Cowen Park — Attraction in Seattle

This park has been a favorite of mine for over 50 years. My father loved the history of the little ravine that runs through it. Hundreds of years ago, the stream that runs through it was a fishing place; and the valley was a summer gathering place of the people indigenous to this area. As a child I visited often because my mom's and my therapist had an office right at the top of University Way, next to the Antique Oriental Rugs shop that's been on that corner for at least 50 years (as far back as my memory of that corner goes). She used to take me and her sweet old Golden Retriever, Hannah, on walks through the park. I loved the old playground, back in the 70's it had this huge log-rolling thing, a huge spinning log with a handrail and kids could run like hamsters on a wheel...until they tire or slip. There was one of those carousels where one kid pushes? It's much better-and safer! now. There is a fun playground with a zip-line tire swing-SO cool- and swings and climbing stuff, but there are also trails that run throughout the whole area. Along the hillside, under the overpasses, and down to another playground on the East end of the same green belt where it becomes Ravennah park. There are also large open green spaces for throwing frisbee, playing soccer or football or throwing a ball for your dog (technically,_ leashes are required). There are lots of big old trees, and it's a beaufiful place. Do be very aware that like most urban parks these days, there are unsheltered individuals in close proximity and keep an eye out for unsafe items on the ground, or...

Update: Oct. 11 2022

Cleaning up trash seems pointless. I feel like it actually makes the residents of the park mad & they trash it 10 times worse. Still a great park though ☺️

Lots of space to run around for kids & dogs, busy on the weekends but people don’t seem to mind each other. I have been taking trash bags with me to clean up a side trail or an area that formerly had campers, people leave trash & junk but living your life with limited means while exhausted physically & mentally because you live your life in public.. is a lot to deal with… I don’t mind picking up some extra trash 🚮 If more people carried a trash bag with them (and some gloves 😉) picked up trash for a few minutes while walking down a trail they walk all the time.. the park would be spotless…....

Where do I start; So many nooks and crannies for my pup to sniff. There are Warren's there as well. I love seeing those bunnies hopping around and apparently fearless of people. Though, I have not seen anyone feeding them. I also enjoy walking through this park with its many trails and flora, which is extremely beautiful in the spring as well as the fall. It just feel right walking or biking around this park. So much to enjoy. I had picnics there, all the while watching children play, as others play frisbee or jog through. Great place to just hang out, especially on those wonderful...