Juanita Bay Park: Walk on the Wild Side (of Nature) in Kirkland
Juanita Bay Park, located near Kirkland's Market neighborhood on Juanita Bay, offers a chance to walk through nature in order to glimpse native plants, birds, and animals.
Significant efforts have been made to restore the park's wetlands and remove the invasive species that choke out native plants. The park's areas include several examples of Washington habitats. Wet meadow, marsh, open water, shrub wetland, wooded wetland, and intermittent marsh all occur within the park's boundaries. Forbes Creeks helps make the park's 100+ acres lush and luxuriant.
The park's tours offer a chance to experience the nature while being informed about it. Conducted by volunteer Park Rangers, they take place on the first Sunday of each month. Gather at 1 pm in the parking lot to meet up for the hour-long tour; no advance registration is required. Check the website for details on bird walks, which vary according to season.
The East Boardwalk and West Boardwalk trails wind through the park to allow visitors a chance to see the over 100 species of animals that make the park their home or migratory resting point. Beaver Meadow has actual beavers, but other mammals that might be glimpsed include long-tailed weasels, coyotes, river otters, nutria, raccoons, and opossums. Birdwatchers will find that the multitude of habitats offers plenty of chances to spot birds, including water fowl such as bitterns, loons, and coots and drier-dwelling flycatchers, warblers, and pipits.
The park offers the traditional kinds of park experience as well: rolling lawns for Frisbee or ball, picnic tables for dining al fresco, and plenty of space to walk. Despite the busy road nearby, the park manages to achieve a serenity that is sometimes absent from those more crowded with sports fields.
Parking is sparse and signs warn that it's a "high prowl area." Lock cars and don't leave valuables obvious or accessible. Restrooms are only open during the spring and summer.
HelloSeattle Tip: Download the Juanita Bay Park wildlife guide in .pdf format from the park's website.
Posted on Apr 13, 2011 by Cat Rambo
