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Seattle, Washington / Parks and outdoors

Westcrest Park

Seattle's seventh largest park, perched on a hill above Boeing Field, offering panoramic skyline views, expansive wooded trails, and a diverse community P-Patch garden.

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Westcrest Park
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What is Westcrest Park known for?

Westcrest Park is Seattle's seventh largest park and is known for its viewing platform with panoramic skyline views, wooded nature trails, and a large off-leash dog area.

Is it good for kids?

Yes, the park features a play area that includes a zip line.

Does it have facilities for dogs?

Yes, there is an off-leash area of approximately 8.4 acres that includes a separate area for small or shy dogs, a doggie drinking fountain, and shade.

What can I see from the viewpoint?

The viewing platform offers a panoramic view of the city skyline and, on clear days, views of Mount Baker.

Where is the park located?

It is located in southwest Seattle on a hill above and west of Boeing Field. The Westcrest P-Patch is specifically located at 9000 8th Ave SW.

What should I check before going?

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

What to know

Westcrest Park is a sprawling recreational destination in southwest Seattle, situated on a hill above and west of Boeing Field. The site has a deep utility history, having been purchased by the water department in 1917 to eventually house the city's highest and single largest reservoir, which was constructed in 1932. After negotiations began in 1961 to acquire surplus land, the area transitioned into a public space. More recently, the capping of the reservoir allowed the park to expand to 80 acres, with an additional 20 acres of new park space created through a collaboration between Site Workshop, the community, and Seattle Parks and Recreation. Today, the park is recognized as the seventh largest in Seattle and provides a wealth of outdoor activities. Visitors can explore wooded nature trails, a flat open meadow, and sports fields. For families, there is a play area featuring a zip line. The park also hosts the Westcrest P-Patch, a community garden completed in 2013. Located in the diverse Highland Park neighborhood, this garden is noted for its polyglot atmosphere, where the various plots reflect foods from around the world. Dog owners are particularly drawn to the expansive off-leash area, which covers approximately 8.4 acres. This facility includes a separate section for small or shy dogs, a doggie drinking fountain, and plenty of shade. For human visitors, the off-leash area provides benches and chairs for relaxation. The park's crowning jewel is its viewing platform, which offers panoramic vistas of the downtown Seattle skyline and, on clear days, views extending to Mount Baker.

Visitor tips

  • Check the bulletin board just north of the main south parking area for a detailed trail map.
  • If visiting the off-leash area, park in the Westcrest parking lot located about 150 yards south of the dog area.
  • Visit the viewing platform on a clear day to see Mount Baker in the distance.
  • Explore the P-Patch garden to see a diverse array of global crops grown by the local community.

Nearby context

Westcrest Park serves as a green lung for the diverse Highland Park neighborhood in southwest Seattle. Its elevated position provides a stark contrast to the industrial activity of the nearby Boeing Field, blending urban utility history with natural preservation.

Sources

Evidence and links