A Guide to West Seattle WA Parks

West Seattle, Washington, is known for its beautiful landscapes, offering residents and visitors access to some of the best parks in the region. With scenic views of the Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and lush greenery, West Seattle parks provide plenty of opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Whether you're looking for a place to hike, picnic, or enjoy waterfront activities, there’s a park for everyone. This guide will take you through some of the most beloved parks in West Seattle and what makes each one special.

Alki Beach Park is perhaps the most iconic destination in West Seattle, drawing visitors with its expansive views of Elliott Bay, the Seattle skyline, and the Olympic Mountains. Spanning 2.5 miles along the waterfront, this park is perfect for those who enjoy beach activities such as sunbathing, volleyball, or paddleboarding. The long, sandy shoreline is also a favorite for walking, jogging, and rollerblading along the paved path that follows the water’s edge.

One of the unique features of Alki Beach Park is the miniature Statue of Liberty replica, which serves as a local landmark and adds to the park’s historic charm. Nearby restaurants and cafes make it easy to grab a bite while enjoying the spectacular views. Whether you’re planning a family outing or a romantic sunset stroll, Alki Beach is the place to be.

For those who prefer more greenery and wooded trails, Lincoln Park offers 135 acres of natural beauty to explore. Located along the Puget Sound, this park is known for its rugged terrain, featuring both beachfront areas and forested trails. There are over five miles of walking paths, perfect for hikers of all skill levels. Along the trails, you’ll find picnic areas and open spaces where you can relax and take in the views.

Lincoln Park is also home to Colman Pool, an outdoor, heated saltwater pool that overlooks the Sound. This unique pool is open during the summer months and provides a refreshing way to enjoy a swim while being surrounded by nature. With its blend of forest, beach, and recreation facilities, Lincoln Park is a versatile destination for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors.

For a true escape into nature, Schmitz Preserve Park offers a serene, untouched forest experience in the heart of West Seattle. This 53-acre park is one of the few places in the city where you can walk through old-growth forests, giving visitors a glimpse of what the Seattle area looked like before urbanization.

Schmitz Preserve Park is perfect for hiking enthusiasts who enjoy winding trails through dense forests, and listening to the sounds of birds and wildlife. The park’s natural beauty and peaceful ambiance make it a popular spot for nature lovers and those seeking a quiet retreat. With its towering trees and meandering creek, Schmitz Preserve Park is an ideal destination for anyone looking to reconnect with nature without leaving the city.

Westcrest Park is one of West Seattle’s largest parks, offering something for everyone. Spread across 88 acres, this park includes scenic walking trails, off-leash dog areas, and plenty of open space for recreation. The park’s elevated position provides sweeping views of downtown Seattle, making it a popular spot for photography and city-gazing.

Dog owners will especially appreciate the large off-leash area, which includes open fields and shaded spots for dogs to run freely. Westcrest Park also features a playground, picnic areas, and a community garden, making it a great destination for families. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a leisurely walk or play fetch with your dog, Westcrest Park is a versatile space that can accommodate various outdoor activities.

Located along the waterfront, Seacrest Park offers a different kind of outdoor experience, perfect for those interested in water-based activities and stunning city views. This park is a popular launch point for kayakers and paddleboarders, with easy access to Elliott Bay. You can rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards from local vendors and enjoy a day on the water.

Seacrest Park is also known for its fishing pier, which offers excellent opportunities for fishing enthusiasts to cast their lines with the Seattle skyline as a backdrop. The park is home to the Water Taxi, a convenient and scenic way to travel between West Seattle and downtown. With its prime location and diverse range of activities, Seacrest Park is an excellent destination for those who want to experience West Seattle’s waterfront lifestyle.

Mee-Kwa-Mooks Park may not be as well-known as some of the larger parks in West Seattle, but it offers a peaceful retreat with incredible views of Puget Sound.

The park features grassy meadows, picnic areas, and a natural beach with tidepools that are fun to explore. Mee-Kwa-Mooks Park is a quieter spot compared to the bustling Alki Beach, making it ideal for those who prefer a more laid-back setting to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. It’s also a great place for bird-watching and appreciating the local wildlife.

Fauntleroy Park is a hidden gem within West Seattle, known for its dense forest and peaceful walking trails. Covering 32 acres, this park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The lush greenery and well-maintained trails offer a perfect escape from the busy urban environment.

Fauntleroy Creek runs through the park, providing a tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy the sights and sounds of flowing water. The park is also home to several small bridges and a variety of plant species, making it a delightful spot for photographers and those who appreciate nature’s diversity. Fauntleroy Park’s quiet, shaded trails are ideal for those seeking solitude and reflection.

West Seattle’s parks offer a variety of outdoor experiences, from serene forest hikes to vibrant beach activities. Whether you're a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax, these parks provide the perfect setting for your next outdoor excursion.

If you're interested in learning more about West Seattle and all there is to love about living here, reach out to Mara Haveson. With Mara’s expertise, you can discover the best of West Seattle and find the perfect home in this vibrant, scenic community.