Sunrises and sunsets hold a special significance in people’s lives. The symbolism of sunsets can differ from person to person.
In some African cultures, the sun rising and setting represents the life cycle from birth to death. The sun being reborn each day, the endless cycle. Some cultures use sunsets as a time for religious and spiritual practices. In Native American cultures, the sunsets are revered as a time to reflect and practice gratitude for the natural world.
Additionally, research suggests getting up earlier to catch the sunrise or planning your walks to capture the sunset may have some wellness benefits, such as lowering stress, improving sleep, boosting your mood, and providing a heathy opportunity to reflect.
With 1,540 acres of open space, 26 parks and 10 miles of trails, Issaquah Highlands offers a unique geological location perfect for sunset viewing. Located along the hillside of the great Cascades, our community provides a panoramic view of the Issaquah Alps and the greater Puget Sound region.
Below is a list of some of the best places to catch the next sunset.
Grand View Park
When scouting your next place for sunset viewing, many opt for Grand View Park. The name speaks for itself. The park features an open, manicured grassy area as well as picnic tables, restrooms, accessible parking and play equipment. A scenic trail wraps around the park, offering magnificent views of the Cascade Mountain range, Lake Sammamish, and the Seattle skyline. Bring a picnic and a blanket and enjoy the evening!
Central Park
With fields and courts of many kinds, Central Park is great for active people who are also hoping to catch the sunset. Central Park facilities also include a children’s playground, picnic tables and a picnic shelter, restrooms, parking, and many trails. The undeveloped “Pad 4,” off to the side of the main park area, includes an open lot of grassy space perfect for sunset watching. This space overlooks Grand Ridge Elementary and offers breathtaking views of the Puget Sound region.
The Steps
The staircase behind DICK’s Sporting Goods, which pans 137 steps, offers a unique sunset viewing experience for fitness enthusiasts. Although this location might not come to mind immediately when thinking of a place to view the sunset, the staircase presents a rewarding workout opportunity coupled with scenic views. When you arrive, be sure to check out the new mural on the staircase, painted by local artist Tori Shao.
Vista Park
This charming viewpoint, nestled in the residential Vista Park area, offers a badminton court, picnic tables, benches, and play equipment. Across the street from the court, there is a semi-secluded scenic viewpoint of the neighboring mountains and lakes that is worthy of many photos.
Summit Park
Summit Park, also known as “Twon Slides Park,” is tucked into the top of Issaquah Highlands. This park not only provides scenic views but also two steep and thrilling slides built into the hill, making this the perfect place to bring your children to watch the sunset. The park also offers more playground equipment, picnic tables, and open grassy space. As one of the highest elevated parks in Issaquah Highlands, this is also a great place to go for a scenic drive and enjoy the panoramic views.
This list is only a small collection of the many sunset/sunrise viewing opportunities in the Issaquah Highlands, so get out to explore and discover new places for yourself. Happy sunset watching!
Maia is a 9th grader at Issaquah High School and a member of the HY Board.
