Mercer Slough Nature Park050

For muddy fun, explore the forests, marshes, swamps, and bogs of the 320-acre Mercer Slough Nature Park, the largest remaining wetland in the metro area. Set close to the rush and bustle of the I-90 corridor, this wild park feels like it's a world away. The slough is home to a great blue heron rookery, and to a wide variety of bird and animal species, including otters and beavers.

Park rangers offer free guided nature walks at 2pm on Saturdays from May to September. Walks begin at the parking lot kiosk at the Winters House Visitor Center.

Ranger-guided canoe trips leave every Saturday (May-Sep) from Enatai Beach Park. Canoeists paddle across Lake Washington to the Slough. Kids ages five and up are welcome, and no experience is necessary. Pre-registration is required and classes fill quickly. Call 425.452.6885 to register.

The Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center hosts a wide variety of nature-oriented classes, camps, and opportunities for visitors to explore. Campers participate in canoeing and hiking at one of the Center's Summer Day Camps. Go to www.pacsci.org for more information.

Kids ages five and up can even celebrate their B'earthday at the Environmental Education Center - in conjunction with the Pacific Science Center - with an environmental celebration just for them. Call 206.443.2925. More information is also available online

The Overlake Blueberry Farm at Mercer Slough is open daily during the summer. You can pick your own berries or buy them already picked. The farm is located at 2380 Bellevue Way SE. [425.467.0501]