While the parking lots are closed to access Discovery Park, we were able to park elsewhere and approach on foot. There were lots of people, but by avoiding the most popular trails, we were able to keep some distance. I just love the diversity of surroundings present at Discovery Park! Lush forests, open meadows, and beaches.... what more could you ask for?! 

I live close enough to this park that I don’t need to drive. It’s been a godsend in the pandemic. I probably gone here three days a week... but I never really thought of it as hiking till now. May be crowded on a sunny weekend but it’s pretty empty in a rainy Thursday afternoon...

Urban day hike Saturday March 28. We parked off 21st and Emerson by the Fishermans Terminal, just outside of the Magnolia boundary. 

Our hike was thru Magnolia and into Discovery Park. To practice social distancing, we followed the cyclist route directly on Discovery Park Blvd (as much as possible) all the way to the beach and Lighthouse point. 

Important to note all parking lots are currently closed in the park. We still saw a lot of cars, either opting to park where they could along the streets, which seemed acceptable or illegally near the Waste Treatment facility which had signs warning a tow and fine. 

Overall there were a fair amount of people enjoying the trails and beach, as well as cyclists along the road route. Spotted a large bald eagle hunting just past the pedestrian bridge to the beach. 

Roundtrip our route was around 6 miles. 

Beautiful day for a hike with our 3 kids (ages 10, 9 & 6).  We started around 3pm, hiked down to the West Point Lighthouse and finished close to 5pm.  It was about 4.5 miles round trip with many breaks and stops along the way!  The benches along the trail were great places to rest. There were a lot of steps down to the water’s edge and parts of the trail were muddy, so wear shoes which are ok to get dirty.  Spectacular views of the Sound, Olympic Mountains,West Seattle & Bainbridge Island.  Temps were in the mid 50’s with no clouds, only sunshine!  People were out with their dogs and children, yet, social distancing was in full effect.  Once we reached the lighthouse, we didn’t see any information (to read about it); however, I could have missed it.

Highly recommend this trail!  We used GPS on my iPhone to navigate, however, there are online maps you can download from http://seattlediscovery park.org/

We had a lovely morning hike at Discovery Park. The sun was out and glistening on the water and there weren't many people there, especially down on the beach. On the way back to the parking lot we hiked through the beautiful old growth forest and while it was easy for me, I was certainly grateful for my hiking boots because the mud would have stained and gotten water in my sneakers. So, if you are fine with sticking to paved trails, wear whatever you want. If you want to be more adventurous, wear hiking boots.