Overview
Myrtle Edwards Park is a narrow, roughly 1.25-mile-long public park hugging the central Seattle waterfront north of Pier 70, between Elliott Bay to the west and the active Burlington Northern Santa Fe rail line to the east. It connects seamlessly to the Elliott Bay Trail, a paved multi-use path that continues north into the Interbay neighborhood and beyond toward Magnolia.
The park is managed by the Seattle Parks and Recreation Department and is one of the city's most-used open green spaces. It offers unobstructed views of Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountains to the west, and the grain terminal operations that remain a working industrial element of the waterfront. The combination of mountain scenery, open water, and accessible pavement makes it popular with joggers, cyclists, dog walkers, and casual strollers year-round.
A notable feature of the park is its collection of public art, including the large steel sculpture Adjacent, Against, Upon by Michael Heizer. The park also has a small fishing pier, open lawn areas, and benches positioned to take in the water views. Because it sits at sea level with no admission fee and no gates, it functions as a genuinely democratic public space—used equally by commuters, tourists, and neighborhood residents.
The trail is entirely flat, which makes it accessible to most fitness levels and suitable for people with mobility aids, strollers, or young children on bikes.
Getting There
By Foot or Bike from Downtown Seattle
The park's southern entrance is within comfortable walking distance of the Seattle waterfront, Pike Place Market, and the downtown core. From Pike Place Market it is roughly a 15–20 minute walk north along the waterfront via Alaskan Way.
By Public Transit
King County Metro operates several bus routes along or near Alaskan Way and the adjacent Waterfront area. The Link Light Rail system connects to downtown Seattle, from which the park is reachable on foot or by a short connecting bus ride. Verify current route numbers and stops at the King County Metro or Sound Transit websites before your visit, as service patterns change.
By Car
Street parking and paid lots exist in the vicinity of Pier 70 and the Seattle waterfront, but availability can be limited on weekends and during summer. The park itself has no dedicated parking structure. Check current parking options and rates locally or via the City of Seattle's parking information resources.
By Rideshare or Taxi
Drop-off near Pier 70 or at the Myrtle Edwards Park trailhead is straightforward. Pickup can occasionally take a moment given the waterfront road layout; confirm your exact pickup point with your driver.
Getting Around
The park and trail are navigated entirely on foot or by bike. The paved multi-use path runs the full length of Myrtle Edwards Park and continues as the Elliott Bay Trail northward. Pedestrians and cyclists share the path; stay to the right and be aware of faster-moving cyclists, especially on weekends when the trail is busy.
Bike rental and docked or dockless bike-share options are available in Seattle. Verify current providers and docking station locations through the Seattle Department of Transportation or the relevant app before your visit.
The trail is flat and roughly 10 feet wide through most of the park, making it suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters, though users should be mindful of trail traffic at peak times.
Things to See & Do
Walking and Running
The most popular activity is a simple out-and-back walk or run along the waterfront. The flat, paved surface and consistent views of Elliott Bay make it a reliable route regardless of your pace. Many local residents use it as a daily exercise corridor.
Cycling the Elliott Bay Trail
Cyclists can continue north from Myrtle Edwards Park onto the Elliott Bay Trail, which extends through the Interbay neighborhood and connects to the Elliot Bay Trail's northern sections toward Magnolia. This multi-neighborhood ride is a practical and scenic option for those wanting more distance.
Fishing
The park includes a small public fishing pier at its northern end. Recreational saltwater fishing in Washington State requires a valid fishing license issued by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Verify current regulations and licensing requirements before fishing.
Public Art Viewing
Michael Heizer's Adjacent, Against, Upon (1976) is a significant large-scale sculpture worth stopping to examine. The park contains additional smaller art installations; some change over time as part of Seattle's public art program.
Watching Ferries and Freighters
Elliott Bay is an active working harbor. Washington State Ferries pass on routes to Bainbridge Island and Bremerton, and large container ships and grain vessels are frequently visible. The park's open sightlines to the water make it a good informal spot for watching maritime traffic.
Picnicking
Open lawn areas in the park are suitable for informal picnicking. There are no reservable pavilions or shade structures; bring your own sun protection during summer months.
Food & Drink
There are no restaurants or cafes within Myrtle Edwards Park itself. The nearest concentration of food and drink options is along the Seattle Waterfront to the south, particularly near Pier 57, Pier 54, and the Pike Place Market area. These range from casual fish-and-chips vendors to sit-down seafood restaurants.
For a coffee before or after your walk, multiple cafes—including several independent shops—can be found along Western Avenue and in the Belltown neighborhood, which borders the park's southern approach. Bringing your own snacks and water is a practical option since the park has no concession stands. Water fountains may be available in the park seasonally; verify locally.
Practical Information
Restrooms
Public restrooms are available within the park. Hours and exact locations can vary; verify on-site signage or check with Seattle Parks and Recreation.
Dogs
Myrtle Edwards Park is dog-friendly; dogs must be kept on leash at all times within the park per Seattle Parks rules.
Accessibility
The main trail is paved and flat. Some sections of adjacent lawn or unpaved areas may not be accessible. The fishing pier's accessibility features should be confirmed on-site or via Seattle Parks and Recreation.
Weather Preparedness
Seattle's weather is notoriously changeable. Even in summer, temperatures can be cool near the water and overcast mornings are common. Bring a light waterproof layer regardless of the season. The park offers no significant shelter from rain.
Emergency Services
Dial 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies anywhere in the United States. The nearest hospitals are in the downtown Seattle area; verify the closest facility before your visit.
Safety
Myrtle Edwards Park is generally considered a safe and well-used public space during daylight hours. Like many urban parks in major US cities, conditions can vary after dark, and visitors should use standard judgment about when and how they visit.
The rail line running alongside the park is active; stay on designated paths and do not cross the tracks except at marked crossings. On the trail itself, be alert for cyclists moving at speed, particularly around blind curves near the park's northern sections.
Keep personal belongings secure and do not leave valuables visible in any vehicle parked nearby.
