
Redmond Watershed Preserve
Sprawling forest preserve with miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. A natural escape with lush greenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easy parking

Redmond Watershed Preserve
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easy parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sprawling forest preserve with miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. A natural escape with lush greenery.
"Such a nice place to get in a good walk in the Redmond area. Really well shaded and has a decent amount of up and down terrain."

🗺️ Download a Trail Map
Essential for navigation! Many users recommend interactive maps for your phone as cell service is unreliable.
🐴 Be Horse Aware
Horses are common here. Always be mindful of equestrian trails and give them plenty of space.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mossy Forest Trails
Various trails
Immerse yourself in a lush, green wonderland with moss-covered trees and vibrant ferns, especially stunning after rain.

Skunk Cabbage Blooms
Wetland areas
Discover the unique beauty of skunk cabbage, with its striking yellow-leafed plants, adding a splash of color to the greenery.

Puget Power Pipeline Route
Adjoining areas
Explore a popular biking route that stretches for miles, offering a different perspective of the expansive preserve.

Tree Frog Loop
Paved section
Enjoy a smooth, accessible paved path perfect for a leisurely stroll or wheelchair-friendly exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Trails
Parking and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Seeking recommendation on hiking and biking trails near Novelty Hill
🗺️ Download a Trail Map
Essential for navigation! Many users recommend interactive maps for your phone as cell service is unreliable.
🐴 Be Horse Aware
Horses are common here. Always be mindful of equestrian trails and give them plenty of space.
Favorite Hikes near Redmond/ Eastside of Seattle
Interactive Redmond Watershed trail map
🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking
Weekend parking lots fill up fast. Aim for an early start to guarantee a spot, especially at the South entrance.
🚫 No Pets Allowed
Leave your furry friends at home; dogs are prohibited in many areas due to horse presence.
Shady walking trail?
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Download a Trail Map
Essential for navigation! Many users recommend interactive maps for your phone as cell service is unreliable.
🐴 Be Horse Aware
Horses are common here. Always be mindful of equestrian trails and give them plenty of space.
🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking
Weekend parking lots fill up fast. Aim for an early start to guarantee a spot, especially at the South entrance.
🚫 No Pets Allowed
Leave your furry friends at home; dogs are prohibited in many areas due to horse presence.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can have inclines and uneven terrain, so comfortable, supportive footwear is a must for a good workout.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Redmond Watershed Preserve for its beautiful, shaded forest trails and invigorating terrain, perfect for a good workout. The lush greenery, especially after rain, and unique flora like skunk cabbage are frequently highlighted. While parking can be challenging on weekends, the free entry and expansive nature make it a beloved local spot for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.
"Such a nice place to get in a good walk in the Redmond area. Really well shaded and has a decent amount of up and down terrain ensuring you get a workout. Especially beautiful after the rain with all the moss and mushrooms. The parking lot does fill up fairly fast so try to get there early on weekends"
Mervin
"Such a beautiful area to go for a walk. We loved the paved trails. The skunk cabbage were so pretty among all of the green. The skunk cabbage are the yellow leaf plant in the photos."
Cindy Backman
"Large encompassing preserve with plenty of wild life and beautiful sights. Lots of trails and nice scenery on each, maps and arrows on many to ensure that it is easy to navigate. Clearly marked boundaries and end of trails. Horses are also present so keep that in mind. Parking is really easy! Parking at the South entrance is right next to bathrooms, which are small but well maintained and clean. Entrance is free and best to go on a weekday, if possible, for parking and less crowds."
Stephanie Showalter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Redmond Watershed Preserve is accessible by car. The main entrances are typically well-signed. Parking is available at designated lots, with the South entrance offering convenient access to restrooms.
Information on public transportation routes directly to the preserve is limited. It's generally recommended to drive or arrange for a ride-share service.
The South entrance is often recommended for its proximity to restrooms and ample parking. However, the preserve is large and connects to other trail systems, so your best entrance may depend on your intended route.
Yes, there are parking lots available, particularly at the South entrance. However, these can fill up quickly on weekends, so arriving early is advised.
While GPS can help you get to the preserve, cell service within the preserve can be unreliable. Downloading an offline trail map is highly recommended for navigation on the trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Redmond Watershed Preserve is free to enter. There are no admission fees required to explore its trails.
The preserve is generally open from dawn to dusk. Specific hours may vary seasonally, so it's always a good idea to check local park information if available.
No advance booking or tickets are required for entry into the Redmond Watershed Preserve, as it is a public park with free access.
The primary restriction is that pets are not allowed in many areas due to the presence of horses. Always check posted signage for specific trail restrictions.
While generally open from dawn to dusk, it's best to plan your visit within daylight hours for safety and to fully enjoy the trails.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The preserve offers a variety of trails, including hiking paths, horseback riding trails, and mountain biking routes. Some trails are paved, like the Tree Frog Loop, while others are natural and can be uneven.
Yes, restrooms are available, particularly at the South entrance. They are described as small but well-maintained and clean.
Absolutely! Hikers praise the preserve for its well-shaded paths, decent up-and-down terrain for a workout, and beautiful scenery, especially after rain.
Yes, there are designated trails for horseback riding. Visitors should be aware of equestrian activity and give horses plenty of space.
Yes, there are trails suitable for mountain biking, though some trails may have restrictions. It's important to check signage for designated bike routes.
The preserve is home to various wildlife. Visitors have noted seeing skunk cabbage and mention the potential for other wildlife sightings in this expansive natural area.
📸 📸 Photography
The mossy forests, especially after rain, offer incredible photographic opportunities. The vibrant skunk cabbage blooms and the general lush greenery also make for beautiful shots.
The dense tree canopy provides natural shade, which can be great for diffused lighting. Early morning or late afternoon light filtering through the trees can also create stunning effects.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive forest scenes. A macro lens can be useful for close-ups of moss, mushrooms, and skunk cabbage.
Keep an eye out for the unique skunk cabbage plants and the vibrant mosses that cover the trees and forest floor, particularly after a rainfall.
Drone usage regulations can vary by park. It's advisable to check with local park authorities or the King County Parks department for any specific rules regarding drone operation before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
🚴 Mountain Bikers and Equestrians
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Redmond Watershed Trails
The terrain varies, offering a good workout with its inclines and descents. The Tree Frog Loop is a notable paved section, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Other trails wind through dense woods, showcasing the region's natural beauty. The preserve also connects to other trail systems, including the popular Puget Power Pipeline route, expanding the possibilities for exploration.
When planning your hike, consider the time of year. After rain, the forest comes alive with vibrant mosses and unique flora like skunk cabbage, creating a particularly picturesque environment. However, always be prepared for damp conditions and wear appropriate footwear. The sheer size of the preserve means you could spend days exploring and still discover new paths.
Wildlife and Flora at the Preserve
Beyond the skunk cabbage, the preserve is renowned for its lush, moss-covered trees and abundant ferns. This verdant landscape is especially captivating after a rainfall, when the mosses glisten and the forest floor appears even more vibrant. While specific wildlife sightings can vary, the dense forest provides habitat for various creatures, and visitors often mention the general abundance of nature. The presence of horses on designated trails also means you might encounter them during your visit, so always be mindful and respectful of these animals.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit