If you’ve been singing the lyrics “I walk a lonely road” a lot lately, you’re not… alone (well, in a sense). Seattle roads are actually less lonely than many, but we’ll get to that in a minute.
If national averages indicate anything, it’s that roads overall may have been more lonely during the past few years. According to a recent data report by Streetlight, annual average daily walking trips dropped 36% in the US between 2019 and 2022.
How does that national average shake out in Seattle, and where are the best spots to raise those national trend (and step count) numbers? Let’s take a look.
By the numbers
- Seattle’s score dubs it a “very walkable” city
- -37% | Percent change in walking trips in Washington
- -38% | Percent change in walking trips in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue
- 74 | Seattle’s score out of 100 on Walk Score’s walkability meter
What does a percent change in walking trips mean? Say a metro area sees a -50% change in walking trips. This means, on average, walking trips declined by 50% in that area. (For the record, none of the top 100 metros in the study saw that much of a decline — the biggest dip was 49% in Akron, OH.)
Where to walk the walk
Wondering where you can get your steps in? Check out these pedestrian-friendly spots around town, from local parks to protected streets.
- Myrtle Edwards Park, 3130 Alaskan Way | The scenic waterfront stroll offers great views of the Olympics.
- Queen Anne Stairs, Various locations | Get your steps in while learning a little history.
- Washington Park Arboretum, 2300 Arboretum Dr. E. | Visit the lush botanical gardens.
- Lincoln Park, 8011 Fauntleroy Way | There’s now a giant troll along the way.
- Seward Park, 5900 Lake Washington Blvd. S. | Enjoy lush old growth forest and an easy 2.4-mile loop.
Be sure to consult our hiking guide, too.
