Day 11: I-90 Trail from Enatai Beach, Bellevue to Dr. Jose Rizal Park, Seattle

 Highlights:

The real Camino asked me to do 17.2 miles today from Belorado to Ages, treading earthen paths through the Oca hills past the monastery of San Juan de Ortega with a remote forest landscape.

After a day’s rest where my husband and I previewed today’s starting point at Enatai Beach in South Bellevue, I was ready to try a new trail – The I-90 Mountains to Sound Green way trail that hugs the bridge of the same name for 8 miles.  The I-90 and 520 bridges are the Seattle's main arteries that connect Seattle's east and west sides. I managed 17.3 miles today. 

Today, I had a new foot care strategy – sturdy sandals with my gel heel socks and padded specialty “blister resistant” shorty socks as a backup.  The heel gel socks rolled up into my arches almost immediately with bare sandals but once I put the socks on, this was my most comfortable foot day yet.  One tiny new blister on the side of my foot.  I consider that a win.

The I-90 trail is another well maintained, thoughtfully appointed path for cyclists and walkers with benches, lots of restrooms, and opportunities to stop at many parks, one notably named for Seattle’s very own Jimmy Hendrix. 

In addition to the same types of spectacular water views that I risk taking for granted and experienced on both sides of the 520 bridge trail, there was a long tunnel with creative graffiti (my favorite was the bunny), gorgeous waterfront residences with a variety of docks and water toys, broad views of Seattle’s sports stadiums, and never ceasing to surprise me – the ever changing views of the elusive Mount Rainier.

Today, I took some time to read the plaque and wall art honoring the Central District Community Preservation Development Authority, “whose purpose it is to promote self-sufficiency of African descendants of the U.S. enslaved and other disenfranchised people, through the development of economic pathways to upward mobility”.

The only fly in today’s walking ointment was a trail detour once I got into Seattle streets.  The detour signs disappeared and google maps kept wanting me to go back on the part of the trail that was closed. I finally made my way to the end of the trail at Dr. Jose Rizal Park.  This park was in sharp contrast to the opulent, shiny starting park this morning. The ground was littered with needles and garbage and I decided to forego the restroom. 

So, back I went to do my return trip. I am learning that, while doing loops is practical for self-sufficiency (I can drive myself), it takes more mental resolve because it’s not as stimulating and distracting.  What I did look forward to was a swim in Lake Washington, back at the starting point, at the end of my walk.  It was better than expected - the water was cool, crisp and clean, the views were spectacular, and I had the water to myself.  So glad I wore my bathing suit today.

I haven’t decided yet on Day 12’s route but my Trail link app lists 20+ trails that are “near me”.  I promise to share whatever I do with you then.

¡Buen Camino!






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