Myrtle Edwards Park: Seattle’s Scenic Waterfront Escape
Where city, sea, and mountain panoramas converge amid serene walking trails, urban art, and rich wildlife encounters along Seattle’s Elliott Bay.
Myrtle Edwards Park: Seattle’s Waterfront Gem
Set against the sweeping backdrop of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains, Myrtle Edwards Park is a celebrated public space on Seattle’s vibrant waterfront. Beloved by locals and visitors alike, this lush greenbelt offers winding trails, city and mountain panoramas, urban wildlife encounters, public art installations, tranquil beaches, and leisure amenities—all barely steps from the bustle of downtown and Belltown. Whether you’re seeking fresh air, invigorating exercise, contemplative sunsets, or a photo-worthy detour, this park blends northwest nature with Seattle’s urbane spirit.
Highlights at a Glance
- 1.25-mile scenic trail for walking, jogging, and cycling
- Panoramic views of Puget Sound, Olympic Mountains, and on clear days, Mount Rainier
- Diverse wildlife spotting (eagles, seals, seabirds)
- Public art & sculpture installations
- Sunny picnic spots, benches, and expansive lawns
- Two accessible beaches and driftwood seating
- Dog-friendly on leash; perfect for families & tourists
- Stunning sunsets—a photographer’s favorite
- Direct access to Olympic Sculpture Park and Centennial Park
Park Overview and Location
Myrtle Edwards Park stretches gracefully along Elliott Bay for approximately 1.25 miles (2.01 km), just north of Seattle’s Belltown neighborhood. The park encompasses about 4.8 acres (1.9 hectares) of meticulously maintained urban wilderness. With both pedestrian and dedicated bike paths, it offers one of Seattle’s most pleasant, accessible, and iconic waterfront walks.
The winding main trail begins adjacent to the Olympic Sculpture Park at Broad Street and Alaskan Way, culminating at the Pier 86 Grain Terminal. Along the way, entrances and connections link to city streets and the Centennial Park at the north end, essentially creating an expansive greenbelt corridor stretching up the waterfront.
Access Points and Connectivity
- Southern Entrance: Broad Street/Alaskan Way (near Olympic Sculpture Park)
- Northern Entrance: Pier 86 & Elliott Bay Trailhead (connects to Centennial Park)
- West Thomas Street Overpass: Pedestrian/bicycle bridge over railroad tracks, linking to Queen Anne
- Park is bordered to the east by BNSF railroad tracks with most access from the north and south
A Brief History
Originally known as Elliott Bay Park, the park was renamed in 1976 for Myrtle Edwards, a prominent Seattle city councilwoman and civic advocate. The renaming commemorated her contributions after her family withdrew her name from what became Gas Works Park. Over time, Myrtle Edwards Park became a showcase for Seattle’s community spirit, hosting events such as:
- Seattle Hempfest: An annual festival celebrating hemp culture
- Fourth of Jul-Ivar’s: The primary site for city’s Independence Day fireworks (1964–2008)
The Olympic Sculpture Park, an extension of the Seattle Art Museum, opened at the park’s southern terminus in 2007, while Centennial Park (formerly Elliott Bay Park) flanks the northern end. Today, the linear park is often considered part of a larger contiguous parkland along Elliott Bay.
Trails, Beaches, and Recreational Features
Main Trails and Pathways
- Multi-use Trail (1.25 miles): Wide, paved path for walking, jogging, biking, rollerblading
- Parallel dedicated pedestrian and bike lanes in many sections
- Easy grades—wheelchair and stroller accessible
The Elliott Bay Trail is the park’s crown jewel, providing a seamless journey along beaches, lawns, and art installations with constant marine and mountain views. The path is popular for:
- Daily commuters (bike-friendly)
- Joggers and dog walkers
- Rollerbladers and exercise groups
Beaches and Shoreline Access
- Pocket Beach: West-facing, with sweeping Olympic Mountain vistas
- Myrtle Edwards Park Beach: South of Pier 86, favored for boat watching and tidepooling
- Ample driftwood for natural seating
- Rocky and sandy stretches—explore tide pools and marine life at low tide
Recreation and Activities
- Picnic areas and benches spaced along the trail
- Expansive lawns ideal for reading, yoga, or family play
- Photo opportunities at scenic lookouts
- Frequented by locals for brisk walks and outdoor workouts
- Events: Kite flying, pop-up exercise groups, and festival gatherings
Scenic Views: Mountains, Sound, and City
Western exposure gifts Myrtle Edwards Park with some of Seattle’s most revered vistas. From nearly every vantage, visitors encounter:
- Puget Sound: Expansive saltwater sound with sailboats, ferries, and passing freighters
- Olympic Mountains: Iconic, snow-capped silhouette, especially striking at sunset
- Mount Rainier: Visible on clear days to the southeast—an awe-inspiring backdrop
- Downtown Skyline: Glimpses of Seattle’s cityscape and the distant Space Needle
Tip: For photographers and Instagram fans, golden hour and sunset provide spectacular lighting, silhouetting the Olympics in crimson and gold. Bring a camera or smartphone for dramatic landscapes and wildlife shots.
Public Art and Sculpture
Seattle’s artistic spirit courses through Myrtle Edwards Park. Along the trail, art lovers encounter installations seamlessly blending culture with nature. Major highlights include:
- Father and Son Fountain (2006): By renowned sculptor Louise Bourgeois, this evocative water feature stands near the park’s southern entrance
- Shubert Sonata (1992): Mark di Suvero’s bold, industrial steel forms animate the landscape
- Adjacent, Against, Upon (1976): Michael Heizer’s stone arrangement, near the north end
- Frequent seasonal public art pop-ups and sculptures from the Olympic Sculpture Park at the south terminus
The presence of these works adds another layer of enrichment, inviting visitors to pause, reflect, and interact with art outside of the traditional museum setting.
Nature and Wildlife
Despite its urban setting, Myrtle Edwards Park teems with wildlife and lush vegetation, serving as a vital green refuge within downtown Seattle.
Common Wildlife
- Birds: Eagles, gulls, crows, seagulls, and other seabirds are frequent sights, especially near the shoreline or soaring above
- Marine Life: Harbor seals often play in Puget Sound close to the beach; keep an eye on the water, particularly at quieter times
- Small mammals and pollinators: Squirrels, rabbits, and a host of bees and butterflies among native shrubs and floral plantings
The park’s diverse planting, including mature trees and native shrubs, attracts wildlife and provides a meditative space for observing Seattle’s natural cycles. For nature enthusiasts and families, the park’s ecology offers a living classroom in the heart of the city.
The Magic of Sunset
Sunsets at Myrtle Edwards Park are famed throughout Seattle. As day fades, the sky blazes with oranges, pinks, and purples, while the Olympic Mountains stand silhouetted behind the shimmering waters.
- Best sunset spots: Western shoreline benches and driftwood logs
- Bring a blanket or folding chair for comfort
- Arrive at least an hour before sundown to claim the best views
- Bring a camera: Golden hour offers exceptional photography
- Check weather: Clear skies make for the most vivid sunsets
Many locals and travelers describe the sunset experience here as serene and inspiring, accompanied by the gentle sound of waves and breeze from the Sound.
Practical Information and Tips
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 3130 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98121 |
| Hours | Daily, 6:00am – 11:00pm |
| Admission | Free |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible trails; overpass access to Queen Anne |
| Pet Policy | Dogs allowed on leash |
| Parking | Limited street parking nearby; bike and pedestrian friendly |
| Facilities | Benches, restrooms, picnic tables, drinking fountains |
Tips for Visitors
- Bring layers; weather can shift quickly near the water
- Early mornings and late afternoons offer quieter, more peaceful experiences
- Leashed dogs welcome, with pet waste stations provided
- Popular with joggers and cyclists—stay to the right on multi-use trails
- Accessible overpass at West Thomas Street connects park to Queen Anne
Nearby Attractions
- Olympic Sculpture Park: Contemporary open-air art at the city’s edge
- Space Needle: Seattle’s iconic viewpoint, a short walk east
- Museum of Pop Culture: Celebrating music, sci-fi, and Seattle’s creative heritage
- Downtown Seattle: Cafés, restaurants, and shopping districts nearby
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I bike or rollerblade the full length of the park?
A: Yes, the park features a fully paved, multi-use trail ideal for cycling, jogging, or rollerblading. Please remain mindful of pedestrians and use marked lanes where provided.
Q: Are dogs allowed at Myrtle Edwards Park?
A: Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the park. Owners must clean up after their pets, and dog waste stations are conveniently placed along the trail.
Q: What wildlife can I expect to see?
A: The park is home to various birds (including eagles and gulls), harbor seals, and small mammals. Bring binoculars for enhanced wildlife observation.
Q: Are there restrooms or refreshment stands?
A: Public restrooms are located near main entrances, and drinking fountains are available. For food, nearby Belltown and waterfront districts offer a wide array of cafés and takeout options.
Q: Is the park safe in the evening?
A: Myrtle Edwards Park is generally safe, especially during peak times and events. As with all urban parks, use caution after dark and travel in groups if possible.
Q: Can I access Myrtle Edwards Park with a wheelchair or stroller?
A: Yes, paved trails and the West Thomas Street Overpass make the park accessible to visitors of all abilities.
Plan Your Visit to Myrtle Edwards Park
Myrtle Edwards Park is much more than a pathway—it’s a tranquil escape, a showcase of art and ecology, and a gathering space at the confluence of city, sky, and sea. From invigorating morning jogs and leisurely strolls to golden sunsets and spontaneous wildlife moments, it offers something special year-round. Combine your visit with nearby cultural landmarks, or simply come for quiet contemplation by the water’s edge. In every season, Myrtle Edwards Park stands as an enduring testament to Seattle’s love of the natural world.
