The best walks and hikes around Seatac

Yes, many trails in the SeaTac area are great for hiking with your dog, provided they are on a leash. The Des Moines Creek Trail is a popular paved path that offers a long, scenic walk for you and your canine companion. For a mix of forest and beach, Seahurst Park is another excellent choice, though be sure to check local signage for any specific on-leash regulations, especially near the shoreline.

The SeaTac area is well-suited for beginners, with several paved, multi-use trails. The Des Moines Creek Trail is a prime example, offering a gentle, mostly flat path through a beautiful wooded corridor. Another great option is the Green River Trail section from Van Doern's Landing Park, which provides a smooth, accessible surface for walking or cycling alongside the river.

Absolutely. If you prefer a hike that starts and ends in the same place without backtracking, the Ed Munro Seahurst Park loop is a fantastic choice. It takes you through lush forest and along a saltwater beach. For another option, the Saltwater State Park loop offers a shorter, pleasant walk combining woodland paths with beach access.

For stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains on a clear day, the trails at Seahurst Park are hard to beat. The paths lead from the forest down to an expansive saltwater beach, offering spectacular backdrops. The trail to Des Moines Pier also culminates in lovely marina and water views.

Yes, some trailheads are accessible via public transportation. For example, several King County Metro bus routes run near the start of the Des Moines Creek Trail and parks like Seahurst Park. It's best to use a transit planning app to find the most direct route from your location to the park entrance, as services can vary.

The trails around SeaTac are ideal for year-round hiking because they are at low elevation. Routes like the Des Moines Creek Trail and the various paths within Seahurst Park rarely see snow, though they can be wet and muddy. These lowland trails provide excellent opportunities to stay active outdoors during the winter months.

Angle Lake Park Nature Trail is a great option for families, offering a short, easy path within a larger park that has a playground and lake access. The paved and relatively flat Des Moines Creek Trail is also perfect for strollers and little legs, providing a safe and engaging walk through the woods.

There are over 30 designated hiking routes to explore in and around SeaTac. The network includes everything from short, paved nature walks to longer riverside trails, offering a wide variety of options for different fitness levels and preferences.

The trails around SeaTac are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the accessibility of the trails, which provide a quick and easy escape into nature. The peaceful, wooded corridors like Des Moines Creek and the beautiful combination of forest and saltwater shoreline at parks like Seahurst are frequently mentioned as highlights.

Yes, parking is generally available at the major trailheads. Des Moines Creek Trail has a well-regarded, free parking lot near its entrance on 200th St. Similarly, Seahurst Park offers parking, though it can get busy on sunny weekends. It's always a good idea to arrive earlier in the day to secure a spot.

Yes, for a shorter outing, the Saltwater State Park loop is a great choice, coming in at just about 2 miles (3.2 km). It's an easy walk through the woods with access to a rocky beach. The paths within the Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden also offer very short, leisurely strolls through beautiful scenery.