Encampments Disrupt Youth Running Paths in Woodland Park
Youth athletes face safety concerns after individuals in recreational vehicles returned to a local Seattle running route.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Running
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Recreational vehicles and encampments have returned to a gravel parking lot in Woodland Park near Green Lake, creating safety obstacles for youth cross country athletes. The site, which borders N 50th St, has been cleared by authorities at least twice in recent years.
Why it matters
The presence of these vehicles on the running route forces youth sports leagues to move their training and competitions to other locations. These disruptions impact the accessibility of local park facilities for youth athletes and their families.
Official records confirm the encampment at this Woodland Park site has been cleared at least 2 times in recent years. Despite these interventions, individuals have returned to the gravel lot, which remains a primary route for runners.
The players
Woodland Park
A public space in Seattle that hosts various youth sports leagues and competitive running events.
The details
The gravel parking lot on the south side of Woodland Park serves as a critical connector for local running trails. When RVs occupy this space, the physical obstruction forces coaches to reroute courses or abandon the area entirely to ensure the safety of young participants. One coach reported being followed and intimidated by individuals at the encampment, highlighting the security challenges currently facing youth sports programs in this Seattle neighborhood.
Timeline
September 28, 2026
Health Landscape
The return of encampments to this gravel lot disrupts established community recreation patterns in Seattle. This situation follows a recurring cycle of clearing efforts that highlights the ongoing tension between public park utility and the needs of unhoused individuals.
Athletes and parents using the Green Lake area should remain aware of their surroundings when training near the N 50th St corridor. If you encounter safety concerns during scheduled activities, consider discussing alternative training routes or reporting incidents to local park authorities.
The takeaway
Safety for youth athletes in public spaces remains a priority when established training routes are obstructed. Families are encouraged to stay informed about course changes and communicate with coaches regarding any security concerns encountered during training sessions.
Further reading
Learn more about local athletic opportunities and trail access in our Running section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KOMO.
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