Carkeek Park via Pipers Creek Trail

Route Description for Carkeek Park via Pipers Creek Trail

Carkeek Park is a recreational area in northwest Seattle comprising Pipers Creek and the area surrounding it. With hills, streams, a beach, forest, and shoreline, it’s a pretty area to spend part of your day in. This park is used often by hikers, dog walkers, and runners. This park sees a touch less traffic than other parks in the metro area, making it a good choice for those seeking a bit more solitude.

The Carkeek Park via Pipers Creek Trail hike is an easy 5.1 km loop that starts from the south entrance to the park and loops along the outermost trail. The route begins in the forest and then stretches along the shore, offering great views of Puget Sound.

The trails in Carkeek Park are not very well-marked and there are many junctions. Some hikers report having difficulty finding their way. We recommend downloading a GPS track of the route or snapping a screenshot of the park map to help you stay on track.

This trail is undulating with few completely flat stretches. Additionally, some park entrances have only a few parking spots. Arrive early if you want to park as close as possible.

Begin from the south entrance to the park off 6th Ave NW. There’s an information board here with paper maps. Grab one if you don’t have a downloaded route. Your hike starts with a couple of brief switchbacks to descend down to the creek. You’ll hike downstream, admiring the steep canyon walls where impressive trees have grown.

There is an orchard along the trail, and then you’ll cross a creek. Ignore the eyesore that is the sewage pumping station and take a right up the 12th Avenue Hillclimb Trail. Next, go left along the North Traverse route. This will lead you to Grand Fir Trail, which you’ll follow to a viewpoint over the park.

From here, take the trail on your far right, which is North Bluff Trail. You’ll hike near the shoreline, looking out over Puget Sound. Stay on the trail closest to the shore until you reach the recreational area with picnic tables, playgrounds, and a fire ring. This is a nice spot to rest a while if you need, looking out over the water, using the restrooms, eating your lunch, or just otherwise taking a break.

Your route continues to hug the shore before slowly pulling away. Turning left at South Ridge Trail, you’ll hike back inland, staying straight on this path as side trails intersect. The trail winds north to rejoin your initial access route, where you’ll turn right and hike back to where you began.

Trail Highlights

Carkeek Park

Carkeek Park is a 216-acre park in the Broadview neighbourhood of Seattle. This park is used for hiking, running, recreation, and education. It contains Piper Orchard and Piper Creek. Families can enjoy the playgrounds and picnic areas, and hikers and runners can use the network of trails. There is a sand beach in the park on Puget Sound. The park was established in its current location in the late 1920s after the original planned site of Carkeek Park was displaced by a naval air station. The park has since been expanded several times through land donations.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Carkeek Park open?

Carkeek Park is open from 6 AM until 10 PM.

Are there bathrooms at Carkeek Park?

Yes, there are bathrooms in several locations in the park.

Can you swim at Carkeek Park?

Yes, there is a sand beach that can be used for sunning and swimming. Be prepared- Puget Sound is very cold!

Insider Hints for Carkeek Park via Pipers Creek Trail

• You can take transit to this hike. The #28 bus from downtown stops near the south entrance to the park.
• No pass or permit is required for this hike.
• No dogs are allowed on the beach at Carkeek Park. There is a $500 fine for violating this. Additionally, keep dogs on leash at all times in accordance with park rules.