Lakeridge Park

Lakeridge Park is a 35-acre urban oasis located in southeast Seattle, Washington. The park encompasses Deadhorse Canyon, through which Taylor Creek flows on its way to Lake Washington. Taylor Creek is the fourth largest creek in Seattle and was named after a 19th-century sawmill that once operated on the shore of Lake Washington.

The park features a half-mile trail known as the Deadhorse Canyon Trail, which was constructed in 1996. This trail meanders through the forested ravine, crossing Taylor Creek twice via sturdy bridges. The deep, north-facing gorge provides a sanctuary for local wildlife and offers visitors a quiet retreat from the bustle of city life.

Lakeridge Park is characterized by its second-growth forest, primarily consisting of big leaf maples, alders, and other young trees. Some grand firs and cedars that escaped logging in the area's past can still be found. The park's north-facing aspect and temperate climate support a lush understory dominated by sword ferns, with licorice ferns climbing high on deciduous tree trunks.

The park has been the focus of urban creek restoration efforts aimed at attracting salmon back to spawn in Taylor Creek. Local volunteer groups, such as the Friends of Deadhorse Canyon, actively participate in removing invasive plants and planting native species to improve the park's ecosystem.

Lakeridge Park provides an excellent opportunity for urban hiking, nature observation, and environmental education. It serves as a valuable green space in the city, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to experience a slice of Pacific Northwest forest within Seattle's city limits.