By now you’ve noticed - I really enjoy running rails to trails. It’s the way they wind through so much, connecting it all. The rails are dead; long live the rails!
Likely, you have a bunch in your area too, thanks to "rail banking." Here's a guide and review for easier enjoyment of the Pacific Northwest rail-trails, and maybe a little inspiration to check out those nearest you!
So, using the 1920s US Department of Transport rail map of Washington below...
Check out these major corridors around the region!
East Sammamish Trail(s) [One on each side of Sammamish river then along east side of Lake Sammamish to Issaquah]
Issaquah- Preston trail (aptly named for the rail line it totally follows).
Cascades to Palouse Trail (formerly Iron Horse trail)
A focus on East Sammamish trails, Issaquah to Woodinville
2. East Sammamish Trail(s)
Starting in Woodinville, there’s two choices
the under construction trail on the west side of the Sammamish, or the “overhead” trail here. These are the videos below.
the paved and complete one on the east side, or the “lower” trail which can easily be picked up at Wilmot Gateway Park. (Not specifically listed here is the Burke Gilman trail, which extends from here, westward all the way across Seattle).
Both options are very easy to follow to Redmond. Along the east side, you’ll get taken straight into Redmond Town Center. Along the west side, you’ll get to Marymoor park. They two intersect over a cool trestle system just east of Redmond itself.
From Marymoor, use the Marymoor Connector trail to reach the east side of Lake Sammamish and pick up the East Lake Sammamish corridor to Issaquah. This trail winds through some very posh neighborhoods, so if seeing how the Other Half lives is your thing - be sure to visit!
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