South Bluff, Piper's Creek and North Bluff Loop Trail

Starting your adventure near King County, Washington, the South Bluff, Piper's Creek, and North Bluff Loop Trail offers a delightful 3 km (1.86 miles) loop with an elevation gain of approximately 100 meters (328 feet). This trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards Carkeek Park, located at 950 NW Carkeek Park Rd, Seattle, WA 98177. There is ample parking available near the trailhead. For those using public transport, take the King County Metro bus route 28, which stops near the park entrance. From there, it's a short walk to the trailhead.

Trail Overview The loop begins near the entrance of Carkeek Park. As you start, you'll be greeted by a lush canopy of Douglas firs and western red cedars. The initial section is relatively flat, allowing you to ease into the hike. About 0.5 km (0.3 miles) in, you'll encounter a gentle incline as you approach South Bluff.

South Bluff At approximately 1 km (0.6 miles), you'll reach South Bluff. This area offers stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. It's a great spot to take a break and soak in the scenery. Keep an eye out for bald eagles and other bird species that frequent this area.

Piper's Creek Continuing along the loop, you'll descend towards Piper's Creek. This section is about 1.5 km (0.9 miles) into the hike. The creek is a significant landmark, known for its salmon runs in the fall. If you're hiking during this season, you might witness salmon making their way upstream to spawn. The trail here is shaded and follows the creek closely, providing a serene and cool environment.

North Bluff As you ascend towards North Bluff, the trail becomes steeper, gaining most of the 100 meters (328 feet) in elevation. This section is around 2 km (1.2 miles) into the hike. North Bluff offers another vantage point with panoramic views, making the climb worthwhile. The area is also rich in native flora, including sword ferns and salal bushes.

Historical Significance Carkeek Park, where the trail is located, has a rich history. It was originally inhabited by the Duwamish people, who utilized the area's abundant natural resources. In the early 20th century, the park was developed as a recreational area for Seattle residents. Remnants of old orchards and historical markers can be found throughout the park, adding an educational element to your hike.

Navigation For navigation, it's recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates. The trail is well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool can enhance your hiking experience.

Wildlife and Flora Throughout the hike, you'll encounter diverse wildlife. Apart from the bald eagles near South Bluff, you might see black-tailed deer, raccoons, and various bird species. The flora is equally diverse, with towering conifers, deciduous trees, and a rich understory of ferns and shrubs.

Final Stretch The final stretch of the loop brings you back towards the starting point, completing the 3 km (1.86 miles) journey. This section is relatively flat and offers a gentle cooldown after the more strenuous climbs.

This trail offers a balanced mix of scenic views, historical context, and diverse wildlife, making it a rewarding experience for any hiker.