Coho Preserve is owned and managed by the San Juan County Land Bank, whose main priority is to protect this forest for its ecological significance. Cascade Creek, one of the last remaining salmon spawning creeks in Island County, runs through this property. Luckily for visitors, the preserve has a short trail that wanders through mature trees and offers access to this beautiful 24-acre park. Because of the pristine nature of this ecosystem, hikers may be able to spot a variety of bird species during their visit including American dippers, pileated woodpeckers and belted kingfishers.
From the parking area, walk parallel to Cascade Creek, where coho salmon, chum salmon and sea run cutthroat feed and spawn. The trail is gentle for the most part but does have some steep sections. Dogs are allowed on leash, just be sure to keep a wide berth from the stream to avoid erosion that could harm these fragile spawning grounds.