Seattle is blessed with many places to explore from floating trails to gardens. While many of these places highlight our city’s remaining nature, not all show a blend of Seattle’s urban sprawl. That’s what makes the Green River Trail such a unique spot to walk.
The Green River Trail winds more than 19 miles making it one of the “longest contiguous regional trails in the Puget Sound Region” according to King County. The Green River is the tributary of the Duwamish River, which switches over as it nears Seattle.
From industrial lands near the Duwamish Waterway to the broad Green River Valley, it gives you views and access points to the Green River from Cecil Moses Park near Seattle, all the way to North Green River Park near Auburn.
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Due to the length of the trail you can explore all sorts of landscapes ranging from industrial lands to pastoral views, and parks. As you walk, bike, or blade you will likely see Osprey nests, making it an interesting spot for bird watching.
Now something you may not know if you didn’t grow up in King County is that the lower Duwamish Waterway is a Superfund site. This means it is a highly polluted area due to the aforementioned urbanization. That being said, if you find you appreciate walking the trail, you can help restore the river by getting involved in community organizations like the Duwamish River Community Coalition.
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After all, the more that people come together for the future betterment of these spaces, the more we will all be able to enjoy them.
Not only that but, according to King County, “the trail is slated to continue south through the City of Auburn and eventually to Flaming Geyser State Park at the Green River Gorge.” So growing the trail in a way that is best for the community and nature is a great choice for everyone.
What are you waiting for? Get out there and explore the trail in one day or in segments and experience a walking tour of our city’s history from natural to urban.
Green River Trail
Where: Cecil Moses Park to North Green River Park
Information on the Green River Trail comes from King County and from the Environmental Protection Agency and is accurate as of publication date.
