Though we are barely into September, today felt like fall was officially upon us and so what better way to feel the crunch of leaves underfoot than to head out into the forest. Of course, my children weren’t nearly as agreeable to this idea as I was and it took an exorbitant amount of snacks packed, shouted threats and a few tears (mostly from me if I’m being honest) to get them out the door. Never one to shirk from a challenge, I persevered and soon enough, we had our feet firmly planted deep within the Redmond Watershed Preserve.

Eight hundred acres large, the Preserve is an open trail system designed for hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders, with over seven miles of trails. Acquired in 1926 by the city of Redmond which originally intended to use the land and its water features as a watershed for the growing city, the plan never came to fruition and the watershed became a nature preserve by default. As we trooped thru the second growth forest full of doug firs, cedars and towering maple trees, I personally was glad that those watershed plans had never happened.

We followed the Trillium trail past gurgling streams and lily pad filled ponds, and though no wildlife was found, much to London’s snake hunting dismay, we did find huckleberries and blackberries to munch on. The trails are easy for kids to navigate, mellow and gently sloping with lots of twists and turns to keep things interesting. We made it out to the old pond and back and aside from the last 1/8 of a mile or so, when Rio finally demanded a shoulder top ride, there was minimal complaining. And that, as any parent knows, is a feat in itself and not wanting to jinx it, we hightailed it out of there, patting ourselves on the backs for an adventure well executed.

Redmond Watershed Preserve

21760 NE Novelty Hill Road, Redmond, WA 98053

Open till dusk daily 425-556-2900