Leafline members, partners, and supporters share tips to enjoy walking, biking, and rolling year-round.
Favorite Trails
Whether you’re looking to explore the Leafline Trails Network, find a way to get where you need to go, or get outside while avoiding snow in the mountains, these 10 trails are highly recommended by our community:
1. Burke Gilman Trail
This classic route connects Seattle to Lake Forest Park, Kenmore, and Bothell. (City of Seattle, King County)
2. Centennial Trail
Enjoy this 30-mile trail from Snohomish to the Skagit County line. (Snohomish County)
3. Sound to Olympics Trail
Connecting communities (and stunning parks), this trail is part of the cross-country Great American Rail-Trail. Sections are open now on Bainbridge Island, and under development throughout the county. (Kitsap County, City of Bainbridge Island, City of Poulsbo)
4. Cushman Trail
This popular route runs beneath power transmission lines for much of its 6.2 miles, accessible from Tacoma via the Scott Pierson Trail over the Narrows Bridge. When complete, it will connect north to the Kitsap County line. (Pierce County, PenMet Parks, City of Gig Harbor)
5. Snoqualmie Valley Trail
Tracing the foothills of the Cascades, this trail features iconic railroad trestles, lots of regional history, and a hard-packed gravel surface. (King County)
6. Interurban Trail
One of the longest north-south spines in our region, this trail follows the historic route of the Seattle-Everett Interurban Railway and a similar outfit connecting Seattle to Tacoma. (Snohomish County, King County, Pierce County)
7. Foothills Trail
With amazing mountain views when the clouds part, this historic rail-trail begins in Puyallup, running all the way to Buckley. (Pierce County)
8. Water Flume Line Trail
This Tacoma trail is full of history, as it traces a water channel that once supplied city residents (City of Tacoma).
9. Lake to Sound Trail
The Lake to Sound Trail is coming to life, connecting the south end of Lake Washington to the shores of Puget Sound. (King County, City of Renton, City of Tukwila, City of Burien, City of Des Moines)
10. Elliott Bay Trail
This downtown Seattle trail is well-loved for its waterfront scenery and access to the ferry terminal. Did you know it’s now part of a cross-country route called the Great-American Rail-Trail? (Port of Seattle)
Winter Tips
- Make it fun: Hit the trails with company to make it a social event. Or, stop for a tasty treat. Bakeries, coffee shops, and breweries make great side trips on your commute, and nice weekend destinations.
- Gear to stay dry and warm: Raingear is the name of the game. A waterproof jacket makes you feel invincible during our region’s hallmark rainy days, and you can add rainpants, neoprene gloves or socks, or try rain capes for extra protection. Ear warmers, balaclavas, and layering are helpful to stay warm.
- Lighting & safety: The Leafline community said headlamps and bike lights are key during darker months (and that they’d like to see more trail lighting!). During the winter, people reach for reflectors and bright clothing to increase their visibility, and use extra caution near trail crossings or on-street routes. Of course, drivers should stay alert and watch for people walking, biking, and rolling, and yield at crossings.
- Monitor the conditions: Trails can be slippery this time of year. Slowing down is a good idea when there are wet leaves, icy conditions, or other hazards. But you don’t have to stay home — those east-facing trails tend to thaw first on cold mornings!
Learn more about how to recreate responsibly all winter long.
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