Redmond Watershed Preserve - Image 1
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Redmond Watershed Preserve

4.7
·709 reviews·Redmond, United States

Sprawling forest preserve with miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. A natural escape with lush greenery.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easy parking

CrowdLow
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Redmond Watershed Preserve - Image 1

Redmond Watershed Preserve

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, easy parking

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Sprawling forest preserve with miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. A natural escape with lush greenery.

4.7
(709 reviews)

"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."

Vertical photo
TIP

🗺️ 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.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mossy Forest Trails

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

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

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

Tree Frog Loop

Paved section

Enjoy a smooth, accessible paved path perfect for a leisurely stroll or wheelchair-friendly exploration.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Trails

With miles of interconnected paths, a trail map is essential for exploring the Redmond Watershed Preserve. Consider downloading an interactive map to your phone before you go, especially since cell service can be spotty. Be aware that some trails are designated for horses or bikes, so check signage to ensure you're on the right path.

Parking and Access

The parking lot, particularly at the South entrance, can fill up quickly on weekends. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot. While the preserve is free to enter, note that pets are not allowed in many areas due to the presence of horses. Weekdays offer a more relaxed experience with easier parking and fewer crowds.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easy parking
Crowd
Low
When
After rain
Why
Vibrant moss & mushrooms
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend mornings
Why
Beat the parking rush
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

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. Reddit

🐴 Be Horse Aware

Horses are common here. Always be mindful of equestrian trails and give them plenty of space. Reddit

reddit.com

Favorite Hikes near Redmond/ Eastside of Seattle

reddit.com

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. Reddit

🚫 No Pets Allowed

Leave your furry friends at home; dogs are prohibited in many areas due to horse presence. Reddit

reddit.com

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. Reddit

🐴 Be Horse Aware

Horses are common here. Always be mindful of equestrian trails and give them plenty of space. Reddit

🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking

Weekend parking lots fill up fast. Aim for an early start to guarantee a spot, especially at the South entrance. Reddit

🚫 No Pets Allowed

Leave your furry friends at home; dogs are prohibited in many areas due to horse presence. Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes

Trails can have inclines and uneven terrain, so comfortable, supportive footwear is a must for a good workout. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(709 reviews)

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

Beautiful shaded forests
Good workout terrain
Lush greenery after rain

What People Dislike

Parking fills up fast
No pets allowed

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. Reddit

Information on public transportation routes directly to the preserve is limited. It's generally recommended to drive or arrange for a ride-share service. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, there are parking lots available, particularly at the South entrance. However, these can fill up quickly on weekends, so arriving early is advised. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Redmond Watershed Preserve is free to enter. There are no admission fees required to explore its trails. Reddit

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. Reddit

No advance booking or tickets are required for entry into the Redmond Watershed Preserve, as it is a public park with free access. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ 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. Reddit+1

Yes, restrooms are available, particularly at the South entrance. They are described as small but well-maintained and clean. Reddit

Absolutely! Hikers praise the preserve for its well-shaded paths, decent up-and-down terrain for a workout, and beautiful scenery, especially after rain. Reddit

Yes, there are designated trails for horseback riding. Visitors should be aware of equestrian activity and give horses plenty of space. Reddit

Yes, there are trails suitable for mountain biking, though some trails may have restrictions. It's important to check signage for designated bike routes. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Redmond Watershed Preserve offers a fantastic natural playground for families. The Tree Frog Loop is a paved, accessible trail perfect for strollers and little legs that tire easily. Reddit While pets aren't allowed in many areas, the sheer expanse of the forest provides ample space for kids to explore and burn energy. Pack snacks and water, and consider downloading an offline map to keep everyone on track. Reddit Weekday visits are ideal to avoid crowds and ensure easier parking. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For those seeking a good workout and immersion in nature, the Redmond Watershed Preserve is an excellent choice. The varied terrain offers a satisfying challenge, and the well-shaded trails provide a cool escape. Reddit Don't miss the opportunity to witness the mossy forests and unique flora, especially after a rain shower. Reddit+1 Bringing an interactive trail map is highly recommended to navigate the extensive network of paths and discover hidden gems. Reddit

🚴 Mountain Bikers and Equestrians

The preserve caters to both mountain bikers and equestrians with designated trails. The Puget Power Pipeline route is a popular choice for cyclists looking for a longer ride. Reddit Equestrians will find dedicated paths, but it's crucial to be aware of other trail users and follow all posted signage regarding trail access. Reddit Remember that pets are generally not allowed in areas where horses are present. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Redmond Watershed Trails

The Redmond Watershed Preserve boasts an extensive network of trails, offering diverse experiences for hikers, bikers, and equestrians. With over 10 miles of interconnected paths, it's easy to get lost in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest forest. Many users recommend using an interactive trail map that can be accessed on your phone, as cell service can be unreliable within the preserve. Reddit This map is crucial for understanding the different trail designations, ensuring you stay on the correct paths for your chosen activity. Remember to check signage carefully, as some trails are exclusively for horses or bikes. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit+1 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

The Redmond Watershed Preserve is a haven for local flora and fauna, offering a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the region. One of the most striking plants you might encounter is the skunk cabbage, characterized by its large, yellow-green leaves, which are particularly beautiful in the damp, wetland areas of the preserve. Reddit Its presence is a clear indicator of the moist environment that supports a thriving ecosystem.

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

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