Amon Basin Natural Preserve

Amon Creek Natural Preserve represents a triumph of conservation over development for 75 acres of riparian habitat along Amon Creek, the largest tributary of the lower Yakima River. The hiking route described here traverses the upper rim of the basin first, and returns via a lower path along the creek. Do note this area has ticks — be sure to check after your hike.

The trailhead is at the west end of the Claybell Park parking lot, marked with a “trail access” sign and another sign about local wildlife. The wide, crushed gravel trail curves to the left. At 0.2 mile you come to a trail junction. Take the dirt trail that continues southward.

There’s a wire fence on your right, protecting the Tapteal Greenway Association’s restoration efforts. After another 0.1 mile you come to a pumphouse and settling basin. Take the dirt track to the left of the basin. This route gives you beautiful views of the wetlands and creek below you. You’ll soon come to another  junction; keep left to stay on the higher route. The trail eventually meets a gravel service road (which leads to the alternative trailhead off Leslie Road). Turn right on the gravel road, and just before a bridge over the  creek you’ll see another “Trail Access” sign on your right.

Take this narrow dirt trail, which is adjacent to the wetlands. Where the trail climbs a small hill and joins other pathways, turn left and continue along the creek, pausing to enjoy one of the two wildlife viewing platforms if you wish. The trail eventually reconnects with your previous route, and you can proceed back to Claybell Park.

History

The City of Richland and the Tapteal Greenway Association (a non-profit conservation group) partnered to create this preserve amid a rapidly growing south Richland neighborhood. Although the preserve is surrounded by housing developments, it encompasses native wetland, riparian and shrub-steppe habitats for birds and other wildlife, including rabbits, beavers, mink, and muskrats. Hiking and biking opportunities in Amon Creek Natural Preserve include 3 to 4 miles of gravel roads and dirt trails.