I have been visiting Warren G Magnuson park on a weekly basis since moving to Seattle in 2021. The main thing I love about this park is the sheer size of it! When I went to take photos for this post, I somehow stumbled upon multiple areas I had not yet explored. Each visit to Warren G Magnuson park brings new exploration, and that’s why I always recommend locals and tourists check it out. This post will go over the history and details of Warren G Magnuson park.
Driving and Parking Directions
Getting to Warren G Magnuson park is simple with Google and Apple maps, but you will have to decide what area you would like to park in. The pin above will bring you to what I think is the most central parking area in the park. On your drive to this parking lot, you will pass multiple other options for areas you can park in incase this one is full.
There are multiple different areas of hte park that you can park in you woudl like. I recommend using the pin above if your main goal is to visit the lake and explore in the trees. If you are going to the dog park or the sport fields, park here.
Overview
Warren G Magnuson park is composed of 350 acres, making it the second largest park in Seattle behind Discovery park. Starting at the northern end of the park, there is an 8.6 acre off leash dog park. There are multiple soccer and ballfields surrounding the dog park, making this a very busy section. If you visit on a weekend or an evening in the summer you’ll find people playing with their dogs or practicing with their teams. The north end of Warren G Magnuson park also has a large playground for kids to enjoy.
The center of Warren G Magnuson park is filled with natural wetland areas. This is one of my favorite section of the park to explore. If you wander around on the trails in the middle of this park it truly feels like you are on a hiking trail deep in the forest. One of the fun things about the wetlands is that are tons of birds and ducks that you can spot while you’re here. There are also restrooms located centrally in the park, and benches scattered throughout.
As you get closer to the shores of Lake Washington you will see an increase in the availability of benches and picnic tables. Warren G Magnuson park was set up perfectly for anyone looking for a hideout on a warm summer day. The south end of the park is filled with more wetland area. The trail system continues through this area and offers you an inside look into the wetlands in Seattle. If you choose to stay near Lake Washingtons shore, you will see amazing views of Mount Rainier on a clear day. On a rainy day, you will see views of Kirkland and a few bridges spanning across the lake.
History
Warren G. Magnuson Park, like many of the other parks in Seattle, has a history worth learning about. As you wander around the park you’ll see various memorials making it obvious that this wasn’t always a park for the public. This area was originally established as a naval air station during World War II. Back then the park was filled with military activity until its decommissioning in 1975. Named in honor of Washington’s longest-serving senator, Warren G. Magnuson, the park underwent a transformation, evolving into a community space that showcases some the beauty of Seattle.
The park’s evolution reflects the city’s growth and changing needs over the decades. From its days as a strategic military base to its rebirth as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, Magnuson Park has continuously adapted to serve the public. Today, it stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving green spaces and recreational opportunities. As you explore Warren G. Magnuson Park, take a moment to appreciate its rich tapestry of history and heritage.
As you stroll through Magnuson Park you’ll encounter remnants of its military past juxtaposed with modern amenities. The park has repurposed historic hangars into community centers, offering a glimpse into its storied heritage while providing space for cultural events and gatherings. The park’s iconic sandpoint naval barracks, a designated city landmark, stand as silent sentinels, reminding visitors of the site’s significance in shaping Seattle’s history.
Activities
Walking and running:
There is ample opportunity for walking and running at Warren G Magnuson park. The trails flow seamlessly through the wetland area, the popular fields, and along the shores of Lake Washington. No matter how long you want to run for or what views you are searching for, Magnuson has it all.
Swimming and paddling:
If you’re planning on getting in or on Lake Washington, I recommend parkign in the south east parking lots. Those will bring you as close to the lake as possible. From there, you will find many different access points to get in the lake. If you are planning on swimming on a hot day expect crowds. The locals in Seattle flock to these beaches on warm days.
Sports:
As shown in the overview above, there are many different sport fields at Warren G Magnuson park. Whether you are playing tennis, soccer, baseball, or most other sports – there’s a spot for you here.
Biking or blading:
There are many paved trails weaving throughout the park that you can take wheels on. If you are roller blading or roller skating, I would stay on the trail near the lake. Stay on this trail because it’s the best-kept one in the park. If you’re biking you will have more options. The trails in the middle of the park are paved but have not been maintained very well. Expect it to get bumpy in some places but it is a fun and beautiful spot to bike.
Bird watching:
Take a moment to sit on one of the many benches scattered across Warren G Magnuson park. If you do this you’ll see a lot of birds when you visit Warren G. Magnuson park. A few of the birds you might see are:
- Great Blue Heron: These majestic wading birds are a common sight along the shores of Lake Washington and in the park’s wetland areas, often seen stalking fish or standing motionless as they hunt.
- Bald Eagle: As apex predators, bald eagles often soar overhead or perch in trees around the park, especially near the lake where they hunt for fish.
- Mallard Duck: These colorful ducks are abundant in the park’s wetland areas and can often be seen swimming in the ponds or foraging along the shoreline.
- American Coot: With their distinctive white beaks and black bodies, American coots are frequently seen swimming in the ponds and marshy areas of the park.
- Songbirds: Warren G. Magnuson Park is home to a variety of songbirds, including black-capped chickadees, American robins, song sparrows, and varied thrushes. Look and listen for them in the wooded areas and along the park’s trails.
- Waterfowl: In addition to mallards, you may also spot other species of waterfowl at the park, such as Canada geese, wood ducks, buffleheads, and hooded mergansers.
- Osprey: These fish-eating birds of prey can often be seen circling above the lake or perched on tall structures like light poles and trees, scanning the water for their next meal.
- Red-winged Blackbird: Look and listen for the distinctive call of male red-winged blackbirds, particularly in the marshy areas of the park where they often perch on cattails and sing to establish territory.
Amenities
- Bathrooms: There are bathrooms scattered around the park for public use. Some of these are port-a-potties.
- Parking: There are multiple free parking lots in Warren G Magnuson park. If you enter on the north or the south end, you will quickly see signs leading you to the free parking lots.
- Beach access: If you park at the south east end of the park you will find many different access points to Lake Washington.
- Dog Friendly: While the entire park is dog friendly, you must keep your furry friends on a leash. There is an 8.6 acre dog park located on the north end of the park. Read below for more information on the dog park at Magnuson park.
Warren G Magnuson Off-Leash Dog Park
Spanning vast acres, Warren G. Magnuson Park offers unparalleled space for canine frolics. Divided into various sections, it caters to dogs of all sizes and temperaments. From expansive fields perfect for runs to secluded corners ideal for shy pups, the park’s layout ensures room for play and exploration.
Starting from the spacious west field, equipped with covered patios for rainy days and amenities like water stations and waste disposal, the park unfolds eastward. Here, less crowded areas beckon, offering tranquility amidst nature’s bounty. Further along the trails, an agility area awaits, providing opportunities for training and bonding.
The highlight of Warren G. Magnuson Park lies in its northeast section – the off-leash dog beach. Here, furry companions revel in the joys of swimming and splashing amidst breathtaking views of Lake Washington. While popular on warm days, the beach retains its charm when visited during quieter times.
What sets Warren G. Magnuson apart from other dog parks in Seattle is not just its size but also its amenities and maintenance. With numerous poop bag stations, garbage cans, water fountains, and ample parking, it caters to every need of both dogs and their owners. Regular upkeep ensures a safe and pleasant environment, making it a preferred weekend destination.
In conclusion, Warren G. Magnuson Dog Park stands as a beacon of canine delight in Seattle. Its expansive grounds, diverse amenities, and serene ambiance make it a must-visit for dog enthusiasts. So, leash up your furry friend, pack your essentials, and experience the magic of this extraordinary Seattle gem.
Conclusion
Warren G Magnuson truly is a gem that the city of Seattle has managed to create. It’s green spaces like this one that help to create the connection with nature that many Seattle locals feel. The many amenities of this park create a fun environment for all different types of people, and I highly recommend you plan a visit to this park.
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