​​St. Edward State Park's Hidden Gem: Grotto Trail 🏞️🐾​​

While exploring ​​St. Edward State Park​​ (14445 Juanita Dr NE, Kenmore, WA 98028), we stumbled upon one of Seattle's most underrated hiking treasures. This state park isn't just home to beautiful forest trails - it also secretly houses a museum-quality castle hotel, making the whole experience feel like discovering a hidden fairytale world！ 📍 ​​Location Details:​​ St. Edward State Park, Kenmore, WA (Just 20 minutes northeast of Seattle's downtown) 💫 ​​Trail Discovery Story:​​ While visiting the park's main attractions, we noticed several unassuming trailheads near the historic castle hotel. The ​​Grotto Trail​​ immediately caught our attention with its: • Ultra-short distance (just 0.4 miles roundtrip) • Dramatic elevation changes in a tiny space • Perfect "quick escape" from city life 🐶 ​​Our Corgi-Approved Hiking Strategy:​​ Considering our corgi's spinal health, we devised this perfect loop: 1️⃣ ​​Seminary Trail (Downhill):​​ • Gentle slope perfect for pup's joints • Leads to stunning lake views 2️⃣ ​​Grotto Trail (Uphill Return):​​ • Steep but short climb • Surprisingly rewarding views ⏱️ ​​Time Commitment:​​ • Entire loop takes only 20-30 minutes • Ideal for busy schedules or quick nature breaks 🌲 ​​Why You'll Love This Hidden Trail:​​ • ​​Local's Secret:​​ Rarely crowded (unlike popular Rattlesnake Ledge！) • ​​Scenic Surprises:​​ Waterfalls, moss-covered rocks, and forest caverns • ​​Perfect for:​​ Urban escape artists Photography enthusiasts Dog walkers seeking easy terrain 💡 ​​Pro Tips:​​ • Park near the castle hotel for easiest access • Bring layers - forest creates its own microclimate • Visit early morning for golden light through the trees • Check for temporary trail closures before visiting #SeattleHikingSecrets #StEdwardStatePark #CorgiFriendlyTrails #UrbanEscape #HiddenHikingSpots #PacificNorthwest #QuickHikeIdeas #ForestBathing #WeekendWarrior #NatureTherapy