Five Goregous Hikes to the Lake at Saint Edward State Park

A Heartwood Guide to Kid‑Friendly Adventures at the park, from North to South 

One of the joys of exploring Saint Edward State Park is that there’s no single “right” way to hike it. With five beautiful trails leading down the hill to Lake Washington, it’s fun to either get to know each, one day at a time, or take one trail down to the lake and choose a different trail for the way back up. Each route has its own personality, its own forest textures, and its own kid‑friendly discoveries along the way. 

Below, we’ll guide you from north to south, beginning with the quietest, most tucked‑away trail and ending with the steep, invigorating climb of the South Ridge. 

1. North Trail 

Distance: ~2.2 miles round‑trip 

Character: Shaded, scenic, full of surprises 

Kid‑Friendly Perk: A child‑sized hollow inside a snag 

Starting from the north parking lot, the North Trail hugs a cool, canopied hillside before descending through salal and mixed forest. This trail feels peaceful and slightly wild, a perfect place for children to tune into the sounds of the forest. 

Halfway down, kids can discover one of the park’s kid-friendly gems: a child‑sized hollow inside a snag. This natural shelter becomes a fort, a fairy house, or a secret lookout, depending on the imagination of the day. 

The trail ends at the northernmost stretch of lakefront, a quiet and serene spot to rest before continuing your adventure. 

The Lake Shore Trail 

Distance: ~0.6 miles from the North Trail junction to the main beach 

Character: Gentle, calming, lakeside views 

Kid‑Friendly Perk: Skipping stones, watching ducks, and walking right beside the water 

From the end of the North Trail, you can follow the lake shore trail south toward the main beach. This meandering shoreline path is one of the most peaceful walks in the park. The lake opens up beside you, offering shimmering views, gentle waves, and plenty of opportunities for kids to skip stones or watch water birds. 

It’s a lovely, grounding stretch of trail — perfect for slowing down before choosing your route back up the hill. 

2. Seminary Trail 

Distance: ~2 miles round‑trip 

Character: Wide, welcoming, family‑friendly 

Kid‑Friendly Perks: The famous “bumpy tree” and a fallen Douglas fir perfect for balance play 

The Seminary Trail is the widest and most accessible route to the lake, making it a favorite for families, dogs, and even mountain bikers. The gentle grade allows kids to walk side‑by‑side with friends or siblings, and the forest here feels open and inviting. 

One of the highlights is the beloved “bumpy tree,” a large bigleaf maple covered in rounded burls — natural growths that form when the tree grows protective tissue in response to stress or injury. Kids love running their hands along the textured trunk and imagining what kind of magical creature it might resemble. 

A little farther along, keep an eye out for a fallen Douglas fir resting on the upward slope beside the trail. This long, sturdy trunk has become an unofficial balance beam for adventurous kids. Whether they choose to walk, crawl, or shimmy across it, it’s a fun and confidence‑building challenge that adds a playful moment to the hike 

3. Grotto Trail 

Distance: ~0.8 miles round‑trip 

Character: Short, steeper, contemplative 

Kid‑Friendly Perk: A sweet bench near the top for resting or storytelling 

The Grotto Trail is the shortest route to the lake, but don’t underestimate it — the hillside climb will still get your heart pumping. Kids often enjoy the quick descent and then challenge themselves on the way back up. 

Near the top, a small bench offers a perfect pause. It’s a lovely spot for a snack, a story, or a moment of quiet forest listening. This trail is ideal when you want a shorter adventure with big payoff. 

4. South Canyon Trail 

Distance: ~1.6 miles round‑trip 

Character: Lush, shaded, full of understory charm 

Kid‑Friendly Perk: A creek running down the center of the canyon 

The South Canyon Trail is a lush, green wonderland. Ferns blanket the forest floor, and the canopy above is a mix of cedar, Douglas fir, hemlock, and bigleaf maple. A gentle creek runs right down the center of the canyon, offering listening delights and a small footbridge to cross over. 

This trail feels cool, quiet, and deeply alive. It’s a favorite for families who love exploring the textures and sounds of the forest. 

5. South Ridge Trail 

Distance: ~1.4 miles round‑trip 

Character: Steep, forested, energizing 

Kid‑Friendly Perk: A satisfying challenge for strong legs and adventurous spirits 

The South Ridge Trail begins with a climb near the Bastyr water tower and an elevated forested viewpoint before dropping steeply toward the lake. Kids love the feeling of descending downhill towards the lake, and they feel incredibly proud conquering the steep climb back up. 

This is the most invigorating ascent in the park — a great choice for hikers who enjoy a challenge and want to end their adventure feeling strong. 

Why We Love These Trails 

Each of these five routes offers something unique — a trailside hollow, a creek to cross, a bumpy tree to marvel at, a heart-thumping climb, or a bench for quiet reflection. And with the lakeshore trail connecting them, it’s easy to mix and match your descent and ascent for a fresh adventure every time. 

At Heartwood, these trails are part of our daily rhythm in both our summer camps and school‑year forest programs. Children learn to navigate roots and rocks, listen for birdsong, discover hidden nooks, and build a deep connection to the land. 

If your family is looking for a nature‑immersive program where kids grow confident, curious, and grounded, we’d love to welcome you into our Heartwood community.