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Take the Scenic Route in Seattle

In Seattle, where lush parks, snowcapped peaks, and miles of shoreline are all within city limits, the long way is often the best way.

Caption to come.
In Seattle, nature isn't just present, but alive in the very heart of the city.
Photographs byAaron Huey
Published August 31, 2026

There's a reason Seattle is known as Mother Nature's City. With more than 485 parks, 6,000 acres of green space, and 200 miles of shoreline, nature isn't something you leave the city to find—it's everywhere you go. Whether you're wandering a waterfront trail, exploring a neighborhood park, or simply taking the long way home, Seattle invites you to slow down, look around, and discover something unexpected.

In the city he calls home, National Geographic photographer Aaron Huey set out on assignment to capture the beauty, wonder, and rhythm of Seattle, revealing why the scenic route is always the one worth taking.

Aaron Huey
In Seattle, connected walking trails and urban parks like Gas Works Park make it easy to experience both the energy of the city and the beauty of the outdoors in a single outing.
Aaron Huey
Aaron Huey
Waterfront Park & Overlook Walk offers a seamless pedestrian connection between the heart of downtown and the city's shoreline, with scenic gardens, inviting public spaces, and views of iconic landmarks like the Seattle Great Wheel.
Aaron Huey
Freeway Park, the first park in the world built atop a freeway, reflects Seattle's ability to blend innovative urban design with access to green space.
Aaron Huey
With 41% of Seattle covered by water, access to the shoreline is never far away. At Madrona Park Beach on Lake Washington, water sports and recreational activities are a familiar sight against the backdrop of Mount Rainier.

Aaron Huey
Aaron Huey
From skimboarding at Alki Beach to kayaking adventures across Lake Union, Seattle's waterways offer endless opportunities for activity and exploration.
Aaron Huey
Aaron Huey
Washington Park Arboretum is just one example of the green spaces that help define Seattle, where access to nature is part of everyday life.

Aaron Huey
Even from above, Seattle's connection to nature is on full display. At Firn Rooftop Bar at Populus Seattle, nature-inspired cocktails and small plates are served alongside sweeping views of the city skyline.
Aaron Huey
Aaron Huey
At Atoma, Seattle's culinary creativity shines through an inventive menu that celebrates fresh, local ingredients and seasonal flavors.
Aaron Huey
For modern design, sweeping views, and award-winning cuisine, look no further than Canlis. Since 1950, the Seattle landmark has paired exceptional dining with a setting as memorable as the food itself.

Aaron Huey
Aaron Huey
Even when night falls, Seattle continues to shine. From Myrtle Edwards Park to Discovery Park, expansive views capture the city's seamless ability to blend natural beauty with urban energy.
Aaron Huey
From lush green spaces and miles of shoreline to the stunning landscapes that surround the city, Seattle's connection to nature remains unmistakable, making the scenic route always within reach.

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