Bitter Lake Reservoir Park

An Out-of-the-Way Park by the Lake

Bitter Lake Reservoir Park wraps around the Bitter Lake Reservoir - one of Seattle's drinking water sources - and offers a mix of open green spaces and recreational facilities in Seattle's northern neighborhoods. It's clean and well-maintained, making it a popular spot for families living in the nearby apartment communities.

Kid-Friendly Fun

At the heart of the park sits a fenced playground area that parents will appreciate for its safety and visibility. Little ones can burn off energy on the swings, zoom down slides, and conquer climbing structures that might remind you of the play equipment at Woodland Park Zoo. The enclosed design gives parents peace of mind while kiddos explore and make new friends.

Right beside the playground, you'll discover a thriving P-Patch community garden spanning 15,000 square feet. It's quite something to see local green thumbs growing everything from tomatoes to tulips in this urban setting. Don't miss the creative pathway that meanders through the garden - it's excellent for a leisurely stroll to admire the seasonal blooms and harvests.

Outdoor fitness equipment stations along the park's paved trail

Photo: Rob Bolton (CC0 1.0)

What You'll Find

Across the park, you'll come across several seating areas where you can take a breather or enjoy a good book. Just note that there aren't designated picnic areas or BBQ pits, so plan accordingly if you're thinking about lunch in the park. Restrooms are available, but they do close occasionally for maintenance.

Active visitors appreciate the tennis courts and playing fields that accommodate everything from casual frisbee games to more organized sports. While direct access to the lake itself has been limited in recent years for safety reasons, you can still spot local wildlife - the ducks and geese are particularly entertaining in spring when they're nesting and raising their young.

Bringing Fido Along

The park is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your four-legged friend for some fresh air and exercise. Just remember that all pups need to stay on leash within the park - a rule that helps keep the peace between the various visitors enjoying the grounds.

Looking toward the reservoir hill from the park's northeast corner

Photo: Rob Bolton (CC0 1.0)

Looking Ahead

Bitter Lake Reservoir Park is in the midst of an exciting transition. Seattle Public Utilities is currently replacing the old reservoir with a modern 21-million-gallon concrete tank. The silver lining? Once completed, this project will free up additional space for the park to expand, potentially bringing new features for everyone to enjoy.

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More Than a Park

For the Bitter Lake neighborhood, this park provides green space where people connect, exercise, and unwind. Its location makes it accessible for nearby residents looking for some nature. Whether you're visiting the garden, watching the playground, or sitting among the trees, it offers a quiet break from Seattle's urban pace.