Discovery Park

Discovery Park is Seattle's largest public park, encompassing 534 acres on the shores of Puget Sound in the Magnolia neighborhood. The park occupies most of the former Fort Lawton site and offers visitors a diverse landscape of forests, beaches, meadows, and dramatic sea cliffs.

The park features 11.81 miles of walking trails, including the 2.8-mile Discovery Park Loop Trail, which was designated a National Recreation Trail in 1975. This loop takes visitors through various ecosystems, from dense forests to open meadows, and provides spectacular views of Puget Sound and both the Cascade and Olympic Mountain ranges.

One of the park's notable features is the West Point Lighthouse, built in 1881 and located on the westernmost point of the park. The lighthouse is accessible via the South Beach Trail, offering visitors a glimpse into maritime history along with panoramic views of the water.

Discovery Park serves as a vital wildlife sanctuary within the urban environment. It is home to over 270 species of birds, making it an excellent location for birdwatching. Visitors may also encounter various mammals such as Townsend's chipmunks, and marine life including harbor seals and sea lions in the nearby waters.

The park includes the Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center, which sits on 20 acres of park land and serves as a cultural hub for Native American communities. This center, completed in 1977, emerged from negotiations following a peaceful occupation of the former military land by Native American activists in 1970.

Maintained in a semi-natural condition, Discovery Park provides an unparalleled opportunity for environmental education and a peaceful retreat from urban life. The park's Environmental Learning Center offers various educational programs, including nature walks and day camps for children.