Bridle trails Park.
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Bridle Trails State Park

4.7
·1k reviews·Kirkland, United States

A 482-acre forested oasis with 28 miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding, offering a serene escape near Seattle.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Cool shade from trees

CrowdMedium
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Bridle trails Park.

Bridle Trails State Park

Best Time

Summer mornings

Cool shade from trees

CrowdMedium
Highlights

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.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"It’s amazing to have such a beautiful park right in the city. It's quiet, clean, and perfect for a peaceful walk."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

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Quick Facts

Rating

4.7 · 1,100 reviews

Type

State Park

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lush Forest Trails

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 Paradise

Equestrian trails

Experience a park designed for horses, with dedicated trails and even horse-show grounds. Watch riders in action!

Seasonal Wildflowers & Puddles

Seasonal Wildflowers & Puddles

Various trail sections

Enjoy seasonal blooms and fun puddle-jumping opportunities, especially delightful for kids on a nature adventure.

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Planning Your Visit

Discover Pass Required

A Washington State Discover Pass is needed for parking at Bridle Trails State Park. You can purchase a day pass or an annual pass. Consider it if you plan to visit multiple state parks.

Trail Etiquette: Horses First!

Bridle Trails is popular with equestrians. Always yield to horses on the trail. Keep dogs leashed and under control, and be mindful of horse manure on shared paths.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Cool shade from trees
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful walks
Crowd
Low
When
After rain
Why
Puddles for fun!
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Bridle Trails State Park in Bellevue/Kirkland, WA. Solitude and trees. #woods #hike
@aspiringaviatrix
7 likes • 209 views

🚗 Street Parking Option

If you don't have a Discover Pass, street parking is available on nearby residential streets. Reddit

🗺️ Trail Markers

Look for marker posts with mini-maps to help you navigate the extensive trail system. Reddit

Bridle Trails park in Kirkland, Wa. Watch out for horses...and horse poop #trails #rainyhikes #rain #parks #outside #Outdoors #relax #walking #walk #pnw #washingtonstate #discoverpass #eastside
@bpfrey
33 likes • 743 views
🥾Bridle Trails State Park 🥾 A great place to hike in any season especially with kids. 🥾Lots of covered trails with plenty of opportunities to play in puddles, hunt for 🍄 or see the seasonal flowers along the way. 🐴Watch for horses on the trails and give them the right of way. 🅿️Discover Pass needed #seattlekids #hikingwithkids #pnwwonderland #pnwkids #kidswhoexplore #seattle #bellevuewa #kirk...
toddling.around.the.sound
0 likes • 4.6K views

🥾 Watch for Manure

Be aware of horse manure on trails, especially in narrower sections. Reddit

🐕 Leash Your Dog

Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure safety for all visitors. Instagram

自己一個人去Bridle Trails State Park走了一小圈 天氣很涼爽 太陽也剛剛好 走的路上遇到好多人溜狗 好希望可以帶威力一起來
lu_u_dd
60 likes • 1.1K views

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. Reddit

🗺️ Trail Markers

Look for marker posts with mini-maps to help you navigate the extensive trail system. Reddit

🥾 Watch for Manure

Be aware of horse manure on trails, especially in narrower sections. Reddit

🐕 Leash Your Dog

Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure safety for all visitors. Instagram

👟 Great for Running

Trails are well-maintained, even, and not too dusty or rocky, making them ideal for trail running. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

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

Shaded forest trails
Well-maintained paths
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Horse manure on trails

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

No, bicycles are not allowed on the trails at Bridle Trails State Park. The park is primarily for hiking and equestrian use. TikTok

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

Discover Passes can be purchased online through the Washington State Parks website, at select retail outlets, or at some park offices. Reddit

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. Instagram

The Discover Pass covers the parking fee. There are no additional entrance fees to access the park's trails. Reddit

Parking is generally first-come, first-served. The main lot can fill up on busy weekends, so arriving early is recommended. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ 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. Reddit

Yes, Bridle Trails State Park is dog-friendly. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Reddit

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. TikTok

You might spot various birds, squirrels, and other small woodland creatures. Keep an eye out for horses on the equestrian trails. Instagram

Yes, kids often enjoy the forest setting, opportunities to play in puddles after rain, and spotting seasonal flowers. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no food concessions or restaurants within Bridle Trails State Park. It's recommended to pack your own snacks and drinks. Instagram

While there aren't designated picnic tables throughout the park, you can find scenic spots along the trails to enjoy a packed lunch. Instagram

The park is located near Kirkland, which offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and grocery stores for dining options before or after your visit. Instagram

📸 📸 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. Instagram

Absolutely. The lush greenery, varied terrain, and atmospheric forest setting provide excellent subjects for landscape photographers, especially during the golden hours. Instagram

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. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light, with soft, diffused rays filtering through the trees, creating a magical atmosphere. Instagram

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. Instagram

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