Lake Washington Boulevard

Since Covid erupted in March 2020 the City of Seattle has taken to sometimes closing a section of Lake Washington Boulevard (from Mt. Baker to Seward Park) to cars. Suddenly this roadway becomes a wide, wonderful, wheelchair accessible trail.

For those days when the road isn’t closed we recommend the trail along the lake from the Mt. Baker Boathouse to Seward Park. You can access it from Genesee Park or the parking lot next to the boathouse. The trail goes right along the lake and in most sections is set far enough away from the road that you don’t have to deal with the noise of cars zooming by.

Here’s what Lucas had to say about it after a stroll in early February, 2021:

“Today we went to Lake Washington Boulevard. It was very smooth, except for a couple bumps on the pavement. You can roll right up to the water and see lots of ducks, geese and seagulls. It was raining on and off, but I had a hood and my Baby Yoda Force mittens, so overall it was nice.”

Key stats:

Distance: maybe 2 miles from Mt. Baker Boathouse to Seward Park.

Wheelchair accessible parking? Yes — in the lot next to the boathouse. You have to pay for parking. Also, be sure to lock up your vehicle and not leave anything valuable. Krista had a purse stolen there a few years back.

Wheelchair accessible bathrooms? Yes

Trail condition? Paved, 8 foot wide trail. It’s mostly smooth but there are some cracks and bumps that you have to slow down to maneuver.

Highlights? Like Lucas says, the fact that it goes right along the lake makes for good views and lots of bird sightings.

More information about Lake Washington Boulevard here.