View of Seattle and Bainbridge Island from Elliott Bay Trail

Embark on the Elliott Bay Trail for a refreshing urban hike, offering continuous views of Puget Sound, the Seattle skyline, and the distant Olympic Mountains. This moderate route spans 7.1 miles (11.4 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 66 feet (20 metres), making it accessible for most. You can expect to complete the journey in about 2 hours and 53 minutes, enjoying the blend of cityscapes and natural beauty as you pass landmarks like the Olympic Sculpture Park and the Great Wheel.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is highly accessible and connects downtown Seattle to the Magnolia neighborhood. It is mostly paved, often featuring separate lanes for pedestrians and cyclists, ensuring a smooth experience. While generally flat, be mindful of a narrow railroad overpass that includes a steep ramp near active BNSF Railway tracks, where you should exercise caution. The trail is suitable for a leisurely outing at any time of day.

The Elliott Bay Trail stands out for its unique combination of urban green spaces and industrial elements, providing a varied visual experience. You will traverse through areas like Myrtle Edwards Park, offering peaceful green respite within the city. The route also showcases the Interbay rail yards, adding an interesting contrast to the waterfront scenery and public art installations you encounter along the way.

Hike the 5.1-mile Elliott Bay Trail and Downtown Seattle Loop for urban exploration, waterfront views, and iconic city landmarks.

This easy 4.1-mile urban hike combines waterfront views of Puget Sound with iconic Seattle landmarks like the Space Needle and Olympic Sculp