Guided bird walks are given during the spring and fall migration seasons the park's wide variety of habitats shelter more than 230 resident and migrant species. The Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center, 5011 Bernie Whitebear Way, has several exhibits of Native American art. The lighthouse grounds are open to the public but parking is limited check at the visitor center for availability or to take the complimentary shuttle. West Point Lighthouse, built in 1881, stands at the park's westernmost tip. Hiking is the best way to enjoy Discovery Park, and many visitors opt for the 2.8-mile Loop Trail that passes through lush stands of Douglas fir, western red cedar and big-leaf maple. There are cool, shady forest groves, soaring seaside cliffs, 2 miles of protected tidal beaches, sand dunes, open meadows and quiet ponds. The natural setting is impressive-Magnolia Bluff overlooks Puget Sound, with (in clear weather) views of the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges. Named after British explorer George Vancouver's ship the Discovery, this 534-acre urban wilderness and wildlife sanctuary is ideal for getting away from it all-if only for an afternoon. It's easier to combine a park day with an exploration of those neighborhoods than with a busy Downtown itinerary.Discovery Park, 3801 Discovery Park Blvd., is entered via Gilman Ave. Note that the park is easily reached from Ballard and Fremont. First-come, first-served beach parking passes for the disabled, elderly, and families with small children are available at the Learning Center. Thrush, brant, and the American tree sparrow are some of the species you may see staying here in winter. Woodpeckers, gulls, herons, and chickadees are among the more common birds that visitors can spot in the park. The North Parking Lot is much closer to the North Beach Trail and to Ballard and Fremont, if you're coming from that direction. Discovery Park is home to a staggering 270 species of birds, including eight owl species. The park has several entrances-if you want to stop at the visitor center to pick up a trail map before exploring, use the main entrance at Government Way. Head to the South Bluff Trail to get a view of Mt.
The North Beach Trail, which takes you along the shore to the lighthouse, is a must-see. Located on Magnolia Bluff, northwest of Downtown, Seattle's largest park covers 534 acres and has an amazing variety of terrain: shaded, secluded forest trails lead to meadows, saltwater beaches, sand dunes, a lighthouse, and 2 miles of protected beaches. You won't find more spectacular views of Puget Sound, the Cascades, and the Olympics. The North Parking Lot is much closer to the North Beach Trail and to Ballard and Fremont, if you're coming from that direction.