Distance: There are 3 miles of trails on the Brightwater campus
Elevation Gain: The trails are flat to moderately steep. You could gain up to 250 feet on some sections
Season: Year-round
Description: Hiking at a wastewater treatment plant? Yes! The designers of this modern wastewater treatment plant created and restored wetlands, streams, ponds and meadows and put in trails for the public to enjoy. You have a chance to see birds, amphibians, and other wildlife as you explore the different trails on the property. Most of the paths are paved or graveled and some are suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. The grounds are open dawn to dusk every day. The Education Center is open to the public Monday through Thursday, 10am-4pm. If you go during that time, you can pop in and learn all about the water cycle, the treatment plant, and what happens to our water at different points in its cycle. There are many art installations that kids will find interesting throughout the grounds.
Directions: The address is 22505 State Route 9 SE, Woodinville, WA 98072-6010. To get there, take I-405 to the Hwy 522 Exit (Woodinville/Monroe) and head east. Pass by the Woodinville exit and take the next one for SR 9. Take a left and head north on SR 9 (Snohomish Woodinville Rd.) Turn right at the light on 228th St. SE. On the site, turn left at the T. At the stop sign, go straight through and you’ll see the Brightwater Center on your left. Park in that lot; parking is free.
Links: Find info about the Brightwater Center on their website. You can download and print off a trail map for your adventures.
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