Saint Edward State Park — Attraction in Kenmore

Saint Edward State Park in Kenmore, WA, is a rich blend of history, natural beauty, and recreational amenities—all just a short drive from Seattle.

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A Storied Beginning

Originally a heavily logged site during the 19th and early 20th centuries, the land was acquired by the Catholic Archdiocese in the late 1920s to establish Saint Edward Seminary. Built in 1931 in a Romanesque Revival style by architect John Graham, Sr., the seminary served as a training ground for clergy in the Pacific Northwest for 45 years  . In 1977, the state purchased the property, and by 1978 it became a public state park .

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Park & Grounds

Covering approximately 316 to 326 acres, the park surrounds Lake Washington with over 3,000 feet of undeveloped shoreline. Visitors enjoy a variety of forested trails, expansive lawns, athletic fields, picnic areas, and interpretive amenities—all open as day-use only . The landscape features dense second-growth forest dominated by Douglas-fir, western red cedar, bigleaf maple, Pacific madrone, and western hemlock, with a rich understory of sword fern, moss, and seasonal wildflowers .

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Signature Features & Recreation • The Grotto: A peaceful river-rock sanctuary built around 1945 by seminarians, accessed by stone stairways and often used for intimate weddings or ceremonies . • Trail Network: A mix of hiking- and biking-friendly routes descends from the seminary down to Lake Washington—most include a 400 ft elevation change and lead to secluded lakeside clearings perfect for spotting herons, eagles, or otters . • Playground & Fields: The park features Washington’s largest wooden playscape—community-built in 2003—with suspension bridges, climbing walls, murals, even Sasquatch footprints for imaginative play. Athletic spaces include baseball, horseshoe courts, and volleyball . • Picnicking & Gatherings: Large grassy lawns and picnic areas (including Orchard, Nuns Garden, and Grotto sites) offer scenic spots for families and events—reservations and permits recommended for groups .

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The Lodge at St. Edward

The former seminary building was meticulously renovated and reopened in May 2021 as The Lodge at St. Edward, a boutique hotel complete with 84 guest rooms, the Cedar + Elm restaurant, two bars, spa, fitness center, event spaces, and rotating art exhibits in partnership with local artists. Visitors can enjoy yoga sessions, wellness programs, gallery walks, dining, and interpretive tours with QR-coded history stops .

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Why Visit?

Saint Edward State Park offers varied, accessible adventures: lush forest trails, lakeside solitude, family-oriented play areas, and a chance to explore a beautiful historic building now repurposed for hospitality. The park is perfect for nature lovers, families, birders, and history buffs alike. A Discover Pass (or day pass) provides access; dogs allowed on leash; hours are 8 a.m. until dusk daily .

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In Summary

Saint Edward State Park is more than just scenic greenery—it’s a place where architectural legacy meets vibrant ecology. Whether you’re hiking beneath cathedral‑like trees, picnicking by the shore, exploring the tranquil grotto, or admiring the historic seminary turned lodge, the park offers a meaningful and multifaceted outdoor experience. Let me know if you’d like suggestions for trails, family activities, or planning a...

St. Edward State Park, nestled in the heart of Kenmore, Washington, is a captivating oasis that seamlessly blends history, natural beauty, and recreational opportunities. Once a prestigious Catholic seminary, this 326-acre park has transformed into a beloved public space, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city.The park’s most striking feature is its impressive Romanesque Revival-style brick buildings, a testament to its rich history. Constructed in 1931 under the guidance of renowned architect John Graham Sr., these structures exude a timeless charm and provide a glimpse into the park's past. As you wander through the sprawling lawns and forested trails, you can't help but be captivated by the harmonious blend of architecture and nature.While the historic buildings are undoubtedly a highlight, St. Edward State Park also boasts stunning natural beauty. The park offers over 3,000 feet of undeveloped shoreline along Lake Washington, providing visitors with breathtaking views and opportunities for relaxation. Whether you prefer to stroll along the sandy beaches, explore the diverse ecosystems, or simply soak up the sun, the park's natural splendor is sure to leave a lasting impression.For outdoor enthusiasts, St. Edward State Park is a haven for recreation. Hiking, biking, and birdwatching are popular activities, with a network of trails winding through the park's lush forests. The park also features playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas, making it an ideal destination for families and groups.In recent years, the park has undergone significant revitalization, including the restoration of the historic lodge building into a luxurious hotel. The Lodge at St. Edward Park offers guests a unique opportunity to experience the park's charm while enjoying modern comforts.Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, an active outdoor adventure, or a glimpse into the region's history, St. Edward State Park has something to offer everyone. Its combination of natural beauty, historic architecture, and recreational amenities makes it a truly special...

Saint Edward State Park is a family - friendly park with large grassy areas, playgrounds, picnic tables, many hiking opportunities and waterfront areas.

Dogs are allowed, but are supposed to be on the leash (although an occasional friendly dog is out there leash-less). Most of the trails are not wheelchair accessible, although there is one main central trail that goes down to the beach that “may” be a possibility for wheelchairs (double check on that first!).

There are restrooms up above in the playground area and there is a restroom down near the beach. These are basic, but clean. Parking requires either a day pass (which I believe costs about $10) or the annual Discover Pass, which can be purchased online for about $30 per year).

The park is based on the grounds of an old seminary (a place where students received religious training) and contains much beautiful old growth forest. The seminary buildings themselves have been converted into a lodge and restaurant and there are beautiful art displays indoors. The decor of the restaurant shows echoes of a past era. (The food is delicious, but a little more on the expensive side.)

Also part of the original campus, but now considered a separate adjacent campus is the Bastyr School of Naturopathic Medicine. It contains an old chapel, where sometimes recitals of great musicians, (such as the world famous pianist Sergei Babayan) may occur. There is also an interesting herb garden outdoors and one of the hiking trails passes very close to this educational campus.

The road to the park is found off of NE. Juanita Dr. There is usually adequate parking in the morning but on nice days in the afternoons (especially on weekends), finding parking spots may become...