Seward Park trails

Length: Several miles of trails.

Level of difficulty: Flat to moderately sloping terrain. Level 2.4-mile, paved pedestrian road encircles the peninsula; upper pedestrian road and dirt/gravel trails lace the forested interior.

Setting: This lovely forested peninsula resembles a big green thumb jutting out into Lake Washington. Within the park's nearly 300 acres, a mature second-growth forest holds some very large conifers, and non-native species planted near the park entrance offer a chance to observe trees from other parts of the world. To learn local plants, check out the native plant garden in front of the learning center.

Highlights: The park's environmental-learning center features nature classes/walks for kids and adults, provided free or for a nominal fee. In the next few months, offerings include bat-watching hayrides, a pond expedition and art classes inspired by nature. On the first Saturday of each month at 10 a.m., show up for a free history walk, with an Audubon Society volunteer along to help identify the park's flying fauna.

Facilities: Environmental learning center (open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 3 to 5 p.m. and when classes are in session), restrooms, water fountain, phones and playground are located near the park entrance.

Restrictions: Leash and scoop laws in effect; pets are prohibited on beach. Bikes allowed on paved roads only.

Directions: From Interstate 5 southbound, take Exit 163A (West Seattle Bridge/Columbian Way), and bear left onto Columbian Way South. Turn right on 15th Avenue South, bear left on South Columbian Way, and turn right on Beacon Avenue South. Turn left on South Orcas Street; when you reach Lake Washington, turn right into the park.

From I-5 northbound, take Exit 161 (Swift Avenue) towards Albro Place, turn right on Swift Avenue South, turn left on South Eddy Street, and turn left on Beacon Avenue South. Turn right on South Orcas Street and proceed as above.

For more information: Call 206-684-4396 to register for programs; for program schedules, pick up a brochure at the park or see www.seattle.gov/parks.

Cathy McDonald is coauthor with Stephen Whitney of "Nature Walks In and Around Seattle," with photographs by James Hendrickson (The Mountaineers, second edition, 1997).

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