Kubota Garden

A hidden jewel in south Seattle, the Kubota Garden has been a favorite trail of ours for years. Every time we’re there we take a different route around the grounds and there is lots to see, from the lookout on the south end to a zen-like mini-pond and waterfall. If you want to learn about plants and trees this is a good place to do it.

The entrance is not far of Rainier Ave. in the Rainier Beach neighborhood. If you’re feeling ambitious you can arrive via the Chief Sealth Trail, a 4+ mile paved trail from Beacon Hill to Kubota Garden.

Key stats:

Distance: There are about 2 miles of trails throughout the Gardens but not all of the trails are accessible. As you go up the hill on the east side of the grounds it gets very steep. There are also a few spots with steps.

Wheelchair accessible parking? Yes

Wheelchair accessible bathrooms? Maybe

Trail condition? The trails are all hard-packed gravel. Some of them are fairly narrow but

Highlights? If you happen to be there in the late spring you’ll catch the beautiful colors of rhododendrons throughout the garden (see pictures below). The Japanese style bridges and carp ponds are also worth checking out. 

More information about Kubota Garden here. And go here for a map of the Garden and a self-guided tour of some of the amazing trees.