Kari's Bog Trail

Parking for the trail is typically available at the main entrance to the Redmond Watershed Preserve. Specific parking information is usually well-marked at the preserve's access points.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to protect the delicate bog ecosystem and local wildlife. Please remember to pack out any waste.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and summer are particularly vibrant, with wildflowers blooming and increased bird activity. Be aware that after rainfall, especially in fall and winter, sections can become muddy and uneven, so sturdy, waterproof footwear is recommended.

Access to the Redmond Watershed Preserve, where Kari's Bog Trail is located, typically does not require a specific hiking permit or entrance fee for day use. However, it's always a good idea to check the official King County or Redmond Parks websites for any updated regulations or special event requirements before your visit.

The trail is predominantly flat with minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for many. While some sections feature gravel paths suitable for hiking and even gravel biking, other parts can be muddy and uneven, particularly after rain. A picturesque wooden boardwalk helps traverse wetter areas, and an observation deck offers views over the bog.

You'll experience a unique and ancient bog ecosystem, a remnant from the last Ice Age. The trail showcases diverse plant life, including skunk cabbage, sedges, and sphagnum moss, with wildflowers in spring and summer. It's also a haven for birdwatching, with sightings of red-winged blackbirds, marsh wrens, and various waterfowl, plus small mammals like beavers and muskrats. Don't miss the wooden boardwalk and the observation deck for prime viewing spots.

Kari's Bog Trail is primarily an out-and-back route. While it connects with other trails in the Redmond Watershed Preserve, the main bog trail itself follows a linear path to its end and back.

The bog is officially named 'Kari's Bog' in honor of environmental scientist Karin Osterhaug. Her dedicated efforts were crucial in reclassifying the wetland as a sphagnum bog and securing its protection as a Category I wetland, preserving it for future generations.

Yes, while hiking Kari's Bog Trail, you may notice it intersects with or runs alongside other paths within the Redmond Watershed Preserve. Specifically, the route also passes through sections of the Collin Creek Trail, the Redmond Ridge Trail, and the Cascade Club Trail.

Yes, the trail is considered family-friendly due to its relatively flat terrain and engaging natural features like the boardwalk and observation deck. It's a great opportunity for children to learn about a unique bog ecosystem and observe wildlife. Just be mindful of potential muddy sections, especially with younger children.