Hazel Wolf Wetlands Preserve from Beaver Lake Preserve loop

Parking is available at the Beaver Lake Preserve trailhead, which serves as the starting point for this loop. The preserve is also interconnected with Soaring Eagle Regional Park, offering additional access points.

No, there are generally no permits or entrance fees required to access the Hazel Wolf Wetlands Preserve or the interconnected Beaver Lake Preserve and Soaring Eagle Regional Park. However, it's always a good idea to check the King County Parks website for any updated regulations: kingcounty.gov.

Dogs are generally allowed on a leash on the main trails within the Hazel Wolf Wetlands Preserve and Soaring Eagle Regional Park. However, to protect the abundant wildlife, dogs are typically prohibited on Ann's Trail, which directly circumnavigates the main wetland. Please observe all posted signage regarding pet restrictions.

The trail is accessible year-round, offering different experiences with the changing seasons. Spring and fall are excellent for birdwatching, while summer provides lush greenery. Winter can offer a quieter experience, but be prepared for potentially muddy conditions after heavy rain.

The terrain is generally considered easy, with a mostly level path and minimal elevation gain. You'll walk through mature cedar groves and lush ferns, with sections that hug the wetland's shoreline. There are boardwalks over marshy areas and a sturdy bridge crossing Laughing Jacobs Creek. Some parts of Ann's Trail may have narrow paths and short, steep sections, and can be muddy after heavy rain.

The preserve is rich in wildlife. You can expect to see various bird species such as mergansers, eagles, ducks, geese, red-winged blackbirds, and even great-horned owls. Beaver activity is a highlight, with visible beaver dams and lodges. Observation decks provide opportunities to scan the reeds and open water for birds and small mammals.

Yes, this loop is part of a larger network. The Hazel Wolf Wetlands Preserve connects directly to the Beaver Lake Preserve and the extensive multi-use trails of Soaring Eagle Regional Park. This interconnectedness allows for extended explorations and customized routes. The route itself utilizes sections of Ann's Walkway, Ann’s Walking Trail, and the Hazel Wolf Wetlands Access Trail.

Absolutely! The trail features boardwalks over marshy areas and a sturdy bridge over Laughing Jacobs Creek. You'll also see impressive beaver dams, some even equipped with metal culverts. Observation decks offer excellent spots for wildlife viewing, and on clear days, you might catch glimpses of Tiger Mountain in the distance. The preserve itself is named in honor of Hazel Wolf, a dedicated social and environmental activist.

Yes, this loop is generally considered an accessible and engaging experience, making it suitable for families and beginners. The mostly level path and minimal elevation gain contribute to its easy difficulty. However, be mindful that some sections of Ann's Trail can be narrow or slightly steep, and muddy after rain.

Ann's Trail, which directly encircles the main wetland, offers a close-up view of the ecosystem. However, be aware that dogs are generally prohibited on this specific trail to protect wildlife. Also, while mostly gentle, some parts can be narrow or have short, steep sections. After heavy rain, certain areas of Ann's Trail might be muddy or have standing water, so appropriate footwear is recommended.