply sloped woodlands to open grassy areas and a tranquil beach.
Visitors consistently praise Colman Park for its peaceful atmosphere and "old-fashioned charm." The panoramic views of Mount Rainier, the Bellevue skyline, and the I-90 Floating Bridge are particularly captivating, especially on clear days when the mountains are snow-capped. Many enjoy the expansive grassy areas, perfect for relaxing or tossing a frisbee, while the magnificent drooping willow trees add to the park's serene beauty. The combination of scenic viewpoints and quiet corners makes it a beloved spot for locals and sightseers alike.
Before visiting, it's helpful to know that Colman Park offers a variety of experiences. While it lacks some traditional park facilities like playgrounds or patrolled swimming areas, it provides ample space for relaxation and exploration. The park features trails throughout its hillside section, offering pleasant Colman Park walking paths for those looking to explore on foot. There are also community garden plots, known as P-Patches, and picnic tables available. Parking at Colman Park trailhead areas is typically street parking, and public transport options are available within Seattle. The park is also dog friendly, making it a great spot for walks with canine companions.
Colman Park is popular year-round, but it truly shines on sunny days, particularly in winter and early spring when the mountain views are at their clearest. It's an ideal destination for those seeking a serene alternative to more crowded locations, offering excellent opportunities for walking, enjoying nature, and photography. The paved pedestrian and bike path along Lake Washington Boulevard starts here, extending all the way to Seward Park, providing a longer route for cyclists and runners.
One of the park's standout features is its unofficial lake access, where people still enjoy swimming and paddling from the grassy beach area. The four historic bridges within the park, part of the original Olmsted design, allow pedestrians to move seamlessly through the landscape, separate from vehicular traffic. Whether you're admiring the historic design, enjoying a picnic by the lake, or simply soaking in the tranquility, Colman Park offers a memorable experience.
To discover the various Colman Park trails and routes, including options for family friendly activities, you can explore the diverse paths available. From gentle strolls along the lake to more invigorating walks through the hillside woodlands, there's something for every pace. Use komoot to plan your visit and find detailed routes for walking, cycling, or simply enjoying the scenic beauty of this historic Seattle park.
Tips
January 11, 2025
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Colman Park
2
hikers
6.63km
01:43
20m
60m
The Lake Washington Boulevard Trail offers an easy hiking experience, stretching 4.1 miles (6.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 72 feet (22 metres). You can expect to complete this scenic route in about 1 hour and 42 minutes. As you walk, you will enjoy beautiful views of Lake Washington, with the majestic Cascade Mountains forming a stunning backdrop; on clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Rainier to the south.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail provides multiple access points and parking options along its length, including at Colman Park Beach and Seward Park. Restrooms, some equipped with running water, are conveniently located at various trailheads. This makes the route a practical choice for a casual outing, especially if you are looking for family-friendly and accessible trails.
This route guides you through a diverse natural landscape, transitioning between sections of lush rainforest and open meadows within parks like Colman Park and Seward Park. You will also find direct access points to the water, such as Mount Baker Beach, allowing you to connect with the lake's edge. The trail's varied scenery and easy accessibility make it a notable option for enjoying the natural beauty surrounding Lake Washington.
172km
45:36
1,680m
1,700m
The Lake Washington Loop offers a unique opportunity to circumnavigate Lake Washington, blending urban landscapes with stunning natural beauty. You'll encounter continuous lake views, often framed by Mount Rainier in the distance, and pass through diverse scenery including serene wetlands, forested arboretums, and vibrant city parks. The terrain varies from paved paths and sidewalks to hard-packed gravel on multi-use trails like the Burke-Gilman Trail, providing a dynamic experience for those seeking a long-distance adventure.
This difficult 106.9-mile (172.1 km) hiking route, with 5506 feet (1678 metres) of elevation gain, is estimated to take around 45 hours and 35 minutes to complete. Most hikers opt to explore individual segments due to its length. The route is highly accessible from various points, with many parks offering parking, and public transport options are available. Always check for current trail conditions and potential detours, especially in urban areas where you might share space with traffic.
What makes the Lake Washington Loop notable is its comprehensive tour of the region, connecting Seattle with its eastern suburbs and integrating popular multi-use trails like the I-90 and SR 520 Trails. You'll experience unique vantage points from distinctive floating bridges and enjoy the constant shift between natural beauty and urban vibrancy. It's a fantastic way to experience the area's natural charm and urban energy, offering numerous viewpoints along Lake Washington.
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
11.1km
02:50
40m
40m
Hike the Lake Washington Boulevard Trail, a 6.9-mile route with lake views and minimal elevation gain, perfect for an urban escape.
Details
Informations
Elevation 10 m
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of trails and walking paths are available in Colman Park?
Colman Park offers a variety of walking experiences. You'll find trails winding through the park's hillside section, providing pleasant walks amidst dense woodlands. Additionally, the park serves as the starting point for a paved pedestrian and bike path that extends along Lake Washington Boulevard, offering a longer, flatter route all the way to Seward Park. While specific named trails aren't highlighted, the park's design allows for exploration through its natural areas and along the waterfront.
What is the typical difficulty and distance of the trails within Colman Park?
The trails within Colman Park are generally considered easy to moderate, suitable for most visitors. The park's hillside section involves some inclines due to its steeply sloped terrain, but these are typically manageable. The paved path along Lake Washington Boulevard is flat and easy, ideal for casual strolls or cycling. Distances vary depending on how much of the park you explore, but most internal loops are relatively short, making it suitable for shorter walks.
Is parking readily available at Colman Park, especially near trailheads?
Parking at Colman Park is primarily street parking along Lake Washington Boulevard S and surrounding streets. While there isn't a dedicated large parking lot, visitors can usually find spots. However, it's worth noting that parking can fill up quickly, especially on sunny days or weekends, so arriving earlier in the day is often recommended to secure a convenient spot.
What public transport options are available to reach Colman Park?
Colman Park is accessible via Seattle's public transportation system. Several King County Metro bus routes serve the Mount Baker neighborhood and Lake Washington Boulevard, with stops within walking distance of the park. Checking the latest bus schedules and routes on the King County Metro website is advisable for the most current information.
Are permits required for general park use or specific activities at Colman Park?
No permits are generally required for casual visits, walking, or enjoying the green spaces at Colman Park. However, for organized events, large gatherings, or specific activities like using the community garden plots (P-Patches), you may need to inquire with Seattle Parks and Recreation regarding permits or reservations. Individual use of the lake for swimming or paddling does not require a permit.
What family-friendly activities can we enjoy at Colman Park?
Colman Park offers several family-friendly activities. Families can enjoy leisurely walks on the paved path along Lake Washington or explore the hillside trails. The expansive grassy areas are perfect for picnics, tossing a frisbee, or simply relaxing. While there isn't a dedicated playground, the open spaces and lake access provide opportunities for children to play and explore in a natural setting. The unofficial beach area is also popular for paddling and enjoying the water.
Are dogs allowed in Colman Park, and are there any specific rules for pet owners?
Yes, Colman Park is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for walks with canine companions. As with most Seattle parks, dogs are generally required to be on a leash to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all park visitors and wildlife. Pet owners are also expected to clean up after their dogs to maintain the park's cleanliness.
Does Colman Park offer any wheelchair-accessible routes or facilities?
The paved pedestrian and bike path that runs along Lake Washington Boulevard, starting from Colman Park, is generally flat and accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. Within the park's hillside section, some trails may be unpaved and have steeper grades, which could pose challenges for wheelchair users. The grassy areas and picnic spots near the lake are relatively flat and accessible.
How crowded does Colman Park get on weekends or during peak seasons?
Colman Park is a popular spot, especially on sunny days, weekends, and during warmer seasons. While it's generally considered a serene alternative to more crowded beaches, it can attract a good number of sightseers, families, and locals. The grassy areas and lakefront tend to be the busiest. If you prefer a quieter experience, visiting during weekday mornings or later afternoons is often best.
Are there any cafes, restaurants, or pubs located near Colman Park?
Colman Park is situated in the Mount Baker neighborhood, which offers various local amenities. While there aren't establishments directly within the park, you'll find a selection of cafes, restaurants, and pubs within a short drive or walk in the surrounding residential and commercial areas. Exploring the nearby Rainier Avenue S or Lake Washington Boulevard S will reveal options for refreshments and dining.
What are the best spots for scenic viewpoints within Colman Park?
Colman Park is renowned for its stunning vistas. Excellent scenic viewpoints can be found along the lakefront, offering panoramic views of Mount Rainier, the Cascade Mountains, the Bellevue skyline, and the I-90 Floating Bridge. The open grassy areas by the water and benches strategically placed along the paths provide ideal spots for enjoying these captivating landscapes, especially on clear days.
What makes Colman Park a 'hidden gem' compared to other Seattle parks?
Colman Park is often considered a hidden gem due to its