Ravenna Park is a forested city park at 5520 Ravenna Ave NE in Seattle, with walking trails running through a steep ravine. The paths suit a short nature break or an easy hike, with hills and stairs for a more demanding route. You’ll also find playgrounds, a wading pool, picnic areas with barbecue grills, tennis courts and open lawns. The ravine was carved by glacial meltwater, and the park’s story includes its former life as a private nature attraction before Seattle acquired it in 1911.
A ravine formed by glacial meltwater
Ravenna Park follows a deep ravine carved by glacial meltwater at the end of the last Ice Age. A creek runs through the corridor, bordered by steep, forested slopes. Today, trails wind among the trees, giving you a choice of a short walk or a route with hills and stairs.
In the late 19th century, William W. Beck and his wife turned the ravine into a private attraction. It had paths, benches and a bandstand, and visitors paid to enter. Large Douglas firs were a central draw. The site became one of Seattle’s popular outings at a time when public parks were less common.
From private attraction to city park
Seattle acquired the land in 1911 for its municipal park system. Most of the large old trees were removed within the following decade, changing the character of the ravine. The park was briefly renamed for Theodore Roosevelt, then returned to the name Ravenna Park after public opposition to the change.
The ravine later became part of a wider network of green spaces shaped by park planning associated with the Olmsted Brothers. Nearby Cowen Park connects with that green system, and the historic 20th Avenue NE Bridge crosses the corridor.
Trails, play areas and picnic space
The forest paths are suitable for walking and running, with the ravine’s slopes and stairs adding more effort if you want it. A bridge across the ravine provides another way to take in the wooded setting. The park also has a playground, a wading pool, tennis courts and open lawn.
Picnic areas include tables and barbecue grills, making the park a practical choice for a family outing or a relaxed stop outdoors. Public restrooms are on site, though they can be unavailable for maintenance. Trail directions are not always plentiful, so give yourself time to orient yourself as you explore.
Preguntas frecuentes
What can you do at Ravenna Park?
Walk or run on wooded trails, explore the ravine, use the playground and wading pool, play tennis or picnic at a grill area.
Is Ravenna Park suitable for an easy walk?
Yes. The park has trails suited to shorter walks, with hills and stairs for visitors who want a more challenging route.
Are there restrooms and picnic facilities at Ravenna Park?
The park has public restrooms, picnic areas, tables and barbecue grills. Restrooms can be unavailable for maintenance.
When should you visit Ravenna Park?
Plan your visit during daylight. The park is advised against after dark.
