Saint Edward State Park Loop

Starting your adventure near King County, Washington, the Saint Edward State Park Loop offers a delightful 6 km (approximately 3.7 miles) journey with an elevation gain of around 200 meters (656 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, set your GPS to Saint Edward State Park, located at 14445 Juanita Dr NE, Kenmore, WA 98028. For those using public transport, the nearest bus stop is at Juanita Dr NE & NE 145th St, serviced by King County Metro Transit. From there, it's a short walk to the park entrance.

### Trail Navigation For navigation, the HiiKER app is highly recommended to ensure you stay on track and make the most of your hike. The loop is well-marked, but having a digital map can be invaluable.

### Trail Highlights As you embark on the trail, you'll immediately notice the lush, dense forest that characterizes much of the park. The trail meanders through towering Douglas firs, western red cedars, and bigleaf maples, providing ample shade and a serene atmosphere.

#### Significant Landmarks - Grotto Area (1.5 km / 0.9 miles in): One of the first significant landmarks you'll encounter is the Grotto, a peaceful, secluded area perfect for a short rest. This spot features a small, picturesque pond surrounded by ferns and moss-covered rocks. - Historic Seminary Building (3 km / 1.8 miles in): Midway through your hike, you'll come across the historic Saint Edward Seminary, a grand building constructed in the 1930s. While the building itself is not open to the public, its impressive architecture and the surrounding manicured lawns are worth a pause. - Lake Washington Viewpoint (4.5 km / 2.8 miles in): As you continue, the trail offers a stunning viewpoint overlooking Lake Washington. This is an ideal spot for photos and a quick snack break.

### Flora and Fauna The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Keep an eye out for black-tailed deer, raccoons, and a variety of bird species, including woodpeckers and owls. The underbrush is rich with native plants like salal, Oregon grape, and sword ferns, adding to the trail's natural beauty.

### Trail Conditions and Safety The trail is generally well-maintained, but can become muddy and slippery after rain, so appropriate footwear is essential. There are a few steep sections, particularly near the lake viewpoint, where trekking poles might be helpful. Always carry enough water and snacks, and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

### Historical Significance Saint Edward State Park holds historical significance due to the Saint Edward Seminary, which served as a training ground for Catholic priests from the 1930s until its closure in the 1970s. The park itself was established in 1977, preserving the natural and historical heritage of the area.

### Final Stretch As you near the end of the loop, the trail gently descends back towards the trailhead, offering a relaxing finish to your hike. The final section passes through more dense forest, eventually leading you back to the starting point near the park entrance.

This loop trail provides a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and moderate physical challenge, making it a rewarding experience for any hiker.