Discovery Park Loop Trail — Saturday, Dec. 3, 2011

Puget Sound and Islands

From the South Parking Lot we took the Loop Trail down to the South Beach Trail. The trail is well maintained and well traveled. There were quite a few joggers and other hikers out today. The trail is 1.5 miles down to the beach from the parking lot. There are a number of stairs that you go down to get to the beach. Those were a bit slippery so take care with little ones. On your return trip you will have to climb back up all of those stairs, but there are plenty of benches for weary hikers to rest. I was a little disappointed that some of the viewpoints along the trail were overgrown with vegetation that sometimes obstructed the views. This is a great urban hike for those not wanting to drive too far, but wanting to get out and enjoy nature anyway. It's a great hike for all ages and young children should do just fine (although you may want to allot more time for the hike back up the hill). There is plenty of beach to explore and even a beach "fort" for kids to play in. The lighthouse, however, was closed so we were not able to explore it. And of course fantastic scenery of the Sound. I would love to come back on a sunny day. I bet the views of the Sound (and the Olympics) would be fantastic. To see more of our hike visit http://1retromama.blogspot.com/2011/12/discovery-park-seattle-parks-magnolia.html .