Sunday Trail Run: Saint Edward State Park Solstice

It's the winter solstice in the northern hemisphere, so let's indulge in some traditional celebrations: eating things and fire! Plus, of course, a bit of running around.

Saint Edward State Park is the closest state park to Seattle, nestling between Kirkland and Bothell. For this special soggy solstice escapade, we'll run the ridge down to the beach, then do a loop through neighboring Big Hill Finn Park to hang out with the frogs and the herons. We'll finish up back at the picnic area for hot drinks, doughnuts, and as big a bonfire as we can fit in those little fire pits.

This route is 8 miles, with mild elevation gain (one longish uphill). Shoes that grip well in mud are recommended because these trails will have some! If 8 miles is more than you'd like to do, cutting out the loop around Big Hill Finn will drop the mileage to ~6.

Map here: https://www.gaiagps.com/public/SZpSu5lXnxODXMF3GeKermez

Saint Edward is accessible by bicycle and public transit, but as always, post in the comments if you'd like to find or offer a ride! A Discover Pass is required to park in the lot. If you'd like to bring some firewood to contribute, feel free!

A number of runners are carrying on the holiday spirit afterward with Quadsmas (which I'm informed is a celebration of a type of dark beer, rather than our mighty running legs). All are welcome at Obec Brewing in Ballard between noon and 9pm.

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Sunday Trail Runs are a TWICE monthly series. We run at home (Discovery Park / Seven Hills Running Shop on 1st Sundays) and away (rotating series of scenic trails on 3rd Sundays)!