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Picnic spots

Spreading out a blanket to eat in the open air provides a rare chance to slow down. Combining a simple picnic with a moment of meditation turns a meal into a restorative break.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Madrona Park image 1
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Lakefront park offers stunning views of mountains, city, and water with peaceful walking paths through shady trees. The atmosphere stays quiet and relaxing, attracting those seeking calm away from city bustle. Features include floating diving platforms and BBQ areas, enhancing outdoor leisure.

Quiet surroundings with shady trees and peaceful walking paths create a calm atmosphere. Beautiful lake views add to the serene setting, making it easy to find a moment of stillness.

Open picnic areas operate on a first come, first served basis with tables available early in the day. The park offers a relaxing atmosphere suitable for picnics and nearby swimming.

People are saying

"I loved the amazing view of Mt. Rainier and the water."

"It's a peaceful Meditation Spot with beautiful lake views."

"It's a lovely spot for a picnic with beautiful lake views."

Good to know

1

Madrona Park is free to access all day.

2

Parking at Madrona Park can be difficult to find.

3

There are no public restrooms at Madrona Park as advertised, since they have been closed.

02
Carkeek Park Beach image 1

Beach with calm waves and quiet atmosphere offers beautiful mountain views and wooded trails nearby. Spacious parking and picnic areas support a relaxed, peaceful vibe where people enjoy nature and playgrounds. Dog restrictions on the small beach contrast with the rest of the park's openness.

Calm waves and a quiet atmosphere create a peaceful and beautiful spot to sit and listen to the water. Logs along the shore offer places to relax and meditate in a lovely setting.

Spacious parking and many picnic tables make it easy to settle in. Picnic shelters, benches, and grassy open fields add variety for groups. Restrooms and amenities support longer stays.

People are saying

"I found the beach here to be beautiful and teeming with sea life."

"It's a beautiful, quiet Meditation Spot."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with lots of picnic tables."

Good to know

1

The beach has a spacious parking lot, amenities, and many picnic tables.

2

Access to the beach involves a steep footbridge, not suitable for mobility issues.

3

Expect limited walking space during high tide, but plenty during low tide.

03
Roanoke Park image 1
City park

Spacious city park with beautiful landscaping and large trees offers a quiet atmosphere and ample seating. Small playground and basketball hoop provide simple recreation options. Popular for picnics and casual gatherings, it attracts families and dog walkers in a peaceful setting.

Quiet surroundings and a peaceful atmosphere make it easy to focus. The area stays not too busy, offering calm for meditation.

Many picnic tables and benches sit among gardens and a playground. The space suits small picnics and casual games.

People are saying

"It's a gorgeous, neat park, a lovely place to behold."

"It's a nice neighborhood park with a small playground."

"This Meditation Spot is so peaceful and quiet."

Good to know

1

Roanoke Park has a great playground for kids with a soft landing made of beauty bark.

2

There is abundant street parking available near Roanoke Park.

3

The park is a nice spot for a small picnic.

04
Madrona Park Beach image 1
Public beach

Public beach offers quiet, peaceful atmosphere with stunning views of downtown and Mount Rainier. Small beach area includes grassy lido, picnic tables, and diving platform. Visitors enjoy wooded trails and a relaxed vibe ideal for walking, swimming, and family outings.

Quiet and peaceful surroundings create a calm space for meditation. Views of downtown Bellevue and Mount Rainier add a beautiful backdrop to the quiet atmosphere.

Small beach area includes grassy lido, picnic tables, and a diving platform. Docks lead to swimming spots near open grassy spaces for family picnics and play.

People are saying

"I loved the amazing view of the Cascades and Mt. Rainier."

"It's a quiet and peaceful Meditation Spot."

"The picnic views are amazing, even on rainy days."

Good to know

1

Parking at Madrona Park Beach can be challenging, especially on weekends.

2

Restrooms at Madrona Park Beach were not open as of March 31.

3

Lifeguards are present during the summer months for safety.

05
Magnolia Park image 1

Park offers stunning water views and gentle walking paths through spacious green areas. Atmosphere stays peaceful and serene, favored by locals for quiet strolls and picnics. Amenities include picnic tables and BBQ spots, supporting relaxed outdoor gatherings.

Stunning water views and gentle walking paths create a peaceful retreat. Locals appreciate the serene spot for quiet reflection.

Picnic tables and benches provide spots to eat, but most sit in direct sun with no shade. Nearby parking and basic infrastructure support a laid-back picnic under mature trees.

People are saying

"I loved strolling under the mature trees and enjoying the great views."

"It's ideal for a laid-back picnic with spectacular views."

"It's a peaceful retreat with stunning water views."

Good to know

1

Parking is ample and clean at Magnolia Park.

2

There are picnic areas and bathrooms available in Magnolia Park.

3

The toilets are accessible but not always clean.

06
Carkeek Park image 1
City park

City park offers beach access and well-maintained hiking trails through forested areas. It has a family-friendly vibe with playgrounds, picnic spots, and educational features like a salmon slide. Views include Puget Sound and Olympic mountains, creating a peaceful and scenic atmosphere.

Offers a peaceful retreat with quiet trails and a serene beach at the end. The presence of an orchard adds a unique touch to the natural setting.

Huge picnic areas with plenty of tables accommodate large groups comfortably. Easy wheelchair access, nearby bathrooms, and spots for BBQ make it family-friendly and convenient.

People are saying

"The beach here is perfect for watching a spectacular sunset."

"It's a beautiful, quiet place to unwind and find your meditation spot."

"It's a great spot with plenty of picnic tables and open grassy areas."

Good to know

1

The park offers plenty of space for group events.

2

You can dig for seafood at the park.

3

In November, the salmon come back to spawn, which is fun to watch.

07
Sunset Hill Park image 1

Small city park offers stunning sunset views over mountains, water, and marina. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful, ideal for meditation or calm conversation. Features include shady benches and a walking path, with a vibe of old America from nearby colonial-style houses.

Small and quiet space offers a peaceful atmosphere ideal for meditation. The area stays free from noise like cell phones or video games, supporting calm and focus.

Well tended grassy areas and a few benches create a simple setup for picnics. Limited picnic tables exist, so seating options are mostly on the grass or benches.

People are saying

"The sunset views here are beautiful and impressive."

"It's a peaceful Meditation Spot, away from the city's hustle."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with a nice grassy area."

Good to know

1

Arrive at least 20 minutes before sunset for the best views.

2

Parking is available if you arrive about 45 minutes before sundown.

3

There are no restrooms available at the park.

08
Washington Park Arboretum image 1

Botanical garden offers spacious, well-maintained grounds with picturesque walking paths and lush greenery. Atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, inviting leisurely strolls and quiet moments on benches. Presence of natural wildlife adds to the serene, natural vibe.

Quiet paths and lush greenery create a peaceful atmosphere ideal for meditation. Trails and gardens offer a tranquil setting surrounded by abundant nature.

Open spaces and cozy benches under shady trees create excellent picnic spots. Small trails and natural surroundings add to the relaxing atmosphere for picnics.

People are saying

"I found the park to be huge and beautiful with lots of trails."

"This Meditation Spot is so peaceful and serene."

"It's a gorgeous, beautiful place for a picnic."

Good to know

1

The arboretum is free to visit, except for the Japanese garden which charges $10.

2

Parking is limited, especially on weekends during bloom season.

3

Public restrooms are available throughout the arboretum.

09
Lowman Beach Park image 1

Small city park offers calm water views and grassy areas with swings. Atmosphere stays peaceful and quiet, especially mid-week, attracting people who relax on the grass or launch kayaks. Less crowded than nearby spots, it provides a natural, neighborhood feel with scenic walkways and benches.

A small, quiet park with a scenic walkway and benches along the promenade. Offers a peaceful atmosphere and incredible views of the Olympics, especially during mid-week or early mornings.

Grass under a huge tree offers a shady spot for picnics. The beach setting creates a lovely atmosphere for a relaxed lunch outdoors.

People are saying

"It's a nice little beach park with a great view of the sound."

"This quiet Meditation Spot offers a peaceful place for reading."

"It's a great spot for a picnic on the grass."

Good to know

1

There are no restrooms available at Lowman Beach Park.

2

Parking is very limited, especially on sunny days.

3

The park is great for launching water sports like paddle boarding.

10
Volunteer Park image 1

City park offers stunning skyline views including the Space Needle and features big trees alongside a historic brick water tower. It maintains a peaceful, spacious atmosphere with well-kept green areas and family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and water features. The park blends nature, art, and history in a quiet urban setting.

Serene and peaceful, this spot offers quiet grassy areas and running trails perfect for meditation. Private spaces make it easy to find calm for group activities or solo reflection.

Lush, well-maintained greenery offers plenty of space for picnics and playing frisbee. The area feels safe and peaceful, perfect for relaxing or unwinding with a book.

People are saying

"The park offers an iconic, cinematic skyline view."

"It's a beautiful and peaceful meditation spot."

"It's a beautiful place for a picnic with open green spaces."

Good to know

1

Live shows occur every Thursday during the summer months.

2

Free outdoor concerts are held regularly at the park.

3

Parking can be challenging during major events at the park.

11
Lake Union Park image 1

City park offers beautiful lake views and an open, airy layout with a boardwalk and beach area. Atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxing, with activities like kayaking, sailing, and watching seaplanes. Visitors enjoy scenic urban landscapes including views of the Space Needle and nearby headquarters.

A peaceful oasis with serene waters and quiet surroundings offers a perfect spot to reset without apps. The park's excellent lighting enhances calmness during evening strolls and watching boats.

Green space near the water offers plenty of room for picnics and relaxing. Lakeside views and trees provide a nice backdrop for a quick lunch break or a longer afternoon outdoors.

People are saying

"I loved the nice view of the lake and city skyline."

"This Meditation Spot offers a cinematic view of the lake and city skyline."

"It's a nice place to have a picnic and relax."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available on weekends at Lake Union Park.

2

The park hosts free yoga classes on Wednesdays during the summer.

3

Cider Summit at Lake Union Park features local cider tastings and runs all day.

12
Warren G. Magnuson Park image 1

Large city park offers spacious open fields, off-leash dog areas, and beachfront access with scenic views of lake and mountains. Atmosphere stays quiet and peaceful during the day, turning lively with noise and activity late at night. Features include historic buildings, athletic fields, walking trails, and community spaces.

Quiet, peaceful beach with a clean and open space. The area feels large and beautiful, perfect for calm moments.

Plenty of space and picnic shelters accommodate groups up to 50 people. Beachfront areas include picnic tables and barbeques with ample parking nearby.

People are saying

"It's so Dog Friendly, with tons of room for pups to run."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with charcoal grills nearby."

"This meditation spot is beautiful and peaceful."

Good to know

1

Parking is available for $12 for trailers, but free parking can be hard to find.

2

Restrooms at the beach are open, but facilities may be limited during events.

3

The hangar hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts and thrift markets.

13
Kubota Garden image 1

Garden combines scenic views, winding trails, and Japanese-style landscaping with a natural, less manicured feel. Atmosphere stays peaceful and lush, offering quiet spots with benches and picnic areas. Visitors find it a hidden gem for calm strolls amid ponds, bridges, and diverse plant life.

Serene surroundings blend Pacific Northwest beauty with Japanese landscaping for a peaceful retreat. Quiet paths and lush greenery create a calm atmosphere ideal for meditation.

Scenic spots with cozy benches and an uncovered picnic area invite peaceful afternoons. Quiet surroundings without loud music make it ideal for a relaxed picnic or a calm walk.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful and peaceful place to relax."

"It's a peaceful and beautiful Meditation Spot."

"I enjoyed having a picnic in this beautiful, spacious garden."

Good to know

1

The park is free to enter.

2

Parking is free, but there are reports of break-ins.

3

Dogs must be on leashes in the garden.

14
Myrtle Edwards Park image 1

Long narrow park along the waterfront offers sweeping views of Olympic Mountains and Mount Rainier. Peaceful paths invite walking, biking, and jogging with scenic waterfront access. Expansive grassy areas and picnic tables create a calm setting for relaxation near the water.

Sweeping waterfront views create a peaceful path ideal for meditation. The area stays consistently calm and quiet, supporting a serene atmosphere.

Expansive grassy spaces offer plenty of room for picnics and lounging. Picnic tables and sea views add to the relaxing atmosphere.

People are saying

"The sunset views over the bay were amazing."

"I found the beach here to be a great urban park gem."

"It's a peaceful Meditation Spot with gorgeous waterfront views."

Good to know

1

The park is currently undergoing construction, limiting access to certain areas.

2

Bike trails are open, providing a scenic route along the waterfront.

3

Expect beautiful views of the Olympic Mountains and Mount Rainier on clear days.

15
Golden Gardens Park image 1

Scenic beach park with breathtaking water and mountain views and picturesque sunsets. Open grassy areas and volleyball courts create a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. Visitors enjoy fire pits and picnic facilities alongside walking paths and an off-leash dog area.

Peaceful and quiet surroundings create a serene beauty perfect for meditation. Wooded trails and views of ducks and beavers by the marsh add to the calm atmosphere.

Picnic tables with grills sit near a beautiful beach, making it easy to enjoy sandwiches and small fires. Numerous playgrounds and trails add to the space, perfect for relaxing and watching the sunset.

People are saying

"I found the beach beautiful with stunning views of the Olympic Mountains."

"It's a great place for a picnic with beautiful beach views."

"This Meditation Spot is so peaceful and quiet."

Good to know

1

Parking can be extremely difficult on busy weekends; arrive early to find a spot.

2

Restrooms are available at the park for visitor convenience.

3

The concession stand closes at 6pm, so plan accordingly.

16
Gas Works Park image 1

Park combines historic industrial structures with expansive green lawns and lakeside views. It offers a spectacular city skyline panorama visible from open picnic areas and walking paths. Activities include paddleboarding, live music events, and lawn games, creating a lively yet peaceful atmosphere.

Quiet areas by the lake offer a peaceful atmosphere. Weekdays bring a serene vibe that suits meditation well.

Large grass spaces offer plenty of room for picnics and outdoor games. Views overlook the city and boats, making it a nice spot to relax and watch the activity.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great view of downtown Seattle across the lake."

"You can have a picnic with a beautiful Seattle skyline view."

"This Meditation Spot offers a peaceful, beautiful view of the Seattle skyline."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available for up to four hours at Gas Works Park.

2

Gas Works Park is a great spot for viewing fireworks on the 4th of July.

3

I attended free DJ sets on Sundays near the concrete area by the water.

17
Green Lake Park image 1

Massive park with amazing lake views and historic bathhouse offers a peaceful atmosphere and diverse recreational options like swimming, kayaking, and sports courts. Huge trees and well-maintained paths create a relaxing, walkable space in the city. The vibe is calm and inspiring, attracting people seeking both activity and tranquility.

Serene spots with peaceful lake views and majestic trees create a tranquil setting. The area stays quiet and clean enough for meditation even when busy.

Expansive green spaces invite relaxing picnics and playing games. The park offers a calm setting ideal for spreading out and enjoying food outdoors.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful park with amazing lake views and stunning scenery."

"It's a great place for a picnic with plenty of grassy spaces."

"It's a beautiful and peaceful meditation spot."

Good to know

1

The Lantern Parade occurs annually and is a must-see event.

2

Summer brings boat races and music events at Green Lake Park.

3

Free dodgeball games are held every Wednesday night at the community center.

18
Ballard Locks Fish Ladder image 1
Tourist attraction

Fish ladder offers close views of salmon swimming upstream alongside engineering marvel locks. Botanical gardens and rolling hills create a peaceful park setting with free public concerts and abundant wildlife including seals and sea lions.

Quiet and secluded spots offer a peaceful atmosphere with stunning water views and local wildlife like playful seals. The fish ladder and botanical garden provide serene settings with a relaxing sea breeze and pristine surroundings.

A rolling hill offers a nice spot for a picnic with views of the area. Grassy areas invite you to read, picnic, or watch boats at the Locks.

People are saying

"I watched the salmon swim up the fish ladder."

"It's a quiet, peaceful Meditation Spot with stunning water views."

"It's a great place for a picnic and watching the boats."

Good to know

1

The entrance to the attraction is free for all visitors.

2

You can see the salmon migration from late August to September.

3

The park hosts free outdoor concerts during summer weekends.

19
Seward Park image 1

Expansive park features old-growth forest, waterfront views, and rugged hiking trails. Serene atmosphere includes gentle sounds of lapping waves and peaceful spots for relaxation. Amenities support families and groups with playgrounds, picnic areas, and an amphitheater.

Serene atmosphere with gentle sounds of lapping waves creates a strong sense of tranquility. Quiet corners under towering cedar trees and scenic paths through lush greenery offer peaceful spots for meditation.

Lots of picnic tables and pavilions sit near a playground and open spaces. Views include a bay and Mt. Rainier, with paths leading to a forest preserve.

People are saying

"I loved the beautiful views of Mt. Rainier and the lake."

"I found the picnic scenery stunning with trees, trails, and water views."

"The Meditation Spot offers a mesmerizing view of Mount Rainier."

Good to know

1

Parking is busy on weekends, but free parking is available.

2

Restrooms are clean and well-maintained throughout the park.

3

The park has trails suitable for running and walking dogs.

20
Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden image 1

Botanical garden offers quiet, peaceful atmosphere with lush greenery and varied exotic plants. Visitors find many spots for relaxing or picnicking near water views and wildlife sounds. The setting includes views of nearby locks and occasional live music, enhancing the calm experience.

Quiet and peaceful with well-kept greenery. Many spots in the grass offer space for relaxing or picnics.

Quiet spots in the grass and nice fields make it easy to relax or have a picnic. Benches and open lawns offer options for sitting or spreading a blanket in the botanical garden setting.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful garden, perfect for a quiet picnic."

"It's a beautiful park with a great variety of plants and flowers."

"This Meditation Spot is so peaceful and beautiful."

Good to know

1

The botanical garden is free to enter.

2

Parking is available but can be expensive on weekends.

3

Visitors can enjoy a quiet picnic in the garden.

21
Bruun Idun - Way of the Bird King image 1

Massive sculptures blend naturally with ocean views and lush greenery. The atmosphere stays peaceful with few people around, inviting quiet walks and picnics. Well-kept trails and open spaces support outdoor activities like cycling and exercising.

Trails offer a peaceful walk surrounded by serene nature. Quiet spots overlook Puget Sound, creating a calm atmosphere ideal for meditation.

Plenty of picnic tables and picnic shelters sit near the waterfront and swings. Many picnic areas spread throughout, with benches along the path for casual seating.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the beautiful scenery with water and mountains."

"It's a peaceful and serene spot for a walk."

"There are plenty of picnic tables and shelters here."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available in the public parking lot.

2

For a flat, accessible route, park at the southernmost lot near the swings.

3

The hike is long and zigzagging with no clear signs; using Google Maps is recommended.

22
Bhy Kracke Park image 1

Small terraced park offers breathtaking panoramic views of downtown Seattle, Lake Union, and the Space Needle. Quiet, peaceful atmosphere with meandering paths and grassy nooks invites relaxation and picnics. Playground and open grassy areas provide space for children and dogs to play.

Several quiet grassy nooks offer peaceful spots for meditation or reading. The park features a zen, meandering atmosphere with beautiful views that enhance the calm experience.

Several quiet grassy nooks and open grass areas offer peaceful spots for picnics. Covered picnic benches and nearby playgrounds add convenience and options for groups.

People are saying

"I loved the amazing view of the Seattle skyline."

"It's a quiet gem with gorgeous city views."

"It's a perfect place for a quiet picnic with spectacular views."

Good to know

1

The park has limited parking space, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Expect steep trails, so wear appropriate footwear for hiking.

3

The park offers stunning views of downtown Seattle and the Space Needle.

23
Woodland Park Rose Garden image 1

Medium-sized garden showcases formal architectural design with hundreds of rose species arranged in a neoclassical French style. Quiet and peaceful atmosphere invites relaxation and reflection, enhanced by benches, a gazebo, and water features. Well maintained and free to enter, it serves as a hidden urban escape near a zoo.

Quiet and peaceful garden with hundreds of rose species offers a restful and replenishing spot for meditation.

Quiet spots with gorgeous scenery make it ideal for small picnics. The garden offers a peaceful atmosphere perfect for snacking, reading, or just relaxing outdoors.

People are saying

"I found this park beautiful and a great place to relax."

"It's a great quiet spot for a picnic or reading."

"It's a quiet, peaceful escape, perfect for just sitting and soaking it all in."

Good to know

1

The garden is free to visit.

2

The garden is open daily from 7:30 a.m. until dusk.

3

Parking can be a problem because it is either zoo paid parking or neighborhood parking.

24
Parsons Gardens image 1

Small garden space offers peaceful atmosphere with winding paths and shaded benches. Quiet spot features beautiful flowers and a gazebo for special events, attracting local residents and occasional weddings.

Quiet garden offers a peaceful atmosphere with beautiful spring flowers. Low visitor traffic keeps it calm and serene.

Quiet spots with calm, relaxing vibes make it ideal for picnics. Open areas invite hanging out and playing with kids during a casual picnic.

People are saying

"It's a cute, peaceful park with great views."

"It's a peaceful and quiet Meditation Spot."

"It's a quiet and peaceful spot for a picnic."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited at Parsons Gardens.

2

Booking Parsons Gardens through the Seattle Parks website is easy.

3

The park has a portable toilet, but it may be locked.

25
Kerry Park image 1
Tourist attraction

Small terraced park offers breathtaking skyline views including city, mountains, and landmarks. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and scenic to busy and lively depending on time. Features include benches, coin-operated telescopes, and a playground for families.

A small, well maintained park offers a serene atmosphere with breathtaking views ideal for quiet meditation. The spot feels peaceful and polished, perfect for recharging or relaxing above the city.

Great views and seating areas make this spot ideal for a picnic. Limited grass space fits a few families, with room to relax in a hammock or enjoy simple snacks like sandwiches and chips.

People are saying

"I loved the gorgeous city view, especially at night."

"This Meditation Spot offers postcard-perfect views of the skyline and Space Needle."

"I enjoyed the great views and picnic spot."

Good to know

1

Parking at Kerry Park is free with no time limits.

2

The road can be slippery on rainy or snowy days.

3

Bring a jacket just in case the weather changes.

26
Olympic Sculpture Park image 1

Outdoor space combines unique sculptures with spectacular water views and peaceful walking trails. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxing despite nearby urban activity. Seating areas and a small beach offer spots to rest and enjoy nature.

Peaceful walks happen amid open space with a water view backdrop. Quietness holds strong despite nearby roads and train yards, making it a solid spot for meditation.

Open grassy areas offer plenty of space for picnics with views of Puget Sound. Benches and shaded spots provide comfortable places to relax and enjoy food from nearby markets.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the nice view of the water and mountains."

"It's a peaceful Meditation Spot with stunning views of the sea."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with beautiful water views."

Good to know

1

The park is free to enter.

2

There is a bathroom deep into the park near Centennial.

3

Parking is available, but may require walking a bit further.

27
Kinnear Park image 1
City park

Park sits on a bluff with gorgeous views of Puget Sound and features a small fenced dog run. Atmosphere is quiet and peaceful, with well-maintained paths and benches for relaxing or walking dogs.

Quiet surroundings create a peaceful atmosphere ideal for meditation. The spot remains friendly and undisturbed, supporting calm and focus.

Picnic tables sit at the top of the park near swings. Bathrooms and water fountains are available under the balcony picnic table. The spot suits picnics but is less ideal for playing with a dog.

People are saying

"You get amazing sound views of the Puget Sound here."

"The park bathrooms are well-maintained and open 24 hours."

"It's a great place for a picnic."

Good to know

1

Kinnear Park is dog friendly and has a fenced dog run.

2

Public restrooms at Kinnear Park are open 24 hours.

3

There is a small parking lot off 15th, mostly private property.

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