Are there any significant trail obstacles currently?

As of [September 06](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-06.114356436415), there was one large downed tree across the path in the Yesler Swamp area. This tree was reported as passable by side-stepping or taking an alternate route. No other significant obstacles have been reported in more recent visits.

What wildlife has been recently observed at the area?

Recent observations as of [November 05](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-11-05.151725351481) include numerous waterfowl species like canvasbacks and wigeons, as well as western grebes, barred owls, and great blue herons. Raccoons have also been spotted, noted on [August 13](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-08-13.112408603329) and September 06.

What is the status of the restrooms?

Restrooms are available at the Center for Urban Horticulture when it is open, typically opening at 9 a.m. This was noted in reports from [November 05](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-11-05.151725351481), [September 17](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/trip-reports/trip_report-2026-09-17.111427597700), and August 13.

Union Bay Natural Area

Puget Sound and Islands

updated 5 days ago

The Union Bay Natural Area trails are reported to be in good condition, with no snow and generally suitable for all vehicles as of November 05. Recent reports from August 13 to November 05 indicate a variety of bird species have been observed, including canvasbacks, western grebes, and barred owls. Parking and restroom access have seen some changes; the main lot at the Center for Urban Horticulture now requires vehicle registration for the first two free hours, and can be reserved for events, making street parking a more frequent option, though subject to city restrictions on weekdays, September 17. A notable obstacle, one large downed tree, was reported across the path in the Yesler Swamp area on September 06, though it was noted as passable.

Generated from 23 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.

What hikers ask about Union Bay Natural Area

Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 5 days ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.

Parking at the Center for Urban Horticulture lot is free for the first two hours upon vehicle registration, but the lot can be reserved for private events. Street parking is available but may have time restrictions on weekdays. The situation was noted as potentially challenging as of October 04.