HomeProtected PlacesSaint Edward State Park
Saint Edward State Park adventures

Saint Edward State Park Adventures

Saint Edward State Park offers 326 acres of lush forest, historic architecture, and numerous trails for hiking and mountain biking, set along the northern shore of Lake Washington near Seattle.

326
Acres Protected
8+
Miles of Trails
200,000+
Annual Visitors
1979
Year Established

About Saint Edward State Park

 

Saint Edward State Park is located in the city of Kenmore, Washington, just a few miles north of Seattle. The park spans 326 acres and features dense mixed evergreen and deciduous forests, gentle slopes, and pristine shoreline along Lake Washington. The land was originally homesteaded in the late 1800s and later became the site of Saint Edward Seminary, a grand, historic building constructed in the 1930s in a Gothic Revival style. The seminary building, although currently unused for its original purpose, remains a prominent landmark within the park and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The park includes over 8 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and running, with routes ranging from easy lakeside strolls to more challenging forested terrain. Visitors often enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, and photography, as the park's mature old-growth forest houses diverse wildlife including deer, owls, and several songbird species. The park is also a popular local spot for trail running and casual forest exploration. The peaceful atmosphere coupled with proximity to urban areas makes it an appealing green space. Visitor amenities include parking lots, restrooms, and picnic areas, and the park connects to adjacent parks like Marymoor Park via regional trail systems. Saint Edward State Park balances its outdoor recreational use with the preservation of its significant historical structures and natural habitats, making it a unique destination for those seeking both cultural and nature-based experiences near Seattle.

Highlights

Highlight

Historic Saint Edward Seminary building with Gothic Revival architecture

Highlight

Picturesque shoreline and beach area along Lake Washington

Highlight

Diverse trail network for hiking and mountain biking

Highlight

Old-growth forest providing habitat for various wildlife species

Notable Natural Features

Saint Edward Seminary

A historically significant Gothic Revival building constructed in the 1930s that dominates the park landscape.

Lake Washington Shoreline

Offers scenic views, a tranquil beach area, and habitat supporting diverse aquatic and bird species.

Trail Network

More than 8 miles of multi-use trails ranging from easy lakeside walks to advanced mountain biking routes.