Bridle Trails State Park
A 482-acre forested oasis with 28 miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding, offering a serene escape near Seattle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Cool shade from trees
Bridle Trails State Park
Best Time
Cool shade from trees
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 482-acre forested oasis with 28 miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding, offering a serene escape near Seattle.
"It’s amazing to have such a beautiful park right in the city. It's quiet, clean, and perfect for a peaceful walk."
🚗 Street Parking Option
If you don't have a Discover Pass, street parking is available on nearby residential streets.
🗺️ Trail Markers
Look for marker posts with mini-maps to help you navigate the extensive trail system.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lush Forest Trails
Throughout the park
Wander through 482 acres of dense forest, offering shade and a peaceful escape. Perfect for a serene walk.
Equestrian Paradise
Equestrian trails
Experience a park designed for horses, with dedicated trails and even horse-show grounds. Watch riders in action!
Seasonal Wildflowers & Puddles
Various trail sections
Enjoy seasonal blooms and fun puddle-jumping opportunities, especially delightful for kids on a nature adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Pass Required
Trail Etiquette: Horses First!
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Street Parking Option
If you don't have a Discover Pass, street parking is available on nearby residential streets.
🗺️ Trail Markers
Look for marker posts with mini-maps to help you navigate the extensive trail system.
🥾 Watch for Manure
Be aware of horse manure on trails, especially in narrower sections.
🐕 Leash Your Dog
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure safety for all visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Street Parking Option
If you don't have a Discover Pass, street parking is available on nearby residential streets.
🗺️ Trail Markers
Look for marker posts with mini-maps to help you navigate the extensive trail system.
🥾 Watch for Manure
Be aware of horse manure on trails, especially in narrower sections.
🐕 Leash Your Dog
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure safety for all visitors.
👟 Great for Running
Trails are well-maintained, even, and not too dusty or rocky, making them ideal for trail running.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bridle Trails State Park is praised for its extensive, shaded forest trails, making it a peaceful retreat. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained paths suitable for walking and running, and the unique equestrian atmosphere. However, some find the prevalence of horse manure on trails to be a drawback.
"One thing I loved about this park is the marker post throughout the park, which provided a map on the top that let you know exactly where you were at in the park while hiking. I gave it a three because there was a lot of horse manure in the middle of the walking/hiking trails. It is mostly shaded so it is is nice in summer months."
Nicole Adams
"Bridle Trails State Park is a lush haven for equestrians, hikers, and nature lovers alike. Located in the heart of Kirkland, this 482-acre park offers 28 miles of well-maintained trails, perfect for horseback riding, hiking, and running. The park's dense forest and serene atmosphere provide a peaceful retreat from the urban surroundings. With its equestrian focus, you'll often see riders enjoying the beautiful scenery. Whether you're on foot or horseback, Bridle Trails State Park is a wonderful place to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor activities.
Pick any of the three trails to your liking!"
Sid
"I enjoyed this trail. There is a large parking area, a good amount of shade/sun mixture on the trails, and the trails seemed well maintained - nothing was overgrown into the trail and the ground was pretty even.
The trails weren't even dusty or rocky. This would be great for running on.
You can easily get in several miles if you incorporate multiple loops. The marker posts have a mini map on the tops of them."
Jessica Carvalho
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bridle Trails State Park is located in Kirkland, Washington. It's easily accessible by car. There's a main parking lot, and street parking is also available on adjacent residential streets if you don't have a Discover Pass.
While direct public transportation to the park entrance might be limited, you can check King County Metro routes that serve the Kirkland area and may require a short walk to the park.
The park has an extensive network of trails. Look for the marker posts that feature mini-maps to help you orient yourself and plan your route.
No, bicycles are not allowed on the trails at Bridle Trails State Park. The park is primarily for hiking and equestrian use.
The dense forest and varied terrain make it a good spot for observing local bird species. Keep an eye out for various songbirds and other woodland creatures.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Washington State Discover Pass is required for parking at Bridle Trails State Park. You can purchase a day pass or an annual pass.
Discover Passes can be purchased online through the Washington State Parks website, at select retail outlets, or at some park offices.
Bridle Trails State Park is typically open from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check the official Washington State Parks website for any specific hours or closures.
The Discover Pass covers the parking fee. There are no additional entrance fees to access the park's trails.
Parking is generally first-come, first-served. The main lot can fill up on busy weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park offers a network of well-maintained trails suitable for hiking, running, and horseback riding. There are approximately 28 miles of trails.
Yes, Bridle Trails State Park is dog-friendly. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
Some of the wider, flatter sections might be manageable with a rugged stroller, but many trails are uneven and can be muddy, making them less ideal for strollers.
You might spot various birds, squirrels, and other small woodland creatures. Keep an eye out for horses on the equestrian trails.
Yes, kids often enjoy the forest setting, opportunities to play in puddles after rain, and spotting seasonal flowers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food concessions or restaurants within Bridle Trails State Park. It's recommended to pack your own snacks and drinks.
While there aren't designated picnic tables throughout the park, you can find scenic spots along the trails to enjoy a packed lunch.
The park is located near Kirkland, which offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores for dining options before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The towering trees, dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy, and winding trails offer beautiful photographic opportunities. Look for scenic overlooks and moss-covered logs.
Absolutely. The lush greenery, varied terrain, and atmospheric forest setting provide excellent subjects for landscape photographers, especially during the golden hours.
Yes, if you're lucky, you might capture some stunning shots of equestrians and their horses on the dedicated trails. Remember to maintain a respectful distance.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light, with soft, diffused rays filtering through the trees, creating a magical atmosphere.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits, so it's best to check with park management if you have specific plans.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring a Discover Pass for parking and be mindful of the equestrian trails. Leashing dogs is a must. The park's well-marked trails and map posts make it easier to navigate with children, ensuring a stress-free adventure. Pack snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities within the park.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
The park's shaded canopy provides a welcome respite during warmer months, and the varied terrain offers a good challenge. Be aware of the shared trails with equestrians and yield accordingly. The presence of marker posts with maps can also help you plan longer routes or explore new sections of the park.
🐴 Equestrians
Remember to practice good trail etiquette: always yield to other horses and hikers, and be mindful of the shared nature of the trails. The park's equestrian focus makes it a unique and valuable resource for horse riders in the region.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
It's crucial to remember that Bridle Trails is a shared-use park, with a significant equestrian presence. Always yield to horses and be prepared for narrow sections where you might encounter them. Keeping dogs on a leash is mandatory to ensure the safety and comfort of all park users, including the horses. While the trails are mostly shaded, they can become muddy after rain, and you'll often find horse manure on the paths, so wearing appropriate footwear is advised.
For those looking to get a good workout, the park's interconnected loops allow for customizable distances, easily enabling you to achieve several miles on a single visit. The variety of paths means you can create different routes each time you visit, offering a fresh experience with every exploration.
Equestrian Focus and Etiquette
For anyone visiting, understanding and respecting equestrian etiquette is paramount. The golden rule is to always yield to horses. This means hikers and runners should step off the trail if necessary to give horses plenty of space. Keep dogs leashed and under control, as sudden movements or barking can startle horses. Be mindful of horse manure on the trails; it's a natural part of a park with equestrian use, and while the park is generally kept clean, it's something to be aware of.
This equestrian focus makes Bridle Trails a special place, offering a glimpse into the local riding community. Whether you're a rider yourself or simply appreciate seeing horses in a natural setting, the park provides a unique blend of nature and equestrian culture.
Seasonal Beauty and Family Fun
In wetter seasons, the park transforms into a playground for kids (and the young at heart) with numerous puddles to splash in. The forest floor also comes alive with seasonal flowers, adding pops of color to the verdant landscape. These elements make it an engaging destination for families looking for outdoor activities.
The park's accessibility and relatively easy trails also contribute to its appeal for families. While it's important to be aware of the equestrian presence and potential for horse manure, the overall experience is peaceful and nature-focused, providing a great opportunity for children to connect with the outdoors.
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