A Journey To Discovery (Park)

The fact I had not made it to Discovery Park prior to yesterday, the gorgeous day of April 8, should probably be illegal in the 50 states. What a peaceful, perfect day to kick along the shores of the beach near the Fort Lawton lighthouse. 

A westerly view of the Fort Lawton lighthouse at
windswept Discovery Park.

There's quite the history behind this park. Located in the Magnolia neighborhood of Seattle, Discovery Park is the largest public park in the city, spanning 11.81 miles of walking trails, sandy beach, deep grasses, and absolutely beautiful views looking west, south, and north. The area was given to the Army by the City of Seattle in 1898, and opening as Fort Lawton in 1900. One of many interesting aspects of the park is the Army, prior to World War II, offered to sell it back to the city in 1938. Seattle turned it down, citing maintenance concerns. Eventually, the land was given back to the city in 1972 and turned into Discovery Park the next year, making it not only the largest park in Seattle but also the youngest. Many people might not realize this fact, but the US Army Reserve's 70th Regional Readiness Command still uses facilities at the park as headquarters. It's natural to think those military installations are dormant these days. 

Looking south towards Elliott Bay and West Seattle,
if you look close you can see Mount Rainier in the distance. 

It was a brilliant and warm evening walking among the waving grass on a beach with which I wasn't familiar! That aspect was the one I relished the most - living on Alki and enjoying the natural beauty it provides is very special. Every once in a while though, you need a reminder of what you have. Visiting another park in a different part of the city and seeing life from another angle not only makes you appreciate that new place, but it allows you to re-discover the beauty you have in your own backyard.

As my friend and I got out of the car near the Fort Lawton lighthouse, we immediately noted the fresh sea air as we waded our way through the dancing grasses to the sandy beach. Feeling far from the bustle of the city for the first time in weeks, we were more than happy to take our time and skip rocks (not well, practice required), throw sticks in the water, and just enjoy a nature stroll on a sun-drenched Sunday. 

Discovery Park even has its place in rock music history. I learned one of Temple of the Dog's videos, Hunger Strike, was filmed along Discovery Park's beaches. The song just happens to be one of my favorite songs of the era! 

There's something to be said for the sight of the water-worked logs and rocks while looking south towards that ever-busy Elliott Bay. Being able to catch a breath of Sunday seawater and relax for a hour or two was just what I needed before I headed home for a busy week.