Saturday Morning Walk/Hike - Carkeek Park, Seattle

Summer walks and hikes are starting earlier to beat the heat and the crowds. At this time of year, remember sun screen, water for yourself and dogs, as well, bug spray is a good idea. Never plan to leave your dog in the car while you run errands before/after or stop for lunch. Please keep your RSVP up to date - even if you are on the waiting list.

Distance: 3-4 miles RT
Elev. Gain : 800 ft
Path Type: dirt
Parking: small parking lot, or use street/qfc lot
Permits/Passes: none
Dogs: allowed on leash, poop must be scooped.

Carkeek Park is located in northwest Seattle, between 3rd Ave NW and Puget Sound. The park includes all of Piper's Creek (sometimes written without the apostrophe) plus the adjoining side hills and some side streams, plus a beach area. Park trails can be accessed from several points, and there is an access road that leads to a parking area near the beach. Park entrance is free, and official hours are daily, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The hike described here includes the entire length of Piper's Creek, plus a number of trails on the north and south ridges above the creek. For a shorter or easier hike, a glance at the trails map will suggest other possibilities.

Begin your hike at the Eddie McAbee Entrance on NW 100th Place, near 6th Ave NW. There's a signboard at the trailhead with a park map and often, paper copies of a trail map available for the taking. Trail maps also can be downloaded.