08/26/06

Have a picnic or take a hike in this 316-acre lakefront park.

by Contributor

The Experience
This quiet haven of sprawling lawns, forested trails, 3,000 feet of Lake Washington shoreline, and many species of birds, animals, plants and trees lies in the midst of suburbia. Families, couples, singles and dogs (leashed, please) all gather here for hiking, biking, picnicking and fishing, as well as tennis, soccer, and baseball. There's even an Olympic-size indoor pool for those who love water but don't feel like braving the lake. Visit in early April when the flowers along the trails are in bloom or in summer to take advantage of the many recreational activities--not to mention one of the best picnic spots on the Eastside.

The Background
The property, operated by the Seattle Catholic Diocese since 1931, was sold to the State of Washington in 1977, which opened the park grounds to the public in 1978.