The loop around Lake Union is one of the most popular runs in Seattle. The picturesque freshwater lake is located 2–3 miles from downtown Seattle, and close to the Capitol Hill area. The loop around the lake on a paved multi-use trail is almost a perfect 10K! There are stunning views of the Seattle skyline, the Olympic Mountains (to the west) and Mount Rainer (to the southeast).
A good place to start is a the south end of the lake, at the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI). One can do the full loop, though we should note that the best lake views & dedicated trail are on the west side (Westlake Trail) and the north side (a section of the Burke Gilman Trail). The east side is along Fairview Ave., with occasional lake views. Use University Bridge (decent pedestrian path) to cross.
The Queen Anne neighborhood is just to the west and the University of Washington is to the east. The Lake Union 10K race is held here annually.
Add-Ons: Capitol Hill neighborhood. Also the Washington Park Arboretum, to the east.
The loop around Lake Union is one of the most popular runs in Seattle. The picturesque freshwater lake is located 2–3 miles from downtown Seattle, and close to the Capitol Hill area. The loop around the lake on a paved multi-use trail is almost a perfect 10K! There are stunning views of the Seattle skyline, the Olympic Mountains (to the west) and Mount Rainer (to the southeast).
A good place to start is a the south end of the lake, at the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI). One can do the full loop, though we should note that the best lake views & dedicated trail are on the west side (Westlake Trail) and the north side (a section of the Burke Gilman Trail). The east side is along Fairview Ave., with occasional lake views. Use University Bridge (decent pedestrian path) to cross.
The Queen Anne neighborhood is just to the west and the University of Washington is to the east. The Lake Union 10K race is held here annually.
Add-Ons: Capitol Hill neighborhood. Also the Washington Park Arboretum, to the east.
Review or Comment on This Route/Share a Photo!
Share your feedback on this route and see that of other Great Runs users. Click on the image icon to upload a photo. And please let us know if there are notes or changes we should incorporate!