St Edward Beach and St Edward State Park Loop

Starting near King County, Washington, the St Edward Beach and St Edward State Park Loop is a scenic 11 km (approximately 6.8 miles) trail with an elevation gain of around 400 meters (about 1,312 feet). This loop 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 St. Edward State Park, located at 14445 Juanita Dr NE, Kenmore, WA 98028. There is ample parking available at the park entrance. For those using public transport, you can take a bus to the Kenmore Park & Ride, which is about 2 miles from the park entrance. From there, you can either walk or take a short taxi ride to the trailhead.### Trail Overview The trail begins near the main parking area of St. Edward State Park. As you start, you'll be greeted by a lush forest canopy, primarily composed of Douglas firs, western red cedars, and bigleaf maples. The initial section of the trail is relatively flat, allowing you to ease into the hike.### Key Landmarks and Sections

St. Edward Seminary

About 1 km (0.6 miles) into the hike, you'll come across the historic St. Edward Seminary. Built in the 1930s, this grand building is a significant landmark and offers a glimpse into the region's past. Take a moment to explore the exterior and appreciate the architecture before continuing on the trail.#### Grotto and Picnic Area Continuing for another 1.5 km (0.9 miles), you'll reach a serene grotto and picnic area. This is a great spot to take a short break, enjoy a snack, and soak in the natural beauty. The grotto is often adorned with seasonal wildflowers, adding a splash of color to the surroundings.#### Descent to the Beach The trail then begins a gradual descent towards the beach area. Over the next 2 km (1.2 miles), you'll lose about 150 meters (492 feet) in elevation. The descent is well-marked but can be slippery after rain, so watch your footing. As you approach the beach, the sound of waves crashing will guide you.#### St. Edward Beach Upon reaching the beach, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of Lake Washington. This is a perfect spot to relax, have lunch, or even take a dip in the water if the weather permits. The beach area is also a good place to spot local wildlife, including various bird species and occasionally, otters.### Climb Back Up After enjoying the beach, the trail loops back and begins a more strenuous ascent. Over the next 3 km (1.9 miles), you'll gain approximately 200 meters (656 feet) in elevation. This section can be challenging, so take your time and stay hydrated. The trail is well-maintained, with several switchbacks to help manage the incline.### Return to the Trailhead The final 2.5 km (1.5 miles) of the loop take you through dense forest and open meadows, offering a variety of landscapes. Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife that frequent this area. The trail eventually leads back to the starting point near the parking area.### Navigation and Safety For navigation, it's highly 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 and ensure you stay on track.### Historical Significance St. Edward State Park holds historical significance due to the St. Edward Seminary, which served as a training ground for Catholic priests until the 1970s. The park itself was established in 1977 and has since become a cherished natural and recreational area for locals and visitors alike.Prepare adequately with water, snacks, and appropriate footwear, and you'll have a memorable hike through one of Washington's beautiful state parks.