Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Cedar Island Preserve is located in the coastal zone of Washington State within the intricate network of Puget Sound and its many islands. The preserve encompasses low-lying islands, marshes, mudflats, and forested areas dominated by Western red cedar, Sitka spruce, and alder trees. Its tidally influenced ecosystems create vital habitat for numerous bird species, including migratory shorebirds, raptors, and waterfowl, drawing bird watchers throughout the year. The preserve lies along significant marine and estuarine corridors, supporting rich biodiversity both on land and in surrounding waters. Historically, the land was used by Indigenous communities for fishing and gathering, sustaining cultural traditions tied to the marine environment. Today, Cedar Island Preserve offers visitors a peaceful setting for kayaking, wildlife viewing, and shoreline explorations. Hiking trails are limited and mostly informal due to the area’s sensitive habitats, so much of the appreciation comes from paddle sports and guided tours. The preserve emphasizes conservation education and protection of fragile tidal ecosystems. While remote, it offers a unique chance to experience Puget Sound’s coastal wetlands, explore salt marshes, and observe marine life in natural conditions. Visitors often come for photography, birding, and quiet natural encounters far from urban centers, making it an important natural refuge in the Pacific Northwest.
