Why is Lincoln Park so special? It’s one of Seattle’s largest and oldest parks a sprawling 135 acres of natural beauty. Located in West Seattle it’s been a beloved gathering spot for generations. Imagine West Seattleites young and old enjoying its 4.6 miles of walking paths and 3.9 miles of bike trails since the early 1900s.
Lincoln Park wasn’t always called Lincoln Park. Originally called Williams Point Park it was later renamed Fauntleroy Park. It finally received its current name honoring Abraham Lincoln. The park’s history is rich. The Duwamish people called this area CHuXáydoos meaning Tight Bluff reflecting the dense vegetation. The Olmsted Brothers a renowned landscape architecture firm recommended its acquisition in 1908. The city approved the acquisition in 1922. Ironically they never created a formal plan for its development.
The park boasts impressive features. There are picnic shelters fireplaces seawalls and breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. You can even spot coyotes and owls. The saltwater pool is a popular summer attraction. It wasn’t always a saltwater pool though. In 1925 a simple dirt-sided pool was built using a wood sluice gate to fill it with saltwater at high tide. This pool was later replaced by the Colman Pool a gift from Kenneth Colman in 1941.
Lincoln Park’s history includes moments of social significance. The Colman Pool was integrated in 1944 after demonstrations by African American students from the University of Washington. The park’s development also involved New Deal agencies. They built trails seawalls playgrounds and tennis courts in the 1930s. Later the Army Corps of Engineers worked to stabilize the seawalls in the 1980s. Unfortunately this work had a negative effect on the intertidal ecosystem.
Today Lincoln Park continues to evolve. A 15-foot troll sculpture named Bruun Idun was added in 2023. A proposal for pickleball courts was rejected in 2024 after public opposition. Despite its popularity safety remains a concern. Car prowls are a significant issue. Park visitors are advised to keep their cars clear of valuables. It is also recommended to be aware of your surroundings especially at night. The park’s extended hours from 4 am to 11:30 pm offer flexibility but also increase potential risks.
Despite the challenges Lincoln Park remains a treasured West Seattle landmark. Its combination of natural beauty recreational opportunities and historical significance makes it a truly unique destination. The park’s enduring appeal highlights its importance as a vital green space in an ever-developing city. So explore the trails enjoy the views and appreciate the rich history of Lincoln Park.