Bailey Peninsula High Point perches over Lake Washington in Seward Park. The sizable Mercer Island is across the east of the lake water. Moreover, the park covers the entire headland as it juts into Andrews Bay.
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Bailey Peninsula High Point at a Glance
Access: Seward Park (park info)
Round Trip: 6.6 miles
Elevation Range: 0′-158′
Essential Gear: none
GPS Track: available
Dog-friendly: yes
Playlist: Ooyy
Hiking by Mercer Island of Puget Sound
I haven’t set foot inside Seward Park since my brief visit with a friend in April 2007. It was before hiking became a hobby, so exploring the trails was the last thing on my mind. But little did I know I’d return to the city park 17 years later. Time flies!
The high point was my main object this time, but I also wanted to exercise while visiting. So, I set up a route covering most trails, including the loop road. Starting from the scenic Andrews Bay and going clockwise around the peninsula worked well.
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Looping Through Seward Park by Andrews Bay
With a super late start at 8, I expected to see many city folks in the park. Runners passed by as I enjoyed the west view of Seattle. Several entitled pet owners with off-leash dogs remind me of Mount Peak. Soon, Mercer Island appeared around the north end.
Spine Trail got me close to Bailey Peninsula High Point before the short 200′ scramble. I then rejoined the path and exited from the north before continuing south. East views comprised mainly the lake and Mercer Island, plus various species of birds.
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Exiting Bailey Peninsula High Point via Jet Ski Beach
From the south end, I made a detour to cover several more trails on top. Returning south on Lost Lake Trail brought me from the upper lot to the playground. Then, a short walk later, I returned to the start, a perfect time to leave the jam-packed place.
Afterward, I drove by several city high points, starting with the nearest Graham Hill. They were all inside residential homes, so I couldn’t access them unless I trespassed. I made the historic Duwamish Hill Preserve the final stop before heading home.
See more trip photos here.