Dreaming of a beach day not far from Seattle? Head to Lake Sammamish State Park! Boasting two lakefront beaches and trails through deciduous forest and wetlands, this park provides a family outdoor experience just off the urban grid. You may even get to share space with one of the great blue herons or bald eagles that nest in the park.

Love water sports but don't have a kayak or board? No problem! Rentals are available at Tibbetts Beach. Rather keep your feet or wheels on the ground? Bring bikes, walking poles, binoculars and bird books, or bring your GPS unit for geocaching, and explore the light-dappled trails.

Would the kids prefer unstructured time? Let them loose in the brand-new, state-of-the-art playground, while you watch from the sidelines and rest.

In addition to free-form fun, Lake Sammamish plays host to community events year round. They include nature, birding and dog walks; stewardship projects; paddling and cycling events; kids' obstacle courses; summer concerts; holiday boat parades; and the annual summer Parkadilly Fair.

Whether you live in the Emerald City or have come to the area for a visit, Lake Sammamish is the place to picnic, play and make memories.

Lake Sammamish State Park

Lace up your sneakers or hiking boots, and chart a course for Squak Mountain State Park.

Just a few minutes east of Seattle, Squak Mountain has miles of walking and horse trails for people of all abilities.

Meander through the forest past bubbling creeks, mossy rocks and trees dripping with lichen. Ramble down the Bullitt Fireplace Trail to see the impressive remains of the 1952 Bullitt House's stone fireplace.

Training for bigger treks? Tag the summit of Squak Mountain at 2,024 feet, and treat yourself to a peek-a-boo view of Seattle. If not for that view, you might forget you are close to a city.

The Seattle cardio craze is evident at this park; on late spring evenings and Friday afternoons Squak Mountain plays host to the eastside running and power-walk crowd. Why not join them? Fitness fans, nature lovers and visitors to the Emerald City will find plenty to do here, and neighboring Issaquah provides scores of eateries for a post-workout meal.

State Parks Tagged With: Issaquah