Explore Kirkland’s Top Parks and Trails: Outdoor Adventures for Locals & Tourists

Kirkland, Washington, is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts in the Puget Sound region, offering an exceptional blend of waterfront parks, forested trails, and vibrant community spaces. Nestled on the shores of scenic Lake Washington, Kirkland invites visitors and locals alike to immerse themselves in activities ranging from hiking, biking, and horseback riding to picnicking and birdwatching. 

From the tranquil wetlands at Juanita Bay Park to the expansive Bridle Trails State Park with its 28 miles of equestrian and hiking paths, the city provides a diverse landscape of natural beauty right within easy reach of urban amenities. Waterfront parks like Marina Park and Juanita Beach Park deliver stunning lake views, sandy beaches, and lively community events, making them hotspots for both relaxation and recreation. Meanwhile, trails such as the Cross Kirkland Corridor connect neighborhoods and parks, offering seamless opportunities for walking, running, and cycling. This guide will take you through Kirkland’s best outdoor gems, highlighting their attractions and exact locations, so you can explore the variety of experiences that make this city a nature lover’s paradise and a cherished local retreat.

Waterfront Wonders: Parks Along Lake Washington

Kirkland’s Waterfront Wonders offer a captivating blend of scenic landscapes and recreational opportunities along the shores of Lake Washington. Stretching across miles of publicly accessible parkland, these parks feature sandy beaches, meandering walking paths, picnic areas, public docks, and vibrant wildlife habitats, making them a haven for both tourists and locals. Highlights include Marina Park in downtown Kirkland, known for its sandy beach, boat launch, year-round festivals, and stunning lake and city views, and Juanita Beach Park, a family favorite with swimming areas, playgrounds, volleyball courts, and the popular summer farmers’ market.

Nature lovers can explore Juanita Bay Park’s wildlife sanctuary and boardwalks, perfect for birdwatching and peaceful walks. Other waterfront parks like Waverly Beach Park offer great swimming, kayaking, and picturesque sunset views, ideal for family picnics and relaxation. Together, Kirkland’s waterfront parks embody the city’s vibrant outdoor culture, providing diverse activities from active water sports to serene nature experiences throughout all seasons.

Juanita Beach Park – A Family-Friendly Waterfront Retreat

Location and Overview

Juanita Beach Park is a spacious 22-acre waterfront park located at 9703 NE Juanita Drive in Kirkland’s Juanita neighborhood. Positioned on the northeast shore of Lake Washington, it’s one of the busiest and most beloved parks in Kirkland’s recreation system, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational amenities.

Amenities and Attractions

The park features a sandy swimming beach with lifeguards on duty during summer, making it ideal for families and casual swimmers. A large children’s playground provides fun and safe play areas, while the sand volleyball courts and tennis courts cater to active visitors. There are also well-maintained picnic shelters, grassy areas, and walking paths that wind through the park’s scenic landscape. Facilities include bathhouses and public restrooms for visitor convenience.

Community and Local Life

Juanita Beach Park hosts the popular Juanita Friday Market, a seasonal farmers’ market running from June through September, which draws locals and visitors alike for fresh produce, artisan goods, and live entertainment. The park is a favored spot for family outings, social gatherings, and community events, thanks to its ample open space and welcoming atmosphere.

Why Visitors Love It

Tourists appreciate the stunning lake and mountain views, picnic facilities, and access to water activities such as paddleboarding. Locals cherish it as a communal backyard, perfect for weekend relaxation, recreational sports, and engaging with their community. The park’s accessibility, well-maintained facilities, and vibrant event lineup make Juanita Beach Park a must-visit destination in Kirkland.

2. Denny Park – A Forested Lakeside Retreat in Kirkland

Location and Overview

O.O. Denny Park, located at 12032 Holmes Point Drive NE, Kirkland, WA 98034, is a serene 46-acre forested park on the shores of Lake Washington. Managed by the City of Kirkland, this natural oasis offers a blend of quiet trails, lake access, and picnic areas, making it popular among families, hikers, and dog owners.

Trails and Picnic Spots

The park features several well-maintained walking trails, including the popular Lower Loop and Upper Loop trails, which together create a 1.2-mile circuit through old-growth trees and alongside Denny Creek. These trails provide peaceful woodland walks rich with local flora and fauna. Numerous picnic tables and grills are scattered near the beach and within the forested areas, offering perfect spots for lakeside meals or relaxing get-togethers.

Dog-Friendly and Family-Friendly Atmosphere

O.O. Denny Park is known for its dog-friendly environment, attracting locals who enjoy off-leash adventures in a natural setting. Families frequent the park for its playgrounds, clean beach, and safe swimming areas, making it an ideal destination for a day outdoors.

Access and Parking

Visitors can access the park primarily via Holmes Point Drive NE. There are two parking lots on either side of the park, with limited street parking nearby. Note that due to road construction in 2025, some access restrictions may apply, so plan accordingly. Restrooms are available seasonally, typically open from March to October.

With its combination of forest trails, waterfront scenery, and picnic amenities, O.O. Denny Park offers a tranquil escape close to Kirkland’s urban center, perfect for hikers, families, and nature lovers alike.

Waverly Beach Park – Waterfront Swimming and Kayaking Haven

Location and Overview

Waverly Beach Park is a charming 4.8-acre lakeside park located at 633 Waverly Way, Kirkland, WA 98033, nestled along the tranquil shores of Lake Washington. This idyllic waterfront spot offers a perfect mix of active water recreation and relaxing natural beauty, making it popular among both tourists and locals.

Swimming, Kayaking, and Beach Activities

The park features a sandy beach area for swimming, supervised by lifeguards during the summer months, ensuring a safe spot for families and casual swimmers. A public dock provides access for kayaking, paddleboarding, and small boat launching, attracting water enthusiasts eager to explore the lake’s calm waters. Though the swimming area can get seaweedy and the water a bit rough at times, the scenic setting more than makes up for it.

Sunset Views and Family Picnics

One of Waverly Beach Park’s standout features is its stunning sunset views over Lake Washington. Visitors flock here to enjoy golden-hour photo opportunities from the pier and open green spaces. The park offers picnic shelters, tables, and benches, creating an inviting environment for family picnics, birthday parties, and casual gatherings.

Accessibility and Amenities

Waverly Beach Park includes seasonal restrooms, a playground suitable for toddlers, and parking spaces, though parking can be limited during peak times. Its location close to downtown Kirkland and Juanita Beach Park makes it an accessible and convenient outdoor destination.

With its blend of swimming, paddling, and scenic relaxation, Waverly Beach Park is an essential stop for those looking to experience Kirkland’s inviting waterfront lifestyle.

Marina Park: Downtown Kirkland’s Scenic Waterfront Destination

Location and Size

Marina Park is a beautifully maintained urban park situated in the heart of downtown Kirkland at 25 Lakeshore Plaza, Kirkland, WA 98033. Covering roughly 3.6 acres along the eastern shore of Lake Washington, it serves as a vibrant focal point for city life and lakefront recreation.

Sandy Beach and Waterfront Views

The park boasts a popular sandy beach area where visitors can relax and enjoy unobstructed panoramic views of Lake Washington and the Seattle skyline. The well-paved waterfront promenade is ideal for leisurely strolls, allowing visitors to soak in the natural beauty and watch boating activities on the water.

Year-Round Community Events

Marina Park is a cultural hub hosting a range of vibrant, year-round events. Notable are the annual July 4th Celebration, the Summer Concert Series held at the open-air pavilion, and rotating art exhibitions that showcase local talent. The Plaza of Champions, located within the park, honors outstanding contributors to the Kirkland community.

Why It’s a Tourist Hotspot and Local Favorite

Tourists are drawn by the park’s incredible lakefront setting and lively event calendar, while locals appreciate the green lawns, picnic areas, and accessibility to nearby restaurants and shops. The park includes a public boat launch and docks, supporting kayak, paddleboard, and small boat activities. With convenient paid parking (about 75 spaces) and public restrooms, Marina Park combines natural beauty, recreation, and community spirit, making it a beloved destination for all visitors.

Marina Park’s unique blend of scenic charm and cultural vibrancy cements its place as one of Kirkland’s top outdoor attractions.

Forest Escapes: Kirkland’s Wooded Parks & Trails 

Kirkland’s wooded parks and trails provide refreshing forest escapes just minutes from the city, where visitors can immerse themselves in tranquil nature. From the expansive 489-acre Bridle Trails State Park, known for its equestrian-friendly 28 miles of trails, to the secluded beauty of Watershed Park, these green spaces offer a variety of well-maintained paths for hiking, jogging, and wildlife viewing. Trails weave through old-growth trees, creek valleys, and diverse ecosystems, creating restorative experiences for families, hikers, and dog walkers alike. Parks like Big Finn Hill and Edith Moulton combine rugged terrain and peaceful forest settings, while Kirkland Watershed Park features interpretive signs and multiple loop options showcasing local natural history. Whether seeking active adventure or quiet solitude, Kirkland’s forested parks deliver a rich outdoor experience close to urban conveniences.

Bridle Trails State Park – Kirkland’s Premier Equestrian and Hiking Sanctuary

Expansive Forest Preserve and Trail Network

Bridle Trails State Park spans approximately 482 to 489 acres of lush, forested land located between Bellevue and Kirkland, Washington, at 5300 116th Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98033. The park is famous for its 28 miles of well-maintained trails designed primarily for horseback riding but also widely enjoyed by hikers, trail runners, and dog walkers. Trails wind through dense second-growth forests dominated by western red cedars, Douglas firs, and western hemlocks, under which lush ferns and native plants thrive.

Equestrian Culture and Community Highlights

Since its establishment in the 1930s, Bridle Trails has been a dedicated horse park, surrounded by horse ranches and quiet residential neighborhoods. Visitors can frequently see horseback riders on the 28-mile trail system, and the park hosts several horse shows in its four outdoor arenas. Equestrian etiquette is observed by all trail users, with horses always having the right of way, ensuring a safe and respectful environment for riders and hikers alike.

Trail Access and Features

The park’s three main loop trails are the Raven Trail (1 mile), Trillium Trail (1.7 miles, interpretive), and the Coyote Trail (3.5 miles), all starting near the main parking area accessible off 116th Avenue NE. These loops offer varying lengths and easy terrain that is family- and kid-friendly, making the park suitable for casual strolls or longer, nature-immersive hikes. Visitors can also explore a horse training ring and picnic facilities equipped with tables and restrooms.

Semi-Rural Setting

Nestled amid a quiet neighborhood of horse properties and single-family homes, the park provides a tranquil natural escape while being conveniently close to urban centers. A Washington State Discover Pass is required for vehicle access. Overall, Bridle Trails State Park is a beloved destination for those seeking forest solitude, equestrian activities, and peaceful connection with nature near Kirkland.

Big Finn Hill Park – Kirkland’s Expansive Outdoor Playground

Location and Overview

Big Finn Hill Park is a sprawling 220-acre natural area located at 8106 NE 138th St, Kirkland, WA 98034. Situated between Kirkland and Kenmore, this wooded oasis offers visitors a rich variety of ecosystems including dense forests, open fields, and wetland habitats, making it one of the region’s most diverse green spaces.

Trails, Mountain Biking, and Dog Park

The park features approximately 9.5 miles of interconnected trails that traverse rolling terrain with some steeper hills, catering to hikers, trail runners, and horseback riders. Mountain biking enthusiasts especially enjoy the challenging trails and technical sections, while dog owners benefit from designated off-leash areas where their pets can roam freely. The scenic paths also provide excellent opportunities for wildlife observation, with deer, owls, hawks, and eagles commonly spotted.

Amenities and Recreation

Big Finn Hill Park includes ballfields, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and restrooms, making it a popular destination for active locals and families looking for a day outdoors. The eastern portion of the park offers more developed recreational facilities, including sports fields used for soccer and lacrosse, whereas the western section emphasizes natural trail experiences connected to nearby Saint Edward State Park.

Accessibility

Two main entrances are accessible off NE 138th Street at Juanita Drive NE and at 84th Avenue NE, with parking available in two lots east of Juanita Drive. On-street parking is the only option west of Juanita Drive. The park is reachable by bus routes 234 and 244, adding convenience for visitors without cars.

Big Finn Hill Park’s combination of scenic landscapes, varied trails, and comprehensive amenities makes it a treasured outdoor destination for both Kirkland residents and visitors seeking adventure and nature connection.

Edith Moulton Park – A Hidden Gem of Old-Growth Forest and Tranquility

Location and Natural Features

Edith Moulton Park, located at 13438 108th Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98034, spans 26 acres of lush old-growth conifer forest that offers visitors a peaceful retreat from urban life. The park is centered around the gentle flow of Juanita Creek, which winds through the park and is crossed by two pedestrian bridges. Interpretive trails guide visitors through vibrant green thickets, ferns, and towering trees, providing an immersive nature experience rich in local flora and fauna.

Off-Leash Dog Area and Family Amenities

A standout feature is the fully fenced and popular off-leash dog area, consisting of an approximately 0.8-mile loop trail where dogs can safely roam and play. The park also includes a covered picnic pavilion, playground, climbing structures for kids, and accessible pathways, making it an inviting destination for families as well as dog owners.

Why It’s a Local Favorite for Solitude

Though easily accessible from nearby neighborhoods, Edith Moulton Park remains a tranquil sanctuary prized by locals seeking quiet walks and nature immersion away from busier city parks. The soothing sound of Juanita Creek combined with a well-preserved forest habitat creates a mystical and calming atmosphere. Its blend of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and community-focused design fulfills Edith Moulton’s original vision of a park “for children to play in nature.”

With a mix of serene trails, creekside views, family facilities, and dog-friendly spaces, Edith Moulton Park is a cherished hidden gem within Kirkland’s diverse park system.

Watershed Park – Kirkland’s Secluded Natural Escape

Location and Overview

Watershed Park is a tranquil 75-acre natural haven located at 4500 110th Avenue NE, Kirkland, WA 98033. Nestled on a west-facing slope above Lake Washington, this largely forested park offers a peaceful retreat from the urban bustle, featuring a mix of old forest, creeks, and an historic water reservoir.

Historic Reservoir and Natural Beauty

Formerly the source of fresh water for Kirkland and Houghton until the 1960s, the park’s crumbling historic reservoir sits near the top of the park and serves as a fascinating landmark along the trails. Visitors can explore this remnant while hiking through second-growth forests, fern-covered ravines, and peaceful creek valleys that showcase the Pacific Northwest’s natural heritage.

Serene Trails and Meditation Opportunities

Watershed Park contains about 1.6 to 2 miles of easy, well-maintained walking trails, including loops around the reservoir and the Cochran Springs Creek trail. These quiet paths are ideal for mindful hiking, trail running, and meditation, offering multiple scenic viewpoints and interpretive signs to enhance the experience. The park’s serene atmosphere attracts nature lovers, photographers, and residents seeking solitude close to the city.

Access and Amenities

Trailheads are accessible from several points: the corner of NE 45th Street and 110th Avenue NE, the south ends of 114th and 112th Avenues NE, and a connection from the Cross Kirkland Corridor. Although there is no dedicated parking lot, limited street parking is available nearby. Dogs on leash are welcome, but bicycles are prohibited to maintain the park’s quiet, natural ambiance.

Watershed Park’s blend of historic intrigue, lush forests, and peaceful trails makes it a cherished destination for tourists and locals searching for a restorative outdoor escape in Kirkland.

North Rose Hill Woodlands Park – A Peaceful Neighborhood Forest Escape

Location and Overview

North Rose Hill Woodlands Park is nestled in the heart of Kirkland at 9930 124th Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98033. This lovely 23-acre park offers a verdant forested setting that feels like a tranquil retreat within the city’s residential neighborhoods, making it a favored spot for nearby residents.

Forested Hiking Trails and Wildlife

The park features a network of winding, well-maintained trails that meander through lush second-growth forest, wetlands, and restoration areas. These paths are ideal for casual strolls, jogging, and nature observation. Visitors frequently spot diverse local wildlife, including songbirds, small mammals, and amphibians, attracted by the park’s varied habitats and the peaceful environment.

Dog-Friendly and Family Amenities

North Rose Hill Woodlands Park is especially popular with dog owners due to its off-leash dog areas and expansive space where pets can explore safely. Families enjoy the two playgrounds located on opposite sides of the park, as well as picnic tables and a small picnic shelter available on a first-come, first-served basis. A portable toilet is typically open from spring through fall for visitor convenience.

Neighborhood Setting and Local Appeal

Situated within a quiet residential area, the park offers an easy, natural escape for locals looking to unwind, exercise, or enjoy a nature-filled afternoon. Its peaceful ambiance, combined with accessibility and simple amenities, makes it a beloved community resource for low-key outdoor recreation and relaxation.

With forest trails, dog-friendly spaces, and family-friendly amenities, North Rose Hill Woodlands Park is a cherished neighborhood gem inviting visitors of all ages to connect with nature just minutes from Kirkland’s urban center.

Urban Trails & Community Parks 

Kirkland’s urban trails and community parks form a vibrant network of green spaces that connect neighborhoods, recreation facilities, and natural landmarks throughout the city. Highlighted by the popular 5.75-mile Cross Kirkland Corridor, this system offers accessible, multi-use paths perfect for walking, biking, and jogging. Community parks like Peter Kirk Park, Crestwoods Park, and Totem Lake Park provide well-equipped spaces for sports, picnics, and family fun, enhancing the city’s quality of life. Together, these trails and parks support a healthy, active lifestyle, foster neighborhood connections, and reflect Kirkland’s ongoing commitment to sustainable, inclusive outdoor recreation for residents and visitors alike.

Cross Kirkland Corridor Trail

The Cross Kirkland Corridor is a popular 5.75-mile linear trail stretching through the heart of Kirkland, Washington. This wide, crushed-gravel trail follows a former railroad corridor and connects eight neighborhoods from the South Kirkland Park and Ride to the northern Totem Lake Business District. Favored by walkers, joggers, cyclists, and families, the trail’s smooth, flat surface accommodates users of all ages and abilities. Visitors enjoy scenic views of wetlands, forests, and urban landscapes, while public art installations along the path add cultural interest. The trail provides easy access to several nearby parks, including Crestwoods Park, Totem Lake Park, and Feriton Spur Park, making it a vital recreational and commuter route for locals and tourists alike. With multiple trailheads and ADA-accessible crossings, the Cross Kirkland Corridor fosters active lifestyles and neighborhood connections in a natural, community-centered environment.

Crestwoods Park – A Family-Friendly Urban Oasis

Location and Overview

Crestwoods Park is located at 1818 6th Street, Kirkland, WA 98033, offering a peaceful green space within the city. The park is known for its expansive grassy areas ideal for sports and recreation.

Sports Fields and Playground

The park features well-maintained sports fields used for soccer and baseball, making it a favorite spot for team sports and community games. Families appreciate the children’s playground, which provides a safe and fun environment for kids to play and explore.

Wooded Trails and Year-Round Use

Besides the sports facilities, Crestwoods Park boasts about 1.5 miles of wooded walking trails that wind through serene forested areas. Locals enjoy these trails for running, jogging, and casual strolls throughout the year, appreciating the park’s quiet, natural setting amid the urban landscape.

Directions and Amenities

Visitors can access the park conveniently via 6th Street, with parking available on-site. The park includes restrooms, picnic tables, and benches, supporting family outings and recreational activities.

Crestwoods Park is a versatile community hub that blends athletic fields with tranquil wooded trails, making it a beloved destination for Kirkland residents seeking active and peaceful outdoor experiences.

Peter Kirk Park – Central Hub for Sports and Community

Peter Kirk Park, located at 202 3rd Street, Kirkland, WA 98033, sits in a prime downtown location adjacent to shopping, dining, and cultural spots. This well-loved urban park offers a broad range of sports amenities, including two tennis courts, a basketball court, and a lighted baseball field equipped for evening games with bleacher seating and field lighting.

Families and children enjoy the large playground, while the public skate park next to the tennis courts provides a popular space for youth and teens. The seasonal outdoor swimming pool adds to the park’s family-friendly appeal. Peter Kirk Park also serves as a vibrant community gathering place, hosting festivals, concerts, and other public events throughout the year that attract both locals and visitors.

With picnic areas shaded by towering evergreens and ample green space, the park balances active recreation with relaxing natural beauty, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring Kirkland’s urban core.

Totem Lake Park – A Vibrant Family-Friendly Urban Retreat

Located at 12207 NE Totem Lake Way, Kirkland, WA 98034, Totem Lake Park is a beautifully transformed 17-acre urban park that serves as the recreational centerpiece of the Totem Lake Urban Center. Opened in 2021, the park features a newly designed playground that is accessible to all abilities, making it welcoming for children of all ages and needs.

The park offers excellent lake access and a 10-foot-wide boardwalk that connects directly to the Cross Kirkland Corridor, perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling. Visitors enjoy well-maintained walking paths that wind through lush landscaping and a large central wetland, which provides valuable habitat and natural beauty.

Totem Lake Park’s spacious lawns, family restrooms, and a long community picnic table encourage outings and social gatherings. It’s a favored spot for families and community members seeking a calm, welcoming space for picnics, play, and leisure amid Kirkland’s evolving urban landscape.

Carillon Woods – Accessible Forested Trails and Family-Friendly Play Areas

Carillon Woods is a tranquil neighborhood park located at 5429 106th Avenue NE, Kirkland, WA 98033, nestled in Kirkland’s Central Houghton area. The park features a peaceful forested setting with paved walking paths that offer easy accessibility for casual visitors, families, and those with strollers or wheelchairs. These interpretive paths meander through native trees and natural ravines, creating a serene environment ideal for gentle walks and nature appreciation.

For families, Carillon Woods includes a well-maintained children’s playground, providing a safe and engaging space for kids to play and connect. The park’s combination of wooded nature trails and accessible paved routes makes it a popular destination for locals seeking a quiet retreat close to home, offering both recreational opportunities and peaceful neighborhood charm. This blend of accessibility and natural beauty ensures Carillon Woods appeals to a wide range of visitors year-round.

Hidden Gems & Neighborhood Parks

Kiwanis Park: A Quiet Lakeside Retreat with Community Charm

Kiwanis Park is a small, serene lakeside park located at 1405 10th Street West, Kirkland, WA 98033. Spanning about 3 acres along Lake Washington, it features a peaceful natural beach and picnic tables, making it a perfect spot for relaxing family outings and casual picnics. The park’s well-maintained walking trail offers scenic views of the shoreline and surrounding greenery, attracting both locals and visitors seeking a quiet escape.

Over the years, the park has been lovingly restored by volunteers and community groups working to remove invasive plants and preserve native vegetation, enhancing its natural beauty. Kiwanis Park also hosts occasional community events and nature-based activities that engage neighbors. Its intimate size and easy accessibility make it a hidden gem for those looking to enjoy lakeside tranquility and outdoor play in a lesser-known, inviting setting within Kirkland.

Forbes Creek Stairs: Kirkland’s Urban Fitness Challenge

Nestled at 10661 Forbes Creek Drive, Kirkland, WA 98033, the Forbes Creek Stairs are a local favorite for fitness enthusiasts seeking a unique urban workout. The stairway features 210 wooden steps constructed from old railroad ties, climbing steeply through shaded forested terrain. With an elevation gain of about 115 feet, it offers a moderate to strenuous challenge that builds strength and endurance while providing refreshing creek and woodland views.

Open year-round and accessible 24/7, the stairs connect with nearby trails and the Cross Kirkland Corridor, making it easy to extend a workout or enjoy a scenic cool-down walk. Despite some sketchy spots and slippery conditions when wet, sturdy handrails help users navigate safely. Parking is limited but available nearby.

Forbes Creek Stairs have gained a devoted following among locals as a “hidden gem” for stair climbing and urban hiking, combining the benefits of a gym stair stepper with the enjoyment of outdoor nature. Its close proximity to Juanita Village provides convenient access to cafes and restaurants after a vigorous workout.

Tips for Exploring Kirkland’s Parks & Trails

• Best Visiting Times:

Early mornings or weekdays are ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy tranquility.

Summer months offer longer daylight and typically better weather for outdoor activities.

• Parking Tips:

Arrive early on weekends to find parking at popular spots like Marina Park or Bridle Trails State Park.

Downtown parks often have paid parking lots or garages with convenient payment options, including apps.

Some natural or forested parks have limited or no dedicated parking; street parking nearby may be available.

• Accessibility:

Many parks and trails feature paved, wheelchair- and stroller-friendly paths (e.g., Cross Kirkland Corridor, Lake View Walk).

Check specific parks for restroom availability and ADA-compliant facilities.

• Pet-Friendly Policies:

Most parks welcome dogs, often with designated off-leash areas (e.g., Edith Moulton Park, Big Finn Hill Park).

Leashes may be required on trails; always clean up after your pets to maintain park cleanliness.

• Safety Tips:

Wear sturdy footwear suitable for varied terrain, especially in wooded or uneven areas.
Stay on marked trails to protect natural habitats and reduce risk of getting lost.

Carry water, especially for longer hikes or warmer days.

Be cautious when trails are wet or slippery; use handrails where available (e.g., Forbes Creek Stairs).

• Trail Etiquette:

Yield right of way to horses and faster trail users.

Keep noise levels low to respect wildlife and fellow visitors.

Avoid disturbing plants and animals; take only photos, leave only footprints.

Follow posted rules for each park, including bicycle restrictions where applicable.

Kirkland offers a rich variety of outdoor spaces, from waterfront parks and forested trails to urban greenways and equestrian preserves. Exploring these parks and trails provides visitors and locals alike with opportunities for fitness, relaxation, wildlife observation, and community connection. Spending time outdoors improves mental and physical health, fosters social bonds, and deepens appreciation for nature. Whether you seek beachside sunsets, wooded escapes, or active urban pathways, Kirkland’s diverse parks system—highlighted by places like Bridle Trails State Park, the Cross Kirkland Corridor, and Marina Park—welcomes all to experience its natural beauty and recreational offerings firsthand. Embrace the outdoors and discover your favorite spot in this vibrant city.