When spring arrives in Kirkland, trails become greener and wildflowers begin to bloom. But even in the colder months, our region stays lush—this is the Evergreen State, after all!
If you’ve been looking for a reason to get outside, spring is the perfect time to explore our many parks. Hikers and nature enthusiasts will find plenty to admire in our city's flora hotspots, especially during peak blooms. Here’s where to spot wildflowers of the Pacific Northwest in Kirkland, WA.
Bridle Trails State Park
Nestled between Kirkland and Bellevue, Bridle Trails State Park is one of Washington’s oldest state parks. It features 28 miles of serene trails lined with Washington wildflowers such as western trillium, bleeding heart, and Siberian miner’s lettuce. The park is also home to rare plants like the Vancouver ground cone. Shaded paths provide a comfortable setting for leisurely walks, and minimal elevation gain makes it particularly kid-friendly. As a dedicated horse park, you can enjoy the scenery on foot or horseback. The park also features horse show grounds with three arenas, bleachers, a picnic area, and restrooms. Dog owners must keep their pets leashed to avoid startling horses.
Brookhaven Park
Brookhaven Park is a small yet charming green space in Kirkland. Juanita Creek runs through the park, and in spring and summer, its meadows and wooded areas bloom with wildflowers of the Pacific Northwest, such as lupines, camas lilies, and buttercups. Thanks to recent restoration efforts by the Green Kirkland Partnership, this local park is a perfect spot for a quiet stroll or a relaxing afternoon in nature. You can also explore our charming downtown, which is nearby and makes for a well-rounded outdoor adventure.
Kingsgate Park
Like Brookhaven Park, Kingsgate Park is another Green Kirkland Partnership restoration site, blending recreational space with natural beauty in an urban setting. Wildflower enthusiasts will appreciate bursts of color from trillium, bleeding heart, and Indian paintbrush scattered throughout the park. For those interested in Pacific Northwest wildflowers identification, the park provides an excellent opportunity to observe different species up close. In addition to wildflower viewing, you can enjoy playgrounds, picnic areas, and nearby trails. Some trails here may be slightly more challenging than those at Brookhaven Park, but the park’s accessibility and diverse plant life make it a must-visit for those seeking Washington State spring flowers.
Cross Kirkland Corridor
For those who prefer a longer scenic route, the Cross Kirkland Corridor (CKC) Interim Trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm. This 5.75-mile trail follows the path of the former North Pacific Railroad, preserving its historic roots while serving as a popular outdoor destination. The CKC Interim Trail is a ten-foot-wide crushed gravel path, accessible for walking, biking, strollers, and wheelchairs. While most of the trail has a gentle grade (5% or less), there are some steeper sections, so plan accordingly.
In spring, visitors can admire clusters of bluebells and fireweed along the path—two stunning examples of purple wildflowers in Washington State. The corridor is also home to different wildlife, including ducks and frogs. Towering trees provide shade along the way, and stunning viewpoints of Lake Washington make this trail an excellent choice for hikers and cyclists alike. As part of the CKC Master Plan, future improvements will include paving the trail and integrating transit options to enhance accessibility.
Juanita Bay Park
Juanita Bay Park is a prime location for wildflower viewing and wildlife spotting, offering excellent views of Forbes Creek Wetland, Juanita Beach, and Juanita Bay. As a designated Green Kirkland Partnership restoration area, the park features diverse flora and fauna across five plant communities: wet meadow, marsh, open water, and wetland. Admire various plant species, including bittersweet, yellow iris, white pond lily, and creeping buttercup in the wet meadows.
The park’s boardwalks and observation areas provide excellent vantage points to appreciate colorful blooms while spotting an array of wildlife. Birdwatchers may glimpse eagles, songbirds, waterfowl, raptors, and shorebirds. The wetlands also support amphibians, turtles, beavers, and other small mammals, adding to the park’s rich ecosystem. For those looking to extend their visit, nearby Juanita Beach Park offers a lovely waterfront setting for relaxation.
So grab your hiking boots, camera, and a sense of adventure—these breathtaking trails are waiting to be explored. If you’re looking for more outdoor things to do in Kirkland, check out our full listings. See you on the trail!
