Hike of the Week: Bridle Trails

Bridle Trails State Park is a popular spot for area trail runners.

Bridle Trails

Over 25 miles of trails to horse around on!




by Craig Romano
photo by Craig Romano
produced by Michael Fagin

November 24, 2006

Quick Facts
Location: Bellevue-Kirkland, Puget Sound Lowlands
Land Agency: Washington State Parks
Roundtrip: various loops, over 20 miles of trails
Elevation gain: minimal elevation gain, no more than 200 feet
Access: From I-405 take exit no. 17. Head south on 116th Ave NE to a four-way stop and continue forward. Park entrance and trailhead are located a short distance farther on the left.
Notes: Dogs must be leashed; Equestrians have right-of-way.

Although originally established for horseback riders, Bridle Trails State Park has become quite popular with area hikers and trail-runners over the past several years. Located in a quiet corner (except for the sound of nearby freeway traffic) in greater Pugetopolis, this 480-acre state park on the Bellevue-Kirkland City Line is the supreme trail running destination in these parts. Local hikers looking for a nice late-autumn leg-stretcher will also find the park’s array of trails appealing.
Feel free to roam the park’s 25-plus miles of trail. Just be alert for horseback riders- yielding to them by stepping on the downhill side of the trail. The big beasties may be bigger than you, but they’re a lot more skittish. Also, it’s a good idea to keep Rover under strict control (or better yet give him the day-off) for he may inadvertently spook Mr. Ed and company.


Within this park of primarily second-growth Douglas-fir forest, you’ll find an interconnecting trail system that includes paths ranging from super wide and well-graded, to super muddy and grown-over. Many aren’t marked so you may end up logging more miles than originally intended. But, if you get “lost,” keep taking left turns until you reach the periphery, then round your way out. Bridle Trails may very well be a nice place to try out your new GPS unit; see if you can improve your orienteering skills here. But if the need to know exactly where you are at all times isn’t very important-just kick back-saunter-and while away the afternoon exploring this green gem among a surrounding urban sea.