Magnolia Tidelands Park — Monday, Oct. 25, 2021

From Seattle.gov, this Park comprises the tidelands area below Magnolia Bluff, from Elliott Bay Marina to W Ruffner - where it connects with Discovery Park, hours 4 AM to 11:30 PM. 

There was forecast a break in the weather this morning coinciding with a good low tide.  The lowest tides are all at night this time of year.  There aren't many hikes you would choose to do in the dark, but this one is perfect for it.

Rode my bike to and locked it up in the rack at Fishermen's Terminal, where it would be safe.  I walked over toward Smith Cove and Elliott Bay Marina so I would have the wind at my back.  At the end of the road, I chose to take the trail behind the bench rather than cross the slippery rocks, the tide was not yet out far enough to expose the sand.

At the other end I walked behind the houses, then got on the expanding beach.  From there it is just a stroll all the way to Discovery Park.  The wind from the S wasn't as strong as I had expected, lovely views of ferries and lights across the water.  No ships anchored off the bluff like a month ago, they must be getting the back up sorted out.

Tide was farther out as I walked, low was to be below zero, needs to be plus 4 - 5 or less to easily walk the beach.  Passed the Lighthouse, took the North Beach trail to the bottom of the stairs (my alternate escape) and along the beach beyond.

Had to search a bit to find the bottom of the leaf covered trail up to Daybreak Star.  It is about 100 yards past (N of) the huge rock on the sand.  Someone has removed the bottom ropes, the freshly fallen leaves gave me added traction in the steep clay.  The upper ropes are still there, I had no trouble getting to the top.  Bring gloves.

Then walked the road, past the Locks, back to my bike.  This part of Magnolia has recently been cleared of occupied vehicles, lots of blocks along Commodore Way.  The large parcel of land on the S side of the Canal E of the Locks is finally for sale, this is going to be a big deal when it is developed. 

Back at my bike, I rode across the Ballard Bridge home.  I didn't encounter anyone during my 4 hour trip.  Except for the trail behind the bench and up to Daybreak Star, I didn't need to use my headlamp.  Got home a little after 2 AM.  No rain, temps mid 50's.  The drinking fountain near the Lighthouse is operational again.