In partnership with The Mountaineers "50 Trail Runs in Washington" by Cheri Pompeo Gillis The first comprehensive regional guide to the most beautiful and challenging places to trail run throughout Washington state. Paperback, April 2002 - 240 pages $16.95 For more trail runs, buy the book now. More Mountaineers books

Trail description: Saint Edward State Park offers more than 7 miles of meandering forest and waterfront trail, which can be combined to create a scenic and challenging workout. The trails traverse up and down the high bank of the waterfront, meeting fairly level connector trails at the shore and along the bluff.

From the north parking lot behind the gym you will find a trail map and the sign for the North Trail. Follow the North Trail a little to the north, then around the west side of a steep ravine. Descend 0.6 mile to Lake Washington, then follow the trail south along the tree-lined waterfront until you come to Seminary Trail.

Go left on Seminary Trail, which climbs 330 feet while meandering 0.6 mile through lush green trees and nettles near the path. The well-maintained trail connects with the Perimeter Trail bordering the parking lot and following the ridge at the top of the bluff.

Go right on Perimeter, headed south past the Grotto to the steep Grotto Trail. In a mere 0.5 mile you'll find yourself back at the Seminary Trail and the shoreline. Head south again along the shore a short distance to South Canyon Trail. Run up South Canyon Trail until it intersects with the Orchard Loop Trail.

Since there are five trails traversing the bluff, one trail will have to be done twice to get you back to your car. The trip around Orchard Loop and back down South Canyon Trail works well for this. Pick up the South Ridge Trail just north of the entrance to South Canyon at the shore. The South Ridge Trail climbs to the high point of 390 feet in elevation in its mile. Once back at the top, turn left to follow the Water Tower Trail, then make a right turn to pick up the Plateau Trail and continue past Bastyr University across the road you drove in on.

When you reach the Juanita Trail you can make a nice cool-down loop on the Juanita, Arrowhead, and Volunteer Trails (approximately 1 mile total). Follow the perimeter trail back to the parking lot and north trailhead.

Directions: From Interstate 405, take Exit 20A, Northeast 116th Street. Go left (west) off the exit ramp. Follow 116th, continuing through the intersection at 98th Northeast, to Juanita Drive Northeast. Follow Juanita Drive north 3.5 miles, enter the park, and follow the road to the right.