One of my favorite areas in the Valley is Chinook Bend. It's the perfect spot for the family to amble on a Sunday morning or to spend a sunny afternoon. Chinook Bend is a King County Natural Area just north of Carnation. The land was donated by Nestle Corporation in 2000, which used to run a dairy farm at what is now known as Camp Korey.
The area is quiet and rarely visited, except by the occasional fisherman. I enjoy walking the informal trails through the woods and fields to the river. We spend a lot of time here as a family and throwing rocks in the river is a favorite past time!
The area is small (60 acres) and level enough that young children can walk the entire distance, but non-walkers could be put in a sturdy stroller or backpack. The area acts as flood plain management, as well, so the riverbank is ever-changing, and of course is underwater during larger winter flood events. During the summer when the river is low, the rocky river bank is a great spot for exploring, rock hounding, a picnic and wading.
You might also get luck and spot some wildlife on your visit, and will probably at least spot some deer tracks. There is a nearby heard of elk, plus on the main trail just past the parking lot is a beaver dam. A lucky few might even see a pygmy owl, as one was recently seen nesting on the property - but at 6 inches tall, it will take a keen eye!
Chinook Bend is located off Carnation Farm Road just north of Carnation and just west of Camp Korey. There is a small parking lot with vault toilets and a couple picnic tables available. There are no fees or permits required to use the area and dogs are welcome, but should be kept on leash. Find maps and more information here.
