Alki Trail – Hamilton Viewpoint Park loop from Schmitz Preserve Park
Alki Trail – Hamilton Viewpoint Park loop from Schmitz Preserve Park
5.0
(2744)
11,017
hikers
Alki Trail – Hamilton Viewpoint Park loop from Schmitz Preserve Park
02:52
10.6km
130m
Hiking
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: April 21, 2026
Tips
Temporary access restrictions
Includes segments with temporary access restrictions. Check ahead to confirm restricted segments are open to the public.
After 977 m for 175 m
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
6.05 km
Alki Beach
Highlight (Segment) • Beach
Tip by
6.50 km
Alki Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
8.71 km
Hamilton Viewpoint Park
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
9.23 km
Seacrest Park
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
9.34 km
View from the Water Taxi dock
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
10.6 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
9.05 km
806 m
623 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
9.09 km
623 m
473 m
342 m
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Elevation
Highest point (110 m)
Lowest point (0 m)
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 9 July
24°C
12°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
The Alki Trail – Hamilton Viewpoint Park loop from Schmitz Preserve Park is one of Seattle's most rewarding hikes, offering a unique blend of ancient forest and vibrant waterfront. This moderate hiking route covers 6.6 miles (10.6 km) with 443 feet (135 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 52 minutes to complete. It's an excellent choice if you're looking for a diverse experience that showcases both the city's natural beauty and its iconic skyline.
What to expect on Alki Trail – Hamilton Viewpoint Park loop from Schmitz Preserve Park
This loop offers a dramatic journey through contrasting environments. You'll start in the tranquil, old-growth forest of Schmitz Preserve Park, where towering cedars and firs line natural trails that can be muddy in spots, requiring appropriate footwear. Boardwalks guide you over swampier sections as you enjoy the sounds of Schmitz Preserve Creek. Emerging from the forest, the route transitions to the paved, largely flat Alki Trail, where you'll be treated to continuous panoramic views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and the iconic downtown Seattle skyline, including the Space Needle. Hamilton Viewpoint Park specifically offers some of the best views of the city, Elliott Bay, and on clear days, Mount Rainier. This trail is suitable for a wide range of users, including families, thanks to its varied terrain and accessible sections.
Planning your visit
While the Alki Trail can get busy, especially on sunny summer days, Schmitz Preserve offers a quieter escape. For the best views and clearest skies, plan your visit between late spring and early fall, from May to October. Parking at Schmitz Preserve Park trailhead is available, but arriving earlier in the day is always a good idea to secure a spot. The Alki Trail is also well-served by public transport, making it an accessible option even without a car. Remember to bring water, especially on warmer days, as the waterfront section offers little shade.
Trail details
- Distance: 6.6 miles (10.6 km)
- Elevation gain: 443 feet (135 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 52 minutes
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