Explore the Great Outdoors in and around Seattle this Summer with these 8 Options:
Enjoy the delightful summer in Seattle with its extended sunny days and endless outdoor activities that cater to all preferences. Seeking some adventure or a relaxing pastime? Here are some suggestions for an unforgettable Seattle summer.
Trail Running Adventures
Experience an invigorating workout while exploring nature's beauty by running the trails. Trails differ from regular runs by taking place on unpaved terrain, often, in the mountains and shaded woodlands, keeping you cool during hot summer days. Remember to start slow and build upon your endurance to tackle obstacles such as roots, rocks, and mud. Great places to kickstart your trail running journey are the Issaquah Alps, providing breathtaking trails for various skill levels, just a short drive from Seattle.
Urban Trails for Everyone
If backcountry trail running isn't your cup of tea, the Puget Sound Area offers plenty of urban trails, both paved and unpaved, to get that runner's high with minimal travel. Explore the 42-mile Eastrail, meandering along an old railway corridor or discover the picturesque trails inside Seward Park, boasting both the serene forested trail and a scenic paved path around Lake Washington.
Dive into the Water
Beat the summer heat with a refreshing dip in Lake Washington and other Seattle lakes. Public access points litter the shoreline, but be mindful of swimming advisories from King County to avoid unhealthy water conditions and temperatures. Always swim in designated areas with lifeguards, as Washington lakes and rivers can still be chilly in the early summer.
Moreover, Read a Book
Prefer a quieter experience? Pull up a chair, grab your favorite book, and unwind with nature's tranquil sounds. Reading has been known to boost your mood and cognitive abilities.
Reach a Summit in the Cascades
The breathtaking Cascades stretch above Seattle's skyline. If you're ready to scale these peaks, there's a plethora of trails suitable for various levels of hikers. Just make sure to prepare for your hike with adequate training, building strength, endurance, and balance before tackling more challenging trails. Don't forget the essential gear when heading out.
Take a Stroll with a Backpack
Short on time for a day-long hike? Join the growing trend of "rucking"—walking with a weighted backpack—during your daily dog walk or neighborhood stroll. Adding a few extra pounds to your backpack will increase the workout intensity while toning your legs and core.
Tee Off on a Golf Course
Seattle boasts some of the best public golf courses in the region. Golf not only offers stunning views but also serves as a great workout, burning over 1,200 calories if you opt for walking instead of a golf cart.
Give Pickleball a Swing
If golf isn't your game, consider trying out Pickleball, a sport born in the Pacific Northwest. It's a fun mix of tennis and ping pong with an ever-growing number of courts in the Puget Sound area, making it a fantastic way to stay active and social.
Regardless of how you choose to spend your summer in Seattle, remember to stay safe in the warm weather by staying hydrated, avoiding peak heat hours, and applying sunscreen. Happy adventuring!
Enrichment Data:
Seattle's surrounding areas offer diverse trail running opportunities for individuals of all skill levels. Some notable trail running options include:
- Tiger Mountain Trail Run: A scenic race course through Tiger Mountain in the Issaquah Alps, offering distances from 5K to 50K.
- Discovery Park Trails: A mixed landscape with easy and challenging trails, providing scenic views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound.
- Gas Works Park to Lake Union Loop: An urban trail connecting Gas Works Park to Lake Union via the Burke-Gilman Trail and Cheshiahud Lake Union Loop.
- Rattlesnake Ridge Trail: A maintained trail with panoramic views of the Cascades and surrounding landscape.
- Mount Si Trail: A challenging trail with significant elevation gain, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views at the summit.
These trails cater to different preferences, from urban to tranquil wilderness settings, ensuring there's something for every trail runner's taste.
Engage in an invigorating workout by running the trails for an outdoor living experience that combines exercise with the beauty of nature's landscapes, such as the Issaquah Alps, Seward Park, or Tiger Mountain.
To balance your physical activities with a more laid-back lifestyle, discover serene reading spots throughout Seattle's home-and-garden areas, allowing you to unwind with nature's tranquil sounds and the comfort of a good book.
For sports enthusiasts, venture out to local golf courses, immerse yourself in Seattle's growing pickleball scene, or try new adventures like trail running or mountain hiking in the Cascades—remembering to prioritize safety and enjoy the unforgettable summer experiences that Seattle offers.
