Eastlake: Another Great Seattle Neighborhood for Exercise and Life
I have sure become a fan of the Eastlake neighborhood. Sloping down to the eastern shore of Lake Union, sleek condos, wistful Victorian houses and docks of houseboat communities. The area has an interesting history that includes indigenous fishing and travel, forestry, farmland, an industrial area, then a busy urban hub. Here’s a bit about the area’s history.
Indigenous Roots and Early Settlers
Before European settlers arrived, the area that would become Eastlake was inhabited by the Duwamish people. They lived along the shores of Lake Union and used the lake for transportation and fishing. Their presence is an important part of the area’s heritage, though their lands were largely taken after settlers arrived.
In the mid-1800s, after the arrival of European settlers in Seattle, the neighborhood’s transformation began. Logging was one of the earliest industries, and by the late 1800s, sawmills dotted the shores of Lake Union. The construction of the Lake Washington Ship Canal, completed in 1917, further spurred industrial development in and around the lake.
How Eastlake Grew
By the early 20th century, Seattle needed housing, and Eastlake gradually shifted from an industrial area to a residential one. The Eastlake neighborhood saw the construction of Craftsman-style homes, small bungalows, and floating homes—which gives it the eclectic character we love today.
During this time, Eastlake also developed a reputation as a working-class neighborhood due to proximity to downtown and industrial centers. The Eastlake Avenue corridor became a primary route for streetcars, making it easier for residents to commute to other parts of Seattle. There was even a mini Pike Place Market called Hines Public Market built to serve the increased population living and passing through Eastlake.
The area has had some downtimes, especially after I-5 came through it in the 1960s. but it’s always had great potential as a connector between the University and downtown. Zoning brought more density and energy by bringing businesses, residential, cafés and restaurants. I’ve always wondered why they don’t have a full-service grocery store. (Pete’s Market has a great wine selection, but I think the neighborhood needs a better grocery store.)
These days, Eastlake is iconic Seattle– those water’s edge communities with their container gardens, right next to dry docks, terraced pea-patch gardens, western views of Queen Anne, rowers-rowing, seaplanes landing–it’s a unique slice of Seattle.
Where can I get in some exercise in Eastlake?
Walk or Run the Cheshiahud Loop
Named for a Duwamish chief who lived with his wife Tleebuleetsa at the northeastern cove of Lake Union, this six-mile, mostly-paved urban loop connects pocket parks and multi-use paths around Lake Union. It’s an almost perfect 10K route–6.2 miles, about as flat as you can get in this city, and you cross two bridges!
Climb the Howe Street Stairs
This is where Rainier-climbing folks mingle with every-day-exercisers building cardio fitness and leg strength using the 388 steps grouped into 13 flights–the longest set of stairs in the city.
Bring your weighted backpack and uppity, up!
Play in the I-5 Collonade Mountain Bike Park
Hands down, this is the best use of an under-the-freeway deadspace I’ve ever seen. 7.5 acres of walkways, off-leash and bike trails and tricks.
Hit the TOPS playground
One of Seattle’s early schools dating from 1893 features a playground you can repurpose for circuit training and running laps around the adjacent playfield.
Join a Rowing Club
Two fantastic rowing clubs —College Club and Pocock are to be found in this area. Both offer a full range of classes to get you out on the water.
Seek out the String of Pearls – Public Beach and Dock Access
Launch a kayak or SUP or go for a swim. There are about 15 mini parks on or near the lake in Eastlake. Check out this impressive list. https://www.eastlakeseattle.org/land/eastlake-shoreline-walking-guide
Where Else Should I Go in Eastlake?
Fantastic Health & Wellness Providers
D’vorah Levy Acupuncture – a maven of healing I highly recommend
MoveMend Rehab & Training – some of the finest PTs I know
Restaurants & Cafés
Serafina – long-time favorite Italian restaurant–just classic.
Armistice Coffee – launch of Unstill Life’s Eastlake walk & run routes and an chic well-designed spot for a hangout after.
Little Water Cantina – sunny deck for watching the boats and planes.
Misc Outdoor Fun
Patrick’s Fly Shop – these guys are smart about fishing.
Get out to Eastlake, everybody… enjoy!
Contact us to learn more about our walk & run groups.
Check out Unstill Life on Heylo, a fitness community app. You’ll see our classes and runs listed, see photos, and chat us up.
