The Hiker Mama

Hazel Wolf Wetlands

Distance: 1.7 Miles

Elevation Gain: Under 75 feet

Season: Year-round

Maps: Find one on the bulletin board at the trailhead, or look on the AllTrails website.

Description: This gentle loop trail takes you through forest and around a watery wetland for a quick dose of nature. The trail has many gentle ups and downs, and winds narrowly among the trees, so it feels wilder than its location would otherwise account for. Children will enjoy the boardwalks over marshy areas, the working beaver dams, and the viewing platforms out on the edge of the water. We heard frogs, red-winged blackbirds, and even a great-horned owl during our winter visit. Dogs are only allowed on the main trail, and not on Ann’s Trail, which circumnavigates the wetland.

Directions: From I-90 in Issaquah, take the exit for Front Street (Exit 17) and head north. That street turns into lake Sammamish Parkway. When you reach the roundabout, turn right and head up the hill on SE 43rd Way. This changes into 228th Ave SE. Turn right onto SE 24th St, then turn left onto 248th Ave SE. When you reach the high-voltage power lines, you’ll see a small parking area pullout underneath them on the right. Pull in here, and you’ll see the trailhead. There is room for several cars to park. I advise using the restroom before you arrive, as there are no toilets in the park, or other facilities. No parking permits are needed.

Links: Read the WTA description and check current conditions. Read our trip report.