Schmitz Preserve Park — Sunday, Dec. 18, 2016

Puget Sound and Islands > Seattle-Tacoma Area

Walked the Schmitz Preserve trails Sunday morning. We parked on Alki Ave SW right at 59th and it is an easy three block walk to the trailhead next to the Alki Community Center. After hitting all the Schmitz Preserve trails we extended the walk east along the water to the Don Armeni Boat Ramp and over to the Alki Point Lighthouse for a total of just about 7.7 miles. The Schmitz trails are nicely maintained - no issues other than some partially frozen mud. The ravine is surprisingly quiet - wilder than the similar sized Ravenna ravine. There really are a handful of trees big enough to be considered old growth, a few big doug fir and one impressive red cedar. Don't miss the "dragon" log on the northern trail. A quick shout out to "Nick" from Phoenix - stay warm my friend. It is easy to add additional mileage along the Alki Trail for some beautiful water and city views. Together they make a nice, close in walk to get your forest, water and view fixes all in one. http://www.seattle.gov/parks/find/parks/schmitz-preserve-park