Lower Leschi Park Woods and Frink Park Loop

Starting near King County, Washington, the Lower Leschi Park Woods and Frink Park Loop is a delightful 2 km (1.2 miles) loop trail with an elevation gain of approximately 100 meters (328 feet). This trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers looking for a short yet rewarding adventure.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, head towards the Leschi neighborhood in Seattle. The nearest significant landmark is Leschi Park, located at 201 Lakeside Ave S, Seattle, WA 98122. There is street parking available around the park. For those using public transport, you can take the King County Metro bus routes 27 or 14, which stop near Leschi Park.

### Trail Navigation Starting from Leschi Park, the trailhead is easily accessible. Make sure to have the HiiKER app downloaded for precise navigation and to stay on track throughout the loop.

### Trail Highlights As you begin your hike, you'll be greeted by the lush greenery of Lower Leschi Park. The trail meanders through a dense forest of towering Douglas firs and Western red cedars, providing ample shade and a serene atmosphere. The first section of the trail is relatively flat, making it a gentle introduction to the hike.

### Elevation Gain and Terrain After approximately 0.5 km (0.3 miles), the trail starts to ascend gradually. The elevation gain is steady but manageable, with a few steeper sections that might require a bit more effort. The path is well-maintained but can be muddy after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

### Historical Significance As you continue, you'll enter Frink Park, a historically significant area named after John M. Frink, a prominent Seattle businessman in the late 19th century. Frink Park was established in 1906 and has since been a cherished green space in the city. The park's history is reflected in its rustic bridges and stone steps, remnants of early 20th-century park design.

### Flora and Fauna The trail is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for native plant species such as salal, sword ferns, and Oregon grape. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of avian life, including chickadees, woodpeckers, and occasionally, bald eagles soaring overhead. Small mammals like squirrels and raccoons are also common sightings.

### Scenic Views and Landmarks Around the 1 km (0.6 miles) mark, you'll reach a viewpoint offering a stunning panorama of Lake Washington and the Cascade Mountains in the distance. This is a perfect spot for a short break and some photography. As you loop back towards Leschi Park, the trail descends gently, providing a different perspective of the forested landscape.

### Final Stretch The last section of the trail brings you back to the starting point at Leschi Park. This area is perfect for a post-hike picnic or simply relaxing by the lakeside. The park also features a playground and restrooms, adding to the convenience for families and groups.

This loop trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical context, and moderate physical challenge, making it a must-visit for hikers in the Seattle area.