Evans Creek Preserve
Puget Sound and IslandsBest Mar–Oct
A WTA-built trail through wetlands, meadows, and hillside forest on the Sammamish Plateau, with four birdwatching platforms and a resident black bear population.
About This Trail
Evans Creek Preserve is 179 acres of wetlands, wildflower meadows, and mixed forest on the edge of Sammamish. The trail system was built by WTA volunteers, and the craftsmanship shows: boardwalks and puncheon bridges carry you over the wettest sections, mounted maps appear at intersections, and four dedicated birdwatching platforms are spaced along the route.
The lower trailhead starts on a crushed gravel path that meets ADA standards and leads into the heart of the wetland. From there, trails climb gently through forest on the preserve's hillside, with hand-built bridges and turnpikes on the upper sections. Wildflowers fill the meadow areas in spring and early summer. The preserve is a birding hotspot, and the platforms are well-positioned for watching raptors, songbirds, and waterfowl in the wetland corridor.
Two trailheads serve the preserve. The lower lot off 224th Ave NE has 10 spaces and an ADA restroom. The upper lot off Sahalee Way NE has 16 spaces and is served by Metro Route 269. No pass or fee required. Be aware that black bears use this corridor, so make noise and keep dogs leashed. Recent trip reports note a fallen hemlock blocking one intersection and some grass encroachment on the accessible gravel path, but the trail system is generally in good shape.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Persistent Hazards
- Black bears frequent the area; make noise and consider carrying bear spray
- Occasional windfall across trails
- Grass encroachment on accessible gravel path may affect wheelchair access
Getting There
Lower trailhead: 10 spaces (1 ADA) off 224th Ave NE via SR 202. Upper trailhead: 16 spaces (1 ADA) off Sahalee Way NE. No pass or fee. ADA restroom at the lower lot, though recent reports suggest it is sometimes locked.
From SR 202, take 224th Ave NE to the lower trailhead. For the upper trailhead, use Sahalee Way NE. Mounted maps at intersections make navigation straightforward. The lower path is ADA-accessible crushed gravel leading into the wetland.
Spring mornings are best for birding. The meadow wildflowers peak May through July. No timing pressure otherwise.
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