Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Vashon - Fisher Pond Preserve

This is a very easy loop hike around historic Fisher Pond (previously named Fishermans Pond - Google Maps still calls it by this name).

In 1998, Bill Fisher donated this 90 acre property to the island to preserve forever in its natural state. Additionally, he established a fund to purchase other surrounding properties. Thus far, the Fisher Fund has been used to purchase adjacent land that brings the preserve to its current 150 acres. This unique area hosts the pond and the easy loop trail around it - as well as several other hiking trails.

There are two entry points to the loop hiking trail off of SW Bank Road, both are right off the side of Bank Road. Be sure to park off the pavement on small parking strip on the northside of the road. We chose to start hiking on the trail toward the West (clock-wise around the pond).


During the Winter the first section of the trail can be muddy (or slightly flooded if there were heavy rains), but despite the mud - this part of the trail gets you the closest to pond for viewing birds and other critters. Note - this section of the loop doesnt show on this map - but its there and well used.


During the late fall//winter its easy to see the pond as most of the vegetation has lost its leaves. You can hear some road noise as you are pretty close to Bank Road, but soon you will turn into the forest and the noise diminishes quickly.


As you round the westside of the pond, keep to the right at the first intersection where the trail becomes a bit wider.

The next intersection leads to the another trailhead off SW Bank Road, but keep to the right to continue around the pond.


Soon you will reach a small shelter (built by local Eagle Scouts) with a picnic table and great viewing of Fisher Pond.


The remaining hike continues around the pond, but a bit further away from the water. The area is pleasant and makes for a relaxing hike (very little road noise on this side of the hike). Soon you will reach another intersection that leads to a longer hike to the Northeast trailhead off Cove Road. Keep right on the main loop trail to reach the starting point off Bank Road.


A great Vashon Island hike for those wanting a quick hike with no elevation up or down. Its easy to get to and good for those who have already done beach hikes on Vashon or Maury Island.

Fisher Pond - Vashon Island at EveryTrail
EveryTrail - Find the best Hiking near Tacoma, Washington

Basics:
Area - Fisher Pond Preserve (Vashon Island)
Trails - Main Loop Trail (Map - but doesnt show southside of the trail)
Length - 1 miles loop - Easy Hike
Duration: 20-30 minutes
Trail - Dirt trails - can be muddy in spots
Bikes - No bikes allowed
View - Of Fisher Pond, mostly on the southside of the hike
Getting There - From Seattle take the West Seattle Fauntleroy–Vashon ferry. Head south toward Vashon town. At the red light, turn right on SW Bank Road. After passing 115th Ave, look for small turnouts on the right. Limited parking, but usually not an issue.
Fee- None, free parking
Weather - Almost all Shade
Other Info - Low-impact pedestrian use only - No Dogs, Bikes, vehicles are allowed.