Quick walk around the Redmond watershed trails while it was still cool early Sunday.  We parked at the north lot and did the full outer loop with some side excursions for a total mileage of about 5.6 and an easy total gross vertical of 450’.  Parking at both the north and south lots is free and relatively plentiful.  Full restrooms at the south lot were open and in great shape, no facilities at the north lot.  The Redmond parks crew keep trails in excellent shape and today was no exception.  Not that many folks out today, a few trail runners, a few walkers and a couple people on horseback.

Not much wildlife out this morning, a few ducks on the southern pond, several curious Douglas squirrels, some spring song birds plus some neat dragonflies and butterflies.  The native rose is already starting to bloom in the sunny meadow areas, (they smell delightful,) plus bleeding heart and miner’s lettuce under the forest canopy and native yellow pond lily in the southern pond.  Don’t miss the cool new QR code sign at the southern main parking lot that lets you scan to get a full trail map on your mobile device.  A nice, relatively easy walk with lots to see.  Happy Mother’s day.  

Link to further info - https://www.redmond.gov/facilities/facility/details/Watershed-Preserve-56

I went on this hike as a final for my outdoor adventures class with a couple of friends from the class. I wasn't expecting much at first but it was beautiful! It felt like I was in a rainforest. The trees were beautiful and the canopy had so much drooping leaves and lots of mossy trees. There were a lot of pretty valleys of grass and the trail was super manageable. There was little elevation gain but that was perfect for me that day. The trail was super applicable to different transportation (bikes, hikers, riders) we even saw a couple of horse-back riders! There was plenty of beautiful plants and a big pond as well. There wasn't any major problems on the trail unless you have a problem with mud. Overall, there was so much to see and I definitely could've hiked for longer! 

A wonderful hike. The trail was in perfect condition and the sights and sounds were both beautiful and peaceful. Great area for both beginners as well as those looking for a more relaxing hike. Highlight was sitting on the bench next to Siler's Mill Trail and just taking in the sights and sounds. Only ran into a few others, all very polite.

This trail is easy and fun. there were beautiful views and is a trail to do with your friends and family. at the beginning of trial, there wasn't much of an elevation but on the way back to the parking there was some.

It was a great morning to get out and be in the fresh crisp air. One wouldn’t know it’s spring upon arrival to the TH. I did the main loop trail clockwise — this makes for a gentler uphill climb. Trails were in great conditioned and signed at each junction. Aside of the many runners encountered as part of a marathon, I only encountered two others. If you’re looking forward to a nice trail near home to get in some outdoor time, try checking this one out.