Sounds like leaving the grass is the easiest option. Regarding weeds growing up through mulch, that problem can be remedied by laying a weed barrier material under the mulch. That works for me. You can do a hardscape or probably cheaper to do a gravel (or decomposed granite ) path with weed barrier beneath.

Weeds will find a way in any mulch, eventually, regardless of your location. Organic mulches (bark, hazelnut shells, straw) decompose into compost, and WILL be a growth medium for weeds, even with landscape cloth underneath - the weed seeds may be airborne, bird born, fallout from pulled garden weeds, or simply brought in with the mulch. In my last garden (Seattle) I spent much time, money, and labor putting down 1/2" minus over landscape cloth. It looked great the first year, but the next year it was more trouble weeding it than weeding the garden. At least the weeds came up easily, but it was still a HUGE job. Now we're building a home (Eugene), and I'm going to use "low mow" fescue mix and a lawnmower and weed-eater. I think it'll be less work, and will be attractive and comfortable under foot.

Creeping thyme is a ground cover that bears heavy foot traffic and creates a dense mat. You could seed that in your pathways. It will smell nice when you walk on it and be cushiony under your knees, too!

5/8 minus is perfect pathway material. Over a short amount of time it compacts pretty tight and will be nice and solid.

I'm planning a raised bed garden and wondering about path width. I'm reading elsewhere between 2'-3' allows for watering and also a wagon for hauling, but I also don't want to waste space? Also, any reviews of decomposed granite for the paths?