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Seattle, Washington / Parks and outdoors

Burke-Gilman Trail (U District Access)

A scenic 20-mile multi-use rail-trail stretching from Ballard to Bothell, offering a paved, accessible path through the heart of Seattle's University District and along the Lake Washington Ship Canal.

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Burke-Gilman Trail (U District Access)
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What is the Burke-Gilman Trail known for?

It is King County's best-known regional trail and a popular multi-use path for walkers, runners, cyclists, skaters, strollers, and commuters.

What activities are allowed on the trail?

The trail is used for walking, bicycling, inline skating, jogging, and wheelchair travel.

Is the trail easy to navigate?

Yes, the trail is relatively flat, rated as easy, and is paved for almost its entire length, except for a 1.3-mile on-road segment in Ballard.

Where does the trail go?

The 20-mile trail follows a U-shaped route from Ballard in Seattle's west side to Bothell, passing through neighborhoods like the University District, Fremont, and Wallingford, and providing views of the Ship Canal and Lake Washington.

What landmarks can I see along the trail?

The trail passes the University of Washington, Gas Works Park, Magnuson Park, the Hiram Chittenden Locks, and Fremont Canal Park.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Burke-Gilman Trail is a premier regional artery for nonmotorized travel, stretching approximately 20 miles in a U-shaped route from the Puget Sound neighborhoods in the west to Lake Washington in the east. This paved path follows the historic corridor of the Seattle, Lake Shore and Eastern Railway, which dates back to 1885. While it occupies an abandoned railway corridor previously owned by Burlington Northern Railroad, it was officially designated as a dedicated multi-use path in 1978. In the University District, the trail serves as a vital link for walkers, runners, and commuters. It is jointly maintained by the Seattle Department of Transportation and Seattle Parks and Recreation to ensure a safe environment for cyclists, skaters, and strollers. Because the trail is relatively flat and rated as easy, it is highly accessible for wheelchair travel and casual joggers alike. Beyond the U District, the trail winds through diverse Seattle neighborhoods including Wallingford, Fremont, and Ballard, eventually reaching its northern endpoint in Bothell. Along this journey, visitors can enjoy views of the Ship Canal and Lake Union. The route also provides direct access to iconic landmarks such as Gas Works Park, Magnuson Park, and the University of Washington campus. For those using the trail for transport, it functions as a critical weekday bicycle commuting route connecting Seattle to the Eastside. Whether used for a quick workout or a long-distance trek, the trail remains King County's best-known regional path, blending urban utility with natural beauty.

Visitor tips

  • Keep an eye out for cyclists and commuters, as this is a high-traffic route for weekday travel.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the path is paved and flat, making it ideal for long strolls.
  • If you have extra time, follow the trail toward Gas Works Park for some of the best views of the Seattle skyline.

Nearby context

Located within the University District, this access point connects urban campus life to a sprawling regional network. The trail links the neighborhood to other key areas like Wallingford and Fremont, acting as a green bridge between the city's academic hub and its waterfronts.

Sources

Evidence and links