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Clarke Beach Park
4.6 ★★★★★ 220 Google reviews · Running trail in Mercer Island, Washington · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Clarke Beach Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Grassy, wooded area with a swimming beach, docks, picnic & BBQ areas & public rest rooms.
What runners say about Clarke Beach Park
“It seems to be somewhat lacking in upkeep however it is simple, beautiful, & tucked away… Well done you creative monsters.”
“It's a small park, with a peaceful beach, a big deck and restrooms.”
08/12/23: this park is quite isolated from other Mercer Island’ parks. If you do want to enjoy some alone time, please check it out The parking is ample. If you take the trail, you will be able to access the beach. What could I say about the beach!! So beautiful and peaceful. There is a restroom at the beach level.
This park is located in Mercer island and it's has the view of new castle area and on a sunny day you can see Rainier. Parking is easy, there is a little walk downhill form the parking lot. There is a paved path, so it's wheelchair friendly. There is swimming area. I saw people fishing and doing other water sports..
Nice waterfront park with a big dock and plenty of water access. No beach/sandy water access - cement steps lead to shallow water. Good picnic area and public restrooms are available. Space is somewhat limited(you aren't going to run around in the grass playing touch football).
Excellent isolated park with ample parking and not many people even during warm summer months. Accessible trails down to the beachhead with steps going into the water. However, be warned on exiting the park.
Trail conditions & character
“It seems to be somewhat lacking in upkeep however it is simple, beautiful, & tucked away… Well done you creative monsters.”
“There are restrooms and changing areas near the swimming areas as well.”
“It was dark when I went here for the first time and I got lost because there were no lights and signs directing me back to the parking lot.”
“It's a small park, with a peaceful beach, a big deck and restrooms.”
“It's a steep hill and you cannot see oncoming traffic at all, especially during late evening when the sun is glaring into your car.”
“Accessible trails down to the beachhead with steps going into the water.”
Plan your run at Clarke Beach Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitemercerisland.gov
- Phone(206) 275-7609
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6 AM–10 PM |
| Tuesday | 6 AM–10 PM |
| Wednesday | 6 AM–10 PM |
| Thursday | 6 AM–10 PM |
| Friday | 6 AM–10 PM |
| Saturday | 6 AM–10 PM |
| Sunday | 6 AM–10 PM |
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