Vashon Activities 

Burton Acres

8900 SW Harbor Drive

This 64-acre park on the Burton Peninsula across the road from Jensen Point offers a number of easily accessible, gently sloping, non-motorized trails through a mature and diverse forest.

Here you will spot deer grazing among big-leaf maples, hear the calls of bushtits and the pileated woodpecker. Ravens and bald eagles are two of the larger species you may see as you peer upward, through sun-dappled rises and ravines.​

Wax Orchard Park

22570 Old Mill Road SW

Home to 110 acres of sweep-back ravines, forest, wetland and pond, Wax Orchard is one of the newest additions to the island’s trail system and it can open space for community events to be relaxed and played. Centrally located in the heart of the island, the property also boasts four miles of trails through its beautiful meadows.

Christensen Pond Preserve

Wax Orchard Road Southwest at Southwest 240th Street

If you’re looking for a short walk in the woods on the south end of the island, Christensen Pond is perfect for the casual explorer looking to spot waterfowl, local fauna, old-growth fir, and a number of wildlife large and small.

The 7-mile, mostly-level loop pulls you immediately into a mixed-wooded area, diversely populated by all manner of trees and one circular wetland. A small, still pond can be seen through the undergrowth and approached by multiple points along the trail. The loop behind you will split to the north end, so head to the right as the trail forks.

Dogs are not allowed at Christensen Pond Preserve.

Island Center Forest

Western end of Southwest 204th Street off Vashon Highway-Southwest

At more than 400 acres, Island Center Forest has a trail claim as the largest and most popular collection of trails on Vashon with more than 10 miles to hike, bike, and ride.

Trails, ponds, and extensive wetlands are found here, as is an ample parking lot and picnic tables near the entrance. With miles of intersecting trails, it’s important to pay attention to the trail map and occasional way-finding signs to assist.

That sense of getting lost is often part of the charm of exploring this expansive forest.

Shinglemill Creek Preserve

11500 SW Cedarhurst Road

Shinglemill is one of the more challenging and beautiful trails on the island. While the early part from Cedarhurst Road begins with a stroll by the water through the woods, adventurers soon begin the uphill climb, which doesn’t end quickly.

The preserve itself is 108 acres, and the 2.5 mile round-trip trail can take about 2 hours, and up and down again. The workout is worth it, as Shinglemill boasts dramatic, fern-covered ravines, cedar, fir, and hemlock, and ends with the sound of the creek and abundant fowl.

Fisher Pond Preserve

Southwest Bank Road at 115th Ave SW

Fisher Pond, the largest freshwater pond on Vashon, is one of the island’s favorite strolls. It’s a great place for bird watching, nature study, and even ice skating in the winter.

As you walk, keep your eye out for multiple spots that will take you past to west, north, and east. Throughout, the left fork of the trail takes along the lake’s shoreline. You’ll even see a connection on the east side of the loop perfect for a quick rest, picnic, and fishing.