Starting today all state parks, wildlife areas, and water access sites are completely closed.
Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks are completely closed.
The National Forests have not announced specific trail closures, but all facilities such as trailhead bathrooms and visitor centers are closed.
Due to crowding and refusal to follow social distancing guidelines, Seattle Parks and Rec announced late this afternoon that the parking lots are now closed at several popular Seattle parks.
The parks themselves are still open, but you must be able to walk or bicycle to the park. This is an attempt to reduce the large numbers of people in the parks to avoid the spread of COVID-19.
The parks currently affected are:
Green Lake
Lincoln Park
Golden Gardens
Seward Park
Magnuson Park
Gas Works Park
Alki Beach
Discovery Park
I’m really bummed that uncaring people have ruined this for everyone with their inconsiderate actions. By closing off parking lots these parks are now completely inaccessible to everyone with mobility issues.
Magnuson and Golden Gardens are my go-to parks when I need to get out for a bit, and both parks have nice spots to just sit in your car and enjoy the view. Now we can’t even do that.
I’m surprised Carkeek isn’t on the list, so I expect this will be expanded sooner rather than later.
Last night Governor Inslee issued a statewide stay at home order. The order is in effect until April 6th.
Luckily parks are still on the allowed activities list, as long as you follow all other precautions, which include not going if you are sick or know you have been exposed, and keeping at least six feet away from other people.
Here’s the list of activities that are still allowed under the new order:
King County Parks and Seattle Parks & Rec have issued new rules for county and city parks in order to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Parks remain open to the public and people are encouraged to get outside to exercise and enjoy nature. Just make sure you keep social distancing in mind and avoid park areas where bottlenecks may force people close together.
Some park ammenities are now closed until further notice. These include playgrounds, picnic shelters, and all active recreation areas like sports courts and ball fields. You can see the full announcement here.
Park Preview 