Explore the trails of St. Edward Park in Kirkland

Come alone or bring your whole family to discover the quiet trails, sweeping lawns and stately architecture of this expansive state park hidden just miles from busy Bothell and Kenmore. Once you visit you will want to return with friends and visitors.

After a brief welcome and orientation from a State Park Ranger we will hike from the historic lodge down to the shore of Lake Washington, walk a short traverse, then make our way back up by another route to where we started. This family friendly hike will range between 1.5 - 2 miles, depending on the group’s preference.

Dogs are welcome to join us, if they are well managed and leashed, as required by the Park.

What to expect: The hike will take us under a canopy of Douglas fir, western red cedar, western hemlock, bigleaf maple, Pacific madrona, and cottonwood. We will see wildflowers on the edges of the lawns. The park also contains sword ferns, devil’s club, candy flower, thimbleberry, red currant, Robert Geranium, Oregon grape, and bleeding heart.

After the hike, participants can return to the Lodge to view the art exhibition located in the converted seminary hall. Or, find a spot on the park grounds for a picnic lunch. If you prefer, food is available in the Lodge restaurant. There is no need to rush off. The park contains a big toy playground for children, ball fields and many other features. You may even want to explore some of the other forest trails within the park.

Where to Meet
We’ll gather in the northern most parking loop at St Edward Park (see map) near the trailhead of the North Trail.
St. Edward State Park
14477 Juanita Drive Northeast
Kenmore, WA 98028

Specifics
We’ll hike a 2‑3 mile loop combining segments of the North and Seminary trails.

• The trails are well‑maintained, with forested shade. If it has recently rained we can expect occasional muddy patches.
• We will walk at a moderate pace (2–2.5 mph) with short stops for rest, water, and wildflower viewing.
• Most of the trail sections have a gentle change in elevation, with some steeper descents on the initial section. There can be roots, and the soft dirt is often covered with pine needles, which can reduce traction and grip. Expect a bit of uneven footing in places.

What to Bring & Wear

• Discover Pass: Parking in the northern loop requires a WA Discovery Pass. These can be purchased on site for $10 daily or $30 for an annual pass.
• Footwear: Comfortable trail shoes or light hiking boots—there will be roots and perhaps some muddy spots. Hiking poles can be helpful in these stretches.
• Clothing: Dress in layers (T-shirt, fleece or light jacket)—summer mornings can be cool, warming by afternoon. Bring a rain‑resistant outer layer just in case.
• Consider bringing: Refillable water bottle, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and small daypack for snacks, camera, binoculars, sketchbook, insect repellent, picnic lunch.

Registration

• Pre‑registration is required through the Sierra Club Sno‑Isle group at this link: CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Accessibility

• The event is family/dog friendly and open to everyone.
• Trails are mostly easy to moderate open forest paths with boardwalks near the lake. The trail to the lake descends 400 feet and in brief sections can be a bit steep. The return trail is much gentler and wider. As needed, we will take our time ascending from the lake.
• Parking is plentiful, and restrooms are located in the lodge and at the lakeshore.