The 1971 “Hike-In” for the Burke-Gilman Trail was a rally on September 12, 1971, organized by Merrill Hille and the Burke-Gilman Trail Park Committee to gather public support for converting the abandoned Burlington Northern railroad tracks into a public bike and pedestrian path. Hundreds of people marched along the tracks, converging at Matthews Beach Park, where elected officials spoke to an estimated 2,000 attendees, marking a turning point in the creation of the trail.  

Come celebrate the 55th Anniversary of this key event in the founding of the Burke-Gilman.   Join us to bring attention to the original 50 year old segments of the Burke-Gilman in Seattle.    Your donation to Fix the Burke-Gilman through Seattle Parks Foundation is tax deductible.