Hi everyone,
I’ve been very intentional this summer about limiting my travel and doing Seattle summer things. While I’ve lived here for 5 years, I’ve often somehow found myself out of state during our most precious season due to work obligations. That being said, being a parent in the summer is...difficult! Piecing together camp schedules and childcare during work hours and then finding the energy to match your child’s excitement on weekends is not for the faint of heart. So here are a few suggestions for kid-friendly activities that are also enjoyable for parents.
This story is adapted from the Out & Back newsletter. If you’re not a subscriber, you can sign up here.
Carkeek Park
Carkeek Park has amazing trails for trail running/hiking as well as a playground and beach access. The tide was really low when we went, and we got to see starfish, jellyfish, anemones and crabs.
Marine View Park Hike
We came upon this by accident while searching for a different hike. This park offers beautiful views and leads to the beach. The trails are pretty steep — my son (six years old) was a little scared on the way down but felt very accomplished at the end of it. The paths are not stroller accessible so you want to bring a baby carrier if you’ve got little ones.
Coleman Pool
It’s hard to believe it’s a public pool! Situated in Lincoln Park, Coleman Pool is an outside, saltwater pool with beautiful views of the Puget Sound. There are three options for recreational swimming daily during the summer. Before or after the pool, be sure to visit Bruun Idun, a giant wooden troll sculpture created by Thomas Dambo, and take a photo. Getting to Coleman Pool involves a hike from the parking lot on a paved trail alongside the beach and my son loves to stop and explore, especially when the tide is low.
Behind the Scenes
Earlier this year, I experienced rallycross for the first time. I hadn’t heard of rallycross until stumbling upon an Instagram post of a neighbor-turned-friend who is one of the co-founders of the NW Rally Association. Katie and Kito, the co-founders, are now great friends of mine and I’ve had the opportunity to participate in Rally Cross twice. So what is rallycross? From the NW Rally Association website:
Rallycross is a low-impact form of motorsports that is open to competitors of all skill levels.
How does it work?
Courses are laid out using cones and each car is out on course alone. Competitors race against a clock, with the fastest cumulative time over multiple runs taking home the trophy. Using an off-road course with technical turns, driver skill and car control are emphasized.
I would NEVER have tried this sport if it weren't’ for the warm introduction and invitation from Katie and Kito. Going full throttle was something I was told never to do and just the idea of it made me nervous. In fact, I was more nervous about filming this episode than any other episode I’ve done over the past five years. And I’ve done some pretty scary things! Stay tuned for season five to see how it all goes down.
This weekend, I’ll be headed to one of their major events, Rallycross Fest, and can’t wait to see some of my new friends race!
Recap
This week, instead of a recap, I'll share a preview of what you can expect from season 5 of Out & Back. I just shared that there will be an episode about rally cross, here’s what else you can look forward to:
- Elk Hunting! I’ll be heading to eastern Oregon to accompany Kenny Hamlett as he goes hunting. I have SO many thoughts and feelings about this that I am eager to share with you.
- Stargazing with Sirius Astronomy. Sirius Astronomy is a BIPOC astronomy group that organizes captivating astronomy events designed to spark curiosity and inspire a love for stargazing.
- Roller Derby with PNW Roller Bats. The PNW Roller BATS (BIPOC Alliance of Terrific Skaters) is an inclusive and highly active roller derby pick-up team operating throughout the Pacific Northwest. Designed to reclaim space in the sport, the team regularly competes in regional tournaments like the PNW Pile Up.
I should note that recent wild fires across the United States will likely make it difficult to film exactly according to plan. As climate change continues to escalate, we are all experiencing the negative impacts of a warming and unpredictable planet and the all-too-often devastating consequences.
Get Outdoors: Upcoming events
- Nature Walk with Jungle Jordan – July 26 at Seward Park. Join Seattle Sync and Jungle Jordan for a guided nature walk through Seward Park. Jordan is a wildlife educator and content creator who’s been caring for zoo animals since he was 11, and he’s got a way of making you fall in love with the creatures right in our own backyard. Two hours of fresh air, good company and learning about the wildlife that shares our city. Come meet some new people, spot some birds. All are welcome, no experience needed
- Big Day of Play – August 15th at Rainier Playfield and Mount Baker Rowing and Sailing Center. Presented by Seattle Parks & Recreation's Get Moving Initiative, this event is a celebration of Seattle's diversity and it encourages neighbors, communities and families to have fun, build relationships and be active together.
- Sirius Astronomy at Camp Long – September 11th and 12th. Join Sirius Astronomy for stargazing and adventure at Camp Long in West Seattle.
