Woodard Bay

Wide, paved road out to the overlook, about .7 miles one way. Trail starts right out of the parking lot, which also has a seasonal boat ramp. Along the way, you can see the nesting birds across the water, great opportunity to bring binoculars. Beware the stinging nettle along the trail. At the overlook, there are picnic tables, beach access, and a pit toilet. You may spy harbor seals, deer, an old pier in the water which is home to nesting bats, and lots of little crabs on the shore. If you want a longer hike, you can also hike the unpaved loop just off the paved trail.

Open Season

Spring,Summer,Fall,Winter

ADA Accessible

Wheels

Terrain Type

Paved

Cell Receptions

Poor

Pet Friendly

Parking Details

Small parking lot, discover pass required. If lot is full, park just across the bridge at the Western Chehalis trail parking lot and walk down.

Additional Information

From I-5, take Exit 109 (Martin Way), and head west on Martin Way SE. After 0.6 mile, turn right onto Sleater Kinney Road NE. Go 4.5 miles; the road turns into 56th Avenue NE. When the road reaches a T in another 0.4 mile, turn right onto Shincke Road NE. Proceed 0.6 mile, bear left onto Woodard Bay Road NE. The trailhead is on the right just past the bridge.

Website

https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/woodard-bay-conservation-area#hike-full-description