Farrell's Marsh Wildlife Area

Explore a network of trails through a wooded marshy wetland, sprinkled with poems and quotes on small placards along the way.

The trail is gravel or dirt throughout, and there are many different paths you can take to create your own hike. Some paths will bring you right up to the edge of the marsh, where you can take a break as you look out on the wetlands. Keep your eyes peeled for ducks, geese, and great blue herons.

The marsh is quiet and serene, but it also causes the trail to be wet or even flooded in places, so waterproof shoes or careful stepping is recommended.

Throughout your adventure, you’ll likely come across several poems and quotes on small placards, as well as informational placards about the nature in the area. Learn about Himalayan blackberry, salal, stinging nettle, and low bush Oregon grape as you walk around the nature area.

Route Suggestion

A highlight of the trail is a log hop “bridge” over the marsh. Start at the north trailhead and walk along the wide gravel path for a few hundred feet before arriving at a junction. Turn right and continue in a lush forest for about 0.1 miles to another junction. Turn left here to hop over some short stumps for fun! Turn right at the junction instead, and walk uphill for about 0.1 miles for some elevation gain to a spot with a view of the sound in the distance.

WTA Pro Tip: Bring a copy of the map of the area on your trek. There is also reliable cell phone reception here. It’s very easy to get lost in this labyrinthine network of trails and it can be difficult to find your way back to your vehicle without a guide.