Why is the park interesting?

Discovery Park is unique in that it is a rare place in the city where you can see wild animals. According to the Seattle Audubon Society, there are about 270 species of birds that nest in the park, from bushtits to barn owls. The reason for the diversity is simple — salty sea beaches are located nearby, and forests create a height convenient for birds. Also, because Discovery Park is adjacent to Puget Sound, it acts as a magnet for migratory birds.

A huge meadow with small trees and shrubs overlooks the southern cliff. Red alder, cedar, large-leaved maple, fir, cherry and western spotted hemlock occupy a large part of the territory.

Many paths pass through the park, but the loop trail is the main one among them. On it, tourists pass through the very heart of the reserve.

On the opposite side of the entrance are the beaches: North Beach along one side, South Beach along the other, and the West Point Lighthouse at the top. At the center of the park is the Historic District, where you'll find what's left of the former Fort Lawton.

The coastline can be reached by road or trail. The beach is located on the south side of the peninsula. Elliot Bay is to the north and offers great views of Shilshole Harbor, which can be reached through coniferous forest on the way to the beach.

Entry to the cultural center is free, although donations are welcome. He works from 9 to 5 on weekdays. An environmental learning center is also located on site, offering educational preschool programs and camps for children.

While life in Seattle is busy and full of people and cars everywhere, Discovery Park offers you a respite from the crazy noise and rhythm. It is located very close to the busy city center, but here you will feel far from the bustling world.

Story

Discovery has a relatively short history. The park opened in the early 1970s. This land belonged to the US Army — there used to be Fort Lawton, opened in 1900.

The fort was a military post located on the territory of the future park. He was not in great demand until the Second World War. At this point, Lawton became the main loading port with up to 20,000 troops and over 1,100 German POWs.

The fort remained active throughout the Korean War, but things deteriorated again after that. The army decided to sell the site to the city in 1938, but the city refused — there was no way to do maintenance.

Most of the land was returned to the city in 1972, and later turned into Discovery Park. Fort Lawton continued to be an army reserve center until February 25, 2012, after which it was officially closed.

At the beginning of the 2000s, the park inadvertently attracted wild animals. So, in May 2009, a black bear was seen, and in September of the same year, a cougar was discovered. But now the problem is solved, so there is no need to worry.

At the moment, Discovery Park is the largest nature reserve in Seattle. It is a treasure trove of green spaces and wildlife. Whether you want to go hiking, enjoy a picnic or relax on the beach, the park will provide you with a comfortable pastime.