Exploring the West Hylebos Wetlands in Federal Way

West Hylebos boardwalk

After I wrote about a local trail we'd explored, several readers asked whether I'd been to the West Hylebos. I hadn't, and honestly I had no idea what it was. One quick search later: oh, that place! I'd driven past it many times assuming it was just an old meeting hall. It turns out it's a historic homestead, a long wetland boardwalk, and a protected natural area.

So one evening I took my son out to explore. (His sister opted to stay home with Dad.)

The Basics

West Hylebos Wetlands Park is in Federal Way, Washington, just off S 348th Street. Best of all for frugal families: parking and admission are free.

The trail entrance

The trail is easy and flat, with grassy clearings lined by blackberry brambles. (Late summer could be a tasty time to visit!)

Ripe salmonberries along the trail

In early summer, salmonberries were ripe everywhere.

What We Found

Old orchard by the trail

We passed an old orchard along the path. It's easy to imagine early homesteaders planting those apple trees long ago.

My son exploring the orchard

Wooden footbridge

There are charming spots everywhere, like this footbridge. Photographers will love it.

Pond at the trail's edge

We found a pond, and my son immediately wanted to come back to fish (catch-and-release only, he assured me). Note that the wetland is protected, so it's look-don't-fish.

My son on the trail

I love this photo of him, though it makes me a little wistful. They grow up too fast.

Rabbit in the grass

We spotted about a dozen rabbits! Look for them in the grassy areas near the blackberry bushes.

The Boardwalk

Boardwalk through the wetland

Ferns along the boardwalk

The highlight is a boardwalk loop of roughly a mile through the wetland. It's magical: giant ferns, creaking old trees, and lichens of every kind. We saw birds and rabbits, but the area is also home to animals like river otters, flying squirrels, coyotes, frogs, turtles, and weasels.

The flat boardwalk works well for families and strollers.

Looking for dragonflies

My son spent much of the walk on the lookout for dragonflies.

It was getting dark, so we didn't make it all the way to the lake at the end. Consider that a teaser to go see it yourself!

Picnic area

Tips for Visiting

Pack a picnic. There are picnic tables near the entrance. Just pack out everything you bring in.
Stay on the boardwalk to protect the wetland.
Bring bug spray in warmer months.
Go at dawn or dusk for the best chance of spotting wildlife.

Trail through the trees