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The Sammamish River Trail is a popular 10.1-mile (16.3 km) recreational multi-use pathway in King County, Washington, following the scenic Sammamish River. This flat, accessible trail forms a crucial part of the "Locks to Lakes Corridor," linking Lake Sammamish to Lake Washington and passing through vibrant communities like Redmond, Woodinville, and Bothell. It serves as a vital non-motorized transportation route and a cherished outdoor resource in the Pacific Northwest.
Visitors consistently praise the trail for its extraordinary views, which encompass…
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November 21, 2023
Cycling
May 1, 2024
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Distance 432 m
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The Sammamish River Trail is a central hub in a vast network. At its northern end in Bothell, it seamlessly connects with the Burke-Gilman Trail, which extends further into Seattle. To the east, in Marymoor Park, it links to the Marymoor Connector Trail, providing access to the East Lake Sammamish Trail. Other connecting trails include the Redmond Central Connector, Tolt Pipeline Trail, Puget Power trail, and North Creek Trail, offering extensive opportunities for longer adventures.
Yes, the Sammamish River Trail is uniquely designed as 'three trails in one.' It features a wide, paved surface for walkers, joggers, cyclists, and skaters. Alongside this, a separate soft-surface, grass/dirt path is available for equestrians between Marymoor Park and 175th Street in Woodinville. The Sammamish River itself serves as a 'third trail,' welcoming kayakers, canoeists, and paddleboarders.
The trail offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for salmon in the river, especially during spawning season, as well as turtles, beaver, eagles, hawks, and herons. You might also spot various ducks, geese, frogs, weasels, bunnies, and deer in the surrounding green spaces and agricultural lands.
Absolutely! The trail connects to several parks with amenities. Highlights include Bothell Landing (historical buildings, playground, paddleboard rentals), Wilmot Gateway Park in Woodinville (playground, restrooms, picnic tables), and Marymoor Park (off-leash dog area, playgrounds, sports fields, tennis courts, climbing rock, velodrome). The trail also passes through Woodinville Wine Country, providing access to numerous wineries like Chateau Ste. Michelle and Columbia. Toilets and trash cans are available along the route, with water refill stations in Woodinville.
The trail's route holds deep historical roots. It traces a pathway traditionally used by the Sammamish and Snoqualmie indigenous peoples for fishing and travel for approximately 10,000 years. Later, in the late 19th century, it was used by flat-bottomed steamboats and barges, and then by the Seattle, Lake Shore and Eastern Railway. The modern recreational trail emerged from a 1960s flood-control project, with the paved pathway opening to the public in 1979.
Yes, the Sammamish River Trail is largely ADA accessible. Its flat terrain and paved surface make it suitable for users of all abilities, including those in wheelchairs or pushing strollers. There are only two short sections with grades slightly below ADA standards, but overall, it's a very accessible route.
Parking is generally available at the various parks connected to the trail. Key access points with parking include Marymoor Park in Redmond, Wilmot Gateway Park in Woodinville, and Blyth Park in Bothell. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day, especially on weekends or during peak seasons, as parking lots can fill up quickly.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the Sammamish River Trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Marymoor Park, at the eastern end of the trail, also features a large off-leash dog area for extended play.
As a popular multi-use trail, the Sammamish River Trail can experience moderate to high traffic, particularly on sunny weekends and during pleasant weather in spring, summer, and fall. Cyclists, runners, and walkers share the paved path, so it's always good to be aware of your surroundings. For a quieter experience, consider visiting during weekday mornings or later afternoons.
Yes, the trail passes through several communities, offering convenient access to various establishments. In Woodinville, you'll find numerous wineries and tasting rooms, many of which have cafes or food options. Both Redmond and Bothell, at either end of the trail, also have a selection of cafes, restaurants, and pubs within a short distance of the trailheads.
The Sammamish River Trail remains open year-round. In winter, conditions are typically mild, with occasional rain. While snow is infrequent, if it does occur, the paved surface is usually cleared relatively quickly. The flat terrain makes it generally safe for winter walks or rides, but always check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out. The scenic views can be particularly serene on crisp winter days.