Running in Seattle
Seattle is a runner's city at heart, where the culture of outdoor fitness runs deep. The Burke-Gilman Trail, Alki Beach, and Discovery Park offer incredible variety for runners who love both urban paths and forest trails. The mild temperatures make Seattle comfortable for running year-round, and the rain is more of a light mist than a downpour most days. Seattle runners take pride in training through overcast skies, and the local race scene is active from spring through fall.
Best Seasons
Summer and Early Fall
Terrain
Seattle is hilly, with significant elevation changes in many neighborhoods
Top Race
Seattle Marathon
Country
US
Climate and Weather
Seattle has mild temperatures year-round, with summer highs in the mid-70s and winter lows in the upper 30s. Rain falls frequently from October through May, but it is usually a light drizzle rather than heavy downpours. Summers are dry and gorgeous, with long daylight hours. Snow is rare in the city.
Terrain and Landscape
Seattle is hilly, with significant elevation changes in many neighborhoods. Waterfront paths and the Burke-Gilman Trail are flat. Parks like Discovery Park and Interlaken offer forested trails with moderate hills. The I-90 bridge provides a unique, flat, over-water running experience.
Top Running Routes
Burke-Gilman Trail
27 milesEasyA paved multi-use trail running from Ballard through the University of Washington campus to Bothell. Flat, well-maintained, and popular with runners and cyclists. You can run any section for a route that fits your distance needs.
Green Lake Loop
2.8 milesEasyA flat, paved path circling Green Lake in north Seattle. It is one of the most popular running spots in the city with views of the water and the Cascades on clear days. The loop is always busy with runners, walkers, and dog walkers.
Discovery Park Loop Trail
2.8 milesModerateA forested trail through Seattle's largest park with views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. The loop includes some hills and sandy paths near the lighthouse. A peaceful escape from the city within city limits.
Alki Beach Trail
5 milesEasyA flat, paved path along the West Seattle waterfront with views of Elliott Bay, the downtown skyline, and the Olympic Mountains. The trail is exposed to wind but the scenery is worth it. Best on clear mornings.
Interlaken Park Trail
2.5 milesModerateA quiet, forested trail through a hidden urban park on Capitol Hill. The path winds through old-growth trees with rolling hills and a peaceful atmosphere. Far less crowded than Green Lake or the Burke-Gilman.
Popular Races
Seattle Marathon
A scenic marathon through downtown, along the waterfront, and over the I-90 floating bridge. The late November timing means cool, often rainy conditions that local runners embrace.
Rock 'n' Roll Seattle
A popular summer race through downtown Seattle with live music along the course. The half marathon crosses the I-90 bridge with views of Lake Washington and Mount Rainier on clear days.
Seafair Torchlight Run
A summer evening race through downtown Seattle that kicks off the Seafair festival. The fast, flat course and festive atmosphere make it a local favorite.
Mercer Island Half Marathon
A scenic half marathon circling Mercer Island in Lake Washington. The course is hilly but beautiful, with water views and tree-lined roads throughout.
Running Culture
Seattle has a deep running culture shaped by the Pacific Northwest love of the outdoors. Club Northwest is one of the top competitive running clubs in the country, and the Seattle Running Club and many neighborhood groups offer weekly meetups. Trail running is enormous here, with access to the Cascades and Olympic Mountains just a short drive away. The Seattle Marathon and Rock 'n' Roll Seattle are the marquee events, but dozens of smaller races fill the calendar.
Local Runner Tips
Do not skip runs because of rain since most Seattle drizzle is barely noticeable
Green Lake fills up fast on sunny weekends so go early or try the Burke-Gilman instead
Summer evenings have daylight until 9 PM, making after-work runs a joy
Join Club Northwest or Seattle Running Club for structured training and group runs
Safety Tips
Wear reflective and bright clothing during dark, rainy winter months
Watch for slippery surfaces on forest trails after rain
Be alert for cyclists on the Burke-Gilman Trail, which can get crowded
Carry a light rain jacket on any run from October through May
Be cautious on shared paths near the waterfront where tourists may block the way
Make Running in Seattle a Game
Seattle's hilly neighborhoods and waterfront paths create an exciting Motera territory map. Capture the Burke-Gilman corridor, claim waterfront territory along Alki Beach, and push into forested parks like Discovery and Interlaken. The city's active running community means fierce competition on the leaderboard.
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MoteraFrequently Asked Questions
What is the best running route in Seattle?
The Burke-Gilman Trail is the most versatile at 27 miles of flat, paved path. Green Lake Loop is the most popular short route at 2.8 miles. For scenery, Alki Beach offers stunning waterfront views of the skyline and mountains.
Can you run in the rain in Seattle?
Absolutely. Seattle rain is usually a light drizzle that most runners barely notice. Invest in a light, breathable rain jacket and moisture-wicking layers. The running community here runs through rain all year without hesitation.
What running clubs are in Seattle?
Club Northwest is the premier competitive club. The Seattle Running Club, West Seattle Runners, and various Fleet Feet groups offer runs for all levels. November Project Seattle hosts free outdoor workouts year-round.
When is the Seattle Marathon?
The Seattle Marathon takes place in late November. The course runs through downtown, along the waterfront, and across the I-90 floating bridge. Cool, often damp conditions are typical for this time of year.
Is Seattle too hilly for beginner runners?
Seattle has plenty of flat options for beginners. Green Lake Loop, the Burke-Gilman Trail, and the Alki Beach path are all flat and accessible. As you build fitness, the hills become a great training tool for building strength.
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