Explore Nature - Discovery Park

To fully experience the grandeur of Seattle’s commitment to green spaces, a visit to Discovery Park is in order.  The park’s 534 acres transition through a broad spectrum of habitats and environments ranging from heavily forested areas and large grassy fields to paths that wind through the beachfront woods to the expansive beach itself.  We began our hiking and exploring from the south parking lot, first heading to the amazing overlook with its magnificent views of Mt. Anderson and the rest of the Olympic and Cascade Ranges.   Once you arrive at the park, it’s easy to spend the entire day meandering through the area’s nearly 12 miles of trails. The large sandy patch at the head of several of the trails is the perfect meeting place, allowing you to head off in several directions each leading to its own unique locale.  We headed down the Loop Trail, taking time to explore the hollows in trees and keep an eye out for the Bald Eagles that are sometimes sighted along the tree line. One of the things that always strikes me about the park is the lack of intruding city sounds. Shortly after you leave the parking areas, the sound of traffic fades away leaving you with your thoughts.  Discovery Park has yet to fail us as an excellent place to visit amid the bustling city. http://www.cityofseattle.net/parks/Environment/discovparkindex.htm